Skip to main content
Iowa Judicial Branch
Main Content

James M. Parsons (1935-1937)

Chief Justice

James M. Parsons

Served on the Iowa Supreme court from January 1, 1935, until his death December 16, 1937. For one term of six months he was Chief Justice.

Born near Anamosa, Iowa, October 16, 1858, At the age of ten he was left an orphan, but in spite of this handicap he acquired an education in civil engineering at Iowa State College and at Cornell College. In 1879 he turned to the study of law and was admitted to the bar the following year. In 1881 he located at Rock Rapids where he engaged in the private practice of law. While at Rock Rapids he served as Mayor and one term as County Attorney. In 1906 he moved to Des Moines where he continued in private practice until coming on the Supreme Bench.

© 2023 Iowa Judicial Branch. All Rights Reserved.