Iowa Crimes: Laws & Penalties

Iowa Misdemeanor Crimes by Class and Sentences

In Iowa, misdemeanors are crimes that are punishable by up to two years in local or county jail. Misdemeanors in Iowa are designated as aggravated, serious, or simple.

Expunging or Sealing Adult Criminal Records in Iowa

The options for expunging or sealing a criminal record in Iowa are limited. In addition, if your Iowa criminal record contains errors, you may request that it be corrected.

Iowa Criminal Statute of Limitations

Like all states, Iowa sets a "deadline" for charging criminal cases. If the state tries to bring an action against someone after the applicable time period has passed, the person charged can have the case dismissed.

Driving on a Suspended License in Iowa

Like all states, Iowa may suspend or revoke its residents’ driver’s licenses for traffic violations, criminal convictions, and other issues. In general, suspension means the state temporarily withdraws your privilege to drive. Revocation often means the termination of driving privileges. Whether your license is suspended or revoked, you can be charged with a crime if you drive when your license is not valid.

Iowa Minor in Possession of Alcohol Charges and Penalties

Iowa has minor in possession (MIP) laws to discourage and punish underage drinking and the possession of alcohol by minors. Those under the age of 21 caught possessing, purchasing or attempting to purchase beer, wine, or liquor will be charged with violating the law and ordered to pay a fine.

Possession of a Controlled Substance in Iowa

All states regulate and control the possession of controlled dangerous substances (CDS), though each differs in its exact definition of CDS and the penalties for their possession. Iowa classifies not only well-known drugs like marijuana, heroin, and cocaine as CDS, but also the compounds used to manufacture them.

Iowa Sale of a Controlled Substance Laws

All states regulate and control the possession of controlled dangerous substances (CDS), though each differs in its exact definition of CDS and the penalties for their possession. Iowa considers not only well-known drugs like marijuana, heroin, and cocaine to be controlled substances, but also the compounds used to manufacture them.

Iowa Marijuana Laws

The possession and sale of any amount of marijuana is illegal in Iowa.

Iowa Laws on Misdemeanor and Felony Theft

Iowa’s theft law covers a broad range of conduct, including crimes commonly referred to as larceny, misappropriation, embezzlement, theft by deception or fraud, receiving stolen property, and shoplifting. A person commits theft in Iowa by stealing cash, jewelry, or any other item. It's also theft to:

Iowa Statutory Rape Laws

A person who engages in sexual activity (including consensual sexual activity) with a child under the age of 16 can be convicted of statutory rape (also called sexual abuse) in Iowa.