Murder Attorney in Des Moines

Serious Defense For Murder & Homicide Charges In Iowa

Being arrested or investigated in connection with a death is one of the most frightening situations a person can face. You may be worried about prison, confused about what to say to police, and unsure where to turn. At McEnroe, Gotsdiner, Steinbach, Rothman & Kendell P.C., our murder attorneys in Des Moines defend people facing homicide and related felony charges in this part of Iowa, and we work to guide clients and their families through every stage of the case.

Our attorneys are long-time Iowa trial lawyers who have handled serious criminal matters at both the trial and appellate levels. We have presented cases before the Iowa Supreme Court, which means we are familiar with complex legal issues that often arise in murder prosecutions. When your future is on the line, you need a team that understands how these cases actually move through Iowa courts, not just what the statutes say on paper.

To discuss a murder or homicide case with our murder attorneys in Des Moines, contact us online or call (515) 516-3745.

Why Our Firm Handles Serious Murder Charges

When you look for a murder lawyer Des Moines families can rely on, experience and stability matter. McEnroe, Gotsdiner, Steinbach, Rothman & Kendell P.C. has been part of the Iowa legal community for many years. Our current attorneys, Steinbach, Rothman, and Kendell, continue a tradition of criminal defense work that stretches back in this state. That history means we have seen how serious felony cases are investigated, charged, negotiated, and tried in Iowa courtrooms.

Our attorneys have argued cases before the Iowa Supreme Court. That background is important in murder and homicide cases, where legal questions about evidence, jury instructions, or constitutional rights can shape the entire outcome. Knowing how issues may be viewed on appeal helps us think carefully about how to build and preserve your defense from the beginning.

We are not a single-lawyer office. Clients benefit from a team of attorneys who can review large volumes of discovery, discuss strategy together, and appear at key hearings when schedules are tight. In a murder case, there are often thousands of pages of reports, recordings, and forensic materials. Having multiple attorneys within one firm helps us manage that workload in a careful and organized way.

Our practice includes criminal defense, family law, and personal injury. This mix has given us broad courtroom experience and regular contact with judges and juries. We understand how witnesses present, how evidence comes in, and how decision makers respond in real hearings, not just on paper. When the charge is as serious as homicide, that practical trial experience can be critical.

Facing A Murder Investigation Or Charge In Iowa: What To Do Next

Responding To Police Contact About A Death

When law enforcement contacts you about a death, every decision you make can have long-term consequences. Police and investigators are trained to gather information. You have the right to protect yourself, and exercising that right does not make you look guilty. It simply means you understand that these situations are serious and that you want legal guidance.

If officers from the Des Moines Police Department or another agency want to interview you, you can calmly state that you wish to speak with a murder attorney in Des Moines before answering any questions. You do not have to explain why. Once you clearly request a lawyer, questioning usually should stop until you have had the chance to consult counsel. We can then help you decide whether to give a statement and in what form.

What Happens After An Arrest

After an arrest on a homicide-related charge, you are typically taken to a local jail for booking and then scheduled for an initial appearance in court. In cases arising in this area, that often occurs at the Polk County Courthouse or another courthouse with jurisdiction over where the incident is alleged to have happened. At that first hearing, issues such as the formal charge and initial conditions of release are usually addressed.

For family members, the first hours and days are often chaotic. You may be trying to find out where your loved one is being held, what the exact charges are, and when the next hearing is. It is important to avoid discussing case details on recorded jail calls or over social media, because those communications can sometimes be used as evidence. A helpful step is to gather basic information, such as the case number and jail location, and then contact our office so we can review the situation and talk about next steps.

Our murder attorneys in Des Moines work to respond quickly in serious cases, because early involvement can make a difference in how evidence is handled and how your position is presented in court. Our role is to help you avoid missteps, understand what is happening, and start building a defense that looks beyond the first hearing to the full life of the case.

How Our Murder Attorneys in Des Moines Approach Murder & Homicide Defense

Careful Review Of Evidence & Procedures

Every homicide case is different, but certain themes appear again and again. Our job is to understand both the facts and the law, and then to look for places where the prosecution’s version of events can be questioned. We take a methodical approach that begins with information and careful listening.

We typically start by reviewing all available discovery, including police reports, witness statements, video or audio recordings, and forensic materials. We pay attention to how evidence was collected, whether procedures were followed under Iowa and federal law, and whether any searches or statements may be open to challenge. When appropriate, we may recommend that the defense seek additional records or independent review of certain evidence, such as medical findings or timelines.

Common Issues In Homicide Cases

Common issues in homicide cases can include questions about identification, what each person knew or intended at the time, whether there was a legitimate claim of self-defense, and how events unfolded in the moments leading up to the death. We do not assume that the initial narrative in a police report is complete or final. Instead, we work to understand the context, including the client’s background and any history between the people involved.

Communication & Case Strategy

Communication is central to our approach. Our murder attorneys in Des Moines talk with clients about what the documents show, what options might exist, and what risks come with each option. For some people, the case may move toward negotiation of a plea. For others, the question may be whether to take the case to trial. In very serious matters, we also consider how potential legal issues at trial could affect an appeal or postconviction relief. Our experience with Iowa Supreme Court cases informs that analysis, although every situation is unique.

Throughout this process, we work to keep you informed, so you are not guessing about what will happen next. Murder and homicide charges often take time to resolve. Having a clear plan and a team that explains each step can make that process more manageable.

Potential Consequences & Stages Of A Murder Case

Types Of Homicide Charges

People who come to us often want to know two things. First, how serious their specific charge is. Second, how the process usually unfolds. While each case is unique, understanding the basic structure of Iowa homicide cases can help you prepare for what lies ahead.

Iowa law includes several types of offenses related to causing another person’s death. These can range from different degrees of murder to manslaughter and other serious felonies. The potential penalties can include lengthy prison terms and other long-term consequences. The exact sentencing range usually depends on the specific statute charged, the facts the prosecution believes it can prove, and any prior record.

Stages In A Serious Felony Case

Serious felony cases often move through several stages. After investigation and arrest, many people have an initial appearance in court where they are informed of the charges and conditions of release are addressed. This is often followed by an arraignment, where a formal plea is entered. Between arraignment and trial, there may be multiple pretrial conferences and motion hearings that address issues such as evidence, statements, or other legal questions.

During this time, the defense and prosecution may discuss possible negotiated resolutions. In some cases, the client may wish to explore plea options. In others, the focus may stay on preparing for trial. The trial itself usually involves jury selection, opening statements, witness testimony, and closing arguments. If there is a conviction, the case may move to a sentencing hearing and, when appropriate, consideration of appeals or postconviction relief.

Our murder attorneys in Des Moines have experience at both the trial and appellate levels, including work before the Iowa Supreme Court. That experience helps us think about each stage of the case in context. We look not only at the next hearing, but at how decisions made early on can affect what is possible later. Throughout, we explain the process so you are not left to guess what a particular development might mean.

Call us at (515) 516-3745 today. Speaking with a knowledgeable murder lawyer in this area can give you a clearer sense of your options and a plan for what comes next.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Should I Do If Police Want To Question Me About A Death?

If police want to question you about a death, you should clearly and calmly ask to speak with a murder attorney in Des Moines before answering questions. You have the right to request counsel at any point, whether you have been arrested or are simply being interviewed. Once you make that request, you can stop answering questions until you have had the chance to consult an attorney. We can then talk with you about the situation, help you understand what investigators are likely focused on, and advise you on whether to give a statement or decline. Taking this step early can help protect your rights and prevent misunderstandings that are hard to correct later.

How Serious Are Murder Charges In Iowa & What Penalties Could I Face?

Murder and related homicide charges in Iowa are among the most serious offenses in the criminal code and can carry very long prison sentences. The potential penalty usually depends on the exact charge, such as the degree of murder alleged, any claimed aggravating factors, and your prior criminal record. Some offenses may involve mandatory prison terms, while others may leave more discretion to the court. We review the specific statute, the facts the prosecution is relying on, and any available defenses before giving guidance about potential outcomes. Our goal is to help you understand the range of possibilities so you can make informed decisions as the case progresses.

Can I Afford A Lawyer For A Murder Case?

Cost is a real concern for most people facing serious charges, and it is natural to worry that strong legal representation might be out of reach. Fees for homicide cases depend on many factors, including the complexity of the evidence, the number of hearings and motions, and whether the case is likely to proceed to trial. We work to provide affordable representation for some first offense situations, and we always explain our fee structure and any anticipated costs before moving forward. Our firm accepts credit card payments, which can help families secure counsel when they may not have immediate access to large amounts of cash. The best way to understand the financial side is to speak with us directly about your specific situation.

Can Your Firm Help If My Case Goes To The Iowa Supreme Court?

Our attorneys have argued cases before the Iowa Supreme Court, so we are familiar with the appellate process at the highest level of the state court system. Not every murder case will result in an appeal or reach that court, but having appellate experience can still matter. It affects how we think about preserving issues during trial and how we advise clients about the potential for later review. If your case does go to appeal, we can discuss whether our firm is the right fit to handle that stage or whether other arrangements make more sense. In any event, our background with appeals helps inform our strategy from the beginning.

Can You Speak With My Family If I Am In Jail?

Yes, we can usually communicate with your family while you are in custody, within the boundaries of legal and ethical rules. Families often need information about upcoming court dates, what to expect at hearings, and how they can support you without harming the case. With your consent, we can update them on these issues and answer many process-related questions. Our after-hours intake means your family can reach someone to start that conversation even when an arrest happens outside regular business hours. Clear communication with loved ones can help everyone navigate a difficult time more effectively.

If you or someone you care about is being questioned or has been arrested, you do not have to go through this alone. We invite you to contact us to talk about what is happening and what steps make sense now, so you can make decisions with clear information instead of fear.