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Felony Charges

A felony offense is the most serious type of crime in Iowa. As a result, these kinds of criminal charges carry more severe penalties than misdemeanors. Convictions for felony offenses not only result in lengthy prison sentences and possibly enormous fines, but they cause several additional long-term difficulties. Any person with a felony conviction on his or her criminal record can experience several hardships when it comes to employment and housing as well as the loss of voting rights.

Any person with a felony conviction on his or her criminal record can experience several hardships when it comes to employment and housing as well as the loss of voting rights.

Attorney in Des Moines for Felonies

If you are facing felony charges in Iowa, it is in your best interest to immediately seek experienced legal representation. McCarthy & Hamrock, P.C. helps clients in these types of situations in and around Des Moines, including such communities as Ankeny, West Des Moines, Johnston, Altoona, and Urbandale.

Our Iowa felony defense attorneys have more than four decades of combined experience fighting to get these types of criminal charges significantly reduced or completely dismissed. You can have our firm provide an honest and thorough evaluation of your case by calling (515) 279-9700 right now to take advantage of a free, confidential consultation.


Iowa Felony Charges Information Center


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Types of Felony Offenses in West Des Moines

Many violent or sexual crimes result in felony charges. Additionally, alleged offenders who have been arrested for certain criminal offenses they were previously convicted of can also face felony charges.

Certain drug charges can be classified as felonies, depending on such factors as the type of controlled substance, the location of the offense, and whether the alleged offender has been previously convicted of the crime. Other common felony offenses include, but are not limited to:

  • Theft — First Degree (Class C Felony) or Second Degree (Class D Felony);
  • Operating While Intoxicated (OWI) — Third or subsequent offense (Class D Felony);
  • Sexual Abuse — First Degree (Class A Felony), Second Degree (Class B Felony), Third Degree (Class C Felony), or certain Lascivious Acts (Class C Felony or Class D Felony);
  • Burglary — First Degree (Class B Felony), Second Degree (Class C Felony), or Third Degree (Class D Felony);
  • Assault — Causing serious injury (Class D Felony) or involving use of an object to penetrate the genitalia or anus of another (Class C felony).

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Consequences of Felony Convictions in Des Moines

When a person is charged with a misdemeanor, he or she knows that they will typically be sentenced to no more than two years in a county jail or community-based correctional facility. Felony convictions are much more severe, usually resulting in several years in a state prison.

The maximum sentence an alleged offender faces depends on the specific classification of the felony. Statutory maximums are as follows:

  • Class D Felony — Up to five years in prison and a fine of up to $7,500;
  • Class C Felony — Up to 10 years in prison and a fine of up to $10,000;
  • Class B Felony — Up to 25 years in prison; and
  • Class A Felony — Up to life in prison.

Additionally, Iowa Code § 902.8 states that any person convicted of a Class C felony or Class D felony who has twice before been convicted of any felony in an Iowa court or the court of any other state will be classified as a “habitual offender.” Habitual offenders will be sentenced to a minimum of three years up to 15 years in prison, even if they have been charged with a Class C felony or Class D felony.


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Iowa Courts Handling Felony Cases

In the Hawkeye State, district courts are the state trial courts of general jurisdiction that have original jurisdiction in felony criminal cases. Each of Iowa’s 99 counties has its courthouse, and such locations in the greater Des Moines area include:

Dallas County
801 Court Street
Adel, IA 50003
(515) 993-5816

Guthrie County
200 North Fifth Street
Guthrie Center, IA 50115
(641) 747-3415

Madison County
112 North John Wayne Drive
Winterset, IA 50273
(515) 462-4451

Polk County
500 Mulberry Street
Des Moines, IA 50309
(515) 286-3772

Warren County
115 North Howard Street
Indianola, IA
(515) 961-1033


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Resources for Felony Offenses in Des Moines

Iowa Code Chapter 902 — This is a link to the chapter of the Iowa Code discussing felonies. You can learn more about minimum and maximum sentences for certain offenders as well as eligibility for parole or work release. Additional statutes include information on the reconsideration of sentences, places of confinement, and release.

District Courts – Iowa Judicial Branch — This is the official website of the Iowa Judicial Branch. You can learn more about all district courts, including local rules, administrative orders, and news and announcements for each district. Links to full lists of judges and magistrates can also be found on each district court page.


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Find a Felony Defense Attorney in West Des Moines, Iowa

Were you arrested in Iowa for allegedly committing a felony offense? Even if you are a first-time offender, these are extremely serious criminal charges that require experienced and aggressive legal counsel.

McCarthy & Hamrock, P.C. fights for clients in Warren County, Dallas County, Madison County, Guthrie County, and Polk County. Our Des Moines criminal defense lawyers can review your case as soon as you call (515) 279-9700 today to schedule a free initial consultation.