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Criminal Defense Attorneys Serving Adair County, Iowa

At McCarthy and Hamrock, P.C., we are committed to providing trusted, strategic legal defense for individuals facing criminal charges in Adair County and the surrounding communities. With decades of experience defending clients throughout central and southwestern Iowa, our team is prepared to handle a wide range of misdemeanor and felony charges. Whether you reside in Greenfield, Fontanelle, Adair, or simply passed through on Interstate 80, our attorneys can help you understand your legal options and work toward a favorable outcome.

Even relatively minor criminal accusations can lead to long-term consequences, including a criminal record, job loss, and reputational harm. More serious charges carry the risk of steep fines, incarceration, and long-term supervision. In any case, it’s essential that you consult with a seasoned criminal defense attorney who understands Iowa law, local court procedures, and how to build a defense that reflects your personal circumstances.

If you are seeking legal information about a personal injury case, please visit Adair County Personal Injury


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Overview of Legal Representation in Adair County, Iowa


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Criminal Charges We Handle in Adair County

Domestic Violence – Domestic violence charges in Adair County often result from heated arguments between spouses, partners, or family members. Even without physical evidence, police are likely to arrest someone if an allegation is made. These cases can result in immediate no-contact orders, jail time, and long-term firearm restrictions. Our attorneys work to challenge exaggerated or false claims, defend your rights, and restore your reputation.

Drug Crimes – I-80 cuts directly through Adair County, making it a hotbed for drug-related traffic stops. Charges range from simple marijuana possession to felony-level distribution of methamphetamine or fentanyl. Law enforcement often partners with state or federal agencies. Our firm defends clients against charges stemming from vehicle searches, questionable informants, and allegedly constructive possession.

Theft and Property Crimes – From petty theft and shoplifting to burglary and motor vehicle theft, property crimes can vary significantly in severity. Adair County prosecutors may pursue harsh penalties depending on the value of the property and whether force was used. Our defense strategies may involve mistaken identity, lack of intent, or mitigating circumstances.

Violent Crimes – Assault, robbery, and other violent crimes are charged as felonies in most cases and are aggressively pursued by county prosecutors. Convictions may carry multi-year prison sentences. We help clients by investigating the facts, identifying inconsistencies in witness testimony, and asserting defenses like self-defense or defense of others.

Weapons Offenses – Charges involving illegal firearms or weapon possession are serious, especially if the accused is a felon or if the weapon was allegedly used during another crime. Our team defends clients charged with unlawful carrying, brandishing, or use of firearms, and we regularly challenge the legality of searches and seizures.

White Collar Crimes – Financial crimes like forgery, identity theft, or fraud may result in state or federal charges, depending on the scope. These cases often involve complex paper trails and intent-based allegations. We work with forensic accountants and investigators to defend clients and reduce exposure to penalties.

Probation Violations – Probation violations in Adair County can include missed check-ins, failed drug tests, or new arrests. Violations may trigger a revocation hearing, where the judge could impose stricter supervision or incarceration. We help clients present mitigating circumstances and advocate for alternatives to jail.

Sex CrimesSex-related offenses, including sexual abuse or possession of child pornography, carry some of the harshest penalties under Iowa law. Accusations alone can cause significant personal and professional harm. Our attorneys conduct a thorough investigation to uncover inconsistencies and fight for your constitutional rights.

Juvenile Offenses – When minors are charged with crimes in Adair County, their future is on the line. We represent juveniles facing charges such as vandalism, underage drinking, or drug possession, and work to keep their records clean through diversion, deferred judgments, or dismissal.

Traffic Offenses – Adair County law enforcement frequently patrols major roads like I-80. Drivers may be charged with excessive speeding, reckless driving, or fleeing the scene of an accident. We defend both residents and out-of-state drivers and explore every legal avenue to protect their driving privileges.


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OWI Defense in Adair County

Being charged with Operating While Intoxicated (OWI) in Adair County can be intimidating. These charges are common and aggressively prosecuted, especially for those caught during highway patrol operations. Penalties may include license suspension, mandatory treatment programs, fines, or jail time. Our attorneys are experienced in challenging field sobriety tests, breathalyzer reliability, and police procedures. Many individuals arrested for OWI are stopped along I-80 or at local checkpoints in towns like Greenfield. Adair County prosecutors often pursue convictions aggressively, and penalties escalate quickly for repeat offenders. Breath test refusal, while a right, can result in immediate license suspension under Iowa’s implied consent laws.

Our firm examines every detail of the stop, including whether law enforcement had probable cause, how field sobriety tests were conducted, and whether chemical tests were accurate. We aim to suppress faulty evidence, minimize penalties, and in some cases, get charges dismissed entirely.


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Adair County Court Resources

Adair County District Court – The Adair County District Court has jurisdiction over criminal, civil, probate, and juvenile cases. It handles felony cases and more serious misdemeanor offenses.
Address: 400 Public Square, Suite 5, Greenfield, IA 50849
Phone: 641-743-2445
Fax: 641-743-2974

Adair County Attorney’s Office – The County Attorney prosecutes state criminal cases in Adair County and provides legal counsel to the Board of Supervisors and other departments.
Address: 350 Public Sq, Greenfield , IA 50849
641-743-6390
641-632-2122 (Collections Fax)
Email: attorney@adaircountyiowa.org
County Attorney: Melissa Larson

Adair County Sheriff’s Office – Responsible for law enforcement, jail operations, and civil process service throughout Adair County.
Address: 302 E. Iowa St, Greenfield, IA 50849
Phone: 641-743-2148
Fax: 641-343-7185
Email: sheriffsoffice@adaircountyso.org
Current Sheriff: Jeff Vandewater

Greenfield Police Department – Handles law enforcement within Greenfield city limits and frequently collaborates with the Sheriff’s Office.
Address: 202 South 1st Street, Greenfield, IA 50849
Phone: (641) 743-2323
Chief of Police: Jeff LaBarge


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Additional Resources

Iowa Code – Criminal Law – Full access to Iowa criminal statutes including offenses, penalties, and procedures.

Adair County Official Website – County government hub for local departments, services, public notices, and board agendas.


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Criminal Defense Lawyers for Adair County, Iowa

If you’ve been charged with a crime in Adair County, whether in Greenfield, Fontanelle, or elsewhere in the county, contact McCarthy and Hamrock, P.C. We are dedicated to defending your rights and guiding you through the legal process. Call us today at (515) 279-9700 to schedule your free consultation. We proudly serve clients throughout Adair County and nearby communities including Polk, Madison, and Mahaska counties.