By Susan Buckner, J.D. | Legally reviewed by FindLaw Staff | Last reviewed December 18, 2024
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Iowa's Code of Criminal Laws and Procedures contains all the state laws on prohibited conduct and judicial procedures before and after arrest. Criminal laws describe the specific conduct, and rules of criminal procedure explain law enforcement processes and court rules.
Iowa's criminal code sections cover all types of criminal conduct, from homicide and related crimes (Iowa code § 707.1 et seq.) to illegal animal contests (§ 717D.1). Each code section contains a definition of the offense, penalties, and possible defenses.
Iowa divides criminal offenses into felonies, punishable by more than five years in prison, and misdemeanors, which can result in up to two years in jail. Violations are minor offenses that only require a citation and a fine.
All other crimes are misdemeanors.
Simple misdemeanors include trespassing, simple assault, and first-time domestic violence.
Serious misdemeanors have a possible jail sentence of up to 365 days. They include first-time DUIs and first-time drug possession, repeat domestic violence charges, and minor assault.
Aggravated misdemeanors can get up to two years in jail. Second offenses for DUI and drug possession, assault with intent to cause serious bodily injury, and lower-level sex crimes are aggravated misdemeanors.
Iowa courts have a special sentence provision for juvenile offenders based on the U.S. Supreme Court rulings in Graham v. Florida and Miller v. Alabama. Judges must review juvenile cases for eligibility for Class A sentencing, and juveniles are not eligible for life without parole or mandatory minimums.
Contact an Iowa criminal defense attorney if you have criminal charges and need help understanding Iowa's criminal codes. Your criminal case needs someone who can explain court rules and laws and help you protect your rights.
Get tailored advice and ask your legal questions. Many Iowa attorneys offer free consultations.