Catherine Tanihu

Catherine Tanihu is an attorney in Des Moines whose practice focuses on immigration law. She represents individuals and families facing immigration-related legal issues and brings a public-interest background to that work. Her experience with refugee and migrant advocacy gives her practical insight into the challenges clients can face when navigating immigration systems, documentation, and changing legal requirements.

Catherine earned a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science with Philosophy from the University of Ghana, Legon, before receiving her J.D. from Drake University Law School. At Drake, she earned the Public Service Certificate Award and the Social Justice and Public Interest Lawyering Certificate. She also received the Cady Law Opportunity Fellowship and the Edwin Earle Ferguson Silver Award.

During law school, Catherine served as a student attorney in the Drake Refugee Clinic and volunteered with Iowa Migrant Movement for Justice and Nisaa Africa Family Services. She also worked as a research assistant to the Honorable Romonda Belcher, Retired. Her campus involvement included serving as secretary of Drake Law Women and representing the university through the Black Law Students Association.

Catherine Tanihu is admitted to practice in Iowa and participates in professional organizations connected to immigration, trial advocacy, and women in law. Her memberships include the Iowa State Bar Association, Iowa Association for Justice, Iowa Organization of Women Attorneys, American Immigration Lawyers Association, and Public Justice Impact Change. Her background combines legal training, public service, and direct advocacy for people facing significant legal concerns. Her approach emphasizes clear communication, thorough preparation, and responsive client service.

Law Office Affiliations

• Attorney, MSMC Injury Lawyers, PLLC
• Member, Iowa State Bar Association
• Member, Iowa Association for Justice
• Member, Iowa Organization of Women Attorneys
• Member, American Immigration Lawyers Association (AILA)
• Member, Public Justice Impact Change

Licensed State

• Iowa

Education

• Drake University Law School
  Juris Doctor (JD)
• University of Ghana, Legon
  Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Political Science with Philosophy

Awards & Badges