About
Jim Lawyer has built a respected legal career representing injured workers and accident victims across Iowa. Admitted to the Iowa Bar in 1979, he has spent decades helping people pursue benefits and compensation after serious injuries. His practice at Lawyer, Lawyer, Dutton, Drake & Conklin, LLP, focuses on workers’ compensation and personal injury law matters, with attention to protecting client rights and securing fair outcomes. He also handles select cases that encourage safer workplaces and greater accountability.
Through litigation, negotiation, and advocacy, he has assisted many individuals facing challenges.
Jim earned a B.B.A. from the University of Iowa and later received a J.D. from Drake University Law School. His academic training provided a strong foundation in business principles, legal analysis, and problem solving. During the early stages of his career, he applied that knowledge to complex injury claims and compensation disputes. His education helped him evaluate evidence, understand financial issues, interpret statutes, and address challenging questions affecting injured workers and families throughout Iowa communities and workplaces each year.
Jim has contributed to the legal profession beyond client representation throughout his career. He has lectured before attorneys across Iowa on trial evidence, settlements, mediation, investigations, expert witnesses, Social Security disability issues, Medicare considerations, and workers’ compensation procedures. He also authored and contributed to respected publications on Iowa workers’ compensation law. His experience includes involvement in significant cases and professional organizations, where he has supported legal education and promoted high standards within the practice of law for many years.
Jim Lawyer has remained active in professional organizations supporting trial lawyers and workers’ compensation practitioners. He has served in leadership roles, participated in legal associations, and received recognition for trial advocacy. His volunteer service with the Iowa Head Injury Association further reflects a commitment to legal rights and community support. By combining experience, knowledge, and dedication, he continues helping injured people pursue justice, obtain benefits, and move forward after accidents or workplace injuries throughout Iowa with confidence and greater security.
Law Office Affiliations
- Partner, Lawyer, Lawyer, Dutton, Drake & Conklin, LLP
- Board of Governors, Association of Trial Lawyers of Iowa (1981 – 1985)
- Member, Iowa State Bar Association
- Member, Iowa Association for Justice, Workers’ Compensation Section
- Member, Iowa Workers’ Compensation Lawyers, Inc
- Member, American Association for Justice CRPS
- Member, American Association Burn Injury Litigation Group
Licensed State
- Iowa
Education
- Drake University Law School
Juris Doctor (JD) - University of Iowa
Bachelor of Business Administration
Awards & Badges




- Brain Injury
- Car Accidents
- Motorcycle Accidents
- Spinal Cord Injury
- Trucking Accidents
- Wrongful Death
- Workers' Compensation




