Molly Kottmeyer of Kottmeyer Law Firm: Practical Legal Guidance for Iowa and Missouri Nonprofits
Every nonprofit leader eventually finds themselves staring at a decision that feels both strategic and slightly terrifying: Are we actually allowed to do this?
That question sits at the heart of Molly Kottmeyer’s work.
With more than 20 years of legal experience, Molly now runs Kottmeyer Law Firm, where she focuses exclusively on serving nonprofit organizations across Iowa and Missouri. Her practice centers on three interconnected areas that shape an organization’s stability and impact: formation, governance, and advocacy.
When a nonprofit is getting started, the legal structure chosen at the beginning can quietly shape everything that follows. Molly helps founders think strategically about which tax-exempt status best fits their mission and long-term goals, rather than simply defaulting to what feels familiar. Different classifications carry different implications for fundraising, public engagement, and advocacy work. Taking a proactive approach at formation helps organizations avoid costly pivots later and positions them for sustainable growth from the outset.
As organizations mature, governance often becomes the pressure point. Bylaws written years ago no longer reflect current operations. Policies exist informally but not on paper. Boards want to do the right thing but lack clarity about their responsibilities. Molly works with nonprofits to strengthen internal systems, clarify governing documents, and provide board education that protects both the organization and the people leading it. In an environment where regulators, funders, and the public are paying closer attention, strong governance is not just a best practice — it is a protective measure.
Advocacy is where the legal gray areas tend to feel most uncomfortable. Leaders worry about lobbying limits, voter engagement rules, and the ever-present line between advocacy and political activity. Molly helps nonprofits understand what the law actually allows so they can confidently maximize their impact without jeopardizing their tax-exempt status. Much of her work involves untangling blurred lines and updating policies to reflect how organizations are actually operating in today’s landscape.
Importantly, Molly structures her services to remain accessible. She does not bill through retainers; instead, she works hourly or by project, making it easier for nonprofits of varying sizes to get the guidance they need.
At Heart of Des Moines, we believe that strong missions require strong legal foundations. If your organization is navigating nonprofit formation, reviewing governance policies, or exploring advocacy and lobbying strategy in Iowa or Missouri, Molly Kottmeyer is a resource worth knowing.
