Computer Crime Attorney in Des Moines

Defending You Against Computer, Cyber & Internet Crime Charges

Computer and internet crime allegations can turn your life upside down in a matter of hours. You may have just learned that investigators want to talk to you, that your devices are being searched, or that charges are being filed. In this moment, you need clear information and a team of computer crime attorneys in Des Moines that understands both the law and the technology involved.

At McEnroe, Gotsdiner, Steinbach, Rothman & Kendell P.C., we represent people accused of serious offenses in Iowa courts, including technology related charges. Our attorneys have handled cases before the Iowa Supreme Court, and we bring that high level of criminal law experience to every defense. If you are looking for a computer crime lawyer Des Moines residents can turn to for steady guidance, we are here to talk with you confidentially about your options.

To discuss your case with our computer crimes attorneys in Des Moines, call (515) 516-3745 or contact us online today.

Facing Computer, Cyber, or Internet Crime Charges in Des Moines

Many of our clients first contact us after a frightening event. They may have woken up to officers at the door with a search warrant, had laptops or phones seized at work, or received a call from an investigator asking for a quick conversation about online activity. Others learn about possible charges from a mailed notice from the Polk County District Court or another Iowa court.

These cases can involve serious consequences. Depending on the specific accusation and your criminal history, penalties can include probation, substantial fines, and, in some cases, jail or prison time. Certain internet-related allegations can also bring the risk of sex offender registration, which can affect where you live, work, and travel. Even when the legal penalties are less severe, a conviction for an online offense can damage your reputation, professional license, and immigration status.

Most people in this position are first-time defendants. They often have jobs, families, and no prior experience with the criminal system. They are afraid of being judged and may feel ashamed, even when they dispute the accusations. We understand that emotional weight, and our role is to provide focused legal counsel, not criticism. There are often important questions about how digital evidence was collected and interpreted, and those questions deserve careful attention before you make decisions about your case.

Why Our Criminal Defense Team Is Prepared for Complex Cyber Crime Cases

Computer and internet crime cases often involve detailed questions about searches, warrants, and digital privacy. Our computer crime attorneys in Des Moines have argued cases before the Iowa Supreme Court, which means we have worked on matters where constitutional issues, statutory interpretation, and procedural rules are front and center. That experience helps us evaluate how law enforcement obtained evidence and whether your rights were respected.

We have practiced criminal defense in Iowa for many years. During that time, we have seen how prosecutors in Polk County and other counties approach technology-based allegations, and how judges in these courts rule on questions involving digital searches. This local perspective matters when we assess risk and discuss possible paths forward with you.

Our computer crime attorneys in Des Moines also recognize that communication is critical in these cases. Some clients are more comfortable discussing complex legal issues in French or Chinese, and members of our team can communicate in those languages. Our goal is for you to understand what is happening, what your options may be, and what steps we are taking on your behalf. We work to offer clear explanations and practical guidance, whether you are dealing with a first time charge or a more serious allegation.

Types of Crime Cases Our Computer Crimes Attorneys in Des Moines Defend

Technology is part of nearly every aspect of modern life, so a wide range of conduct can fall under computer and internet crime statutes in Iowa. Even when the allegations sound technical, the underlying facts often relate to everyday activities such as emailing, online shopping, social media use, or messaging apps. We defend clients in many kinds of technology-related cases, including the following categories.

Some matters involve accusations of unauthorized access or hacking. These cases may focus on claims that someone accessed another person’s account or a company system without permission, even if no money was taken. Others center on identity theft or financial fraud, where prosecutors allege that personal or financial information was used to obtain money, goods, or services through computers or online platforms.

We also see allegations involving online harassment, stalking, or threats, which can grow out of disputes in relationships, workplaces, or community groups. Certain accusations relate to downloading, sharing, or possessing illegal digital content, including matters where the state claims that child pornography or other prohibited material was found on a device. In each situation, we look closely at what the law actually requires the state to prove, how the data was obtained, and who had access to the device or account in question.

What To Do If Police Contact You About a Computer Crime

When law enforcement reaches out about computer or internet activity, the natural impulse is often to explain yourself quickly in the hope that the situation will go away. That reaction is understandable, but speaking to investigators without a lawyer can create serious problems later. Statements you make, even when you feel you have done nothing wrong, can be used against you and may be difficult to correct.

If officers arrive with a warrant, they may seize computers, phones, hard drives, or other devices from your home or workplace. It is important not to interfere with the execution of a valid warrant, but you do not have to agree to interviews or provide passwords without first talking with counsel, subject to what the law requires in a specific situation. You should also avoid deleting files, wiping devices, or asking others to change or remove online content, since those actions can be viewed negatively by investigators and courts.

Your best step is usually to contact a computer crimes attorney in Des Moines as soon as possible. We can review the documents you receive, help you understand what investigators are seeking, and communicate with law enforcement on your behalf. At McEnroe, Gotsdiner, Steinbach, Rothman & Kendell P.C., we have after-hours intake answering, so if something happens in the evening or on a weekend, you can still reach someone who can connect you with our team. Early legal advice can help you avoid missteps and protect your rights from the beginning.

How We Approach Cyber & Internet Crime Defense

Evaluating Digital Evidence & Legal Issues

Every case is different, but many computer and internet crime matters share certain features. They often depend heavily on digital evidence such as device images, server logs, account records, and communications from social media or messaging apps. Our work starts with obtaining and reviewing the charging documents and available discovery, then looking carefully at how that information was collected and what it truly shows.

Our computer crime attorneys in Des Moines pay close attention to search and seizure issues. That may include examining how warrants were drafted, what locations or devices they covered, and how officers executed them. When cases involve subpoenas or other legal requests for data from companies, we look at whether those requests followed applicable law. Questions about whether a person had a reasonable expectation of privacy can be complex, and our background that includes Iowa Supreme Court work helps us navigate those legal arguments.

Understanding Your Situation & Building a Defense

We also spend time understanding your digital life and the context surrounding the allegations. Many homes, offices, and shared living arrangements involve multiple people using the same devices or networks. In some situations, remote access or unsecured Wi-Fi can complicate questions about who was actually behind certain activity. Our goal is to identify weaknesses in the government’s theory, raise appropriate legal challenges, and work toward the best available outcome under your circumstances, whether that involves negotiation or litigation.

Cost, First Offenses & How We Work With You

Affordability & Fee Discussions

One of the first questions many clients ask is, “How much will this cost?” That concern is especially common for people facing their first criminal accusation. We know that the financial side matters, and we work to make qualified representation more accessible. Our firm of computer crime attorneys in Des Moines offers affordable representation for many first offense criminal cases, which can include certain computer and internet crime matters, and we accept credit cards so you have more flexibility in handling fees.

When you contact us, we talk with you about the nature of the charges, the expected work involved, and how our fee structure would apply. Our goal is to explain costs clearly before you decide how to proceed, so you can make informed choices for yourself and your family. We do not make guarantees about results, but we can outline possible scenarios and describe how we plan to approach your defense.

Communication, Privacy & Respect

Communication is central to how we work. We understand that talking about online behavior, personal relationships, and private digital content can feel uncomfortable. Our attorneys handle sensitive criminal matters on a regular basis, and we approach those conversations with respect and discretion. If you prefer to speak in French or Chinese, you can let us know and we will work to accommodate that need. Throughout the case, we strive to keep you updated and to respond to your questions in a straightforward, honest way.

Call us at (515) 516-3745 today. Our attorneys at McEnroe, Gotsdiner, Steinbach, Rothman & Kendell P.C. bring years of Iowa criminal defense experience, including work before the Iowa Supreme Court, to clients who are dealing with serious and often misunderstood technology related charges.

Frequently Asked Questions

What should I do if the police seize my computer or phone?

If police have already seized your devices, you should avoid discussing details of the situation with investigators until you speak with a lawyer. The way you respond at this stage can affect your case significantly. You generally should not try to retrieve, destroy, or alter data that might still be accessible elsewhere, since that could be viewed as interfering with evidence. Instead, contact computer crimes attorney in Des Moines so you can get advice about your rights and the scope of the investigation. Our team can review any warrant or paperwork you received, help you understand what officers were allowed to take, and communicate with law enforcement or prosecutors as appropriate.

Should I talk to investigators before I hire a lawyer?

In many situations, it is safer to consult with a lawyer before you agree to any interview. Investigators may say that talking with them will clear things up, but their job is to gather information that could support charges. Even statements you believe are harmless can be taken out of context or compared to digital records in ways that hurt you later. Asking to speak with an attorney is your right, and exercising that right does not mean you are guilty. As a criminal defense firm that has handled serious matters in Iowa, we encourage people to call us first so we can help them decide whether, when, and how to respond to law enforcement.

Can a computer or internet crime charge send me to jail?

Computer and internet crime charges can carry the possibility of jail or prison, depending on the specific statute, the level of the offense, and your prior record. Some cases involve lower level offenses where probation or other alternatives may be more likely, particularly for first-time defendants, while others can be charged as serious felonies. Factors such as the amount of alleged financial loss, the nature of the content involved, and whether minors are alleged to be victims can all influence potential penalties. We review the exact charges and the evidence with you so we can discuss realistic risks under Iowa law. Our role is to work toward the most favorable result available and to help you understand what different outcomes would mean for your life.

How much will it cost to hire your firm for a first offense?

The cost of representation depends on the specific charge, the complexity of the digital evidence, and how much work the case is likely to require. That said, we offer affordable representation for many first offense criminal cases, and that can include some computer and internet crime matters. We also accept credit cards, which can help you manage fees over time. During a consultation, our computer crimes attorneys in Des Moines discuss the facts as you understand them, outline potential steps in the case, and then explain how our fee structure would apply. Our goal is for you to have a clear picture of costs before you decide whether to retain our firm.

Will my case and online activity stay confidential?

Conversations with our attorneys about your case are generally protected by attorney-client confidentiality. This protection is a core part of the legal system and is designed so you can speak openly with your lawyer about what happened, including sensitive online activity, without fear that the information will be shared without your consent. Court proceedings themselves are often public, and certain records may be accessible to others, but your private discussions with us are treated differently. As a long-standing law firm that regularly handles serious and personal criminal matters, we take discretion seriously and work to safeguard the privacy of your communications with our team.

How long do computer and internet crime cases usually take?

The timeline for a computer or internet crime case can vary. Factors include how quickly digital forensics are completed, how much discovery needs to be reviewed, how crowded the court’s schedule is, and whether the case is resolved through negotiation or proceeds to hearings or trial. Cases filed in Iowa courts typically involve multiple court dates over a period of months, and some matters can take longer if there are complex legal motions. When we represent you, we explain the steps in the process, such as arraignment, pretrial conferences, and motion hearings, and we keep you updated about any changes in schedule. We aim to help you plan around the case as much as possible.

If you want to speak with a computer crime lawyer Des Moines defendants can rely on for straightforward advice, we invite you to contact us for a confidential consultation about your situation.