Criminal Defense

The Law Shop provides private representation and/or professional guidance in Iowa for the following types of criminal charges:

Assault

Assault refers to intentionally causing pain or injury to another person, or threatening or attempting to do so. It also includes any act intended to cause fear of immediate physical contact or harm.

Domestic Abuse Assault

Domestic Abuse Assault involves committing assault against a family or household member with whom the perpetrator resides or has resided. It can include physical harm, sexual abuse, or the threat of physical harm. Domestic abuse assault is taken very seriously and can lead to more severe penalties than other forms of assault, especially if the perpetrator has prior convictions or if the act involved the use of a weapon or resulted in serious injury.

Theft

Theft involves taking someone else’s property without their permission with the intention of permanently depriving them of it. This can range from shoplifting to embezzlement or stealing a car.

Burglary

Burglary is unlawfully entering a building or other premises with the intent to commit a crime inside, such as theft. It doesn’t necessarily involve breaking and entering; simply being in a place unlawfully with criminal intent can qualify as burglary.

Possession of Controlled Substance

Possession of Controlled Substance refers to unlawfully possessing drugs that are regulated by law, such as marijuana, cocaine, methamphetamine, and certain prescription medications not prescribed to the individual. The severity of the charge can vary based on the type and quantity of the drug, with potential penalties ranging from fines to imprisonment. Iowa law categorizes controlled substances into different schedules, with Schedule I substances being considered the most dangerous and having the highest potential for abuse, and Schedule V substances being the least dangerous.

Possession of Drug Paraphernalia

Possession of Drug Paraphernalia refers to owning or having control over items that are used for consuming, storing, or manufacturing illegal drugs. Examples include pipes, syringes, and items used for growing or producing drugs.

Operating While Intoxicated

Operating While Intoxicated is the act of driving a vehicle while under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or both, to a level that impairs one’s ability to drive safely. It’s similar to what’s commonly known as DUI (Driving Under the Influence) in other states.

Driving While Suspended

Driving While Suspended means driving a vehicle while your driver’s license is suspended. Reasons for suspension can include previous traffic violations, failure to pay fines, or other legal issues.

Driving While Barred

Driving while barred is more serious than driving while suspended. It occurs when a person drives after their license has been barred due to serious offenses like repeated DUIs or other major traffic violations. Driving in this status can lead to significant legal penalties.

The application of these general definitions can vary based on the specific circumstances of each case and legal outcomes can depend on numerous factors including the severity of the offense, prior convictions, and other variables. For personalized legal advice or more detailed explanations, click on Get Started to schedule a low cost Shop Evaluation with an attorney at The Law Shop.

Get Started

“Getting divorced was never on my radar. It was a huge, horrible, unexpected shock. Working with Amy was a lifeline in many ways. Of course, her knowledge of the law was top-notch. But more than that was the care she showed me. Every meeting ended in a very tight hug. I get teary-eyed even now remembering it. She was very patient, willing to answer every single question I had (& still does when things pop up).  She listened and let me lead the way, but was also very clear in offering advice in areas that might work out better in a way I hadn’t thought of. I think the most glowing praise I can give her is that I have found out my ex has referred friends to Amy instead of the lawyer he used in our divorce!” - Heidi
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"In the spring of 2024 I once again found myself calling upon Amy to kindly hold my hand through a divorce - one that I never saw coming. This moment was traumatic for me, but Amy made it one of the easiest legal processes I have ever experienced. Everything was under control in the incredibly capable hands of her and the staff of the Law Shop. I cannot recommend The Law Shop highly enough - frankly there aren't words that match the gratitude and love I have for everyone who works there. If you want to feel cared for, heard, and valued then this is very much the place for you. The Law Shop understands that you exist outside of what has happened to you in your life, and will help you to navigate the situation in order to get you to the other side."
– Kelly
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"It is always a pleasure to work on cases with Andrea.  She has incredible passion for her work as an attorney and true dedication to her clients. I know when she is on the other side of a case we will have a dignified process and an opportunity to find creative solutions to our clients’ problems." – Kimberly J. Stamatelos, Attorney / Author of “The Compassionate Lawyer” / Co-Founder of The Compassionate Alliance
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“Divorce is one of the most difficult life experiences to go through. I was feeling very alone and overwhelmed. Amy took a great burden from me, worked toward a collaborative settlement, and was always in my corner. I could not have expected such a positive outcome, and owe it all to Amy and her team. I highly recommend her as an attorney who will help you through the most difficult legal challenges.” – Doug
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