James Neal

James Neal is a Partner & Attorney at Schott Mauss & Associates in West Des Moines, Iowa. His practice focuses on Workers’ Compensation and representation of injured Iowa workers. He joined the firm in 2011 and handles matters connected to workplace injury claims. His work addresses the benefits and legal concerns that arise when an injury affects a person’s ability to work and obtain necessary care.

James earned a B.S. and B.A. from the University of Iowa in 2004, with undergraduate studies in political science and sociology. He received a J.D. from Drake University Law School in 2009. During law school, he twice interned with the Public Defender Service for the District of Columbia. He received Drake’s Robert J. Kromminga Award in 2009 for client representation and advocacy in the Legal Clinic.

James has presented continuing legal education programs on workers’ compensation topics, including apportionment, penalty benefits, and the relationship between compensation and disability discrimination claims. His presentations also include appellate case law updates and ethical considerations in remote practice. These programs reflect attention to legal developments and practical questions within the compensation system, alongside his representation of workers pursuing claims following an injury on the job.

James Neal was admitted in Minnesota in 2010 and Iowa in 2011. He became one of the firm’s owners in 2017 and continues to focus on workers’ compensation matters. His background combines legal clinic advocacy, public defender internships, and professional education on issues affecting claimants. He brings that experience to injured workers seeking guidance through claims involving benefits, care, and the consequences of workplace injuries.

Law Office Affiliations

• Partner, Schott Mauss & Associates
• Member, Iowa State Bar Association
• Member, Minnesota State Bar Association

Licensed State

• Iowa
• Minnesota

Education

• Drake University Law School
  Juris Doctor (JD)
• University of Iowa
  B.S., B.A.

Awards & Badges