NCJ Number
85441
Date Published
1981
Length
17 pages
Annotation
This brief introduction to Iowa's court system covers administration, appellate courts, trial procedures, and appeal processes.
Abstract
Following a history of Iowa's courts, the booklet explains the judicial nominating commissions who must present lists of qualified candidates to the governor for appointment to State, district, and local judgeships. This system was initiated in 1962 when judicial elections were abolished. However, judges stand for retention at the first general election after serving 1 full year on the bench. Administrative functions of the Supreme Court of Iowa and the Iowa Judicial Council are summarized, along with those of committees and commissions with monitoring, educational, and grievance responsibilities. Iowa has two appellate courts, the Supreme Court and the Iowa Court of Appeals established in 1976 to reduce the serious backlog of cases. The pamphlet describes the membership and activities of both courts and provides photographs and biographies of their judges. Iowa has a unified trial court system called the Iowa District Court with four types of officers: senior judges, district judges, district associate judges, and judicial magistrates. Jurisdiction and terms of office are detailed for each. Finally, the guide outlines trial procedures for small claims, civil, and criminal cases, as well as stages in the appeal process. A map of judicial districts and photographs are included.