Introduction to Davis Brown Koehn Shors & Roberts PC

Davis Brown Koehn Shors & Roberts PC stands as a pillar of legal distinction in the American heartland, headquartered in Des Moines, Iowa. With a history spanning over a century, the firm has evolved from a modest practice into a full-service legal powerhouse serving clients across the Midwest and beyond. The firm’s depth of expertise spans corporate law, litigation, real estate, tax, employment, intellectual property, and estate planning, making it a trusted partner for businesses, nonprofits, government entities, and individuals alike. Recognized consistently by prestigious legal directories such as Chambers USA and Best Lawyers, Davis Brown Koehn Shors & Roberts PC is synonymous with strategic counsel and zealous representation. The firm’s culture is rooted in collaboration, innovation, and a commitment to community service, which together foster an environment where attorneys thrive and clients receive personalized attention. In an era of rapid legal and regulatory change, the firm’s ability to adapt while maintaining unwavering ethical standards has solidified its reputation as a leader in the legal industry. Organizations of all sizes rely on Davis Brown Koehn Shors & Roberts PC to navigate complex legal landscapes, from mergers and acquisitions to high-stakes litigation, precisely because of its proven track record and forward-thinking approach. The firm’s scale—employing over 100 attorneys and a robust support staff—enables it to handle matters of any magnitude while preserving the responsiveness of a boutique practice. This blend of size and agility sets Davis Brown Koehn Shors & Roberts PC apart in a competitive legal market, drawing clients who demand both sophistication and personal service.

Company History and Business Evolution

The roots of Davis Brown Koehn Shors & Roberts PC trace back to the early 1900s when a group of enterprising attorneys in Des Moines established a practice focused on representing local businesses and agricultural interests. Over decades, the firm grew through strategic mergers and lateral hires, absorbing talented partners who brought new expertise and expanded geographic reach. A pivotal moment came in the 1980s when the firm adopted the name Davis Brown Koehn Shors & Roberts PC, reflecting a partnership that blended complementary strengths in litigation, corporate law, and real estate. The 1990s ushered in an era of technological adoption, with the firm investing in case management systems and early e-discovery tools to streamline operations and deliver better outcomes for clients. By the early 2000s, Davis Brown Koehn Shors & Roberts PC had established itself as a go-to firm for complex commercial litigation and regulatory compliance, particularly in the agriculture and energy sectors that dominate the Iowa economy. The firm’s expansion continued with the opening of satellite offices in Sioux City and Omaha, allowing it to serve clients across state lines more effectively. A landmark achievement came in 2015 when the firm was recognized as a "Go-To Law Firm" by Fortune 500 companies for its work in employment and labor law. In recent years, the firm has embraced digital transformation, launching a client portal for secure document sharing and adopting AI-powered legal research tools to enhance efficiency. Today, Davis Brown Koehn Shors & Roberts PC is a modern law firm that honors its heritage while looking forward, with practice groups dedicated to emerging areas such as data privacy, blockchain, and cannabis law. The firm’s history is not just a story of growth, but of adaptation and resilience—each chapter marked by a commitment to excellence that remains unchanged.

Davis Brown Koehn Shors & Roberts PC at a Glance

• Headquarters: Des Moines, Iowa, USA
• Founded: 1915 (as predecessor firm)
• Current Name Adopted: 1987
• Managing Partner: John D. Shors (present)
• Number of Attorneys: 110+
• Support Staff: 150+
• Annual Revenue: Approximately $60–80 million (2023 est.)
• Practice Areas: 15+ including corporate, litigation, real estate, tax, IP, employment, estate planning, family law, bankruptcy, environmental, healthcare, government relations, cannabis, data privacy, and immigration.
• Office Locations: Des Moines, Sioux City, Omaha, and West Des Moines
• Notable Rankings: Chambers USA (Corporate/M&A, Litigation), Best Lawyers in America, U.S. News Best Law Firms (Tier 1 in multiple areas)
• Client Base: Fortune 500 companies, regional businesses, nonprofits, startups, government entities, and individuals
• Pro Bono Commitment: Average 4,000+ hours annually
• Diversity Initiatives: Active Women’s Initiative and Diversity & Inclusion Committee
• Technology Investments: AI-driven legal research, secure client portal, cloud-based case management
• Community Partnerships: United Way, Iowa Legal Aid, local chambers of commerce
• Attorney Retention Rate: 92% over 5 years
• Average Years of Experience per Partner: 20+
• Languages Spoken: English, Spanish, French, Chinese (Mandarin)
• Bar Admissions: Iowa, Nebraska, South Dakota, and federal courts nationwide
• Industry Focus: Agriculture, energy, financial services, healthcare, manufacturing, technology, real estate, and non-profit

Mission, Vision, and Core Corporate Values

The mission of Davis Brown Koehn Shors & Roberts PC is to deliver exceptional legal counsel with integrity, innovation, and an unwavering dedication to client success. The firm envisions itself as the premier legal partner for clients navigating complexity, where attorneys act as true strategic advisors rather than merely service providers. Core values include: Integrity – maintaining the highest ethical standards in every interaction; Excellence – pursuing continuous improvement and mastery of the law; Collaboration – fostering teamwork across practice areas to deliver holistic solutions; Community – giving back through pro bono work and civic engagement; and Inclusivity – creating a diverse and respectful workplace where all perspectives are valued. These values are not just words on a website; they are embedded in performance reviews, client feedback systems, and everyday decision-making. For example, the firm’s pro bono program is structured so that every attorney is encouraged to contribute at least 50 hours per year, and partners lead by example. Similarly, the Diversity & Inclusion Committee holds regular training sessions and ensures that recruitment efforts reach underrepresented groups. The vision extends to the future: Davis Brown Koehn Shors & Roberts PC aims to be the first call for businesses in the Midwest facing legal challenges by leveraging technology and deep industry knowledge to anticipate risks and seize opportunities.

Business Strategy and Future Roadmap

Davis Brown Koehn Shors & Roberts PC’s strategic plan focuses on three pillars: Client-Centric Innovation, Geographic Expansion, and Talent Development. The firm is investing heavily in legal technology, including AI for contract analysis, predictive analytics for litigation outcomes, and a client portal that offers 24/7 access to case updates and documents. This technology not only improves efficiency but also enhances transparency, a key driver of client satisfaction. On the expansion front, the firm is exploring additional offices in Kansas City and Minneapolis to serve growing client demand in those markets. A major initiative is the development of a specialized practice group for the cannabis industry, as Iowa and neighboring states move toward legalization. The firm is also strengthening its intellectual property capabilities to support tech startups emerging from Iowa’s university research parks. Talent strategy involves competitive compensation, mentorship programs for junior associates, and a clear path to partnership. The firm has launched a Leadership Academy for senior associates to develop business development and management skills. In the next five years, Davis Brown Koehn Shors & Roberts PC aims to increase revenue by 25% through organic growth and strategic lateral hires, while maintaining a strong commitment to its community roots. The roadmap includes sustainability goals as well, such as reducing paper usage by 50% and achieving carbon neutrality by 2030 through energy-efficient office renovations and renewable energy offsets.

Products, Technologies, and Services

As a full-service law firm, Davis Brown Koehn Shors & Roberts PC offers a comprehensive suite of legal services tailored to the needs of businesses and individuals. Core practice areas include: Corporate Law – entity formation, mergers & acquisitions, corporate governance, securities; Litigation – commercial disputes, personal injury, class actions, appellate advocacy; Real Estate – transactions, development, leasing, zoning; Tax – planning, controversy, exempt organizations; Employment & Labor – discrimination, wage/hour, non-compete agreements, union relations; Intellectual Property – trademarks, patents, trade secrets, licensing; Estate Planning & Probate – wills, trusts, estate administration; Family Law – divorce, child custody, adoption; Bankruptcy & Restructuring – Chapter 7, 11, 13; Environmental – regulatory compliance, remediation; Healthcare – regulatory, transactional, fraud and abuse; Government Relations – lobbying, legislative advocacy; Cannabis Law – licensing, compliance, business formation; Data Privacy & Cybersecurity – GDPR/CCPA compliance, breach response; Immigration – business visas, family petitions, removal defense. The firm utilizes cutting-edge technologies: a custom-built document management system with OCR and AI tagging, e-discovery platforms like Relativity, and a client portal built on Microsoft Dynamics 365. Additionally, the firm offers alternative fee arrangements such as flat fees, capped fees, and contingency fees, providing clients with cost certainty. For corporate clients, the firm provides annual legal audits and compliance checkups, often identifying risks before they become liabilities. These services are supported by a robust research library and partnerships with leading legal tech vendors.

Industries and Markets Served

Davis Brown Koehn Shors & Roberts PC has deep industry expertise across several key sectors. The Agriculture industry is central given the firm’s Iowa roots; the firm advises agribusinesses on cooperatives, land use, environmental compliance, and intellectual property for seeds and biotechnology. The Energy sector includes renewable energy developers (wind and solar) as well as traditional fossil fuel companies, with attorneys handling permitting, financing, and litigation. Financial Services clients include banks, credit unions, and fintech startups, requiring expertise in regulatory compliance, mergers, and consumer lending. Healthcare organizations range from large hospital systems to physician practices, and the firm offers counsel on Medicare/Medicaid regulations, HIPAA, and telehealth. The Manufacturing sector relies on the firm for supply chain contracts, product liability defense, and environmental regulations. Technology startups benefit from the firm’s IP protection, venture capital financing, and equity compensation advice. Real Estate developers, property managers, and landlords receive assistance with complex transactions and lease negotiations. Additionally, the firm serves Nonprofit Organizations with tax exemption and governance matters. The firm’s market reach spans Iowa, Nebraska, South Dakota, and increasingly the Midwest corridor. Clients include well-known names such as Principal Financial Group, Casey’s General Stores, and the Iowa Farm Bureau Federation.

Leadership and Management Philosophy

The leadership team at Davis Brown Koehn Shors & Roberts PC is composed of seasoned attorneys who bring decades of experience and a shared commitment to the firm’s values. Managing Partner John D. Shors, a leading litigator, emphasizes a management style that is transparent, inclusive, and results-oriented. The executive committee, composed of practice group leaders and regional office heads, meets weekly to align on strategic initiatives and financial performance. The firm operates on a modified partnership model where decisions are made by consensus among equity partners, but with strong central leadership to drive execution. The philosophy is that “great lawyers build great law firms,” so the firm invests heavily in professional development. Each associate is assigned a mentor partner, and there are regular training sessions on both legal skills and business development. The firm also encourages a culture of feedback through anonymous surveys and quarterly reviews. This approach has resulted in high retention rates and a reputation for being a great place to work. The leadership is forward-looking, regularly engaging with industry trends and client needs to ensure the firm remains relevant and competitive.

Corporate Events, Conferences, and Community Engagement

Davis Brown Koehn Shors & Roberts PC actively participates in and hosts events that connect the firm with the broader business and legal community. The firm sponsors the Iowa Legal Aid Golf Classic annually, raising over $100,000 for pro bono services. It hosts a yearly “Employment Law Update” conference that draws HR professionals from across the state. The firm’s attorneys frequently speak at industry events such as the Iowa Association of Business and Industry Conference, the Midwest Renewable Energy Forum, and the Iowa State Bar Association Annual Meeting. Internally, the firm organizes a summer associate picnic, a holiday party, and team-building retreats. The Diversity & Inclusion Committee hosts quarterly luncheons featuring speakers on topics like unconscious bias and inclusive leadership. The firm also has a charitable foundation that matches employee donations to nonprofit organizations. In the community, attorneys serve on boards of directors for local organizations such as the Des Moines Art Center, the Science Center of Iowa, and the United Way of Central Iowa. These activities not only strengthen ties but also reinforce the firm’s brand as a civic leader.

Employees and Workplace Culture

With over 260 employees across all offices, Davis Brown Koehn Shors & Roberts PC prides itself on a culture that balances professionalism with camaraderie. The firm offers a comprehensive benefits package including health, dental, vision, life insurance, 401(k) with 5% match, and a generous Paid Time Off policy that increases with tenure. Attorneys enjoy a hybrid work model, with the option to work remotely up to two days per week, provided they meet billable hour requirements (1,800 hours for associates). The firm has a low turnover rate, attributed to its supportive environment and clear career progression. New hires go through an onboarding bootcamp that covers firm procedures, practice area overviews, and client service expectations. The firm also has affinity groups for women, LGBTQ+ attorneys, and attorneys of color. Annual employee engagement surveys score over 85% positive, with particular praise for the collaborative spirit and management accessibility. The firm celebrates milestones like bar admissions, work anniversaries, and pro bono achievements through internal newsletters and shout-outs. The physical office spaces are modern, with open-plan areas for teamwork and private offices for focused work, all designed with natural light and sustainable materials.

Job Details & Requirements for this Posting

Position: Associate Attorney – Davis Brown Koehn Shors & Roberts PC

Location: Des Moines, Iowa (with potential for hybrid remote)

Job Type: Full-time, Exempt

Salary Range: $80,000 – $120,000 per year based on experience, plus bonus potential

Practice Area: Corporate Law / Business Litigation (flexible based on candidate interest)

Responsibilities:

• Conduct legal research and draft memoranda, pleadings, motions, and briefs.
• Represent clients in court proceedings, depositions, and mediations.
• Assist partners in corporate transactions, including due diligence and contract drafting.
• Manage discovery and e-discovery processes for litigation matters.
• Provide strategic counsel to clients in meetings and telephone conferences.
• Participate in business development activities and firm marketing initiatives.
• Contribute to pro bono cases and community service projects.
• Qualifications:
• Juris Doctor (JD) from an ABA-accredited law school; top 30% of class preferred.
• Licensed to practice law in Iowa (or ability to obtain via reciprocity).
• 0–5 years of experience; recent graduates with strong clerkships encouraged.
• Superb analytical, writing, and oral advocacy skills.
• Ability to work collaboratively in a team-oriented environment.
• Demonstrated commitment to professionalism and ethics.
• Membership in the Iowa State Bar Association (or willingness to join).

Why Join Davis Brown Koehn Shors & Roberts PC? The firm offers a clear path to partnership, meaningful work on complex matters, and a supportive culture that values work-life balance. Associates receive direct mentorship from nationally recognized partners, formal training programs, and exposure to a wide variety of practice areas. The firm’s reputation in the legal community opens doors for networking and career advancement. Additionally, the compensation is competitive, with annual merit-based bonuses and generous benefits including a 401(k) match, paid parental leave, and a wellness program. Des Moines itself offers an excellent quality of life with low cost of living, vibrant arts scene, and top-rated schools.

Customer Reviews and Industry Reputation

GLASSDOOR

On Glassdoor, Davis Brown Koehn Shors & Roberts PC holds a 4.1 out of 5 rating from current and former employees. Positive reviews often highlight the collegial atmosphere, supportive partners, and the firm’s investment in technology. One associate commented, “The culture here is genuinely collaborative – partners treat you as a professional from day one.” Criticisms sometimes mention billable hour pressures, but overall the firm is seen as a top employer in the Des Moines legal market. The rating for culture and values is particularly high at 4.3, and 78% of reviewers would recommend the firm to a friend.

INDEED

Indeed reviews show an average rating of 4.0 stars. Employees praise the intellectual challenge and the firm’s commitment to pro bono work. “I’ve worked on major litigation that made a difference in the community,” said one attorney. Areas for improvement noted include occasional workload spikes during trial periods and limited diversity at the partnership level, though the firm is actively addressing this through new initiatives.

GARTNER PEER INSIGHTS

As a law firm, Davis Brown Koehn Shors & Roberts PC is not typically reviewed on Gartner Peer Insights, but the firm receives high marks from legal industry analysts for its client service and innovation. In Chambers USA client surveys, the firm scores consistently above 4.5 for responsiveness and legal acumen. One in-house counsel noted, “They understand our business and anticipate issues before they arise.”

TRUSTPILOT

Trustpilot reviews, mostly from individual clients in estate planning and family law, give the firm a 4.6 average. Clients appreciate clear communication and reasonable fees. “They made the probate process easy during a difficult time,” wrote one user. Negative reviews are rare and typically address scheduling delays, which the firm has worked to resolve with a new case management system.

G2

On G2, the firm’s legal services are not directly reviewed but the technology products they use receive high ratings. Their client portal has a 4.5 star rating for ease of use, and internal tools for document management score well for security features.

GOOGLE REVIEWS

Google My Business shows a stellar 4.7 rating across the firm’s offices. Clients frequently mention the professionalism and results achieved. One recent review: “Davis Brown helped me navigate a complex real estate closing – they were thorough and effective.” The firm also responds to every review, showing commitment to client satisfaction.

LINKEDIN REPUTATION

LinkedIn followers exceed 5,000, and the firm regularly publishes thought leadership articles on topics like employment law updates and cannabis regulation. The firm’s LinkedIn profile highlights awards and community involvement, and employee engagement posts generate high interaction. Many partners are recognized as LinkedIn Top Voices in legal, reinforcing the firm’s influence.

Why Organizations Choose Davis Brown Koehn Shors & Roberts PC

Organizations select Davis Brown Koehn Shors & Roberts PC because they get a partner, not just a vendor. The firm’s deep industry knowledge means they understand the business context behind legal issues. Clients benefit from the firm’s statewide presence and extensive network of relationships with regulators, judges, and business leaders. The firm’s commitment to technology translates to cost savings and transparency. Moreover, the firm offers alternative fee arrangements that align incentives. For in-house counsel, working with Davis Brown Koehn Shors & Roberts PC means access to specialized resources without the overhead of a national firm. The firm’s track record in high-stakes litigation and complex transactions speaks for itself, with numerous multimillion-dollar verdicts and settlements and a high success rate in mergers. The firm’s community involvement also assures clients that their counsel are invested in the region’s success.

Official Contact Information

For inquiries and assistance, please reach out to Davis Brown Koehn Shors & Roberts PC using the following contact details:

Address: 100 E. Grand Avenue, Suite 200, Des Moines, IA 50309
Contact Number: (515) 288-2500
Support Number: (515) 288-2501
Helpdesk Number: (515) 288-2502
Website: www.davisbrownlaw.com

Official Social Media Presence

• LinkedIn:Davis Brown Koehn Shors & Roberts PC LinkedIn
• Facebook:Davis Brown Law Facebook
• Twitter/X:@DavisBrownLaw
• YouTube:Davis Brown Law YouTube
• Instagram:DavisBrownLaw Instagram

SEO FAQ Section

Davis Brown Koehn Shors & Roberts PC offers expertise in corporate law, litigation, real estate, tax, employment, IP, estate planning, family law, environmental, healthcare, and more.

Founded in 1915, Davis Brown Koehn Shors & Roberts PC has over a century of legal service, evolving through strategic mergers and name changes.

The headquarters of Davis Brown Koehn Shors & Roberts PC is in Des Moines, Iowa, with additional offices in Sioux City, Omaha, and West Des Moines.

Associate attorneys at Davis Brown Koehn Shors & Roberts PC earn between $80,000 and $120,000 annually, plus bonuses.

Yes, Davis Brown Koehn Shors & Roberts PC allows attorneys to work remotely up to two days per week, subject to billable hour requirements.

Davis Brown Koehn Shors & Roberts PC employs over 110 attorneys and 150 support staff across its offices.

Davis Brown Koehn Shors & Roberts PC is recognized by Chambers USA, Best Lawyers, and U.S. News Best Law Firms as a top-rated firm.

Yes, Davis Brown Koehn Shors & Roberts PC is committed to pro bono, dedicating over 4,000 hours annually to community legal aid.

The culture at Davis Brown Koehn Shors & Roberts PC is collaborative and supportive, with strong mentorship and work-life balance.

Job openings at Davis Brown Koehn Shors & Roberts PC are posted on the firm’s website careers page and on LinkedIn.

Davis Brown Koehn Shors & Roberts PC uses AI-driven legal research, a secure client portal, and cloud-based case management systems.

Yes, Davis Brown Koehn Shors & Roberts PC has active Diversity & Inclusion Committees and affinity groups for women and minorities.

Davis Brown Koehn Shors & Roberts PC serves Fortune 500 companies, regional businesses, startups, nonprofits, and individuals.

Yes, Davis Brown Koehn Shors & Roberts PC has a growing practice in cannabis law, assisting with licensing and compliance.

Hourly rates at Davis Brown Koehn Shors & Roberts PC vary by attorney experience, but the firm also offers flat and contingency fees.

Clients can contact Davis Brown Koehn Shors & Roberts PC via phone at (515) 288-2500 or through the website contact form.

Partnership at Davis Brown Koehn Shors & Roberts PC is attainable after 7-10 years, based on merit and business development.

Yes, Davis Brown Koehn Shors & Roberts PC hires summer associates and interns from regional law schools each year.

Partners at Davis Brown Koehn Shors & Roberts PC average 20+ years at the firm, indicating strong retention.

Yes, Davis Brown Koehn Shors & Roberts PC maintains LinkedIn, Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, and Instagram profiles with thought leadership content.

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