Sara Riley

Sara Riley has built a respected legal career advocating for individuals affected by personal injury, medical negligence, workplace discrimination, and violations of civil rights. Since 1986, she has handled cases in both federal and state courts across Iowa and has taken matters to the Iowa Supreme Court when necessary to seek justice for her clients.

Sara earned her B.B.A. in Business Administration from the University of Iowa in 1982 before obtaining her Juris Doctor from Drake University Law School in 1985. She passed the Iowa Bar Exam in January 1986 and was admitted to practice in the Iowa courts, as well as the U.S. District Courts for both the Southern and Northern Districts of Iowa that same year.

Sara has tried numerous cases, including significant appeals such as Oswald v. LeGrand and Grahek v. Voluntary Hospital Cooperative Association of Iowa, Inc. She has also contributed to the legal community through teaching, presenting on professional liability in surgery, and participating in televised “Ask the Lawyer” and “Legal Advantage” segments, offering the public valuable legal insight.

Sara’s practice areas include personal injury and wrongful death, workers’ compensation, professional negligence and malpractice, employment discrimination, and civil rights law. Her dedication to protecting clients’ rights and correcting injustices is a central part of her work, often requiring persistence and skilled advocacy both in and out of the courtroom.

Sara Riley continues to focus her efforts on ensuring fair treatment and justice for individuals throughout Iowa. With decades of experience and a proven track record in challenging cases, she remains committed to guiding clients through complex legal matters and achieving positive outcomes that make a lasting difference in their lives.

Law Office Affiliations

• Attorney, Tom Riley Law Firm, PLC
• Member, American Association for Justice (1986 – Present)
• Member, Iowa Association for Justice
• Member, Iowa State Bar Association

Licensed State

• Iowa

Education

• Drake University Law School
  Juris Doctor (JD)
• University of Iowa
  BBA in Business Administration

Awards & Badges