Iowa Attorney General Brenna Bird seeks an attorney to represent the Criminal Appeals Division. Attorneys in this division primarily handle appeals from criminal proceedings, juvenile delinquency findings, and sexually violent predator commitments.

Criminal Appeals attorneys deal with a vast array of issues that affect everyday Iowans, whether it is through taking a “state’s appeal,” motion practice before the Iowa Supreme Court, or defending convictions by district courts. By virtue of their unique experience, these attorneys also advise on extradition matters, review legislation, give legal training, speak at conferences, and counsel local prosecuting attorneys.

Turnover in this division is low. No other group of lawyers appears more frequently before Iowa’s appellate courts. They also practice in the federal district courts; the 8th Circuit Court of Appeals; and the United States Supreme Court. In addition to a collegial environment among the best collection of appellate lawyers in the state, perks of working in this division include flexible work-from-home schedules; the opportunity to work on interesting, novel, and exciting cases; excellent work-life balance and benefits; and no hourly billing.

This position requires a license to practice law in Iowa. Applicants must have a dedication to public service; previous prosecutorial or appellate experience; and demonstrated research, writing, and oral advocacy skills.

The most competitive applicants will have a combination of experience as a judicial clerk, a member of a law review, and a criminal-appellate practitioner. Salary ranges from 57,636.80-139,318.40 depending on experience.
Apply by sending a cover letter, resume, and writing sample to Leif Olson, Chief Deputy Attorney General, at AGHumanResources@ag.iowa.gov or Hoover Bldg., 2nd Floor, 1305 E. Walnut St., Des Moines, IA 50319. Applications will be considered on a rolling basis, beginning on August 22nd, until the position is filled.