At Brownstone Law, we are dedicated to providing exceptional appellate representation, guiding clients through the complexities of Iowa’s appellate court system. Our experienced attorneys are committed to ensuring that your case is meticulously prepared and effectively presented.

Iowa Appellate Court System Overview

Iowa’s appellate system comprises two primary courts: the Iowa Supreme Court and the Iowa Court of Appeals.

  • Iowa Supreme Court: As the state’s highest court, it reviews decisions of trial courts in which appeals have been allowed. The court consists of seven justices and holds its regular sessions in Des Moines.
  • Iowa Court of Appeals: This intermediate appellate court reviews appeals from trial court decisions that have been transferred to it by the Supreme Court. A decision of the Court of Appeals is final unless reviewed by the Supreme Court on grant of further review.

Caseload and Statistics

During the 2022-2023 term, the Iowa Supreme Court decided 96 cases by opinion, a number that is about 10% lower than the recent historical average. Of these cases, 77 were decided unanimously, while only 19 cases were non-unanimous.

Rules of Appellate Procedure

Appeals in Iowa are governed by the Iowa Rules of Appellate Procedure, which outline procedures for filing appeals, including timelines, formatting requirements for briefs, and guidelines for oral arguments. Adherence to these rules is crucial for the successful progression of an appeal.

Process for Appealing a Case

  1. Notice of Appeal: File a notice of appeal with the clerk of the district court in the county where the order or judgment being appealed was entered and with the clerk of the Supreme Court within the specific time frame outlined in the Iowa Rules of Appellate Procedure.
  2. Filing Fee: Pay a filing fee of $150 within seven days after filing the notice of appeal. This fee may be waived in certain circumstances.
  3. Preparation of the Record: The appellant is responsible for ensuring that the record on appeal, including transcripts and relevant documents, is prepared and filed with the appellate court.
  4. Briefs: The appellant submits an opening brief outlining legal arguments and alleged errors in the trial court’s decision. The appellee responds with their brief, and the appellant may file a reply brief if necessary.
  5. Oral Argument: In some cases, the court may schedule oral arguments, allowing attorneys to present their positions and answer judges’ questions.
  6. Decision: After reviewing the materials and arguments, the court issues a written opinion, which may affirm, reverse, or remand the case.

Contact Information

Iowa Supreme Court

  • Address: Iowa Judicial Branch Building, 1111 East Court Avenue, Des Moines, IA 50319
  • Phone: (515) 348-4700 (Clerk of Court)
  • Website: Iowa Supreme Court
  • Coordinates: 41.5912° N, 93.6037° W

Iowa Court of Appeals

  • Address: Iowa Judicial Branch Building, 1111 East Court Avenue, Des Moines, IA 50319
  • Phone: (515) 348-4700 (Clerk of Court)
  • Website: Iowa Court of Appeals
  • Coordinates: 41.5912° N, 93.6037° W

Brownstone Law: Your Appellate Advocates

At Brownstone Law, we are dedicated to guiding clients through the complexities of the appellate process in Iowa. Our team of experienced attorneys is committed to providing exceptional representation, ensuring that your case is presented with the utmost precision and expertise.