About Carney & Appleby Law

Carney & Appleby Law is known for combining legal skill with strategic influence to deliver premier advocacy in the courtroom and at the Capitol. With over four decades of experience serving clients across Iowa, the firm is widely respected for its professionalism, litigation success, and deep involvement in legislative and public policy matters.

Carney & Appleby Law approaches representation with a commitment to purpose, thorough preparation, and personalized counsel. Clients benefit from a legal team that blends trial-tested litigation with strategic government affairs experience. Each case receives focused attention and a tailored legal strategy aimed at delivering favorable results in both judicial and administrative venues.

Carney & Appleby Law offers distinguished experience in personal injury, medical malpractice, civil litigation, criminal defense, real estate, estate planning, probate, business law, and family law. The firm is also recognized as a leader in lobbying and government affairs, advocating before the Iowa legislature and regulatory bodies on behalf of clients with complex policy interests. From legislative strategy to appellate advocacy, the team brings a unique breadth of knowledge and experience.

Carney & Appleby Law was founded by James W. Carney, whose legacy in both litigation and lobbying shaped the foundation of the firm. Partner Scott A. Hall brings strength in real estate and transactional matters, while Douglas L. Struyk leads the firm’s legislative and administrative law practice. Together, the firm’s partners share deep roots in Iowa and a unified mission to serve individuals, businesses, and public entities with integrity and skill.

Carney & Appleby Law continues to advocate for clients facing complex legal and policy challenges with the same professionalism, energy, and commitment that built the firm’s reputation. With a downtown Des Moines location and a team of seasoned Iowa attorneys, the firm remains a trusted name for clients seeking reliable and effective representation.

Practice Areas

Business
  • Forming Business Entity
  • Drafting Of Employment Handbooks
  • Non-Competition And Confidentiality Agreements
  • Employment Agreements
  • Buy-Sell Agreements
  • Merger And Acquisition
Estate Planning
  • Wills
  • Trusts
  • Deed
  • Probate Administration
  • Guardianship
  • Conservatorship
  • Guardian Ad Litem
  • Tax Planning
Family Law
  • Divorce
  • Custody
  • Child Support
  • Guardianship
  • Domestic Violence
  • Modifications
  • Appeals
Lawsuits & Disputes
  • Contract Claims
  • Real Estate Claims
  • Business And Partnership Disputes
  • Mechanic’s Lien Enforcement
  • Construction Claims
  • Asset Forfeiture
  • Defamation
  • Gross Negligence
  • Subrogation
  • Probate Disputes
  • Bankruptcy Challenges
  • Foreclosure Prosecution And Defense
  • Landlord And Tenant Matters
  • Tax Sale Litigation
  • Product Liability
  • Insurance Defense
  • Banking And Commercial Litigation
  • Employment Litigation
  • Administrative Hearings And Appeals
Personal Injury
  • Medical Malpractice
  • Slip-And-Fall Accident
  • Workers Compensation
  • Motor Vehicle Accident
  • Dog Attacks
  • Wrongful Death
Government
  • Lobbying
  • Bill And Regulation Monitoring
  • Bill Drafting
  • Representation Before Government Agencies
  • Licensing And Permitting
  • Strategic Planning
Real Estate
  • Buying And Selling
  • Leasing
  • Financing
  • Title Opinions
  • Drafting Installment Contracts And Closing Documents
  • Inspecting Settlement Statements
  • Plats
  • Tax-Proration Agreements
  • Reviewing Lease Agreements
  • Drafting Other Land-Related Contracts

Fees

  • Free Consultation

Office location for Carney & Appleby Law

Carney & Appleby Law

303 Locust St STE 400, Des Moines, IA 50309