Blog - GRL Law

Can You Carry a Firearm in Iowa? You might be suprised.

July 21, 2021

While recent changes to Iowa's gun laws have been trumpeted and described at times as Constitutional Carry, this is simply not the case. A closer look into the newly enacted legislation exposes a number of new traps that could catch the unaware citizen. Under Iowa's new gun laws, a person is prohibited from CARRYING (having a weapon on or about the individual's person or within immediate reach in a vehicle) a dangerous weapon (which include firearms) under the following circumstances: While possessing a controlled substance. While committing another serious misdemeanor offense, or a greater offense. If addicted to the use...

July 20, 2021

Felony drug offenses committed within "drug free zones" risk more time in prison. A "drug free zone" can be in, on or within 1000 feet of certain property. This property includes schools, parks, swimming pools and rec centers as well as the contiguous land surrounding any buildings. Offenses committed on a marked school bus also count. Felonies include manufacturing, distributing or possessing with the intent to distribute a controlled substance listed in schedule I, II or III (simulated and imitation drugs included). The five-year enhancement applies only to adults (18 or older) who commit the offense involving another adult. The sentencing court maintains...

July 16, 2021

Imagine being a retired pastor, coach, or teacher and receiving a call from a detective that goes something like this: Detective: Mr. Smith, this is Detective Jones from the Des Moines Police Department? Mr. Smith: Uh, hello. Detective: I'd like to talk to you about a young lady named Little Jenny? Mr. Smith: You'll have to be more specific, I have encountered a number of Little Jenny's in my career. Detective: Well Little Jenny who was on your fourth grade basketball team back in 2002. Mr. Smith: Ok. Still not entirely sure who that is. Detective: Well, Little Jenny has accused you of touching her inappropriately...