Rush Nigut | Iowa Business and Franchise Attorney

Your trusted business and franchise law advocate in West Des Moines and throughout Iowa.

What I do and how I help Iowa business owners

I help business owners and franchisees solve complex legal problems so they can spot red flags, grow with confidence and protect what they have built. I guide clients on contracts, franchise agreements, business disputes, employment compliance, company formation, and other areas of business law with clarity, patience, and real-world experience.

Who is Rush Nigut and why does it matter for your business?

I am a shareholder at Brick Gentry, P.C., one of Iowa’s most respected law firms, and I focus my practice on business law, franchise law, and related disputes. I have served business owners, franchisees, and entrepreneurs since 1994, helping them navigate legal challenges with straightforward advice and a pragmatic plan at every step.

I do not just offer legal solutions. I partner with clients, listen carefully to their concerns, and explain options in a way that makes sense to business leaders without a legal background.

What legal services do I provide in Iowa?

What business law issues do I help with?

I represent business owners and leaders in a wide range of legal matters, including:
• Contract review and negotiation
• Business formation and governance
• Shareholder and partner disputes
• Employment compliance and risk mitigation
• Franchise agreement review and disputes
• Regulatory compliance and risk management
• Litigation and dispute resolution when needed

I tailor legal strategies to each client’s goals and circumstances, balancing risk avoidance with practical business judgment.

How do I help with franchise law?

If you are evaluating a franchise opportunity or navigating a franchise dispute, I will help you understand:
• Your rights and obligations under the Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD)
• Whether terms in the franchise agreement expose you to unnecessary risk
• How to protect your investment before you sign
• Strategies to resolve franchise disputes when they arise

My experience includes both transactional and litigation aspects of franchising so you get complete, practical guidance.

How does our Iowa small business formation process work?

Deciding whether to form a corporation, an LLC, or another structure is one of the most important decisions a business owner makes. I help clients evaluate:
• Tax implications
• Liability protection
• Administrative requirements
• Which business entity fits your long-term goals

I prepare needed documentation, from the certificate of organization, operating agreements and initial meeting documents, and help you understand how each choice affects your business.

What can clients expect from working with me?

Personalized counsel and clear communication

I explain legal issues in plain language. At every stage, you know what to expect and why it matters to your business.

Practical advice, not legalese

I do not give generic answers. I focus on what your business needs to thrive and avoid pitfalls.

Strategic planning and responsiveness

I work proactively with clients, reviewing contracts and compliance issues before they become legal problems.

Litigating when negotiation is not enough

If a dispute cannot be resolved outside court, our team represents clients effectively in litigation while keeping your business objectives at the center.

Honors, experience, and recognition

  • Recognized in The Best Lawyers in America® for business organizations and franchise law
  • Recognized by SuperLawyers® as one of the top rated lawyers in Iowa for business litigation
  • Over three decades of legal experience
  • Trusted source of business law insights through the Rush on Business blog since 2006
  • Contributing author to multiple American Bar Association (ABA) franchise books
  • Quoted or referenced by hundreds of other publications and blogs in the legal and business community

How do I work with clients?

Step 1 — Schedule a conversation

We start with a focused analysis of your legal needs and business goals.

Step 2 — Identify your legal options

I lay out what you need to know, what choices you face, and how each option impacts risk and reward.

Step 3 — Execute a plan that protects your business

Whether drafting agreements, resolving disputes, or planning for growth, I work with you to keep your focus on your business, not legal complexity.

Frequently asked questions

What should I do before signing a franchise agreement?

Before you sign:
• Review the Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD) thoroughly
• Understand termination and renewal provisions
• Learn your rights and obligations under the franchise agreement
• Ask for legal review from someone with franchise law experience
Getting legal review early can spot red flags and avoid future conflict.

How can I protect my business from employee compliance issues?

A proactive employment compliance review will identify problem policies, reduce legal exposure, and give specific recommendations tailored to Iowa and federal law.

Learn how to conduct proper employee reviews.

Professional guidance today helps you avoid expensive litigation tomorrow.

Where I serve

I represent clients throughout Iowa from my office in West Des Moines, Iowa — serving business owners in Des Moines, Ames, Cedar Rapids, Davenport, Iowa City, Sioux City, and communities throughout the state.

Let’s talk about your business legal needs

If you want straightforward legal advice, practical strategies, and a partner who will help you protect and grow your business, contact me today:
Rush Nigut, Business and Franchise Attorney
Brick Gentry, P.C.
West Des Moines, Iowa
Phone: (515) 274-1450

Client Reviews

“I would not only recommend Rush to anybody, but I have.” – Dennis Leininger, Client who has worked with Rush in four businesses and four business sales.

“Rush is easy to talk to and is genuine. If you are going to start a business or a franchise, I highly recommend Rush Nigut. He will be there every step of the way.” – Craig Schwienebart, Business owner and distributorship client

“Rush is one of the most friendly and professional people I have met.”  Jorge Romero, Small business client

“Five stars.” Billy Cox, Business owner and distributorship client