Teresa C. Otáñez-Ortiz
Teresa C. Otáñez-Ortiz
teresa@greenberglawia.com
Teresa is an accomplished trial and bilingual attorney from West Des Moines, Iowa, who is proud to offer representation to a diverse community. Through her experiences as a first-generation attorney, Teresa provides resilient and competent representation to English and Spanish-speaking individuals navigating family law matters. From divorce and custody issues to domestic abuse and guardianships, Teresa tirelessly advocates for her client’s best interests.
Teresa understands from a professional and personal basis just how difficult family law matters can be. As the daughter of divorced parents and an expert in family law, Teresa advocates for a future-oriented process that allows her clients to maintain control over their situation. Teresa understands that settlement outside of the courts is not always possible and she is ready to fight for her client’s legal rights. Whether through negotiations or trial, she focuses on guiding families through the legal process and helping them rebuild their future with grace and dignity. Teresa has traveled across the State of Iowa to help families navigate the court system, reach optimal settlements, and earn successful trial verdicts. Clients appreciate Teresa’s empathy and candor when providing legal advice as such skills allow them to make an informed decision and realistically manage their expectations. Clients note that Teresa keeps them grounded through the turmoil by thoroughly explaining possible outcomes and maintaining an open line of communication.
Prior to her admittance to the Iowa State Bar in September 2024, Teresa graduated from Drake Law School with honors and a certificate in Public Service. For one year, she practiced as a licensed student attorney at the Drake Legal Clinic where she dedicated hundreds of hours pro bono to handling divorce, custody, guardianship, domestic abuse, and juvenile delinquency matters. Teresa is passionate about being a force for good and she carried this sentiment through her translation work in cases for the Polk County Bar Association Volunteer Lawyers Project. Throughout her entire life, Teresa has advocated for members from underrepresented communities. She is proud to have implemented this important work during her Presidency in La Alianza and student representation in Drake’s Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Committee. Teresa finds joy in supporting her community and changing peoples’ lives for the better.
When not in the office, Teresa enjoys singing, playing the piano, trying new foods, and spending time in nature and with her loved ones.