Iowa Criminal Defense Laws
Iowa classifies felonies from Class A (life without parole) through Class D (5 years) and misdemeanors as aggravated (2 years), serious (1 year), and simple (30 days). Iowa does not have the death penalty. There is no statute of limitations for murder. Expungement is limited to one misdemeanor conviction per lifetime (8-year wait) and is not available for felony convictions. OWI (operating while intoxicated) is called OWI (not DUI) in Iowa, with a third offense being a Class D felony.
Last verified: 2026-02-25
Statute of Limitations
Murder: no statute of limitations. Most felonies and aggravated/serious misdemeanors: 3 years. Simple misdemeanors and municipal ordinance violations: 1 year. Sexual abuse of a minor and certain other sex offenses have extended or eliminated limitations.
Key Iowa Statutes
Class A: life without parole. Class B: up to 25 years. Class C: up to 10 years ($1,000-$10,000 fine). Class D: up to 5 years ($750-$7,500 fine). Iowa does NOT have the death penalty.
Aggravated misdemeanor: up to 2 years, $625-$6,250 fine. Serious misdemeanor: up to 1 year, $315-$1,875 fine. Simple misdemeanor: up to 30 days, $105-$855 fine.
BAC limit: 0.08%. First offense: serious misdemeanor (48 hours to 1 year jail). Second offense: aggravated misdemeanor (7 days to 2 years). Third and subsequent: Class D felony (up to 5 years). Enhanced penalties apply when BAC exceeds 0.15%. All offenders must undergo substance abuse evaluation.
Only ONE misdemeanor conviction may be expunged per lifetime. Requirements: 8+ years since conviction, no pending charges, all fines/restitution paid, no prior deferred judgments (2+ limit). Felony convictions cannot be expunged. Dismissed charges and acquittals are automatically eligible for expungement after 180 days.
Official Sources
Not Legal Advice
This page summarizes publicly available statutes and rules for informational purposes only. It does not constitute legal advice, and no attorney-client relationship is created by viewing this content. Laws change — always verify with the primary source or consult a licensed attorney in Iowa.
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