Orders | Iowa Judicial Branch

In the Matter of Ongoing Provisions for Coronavirus/COVID-19 Impact on Court Services (May 14, 2021)

Today Chief Justice Christensen signed an order revising the face-covering requirement in court-controlled spaces.

Order (264.94 KB)

In the Matter of Appointment to the Lessons Learned Task Force (May 5, 2021)

Chief Justice Christensen signed an order appointing Chief Judge Bower, Iowa Court of Appeals, to the Lessons Learned Task Force.

Order (885.79 KB)

In the Matter of Lessons Learned From the Judicial Branch Response To COVID-19 (April 28, 2021)

Chief Justice Christensen has signed an order creating the Lessons Learned Task Force to review the formal orders and informal policies or practices adopted by the branch in response to the COVID-19 pandemic and make recommendations to the supreme court on rules, policies, or practices that should be retained, modified, or stopped

Order (246.61 KB)

In the Matter of Adopting Amendments to Chapter 16 Regarding the Submission of Potentially Dangerous Exhibits (Amended April 12, 2021) (April 9, 2021)

Chief Justice Christensen has signed an amended order adopting an amendment to chapter 16 of the Iowa Court Rules concerning the submission of potentially dangerous exhibits to court clerks. The amendment is effective immediately

Amended Order (244.37 KB)

Chapter 16 Adopted Amendments (88.80 KB)

In the Matter of Resuming Family Law Trials Postponed by COVID-19 (April 9, 2021)

Chief Justice Christensen has signed an order amending the court’s July 9, 2020 In the Matter of Resuming Family Law Trials Postponed by COVID-19 order. The third amendment replaces the mediation/judicial settlement conference report form with a new streamlined form. The new report form is adopted effectively immediately.

Order (246.56 KB)

Family Law Mediation Report (1.35 MB)

In the Matter of the Coronavirus/COVID-19 Impact on Attorney Well-Being and the Iowa Lawyers Assistance Program (March 11, 2021)

In order to help lawyers and judges who may be struggling with attorney wellness, mental health, and alcohol/substance abuse, the Court has authorized informal referrals from the Attorney Disciplinary Board to the Iowa Lawyers Assistance Program.

Order (86.30 KB)

In the Matter of Ongoing Provisions for Coronavirus/COVID-19 Impact on Court Services (March 11, 2021)

Chief Justice Christensen signed an order supplementing the court’s previous supervisory orders relating to forcible entry and detainer actions during the COVID-19 pandemic. The new order is consistent with the current CDC guidelines.

Order (248.07 KB)

In the Matter of the July 2021 Iowa Bar Examination (March 11, 2021)

Order (92.01 KB)

In the Matter of Adopting Felony Conviction Challenge for Cause Amendments to Chapter 1 Rules of Civil Procedure and Chapter 2 Rules of Criminal Procedure (February 19, 2021)

Chief Justice Christensen has signed an order amending Iowa Rule of Civil Procedure 1.915(6)(a) and Iowa Rule of Criminal Procedure 2.18(5)(a) to clarify that these rules do not allow a challenge for cause of a prospective juror whose citizenship rights have been restored. These amendments are temporarily adopted effective immediately and will take permanent effect subject to Legislative Council review as provided by Iowa Code section 602.4202.

Order (927.95 KB)

Chapters 1 and 2 Rule Amendments (445.25 KB)

In the Matter of Resuming Family Law Trials Postponed by COVID-19 (February 12, 2021)

Order (758.81 KB)

Second Amendment to Family Law Trial Resumption (838.33 KB)

Family Law Mediation Report Form (1.35 MB)

In the Matter of the Information Sheet for Protective Order Registry and Service of Protective Orders (February 9, 2021)

Chief Justice Christensen has signed an order approving a revised "Information Sheet for Protective Order Registry and Service of Protective Orders." The revised form is available from the Iowa Judicial Branch website in a fillable and savable format.

Order (1.63 MB)

Form (651.18 KB)

In the Matter of Adopting Chapter 2 Criminal Case Expungement Rules (January 29, 2021)

Chief Justice Christensen has signed an order adopting new chapter 2 criminal case expungement rules and forms. These new rules and forms will become effective for expungement applications filed on or after July 1, 2021, subject to Legislative Council review as provided by Iowa Code section 602.4202.

Order (1.54 MB)

Chapter 2 (2.85 MB)

Rule 2.86 Form 1 Application to Expunge Court Record (1.25 MB)

Rule 2.86 Form 2 Application to Expunge Misdemeanor Court Record (1.86 MB)

Rule 2.86 Form 3 Application to Expunge Public Intoxication Court Record (1.04 MB)

Rule 2.86 Form 4 Application to Expunge PAULA Court Record (1.05 MB)

Rule 2.86 Form 5 Application to Expunge Prostitution Court Record (1.04 MB)

In the Matter of Ongoing Provisions for Coronavirus/COVID-19 Impact on Court Services (December 30, 2020)

Chief Justice Christensen has signed an order supplementing previous forcible-and-detainer-related (FED-related) supervisory orders relating to the spread of the novel coronavirus/COVID-19.

Order (786.55 KB)

In the Matter of Adoption of Amendments to the Bar Examination Application Process, Chapter 31 of the Iowa Court Rules (December 18, 2020)

Chief Justice Christensen signed an order adopting amendments to Chapter 31 of the Iowa Court Rules concerning the bar examination application process.

Order (716.25 KB)

Chapter 31 Amendments (1.14 MB)

In the Matter of the Court Reporter Workforce (December 14, 2020)

Today, Chief Justice Christensen signed an order regarding the judicial branch court reporter workforce. The substance of this order is substantially similar to the November 12, 2009 order.

Order (1.31 MB)

In the Matter of the Informal Family Law Trial Program for Self-Represented Litigants (December 1, 2020)

The Chief Justice signed an order approving the implementation of district plans for the informal family law trial programs.

Order (521.36 KB)

In the Matter of Ongoing Provisions for Coronavirus/COVID-19 Impact on Court Services (November 24, 2020)

Chief Justice Christensen signed an order today regarding the ongoing provisions relating to COVID-19's impact on court services.

Order (6.51 MB)

Amended Order (6.86 MB)

Paragraph 24 Replacement (1.12 MB)

In the Matter of Adopting Amendments to Chapter 22 Iowa Judicial Branch Travel Reimbursement Rules (November 23, 2020)

Chief Justice Christensen has signed an order adopting amendments to Iowa Court Rules chapter 22, regarding judicial branch travel reimbursement rules.

Order (1.08 MB)

Amended August 31, 2020 Order (94.15 KB)

Adopted Amendments to Chapter 22 (1.87 MB)

In the Matter of the Carroll County ODR Pilot Project (November 20, 2020)

Chief Justice Christensen signed an order regarding the new Carroll County Online Dispute Resolution Pilot Project.

Order: In the Matter of the Carroll County ODR Pilot Project and Suspension of Certain Iowa Court Rules Regarding Installment Payment Plans (762.90 KB)

Order: In the Matter of Carroll County ODR Pilot Project and Suspension of Order Additional Iowa Court Rule Regarding Transmission of Disposition Documents (1.39 MB)

In the Matter of Ongoing Provisions for Coronavirus/COVID-19 Impact on Court Services (November 10, 2020)

Chief Justice Christensen signed an order postponing all jury trials until February 1, 2021.

Order (126.73 KB)

In the Matter of the February 2021 Iowa Bar Examination (October 9, 2020)

Chief Justice Christensen signed an order regarding the February 2021 bar exam.

Order (1.13 MB)

In the Matter of Ongoing Provisions for Coronavirus/COVID-19 Impact on Court Services (October 2, 2020)

Order (1.25 MB)

Evictions Declaration Instructions and Form (744.71 KB)

In the Matter of Establishment of the Iowa Rules of Appellate Procedure Review Task Force (September 15, 2020)

Chief Justice Christensen has signed an order establishing the Iowa Appellate Rules of Procedure Review Task Force.

Order (1.38 MB)

Appointment Order (September 18, 2020) (329.77 KB)

In the Matter of Ongoing Provisions for Coronavirus/COVID-19 Impact on Court Services (September 1, 2020)

Chief Justice Christensen signed an order on judicial discretion regarding remote technology in certain juvenile proceedings.

Order (1.40 MB)

Amended Order (1.31 MB)

In the Matter of Iowa Judicial Branch Online Information Security Awareness Training (August 31, 2020)

Chief Justice Christensen has signed an order requiring judicial branch employees to complete a yearly online information security awareness training.

Order (575.80 KB)

In the Matter of Adoption of Amendments to Registration of House Counsel Rule 31.16 and CLE Requirement Rule 41.3(3) (August 28, 2020)

Chief Justice Christensen has signed an order adopting amendments to the registration of house counsel provisions in rule 31.16, and striking rule 41.3(3), eliminating the cap on unmoderated CLE credits.

Order (1.88 MB)

Adopted Amendments to Chapter 31 (2.09 MB)

Adopted Amendments to Chapter 41 (485.86 KB)

In the Matter of Adoption of Amendments to Chapter 32, Iowa Rules of Professional Conduct (August 28, 2020)

Chief Justice Christensen has signed an order adopting amendments to the Iowa Rules of Professional Conduct in chapter 32 of the Iowa Court Rules, effective January 1, 2021.

Order (1.42 MB)

Adopted Amendments to Chapter 32 (2.71 MB)

Request for Public Comment on Proposed Chapter 2 Criminal Case Expungement Rules (August 26, 2020)

Order (1.42 MB)

Proposed Chapter 2 Amendments (8.32 MB)

In the Matter of Adopting Amendments to Chapter 16 Allowing Court Interpreter Access to Case Documents (August 26, 2020)

Order (1.11 MB)

Proposed Chapter 16 Amendments (937.79 KB)

Request for Public Comment on Proposed Amendments to the Bar Examination Application Process, Chapter 31 of the Iowa Court Rules (August 19, 2020)

Order (2.32 MB)

Proposed Amendments to Chapter 31 (2.67 MB)

In the Matter of Access to Justice in Counties Impacted by Natural Disaster (August 19, 2020)

Chief Justice Christensen signed an order to extend the filing deadline to Tuesday, August 25, for filings otherwise due during the date range from August 10 to August 17, for attorneys with an office or residence in four counties, Clinton, Linn, Marshall, Poweshiek, still affected by power and internet outages caused by the "derecho."

Order (1.44 MB)

In the Matter of Access to Justice in Counties Impacted by Natural Disaster (August 17, 2020)

Order (691.40 KB)

In the Matter of Access to Justice in Counties Impacted by Natural Disaster (August 14, 2020)

Chief Justice Christensen signed an order to extend the filing deadline to Tuesday, August 18, for filings otherwise due during the date range from August 10 to August 17, for attorneys with an office or residence in two additional Iowa counties that are declared state disaster areas.

order (701.06 KB)

In the Matter of Access to Justice in Counties Impacted by Natural Disaster (August 13, 2020)

Chief Justice Christensen signed an order regarding Iowans' access to justice following the "derecho" natural disaster.

Order (1.37 MB)

In the Matter of Ongoing Provisions for Coronavirus/COVID-19 Impact on Court Services (July 31, 2020)

Chief Justice Christensen signed an order regarding the ongoing provisions for coronavirus/COVID-19's impact on court services.

Order (169.51 KB)

Amended Order (856.36 KB)

In Matter of Iowa Court Rule 1.1901-Form 14: Subpoena Form to Testify at Hearing or Trial in a Civil Action (July 31, 2020)

Order (1.81 MB)

In the Matter of Resuming Appellate Oral Arguments During COVID-19 (July 29, 2020)

Chief Justice Christensen signed an order today regarding the resumption of appellate oral arguments during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Order (815.59 KB)

In the Matter of Resuming Jury Trials During COVID-19 (July 22, 2020)

Chief Justice Christensen signed an order today regarding the resumption of jury trials during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Order (995.86 KB)

In the Matter of Adopting State Court Administration's Proposed Amendments to Chapter 47, Court Interpreter and Translator Rules (July 20, 2020)

Chief Justice Christensen signed an order today accepting State Court Administration's proposed changes to Chapter 47.

Order (54.88 KB)

Chapter 47 Amendments (331.38 KB)

Rule 47.18 Form 1 (42.08 KB)

In the Matter of Resuming Family Law Trials Postponed by COVID-19 (July 9, 2020)

Order (308.00 KB)

Amended Order (September 29, 2020) (1.09 MB)

Second Amendment to Family Law Trial Resumption (838.33 KB)

Family Law Mediation Report Form (1.35 MB)

Third Amendment to Family Law Trial Resumption (246.56 KB)

In the Matter of Resuming In Person Court Services During COVID-19 (July 9, 2020)

Order (422.43 KB)

In the Matter of Case Prioritization of Cases and Duties (July 9, 2020)

Order (1,022.54 KB)

In the Matter of Interim Procedures Governing Ability to Pay Determinations and Conversion of Restitution Orders (July 7, 2020)

Chief Justice Christensen signed an order regarding the interim procedures governing the ability to pay determinations and conversion of restitution orders.

Order (1.31 MB)

In the Matter of Public Comment on Proposed Amendments to Chapter 2, Iowa Rules of Criminal Procedure - Extension of Comment Period (June 26, 2020)

Chief Justice Christensen signed an order extending the comment period for the proposed amendments to Chapter 2, Iowa Rules of Criminal Procedure.

Order (813.16 KB)

In the Matter of the July 2020 Iowa Bar Examination (June 5, 2020)

Chief Justice Christensen signed an order today regarding new procedures for the July 2020 Iowa Bar Exam.

Order (567.39 KB)

Request for Public Comment on Proposed Amendments to Iowa Court Rule 31.16 - Registration of House Counsel (June 2, 2020)

Order (821.21 KB)

Rule 31.16 Proposed Amendments (384.66 KB)

Public Comments (704.17 KB)

In the Matter of Appointments to the 2020 Iowa Child Support Guidelines Review Committee (June 1, 2020)

Chief Justice Christensen has signed an order appointing members of the 2020 Iowa Child Support Guidelines Review Committee.

Order (959.77 KB)

In the Matter of Ongoing Provisions for Coronovirus/COVID-19 Impact on Court Services (May 22, 2020)

Order (1.03 MB)

CARES Act Landlord Verification Form (622.16 KB)

Form Instructions (426.99 KB)

Amended Order (812.95 KB)

In the Matter of Resuming Family Law Trials Postponed by Coronavirus/COVID-19 (May 22, 2020)

Order (693.80 KB)

In the Matter of Prioritization of Cases and Duties (May 22, 2020)

Supervisory Order (727.15 KB)

In the Matter of Ongoing Provisions for Coronavirus/COVID-19 Impact on Court Services (May 8, 2020)

Chief Justice Christensen signed a supervisory order regarding further actions taken in response to COVID-19.

Order (1.53 MB)

In the Matter of the Administration of the July 2020 Iowa Bar Exam (May 6, 2020)

Order (1,016.60 KB)

In the Matter of Resuming Jury Trials Postponed by Coronoavirus/COVID-19 (May 6, 2020)

Chief Justice Christensen signed an order creating the Jumpstart Jury Task Force. The Task Force will make recommendations to the supreme court regarding temporary policies and procedures for jury trials resuming following the COVID-19 postponements.

Order (1.86 MB)

In the Matter of the Establishment of the Electronic Search Warrant Pilot Project (April 27, 2020)

Today Chief Justice Christensen signed a supervisory order authorizing an electronic search warrant pilot project in Fremont, Mills, Montgomery, and Page counties.

Order (1.52 MB)

Memorandum of Operation (3.93 MB)

In the Matter of Ongoing Provisions for Coronavirus/COVID-19 Impact on Court Services (April 17, 2020)

Chief Justice Christensen has filed an order regarding the coronavirus/COVID-19 impact on court services.

Order (3.46 MB)

In the Matter of Ongoing Provisions For Coronavirus/COVID-19 Impact On Child Welfare and Juvenile Justice Youth and Families (April 6, 2020)

Chief Justice Christensen has filed an order regarding the coronavirus/COVID-19 impact on child welfare and juvenile justice for youth and families.

Order (318.51 KB)

In the Matter of Ongoing Provisions For Coronavirus/COVID-19 Impact on Court Services (April 2, 2020)

Chief Justice Christensen has filed an order regarding the coronavirus/COVID-19 impact on court services.

Order (7.97 MB)

In the Matter of Ongoing Provisions for Coronavirus/COVID-19 Impact Amended March 28, 2020 Order on Court Services (March 31, 2020)

Order (3.53 MB)

Request for Public Comment on Proposed Amendments to Chapter 2, Iowa Rules of Criminal Procedure (March 30, 2020)

The Iowa Supreme Court requests public comment regarding proposed amendments to Chapter 2, Iowa Rules of Criminal Procedure. The deadline for submitting comments is 4:30 p.m. on Tuesday, June 30, 2020.

Order (2.05 MB)

Proposed ch. 2 Iowa Rules of Criminal Procedure (1.45 MB)

Summary of Proposed Changes to the Iowa Rules of Criminal Procedure (156.70 KB)

Revising and Updating the Iowa Rules of Criminal Procedure Presentation (553.41 KB)

Public Comments Regarding Proposed Amendments to Chapter 2, Iowa Rules of Criminal Procedure (July 14, 2020) (9.10 MB)

In the Matter of Preparation for Coronavirus/COVID-19 Impact on the Boards and Commissions Overseen by the Office of Professional Regulation (March 27, 2020)

Chief Justice Christensen has signed a supervisory order regarding the Coronavirus/COVID-19 impact on the boards and commissions overseen by the Office of Professional Regulation.

Order (737.65 KB)

In the Matter of Ongoing Provisions For Coronavirus/COVID-19 Impact On Court Services (March 17, 2020)

Chief Justice Christensen has signed a supervisory order permitting new ways to access courts to prevent the spread of the coronavirus.

Order (3.15 MB)

In the Matter of Preparation For Coronavirus/COVID-19 Impact On the Office of Professional Regulation (March 16, 2020)

Chief Justice Christensen has signed a supervisory order detailing preparations aimed at minimizing coronavirus/COVID-19 impact on the Office of Professional Regulation.

Order (89.14 KB)

In the Matter of Ongoing Preparation For Coronavirus/COVID-19 Impact On Court Services (March 14, 2020)

Chief Justice Christensen has signed a supervisory order instituting procedures to keep the courts open to the fullest possible extent while protecting public safety by mitigating the impact of coronavirus/COVID-19.

In the Matter of Ongoing Preparation For Coronavirus/COVID-19 Impact On Court Services (7.66 MB)

In the Matter of Preparation for Coronavirus/COVID-19 Impact on Juvenile Court Services (March 13, 2020)

Chief Justice Christensen has signed a supervisory order detailing preparations aimed at minimizing coronavirus/COVID-19 impact on juvenile court services.

Order (183.11 KB)

In the Matter of Preparation for Coronavirus/COVID-19 Impact on Court Services (March 12, 2020)

Chief Justice Christensen has signed a supervisory order detailing preparations aimed at minimizing coronavirus/COVID-19 impact on the services the judicial branch provides Iowans.

Order (222.05 KB)

Request for Public Comment on Proposed Amendments to Chapter 47, Court Interpreter and Translator Rules (March 9, 2020)

Chief Justice Christensen has signed an order requesting public comment regarding proposed amendments to Chapter 47, court interpreter and translator rules. The deadline for submitting comments is 4:30 p.m. on May 8, 2020.

Order (79.00 KB)

Chapter 47 Attachment (593.49 KB)

Request for Public Comment on Proposed Amendments to Chapter 23 of the Iowa Court Rules, Time Standards for Case Processing (December 20, 2019)

The Iowa Supreme Court requests public comment on proposed amendments to chapter 23 of the Iowa Court Rules regarding time standards for case processing.

Order (97.74 KB)

Attachment (208.62 KB)

In the Matter of Nonsubstantive Amendments to Chapters 34, 36, and 47 of the Iowa Court Rules (December 16, 2019)

Order (30.83 KB)

Attachments (112.96 KB)

In the Matter of Nonsubstantive Amendments to Iowa Rule of Electronic Procedure 16.412 Concerning Submission of Hearing and Trial Exhibits (December 16, 2019)

Order (35.10 KB)

Attachment (42.52 KB)

In the Matter of Amendments to Chapters 7 and 8 of the Iowa Court Rules and concerning Guardianship and Conservatorship Court Forms (December 12, 2019)

Acting Chief Justice Wiggins has signed an order rescinding the proposed guardianship and conservatorship court rules and forms accompanying supreme court orders entered on August 20, 2019, and October 9, 2019 and adopting new proposed court rules and forms. The forms are temporarily adopted effective immediately and will permanently take affect subject to Legislative Council review consistent with the provisions of Iowa Code section 602.4202. All 2014 Iowa Court Rule 7.11 forms will be removed effective January 1, 2020.

Order (140.50 KB)

Chapter 7 Table of Contents (22.35 KB)

Rule 7.4 (12.38 KB)

Rule 7.4—Form 1: Report of Referee (27.14 KB)

Rule 7.11 (13.00 KB)

Rule 7.11—Form 1: Protected Information Disclosure (88.35 KB)

Rule 7.11—Form 2: Background Check Information for a Proposed Guardian of a Protected Person (80.11 KB)

Rule 7.11—Form 3: Guardian's Initial Care Plan for Protected Person (114.97 KB)

Rule 7.11—Form 4: Guardian's Annual Report for Protected Person (127.10 KB)

Rule 7.11—Form 5: Guardian's Final Report for Protected Person (74.65 KB)

Rule 7.12 (32.22 KB)

Rule 7.12—Form 1: Protected Information Disclosure (105.06 KB)

Rule 7.12—Form 2: Background Check Information for a Proposed Conservator of a Protected Person (80.25 KB)

Rule 7.12—Form 3: Conservator's Request for Approval for Other Action on Behalf of Protected Person (36.57 KB)

Rule 7.12—Form 4: Notice of Filing Conservator's Initial Plan or Amended Plan (27.39 KB)

Rule 7.12—Form 5: Conservator's Initial Plan or Amended Plan (144.84 KB)

Rule 7.12—Form 6: Inventory of Assets of Protected Person (95.04 KB)

Rule 7.12—Form 7: Conservator's Annual Report (173.25 KB)

Rule 7.12—Form 8: Conservator's Final Report (119.58 KB)

Chapter 8 Table of Contents (72.45 KB)

Rule 8.37 (63.29 KB)

Rule 8.37—Form 1: Protected Information Disclosure (84.33 KB)

Rule 8.37—Form 2: Background Check Information for a Proposed Guardian of a Minor (79.98 KB)

Rule 8.37—Form 3: Affidavit of Parental Consent (30.29 KB)

Rule 8.37—Form 4: Guardian's Initial Care Plan for Protected Minor (102.95 KB)

Rule 8.37—Form 5: Guardian's Annual Report for Protected Minor (112.47 KB)

Rule 8.37—Form 6: Guardian's Final Report for Protected Minor (66.57 KB)

Rule 8.38-8.40 (58.95 KB)

In the Matter of Amendments to Code of Iowa Chapters 232D and 633 re Guardianships and Conservatorships (November 25, 2019)

Acting Chief Justice Wiggins has signed a supervisory order amending the supreme court's November 21, 2019 supervisory order with respect to extending deadlines and powers for conservatorships established prior to January 1, 2020.

Amended Supervisory Order (47.06 KB)

In the Matter of Amendments to Code of Iowa Chapter 232D and 633 regarding Guardianships and Conservatorships (November 21, 2019)

Acting Chief Justice Wiggins has signed a supervisory order extending the deadline for initial plans and annual reports for guardianships and conservatorships established prior to January 1, 2020. Initial plans and annual reports will be due in accordance with previously scheduled deadlines. The supervisory order also extends existing guardianship and conservatorship powers through the deadline for the filing of the annual report.

Order (111.42 KB)

In the Matter of Adopting the Office of Professional Regulation's Proposed Amendments to the Iowa Court Rules: Chapter 34, 36, 47 (October 24, 2019)

Chief Justice Cady has signed an order amending chapter 34, Administrative and General Provisions: Grievance Commission and Attorney Disciplinary Board; chapter 36, Grievance Commission Rules of Procedure; and chapter 47, Court Interpreter and Translator Rules, effective January 1, 2020.

Adoption Order (117.17 KB)

Chapters 34, 36, 47 (941.96 KB)

Request for Public Comment Order (147.14 KB)

Proposed Amendments (800.34 KB)

In the Matter of Adopting Amendments to Bar Admission Rules in Chapter 31 of the Iowa Court Rules (October 24, 2019)

Chief Justice Cady has signed an order amending the bar admission rules in chapter 31 of the Iowa Court Rules, effective January 1, 2020.

Adoption Order (80.12 KB)

Chapter 31 (338.05 KB)

Request for Public Comment Order (104.31 KB)

Proposed Amendments (356.28 KB)

In the Matter of Adopting Amendments to the Continuing Legal Education Requirements in the Iowa Court Rules (October 24, 2019)

Chief Justice Cady has signed an order amending the continuing legal education (CLE) requirements in Iowa Court Rules chapter 41, Continuing Legal Education for Lawyers, and chapter 42, Continuing Legal Education Regulations, effective January 1, 2020. The amendments modify the ethics requirements from January 1, 2021 onward.

Adoption Order (43.91 KB)

Chapter 41, 42 (460.69 KB)

Request for Public Comment Order (78.97 KB)

Proposed Amendments (451.83 KB)

In the Matter of the Independent Investigation Into Judicial Branch Information Security Testing (October 10, 2019)

Chief Justice Cady signed an order relating to the independent investigation into judicial branch information security testing.

Order (78.03 KB)

Report (221.03 KB)

In the Matter of Public Comment on Proposed Amendments to Chapter 32, Iowa Rules of Professional Conduct-Extension of Comment Period (September 27, 2019)

Chief Justice Cady has signed an order extending the public comment period on proposed amendments to the Iowa Rules of Professional Conduct, chapter 32 of the Iowa Court Rules. The comment period will close December 30, 2019.

Order (94.55 KB)

In the Matter of Adopting Amendments to Iowa Rule of Electronic Procedure 16.412 Concerning Submission of Hearing and Trial Exhibits (August 27, 2019)

Chief Justice Cady has signed an order adopting amendments to rule 16.412 of the Iowa Rules of Electronic Procedure concerning submission of hearing and trial exhibits.

Order (83.08 KB)

Attachment (307.46 KB)

Request for Public Comment on Proposed Amendments to Chapter 32, Iowa Rules of Professional Conduct (August 1, 2019)

Chief Justice Cady has signed orders requesting public comment on proposed amendments to the following chapters in Division III, Professional Regulation, of the Iowa Court Rules.

Order (89.02 KB)

Amendments (2.51 MB)

In the Matter of the Appointment of a News Media Coordinator for Region 4 (July 29, 2019)

The Iowa Supreme Court appoints Elijah Decious, Fort Dodge Messenger, to serve as the news media coordinator for Region 4.

Order (36.77 KB)

In the Matter of Adoption of Amendments of Chapters 34, 36, 47, and 49 of the Iowa Court Rules (July 24, 2019)

Chief Justice Cady has signed an order adopting amendments to chapters 34, 36, 47, and 49 of the Iowa Court Rules

Order (117.54 KB)

Amendments (1.12 MB)

In the Matter of Adoption of Iowa Court Rules 17.400 Regarding Child Custody and Visitation Forms for Unmarried Parents (July 19, 2019)

Chief Justice Cady has signed an order in the matter of adoption of Iowa Court Rule 17.400 regarding child custody and visitation forms for unmarried parents.

Order (1.20 MB)

In the Matter of the Judicial Branch FFPSA Review Task Force (July 10, 2019)

Chief Justice Cady has signed an order extending the FFPSA task force until July 1, 2021.

Order (197.61 KB)

In the Matter of Iowa Judicial Branch Online Information Security Awareness Training (June 25, 2019)

Chief Justice Cady has signed a supervisory order regarding required security awareness training for all judicial branch personnel that must be completed by October 12, 2019.

Order (45.91 KB)

In the Matter of Budgets for the Boards and Commissions of the Office of Professional Regulation (May 30, 2019)

Chief Justice Cady has signed an order approving fiscal year 2019-2020 budgets for boards and commissions of the Office of Professional Regulation.

Order (73.90 KB)

Order Attachment (257.10 KB)

In the Matter of Removing Form Orders from Chapters 12 and 13 for the Iowa Court Rules (May 22, 2019)

The Iowa Supreme Court removes the following form orders from the Iowa Court Rules.

Order (122.21 KB)

Order re IOLTA Grants (May 21, 2019)

Iowa Supreme Court Chief Justice Cady has signed an order approving IOLTA grants for the grant year commencing July 1, 2019.

Order (79.05 KB)

Request for Public Comment on Proposed Amendments to Rule 16.412 Concerning Submission of Exhibits (April 1, 2019)

Chief Justice Cady has signed an order seeking public comment on proposed amendments to Iowa Rule of Electronic Procedure 16.412 concerning submission of exhibits.

Order (97.69 KB)

Chapter 16 Iowa Rules of Electronic Procedure Proposed Amendments (102.05 KB)

Notice of Nonoral Resubmissions (March 14, 2019)

The Iowa Supreme Court ordered the nonoral resubmission of 28 cases. With the addition of Justice Christopher McDonald to the supreme court, the court determined that these cases are resubmitted to the Iowa Supreme Court.

Nonoral Cases for Resubmission (60.20 KB)

Travel Reimbursement Order (February 21, 2019)

The Iowa Supreme Court adopts amendments to chapter 22 of the Iowa Court Rules implementing changes to the Iowa Judicial Branch travel reimbursement rules.

Order (38.74 KB)

Chapter 22 (70.50 KB)

Emergency Order Regarding the February 2019 Uniform Bar Exam Administered In Iowa (January 25, 2019)

Order (511.70 KB)

The Iowa Supreme Court has determined that up to fifteen applicants who had previously registered for the UBE administration in the District of Columbia shall be allowed to sit for the February 2019 administration of the Uniform Bar Examination in this jurisdictions.

In the Matter of Eligibility to Vote in Elections of Judicial Nominating Commissioners (January 22, 2019)

Chief Justice Cady has signed an order regarding the eligibility to vote in elections of judicial nominating commissioners.

Order (90.83 KB)

Iowa Business Specialty Court Supervisory Order and Amended Memorandum (January 14, 2019)

Order (64.34 KB)

Amended Memorandum regarding Business Specialty Court (190.43 KB)

Request for Public Comment on Proposed Rules for Mandatory Mediation (November 26, 2018)

Order (108.44 KB)

Proposed Rules for Chapter 15 (182.34 KB)

Rules of Mandatory Mediation in Certain Family Law Cases

Public Comments Regarding Proposed Rules for Mandatory Mediation (March 1, 2019) (11.35 MB)

Adoption of Amendments to Division III, Professional Regulation (November 16, 2018)

Division III Order (88.38 KB)

Chapter 31 Admission to the Bar (953.42 KB)

Adoption of Amendments to the Iowa Child Support Guidelines (November 16, 2018)

Order regarding Adoption of Amendments to Child Support Guidelines (69.76 KB)

Chapter 9 Child Support Guidelines (343.63 KB)

In the Matter of the Judicial Branch FFPSA Review Task Force (November 8, 2018)

FFPSA Review Task Force Order (81.76 KB)

Proposed Reallocation of a Vacant District Judgeship to a Different Judicial Election District (October 9, 2018)

Order (October 9, 2018) (48.04 KB)

Order (August 28, 2018 (58.74 KB)

Request for Public Comment on Office of Professional Regulation Proposed Amendments to the Iowa Court Rules (August 30, 2018)

Order (116.56 KB)

Final Automatic Review Report (1.48 MB)

Ch. 31.11 and 31.14 (340.35 KB)

Chs. 34, 39, 41 (375.25 KB)

Ch. 47 rules 47.4-.6 (171.59 KB)

Amended Order Approving Iowa Standards of Practice (August 28, 2018)

The Iowa Supreme Court approves two sets of standards of practice for lawyers in child custody cases: The Iowa Standards of Practice for Lawyers Representing Children in Custody Cases and the Iowa Standards of Practice for Child and Family Reporters in Child Custody Cases.

Amended Order (122.31 KB)

Chapter 61 Standards of Practice for Attorneys Representing Parents in Juvenile Court (354.00 KB)

Chapter 62 Standards of Practice for Lawyers Representing Children in Custody Cases (169.41 KB)

Chapter 63 Standards of Practice for Child and Family Reporters in Child Custody Cases (175.12 KB)

In the Matter of Approving an Amended Set of Small Claims Forms in Chapter 3 of the Iowa Court Rules (June 26, 2018)

Order Approving Amended Small Claims Forms (31.50 KB)

Form 3.1: Original Notice and Petition for a Money Judgment (147.79 KB)

Form 3.2: Original Notice and Petition for a Money Judgment for Taxes Owing (145.64 KB)

Form 3.3: Original Notice and Petition for a Money Judgment against a Nonresident Motor Vehicle Owner or Operator Defendant (147.80 KB)

Form 3.4: Original Notice and Petition for a Money Judgment against a Nonresident Defendant or a Foreign Corporation Defendant (161.06 KB)

Form 3.5: Original Notice and Petition for Replevin (164.02 KB)

Form 3.6: Original Notice and Petition for Forcible Entry and Detainer (67.20 KB)

Form 3.7: Original Notice and Petition against Third Party Defendant(s) (112.58 KB)

Form 3.8: Original Notice and Petition for Disposition of Abandoned Property (81.37 KB)

Form 3.9: Original Notice and Petition for Intervention (67.12 KB)

Form 3.11: Appearance and Answer of Defendant(s) (22.47 KB)

Form 3.12: Appearance and Answer of Third Party Defendant(s) (24.23 KB)

Form 3.13: Counterclaim against Plaintiff(s) (85.81 KB)

Form 3.14: Cross-Claim against a Co-Defendant (144.88 KB)

Form 3.16: Affidavit of Default (6.73 KB)

Form 3.17: Application to Condemn Funds (7.09 KB)

Form 3.18: Dismissal (19.21 KB)

Form 3.19: Notice of Garnishment (72.65 KB)

Form 3.20: Motion (98.76 KB)

Form 3.21: Affidavit of Property Exempt from Execution (86.12 KB)

Form 3.22: Application for Release and Satisfaction of Judgment (20.30 KB)

Form 3.23: Release and Satisfaction of Judgment (65.18 KB)

Form 3.25: Request for General Execution (Praecipe) (64.03 KB)

Form 3.26: Notice of Appeal (8.03 KB)

Form 3.27: Verification of Account, Identification of Judgment Debtor, and Certificate Re Military Service (78.38 KB)

Orders for Resubmission (June 20, 2018)

City of Cedar Rapids v. Marla Marie Leaf case number 16-0435 (combined with Behm, et.al v. City of Cedar Rapids, et. al case number 16-1031) and Reuven et. al v. City of Des Moines, et. al case number 17-1489 are held over for additional briefing and resubmission.

16-0435 Order for Resubmission (105.95 KB)

16-1031 Order for Resubmission (108.82 KB)

17-1489 Order for Resubmission (109.48 KB)

Request for Public Comment on Proposed Amendments to the Child Support Guidelines (June 8, 2018)

Chapter 9, Child Support Guidelines (346.13 KB)

Request for Public Comment Re Proposed Amendments to the Iowa Child Support Guidelines (79.06 KB)

In the Matter of Rescinding Division XII of the IRCP (May 22, 2018)

Order rescinding Division XII of the Iowa Rules of Civil Procedure Relating to Partition of Real and Personal Property, Rules 1.1201-1.1228, effective July 1, 2018.

Division XII attachment

In the Matter of Grant Year 2018-19 Grants from Receipts of the IOLTA Program (May 21, 2018) (May 21, 2018)

The Iowa Supreme Court approves IOLTA grants for the grant year commencing July 1, 2018.

2018 IOLTA Grants (44.63 KB)

In the Matter of Establishing the Iowa Rules of Criminal Procedure Review Task Force and Appointment of Members (April 3, 2018)

Establishing the Iowa Rules of Criminal Procedure Review Task Force and Appointment of Members (April 3, 2018( (76.62 KB)

In the Matter of the Prohibition Against Ex Parte Communications (March 27, 2018)

Supervisory Order In the Matter of the Prohibition Against Ex Parte Communications (99.73 KB)

Committee on Jury Selection Report (March 12, 2018)

Order appointing committee members (109.17 KB)

Recommendations of the Committee on Jury Selection (528.08 KB)

Adoption of Clarifying Amendments (March 7, 2018)

to certain Iowa Rules of Civil Procedure relating to discovery, scheduling and expedited civil actions.

Adoption of Clarifying Amendments (March 7, 2018) (52.90 KB)

Expedited Civil Action and Discovery Rule Amendments with Amendments to Rule 23.5 Forms (195.88 KB)

Public Comment Order (August 29, 2016) (349.17 KB)

ECA, Discovery, 23.5 Forms Amendments (173.31 KB)

Adoption of New Rule of Probate Procedure 7.8 (March 7, 2018)

Adoption of New Iowa Rule of Probate Procedure 7.8 (72.04 KB)

Request for Public Comment (144.52 KB)

In the Matter of Courthouse Security (December 19, 2017)

Supervisory order to supplement June 19, 2017 supervisory order

In the Matter of Courthouse Security (111.29 KB)

Adoption of Amendments to Division III, Professional Regulation, of the Iowa Court Rules (December 13, 2017)

See Request for Public Comments Order of September 19, 2017

Order (266.83 KB)

OPR - Executive Summary 2017 Omnibus Substantive Changes (84.78 KB)

Chapter 31, Admission to the Bar (152.56 KB)

Chapter 34, Administrative and General Provisions (75.90 KB)

Chapter 35, Attorney Disciplinary Board Rules of Procedure (31.66 KB)

Chapter 36, Grievance Commission Rules of Procedure (28.90 KB)

Chapter 37, Commission on the Unauthorized Practice of Law (20.50 KB)

Chapter 38, Rules of Procedure of the Commission on the Unauthorized Practice of Law (23.30 KB)

Chapter 39, Client Security Commission (92.04 KB)

Chapter 40, Regulations of the Client Security Commission (25.12 KB)

Chapter 41, Continuing Legal Education for Lawyers (42.30 KB)

Chapter 42, Regulations of the Commission on Continuing Legal Education (35.96 KB)

Chapter 43, Lawyer Trust Account Commission (16.89 KB)

Chapter 44, Lawyer Trust Account Commission Grant Criteria and Guidelines (23.09 KB)

Chapter 45, Client Trust Account Rules (30.17 KB)

Chapter 46, Rules of the Board of Examiners of Shorthand Reporters (62.05 KB)

Chapter 47, Court Interpreter and Translator Rules (56.53 KB)

Chapter 48, Code of Professional Conduct for Court Interpreters and Translators (24.84 KB)

Chapter 49, Office of Professional Regulation (10.73 KB)

Request for Public Comment (November 27, 2017)

Proposed Standards of Practice for Lawyers and Child and Family Reporters in Child Custody Cases

Order Requesting Public Comment (538.28 KB)

Iowa Standards of Practice for Lawyers Representing Children in Custody Cases (138.50 KB)

Iowa Standards of Practice for Child and Family Reporters in Child Custody Cases (84.77 KB)

Adoption of Rule for Supreme Court Clerk Retention of Appellate Records and Regarding Iowa Court Rules 22.37 and 22.38 Concerning Purging of District Court Case Files (October 26, 2017)

Adoption order and final rule (590.44 KB)

Order for Public Comment (396.86 KB)

Adoption of Iowa Rule of Juvenile Procedure Prohibiting Routine Use of Restraints (October 25, 2017)

Adoption order and final rule (125.98 KB)

Order for Public Comment (93.63 KB)

Advisory committee's recommendation and report (169.56 KB)

Resource materials (7.49 MB)

Establishment of the Language Access in the Courts Advisory Committee (September 14, 2017)

Establlishment of the Language Access in the Courts Advisory Committee (111.73 KB)

In the Matter of Amendments to Iowa Court Rules Chapter 9--Child Support Guidelines (July 20, 2017)

Order (428.12 KB)

Chapter 9 Child Support Guidelines (1.18 MB)

Order (1.02 MB)

Final Report and recommendations (1.38 MB)

In the Matter of the Uniform Bond Schedule Promulgated by the Judicial Council (June 23, 2017)

Effective July 1, 2017

Order (636.21 KB)

In the Matter of Courthouse Security (June 19, 2017)

CourthouseSecurityjune19

Supervisory Order (96.36 KB)

Counties with a Ban on Weapons in the Courthouse as of 6-15-17 (86.56 KB)

Map of Counties with a Ban on Weapons in the Courthouse as of 6-15-17 (161.75 KB)

In the Matter of Grant Year 2017-2018 Grants From Receipts of the IOLTA Program (April 27, 2017)

The Iowa Supreme Court approves IOLTA grants for the grant year commencing July 1, 2017.

Order (480.08 KB)

Establishment and Operation of the Informal Family Law Trial Pilot Project (February 14, 2017)

Order (717.47 KB)

Request for Public Comment on Family Law Task Force Proposal (February 14, 2017)

Proposal to Develop Statewide Uniform Mediation Requirements in Family Law Cases

Order (1.95 MB)

Public Comments on Proposed Statewide Family Law Mediation (9.48 MB)

Adoption of Iowa Rule of Civil Procedure 1.431(10) (February 14, 2017)

Hearings on Temporary Family Law Orders

Adoption order and final rule (90.19 KB)

Order for Public Comment (439.41 KB)

Adoption of the Iowa Rules of Electronic Procedure (November 21, 2016)

Chapter 16 of the Iowa Court Rules

Adoption order and final rule (3.14 MB)

Order requesting public comment (723.13 KB)

Adoption Order for Amendments to Iowa Rule of Civil Procedure 1.904 and Iowa Rule of Appellate Procedure 6.101 (November 18, 2016)

Adoption order and final rule (257.67 KB)

Order requesting public comment (328.10 KB)

Adoption of amendments to the Appellate Procedure Rules and Rule 31.15 (November 18, 2016)

Adoption order and final rule (2.28 MB)

Order requesting public comment (733.23 KB)

In the Matter of the 2016 Iowa Child Support Guidelines Review Committee (November 8, 2016)

Order (299.41 KB)

In the Matter of Appointments to the Iowa Access to Justice Commission (October 19, 2016)

Order (127.87 KB)

Order Regarding Report of Family Law Case Processing Reform Task Force (October 13, 2016)

Order (597.93 KB)

Adoption of Nonsubstantive Restyling of the Iowa Rules of Evidence (September 28, 2016)

Adoption order and final rule (1.54 MB)

Order requesting public comment (1.01 MB)

In the Matter of Appointments to the Iowa Access to Justice Commission (September 22, 2016)

Order (566.49 KB)

Adoption of Rule on Exempt and Retired Attorney License Status (August 19, 2016)

Adoption order and final rule (861.96 KB)

Order requesting public comment (358.01 KB)

Office of Professional Regulation memo (657.46 KB)

In the Matter of Establishment of the Iowa Access to Justice Commission (June 27, 2016)

The Iowa Supreme Court, upon recommendation of the Iowa State Bar Association establishes the Iowa Access to Justice Commission.

Order (340.73 KB)

In the Matter of Appointments to the 2016 Iowa Child Support Guidelines Review Committee (May 26, 2016)

Order (328.99 KB)

Order Extending the date for final report (November 8, 2016) (299.41 KB)