Paul D. Burns

Paul D. Burns is an Iowa City lawyer whose practice focuses on commercial litigation, employment matters, and construction law. He represents businesses and construction industry clients in state and federal courts and in mediation and arbitration throughout Iowa. His construction practice includes disputes involving general contractors, subcontractors, owners, and design professionals. He also counsels businesses in complex litigation and appeals, helping them address legal risk and pursue practical resolutions.

Burns earned his Bachelor’s degree from the University of Northern Iowa in 1989 and his Juris Doctor with high honors from the University of Iowa College of Law in 1993. During law school, he served as articles editor of the Iowa Law Review and was elected to the Order of the Coif. His academic training provided a strong foundation in legal research, careful analysis, and persuasive advocacy for complex disputes.

Burns has served as lead counsel in numerous jury and bench trials. His appellate experience includes arguments before the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Eighth Circuit, the Iowa Supreme Court, and the Iowa Court of Appeals. Before entering private practice, he clerked for U.S. District Judge Harold D. Vietor in the Southern District of Iowa. He also completed the National Trial Advocacy Skills Program presented by the National Institute of Trial Advocacy.

Paul D. Burns has been recognized by Best Lawyers for Commercial Litigation and Construction Law, including as the 2017 Cedar Rapids Lawyer of the Year for Construction Law. He has also been listed by Great Plains Super Lawyers and Chambers USA and holds an AV Peer Review Rating from Martindale-Hubbell. His professional service has included committee and leadership work related to civil procedure, federal practice, construction law, and e-commerce, reflecting sustained involvement in Iowa’s legal and civic communities.

Law Office Affiliations

• Attorney, Bradley & Riley PC
• Member, Iowa Bar Association
• Member, American Bar Association, Litigation Selection
• Member, Linn County Bar Association
• Member, Johnson County Bar Association

Licensed State

• Iowa

Education

• University of Iowa College of Law
  Juris Doctor (JD)
• University of Northern Iowa
  Bachelor’s Degree