County Attorney

The Linn County attorney is a constitutionally elected official. The County Attorney is the legal advisor and chief law enforcement officer of the county. The County Attorney is charged with the prosecution of criminal violations as defined by the Code of Iowa. The County Attorney's Office is comprised of 20 assistant Linn County attorneys and 19 support staff personnel and is divided into three divisions Civil, Criminal, and Juvenile.

Duties of the County Attorney

  • Exercise professional discretion when making decisions on criminal charges.
  • Prosecute all violations of state criminal laws and county ordinances.
  • Provide legal advice to the Board of Supervisors and county and township officers concerning county matters.
  • Represent and defend the state, county, and its officers in officially related cases. 
  • Present all juvenile delinquency and child in need of assistance cases and mental health commitment proceedings. 

The County Attorney's Office Does Not:

  • Give legal advice to or represent private groups or persons.
  • File lawsuits for private persons or defend them against lawsuits, including actions for dissolution of marriage.
  • Prepare wills, deeds or other legal documents for private individuals.

Helpful Numbers

Public Defenders Office
319-398-3690

Clerk of Court
319-398-3411
319-398-3920

Linn County Advocate
319-398-3535

Linn County Jail
319-892-6300