About
About
Christine Halbrook
The Halbrook Law Firm was started after more than 13 years at larger Des Moines firms. From basic estate plans to complex plans, I strive to make the estate planning process as painless as possible. I have been recognized in the “Best Lawyers” publication each year since 2013 for my work in the trust and estates practice area. I also had the honor of being selected as “Lawyer of the Year” in 2019 for my work in this area.
In addition to representing individuals, I also work with corporate entities and non-profits on various matters. I’ve helped over 25 non profit corporations obtain 501(c)(3) status. I also assist with joint venture agreements, mergers, and acquisitions. Business has always been a passion of mine, and I enjoy working with my clients on their corporate matters.
I was born and raised in Des Moines, graduating from Roosevelt High School in 1998. I attended the Wharton School at the University of Pennsylvania, graduating in 2002 with a bachelor’s degree in economics. After taking 3 years off to work in Chicago, I decided to go to law school. I attended Drake University, graduating with honors in 2008.
I look forward to working with you.
Bryce Arbour
As an associate attorney at the Halbrook Law Firm, I work with Christine to create and administer estate plans for people from all walks of life. I enjoy the variety of trusts and estates work – no two people and no two plans are the same. I also enjoy meeting clients and hearing their awesome life stories.
I grew up in Carson City, Nevada – a gem of a town near Lake Tahoe and the Sierra Nevada mountains. I attended college at the University of Pennsylvania, graduating with a Bachelor of Arts in Philosophy, Politics, and Economics in 2016.
After college, I moved to New York where I worked as a legal and compliance analyst for a large asset management firm. After a year in New York, I relocated to Portland, Oregon where I worked as a police officer for several years.
I came to Des Moines to attend Drake University Law School where I received the Iowa Supreme Court Scholarship. In law school, I gained valuable experience in estate planning, Medicaid planning, special needs planning, probate, trust administration, and guardianship/conservatorship issues. I graduated with high honors from Drake University Law School in 2023 and passed the Iowa Bar Exam in July 2023.
In my free time, I enjoy spending time with my fiancée, Haley, and my calico cat, Luna. I also enjoy weight training, running (slowly, very slowly), playing video games, and watching competitive esports online.
Lauren Matysik
The only non-lawyer of the bunch, I am a professional photographer and illustrator with a knack for planning and organization. After meeting Christine and being smitten with her effervescent personality, I began working for Halbrook Law as the official Office Manager and unofficial Baked Goods Maker.
I’ll handle any of your scheduling needs, as well as act as a go-between during your time working with us. I’m also your gal to talk about favorite vacation spots, show pictures of your dog, and share fun stories that get us off track but bring a smile to your face.
If you need anything, don’t hesitate to reach out and ask!
