Scott A. Michels

Scott A. Michels is a partner and criminal defense attorney at GRL Law in Iowa. His practice involves representing people accused of criminal offenses in contested court proceedings. Scott approaches defense matters through factual investigation, legal research, and preparation for hearings and trials. His work involves both privately retained and court-appointed clients, reflecting a focus on ensuring that the allegations and evidence in each matter receive careful examination before legal decisions are made.

Scott graduated from Upper Iowa University with B.A. degrees in Criminology and Psychology in 2003, earning magna cum laude honors. He went on to Drake University Law School and received his J.D. in 2007. His legal education included special certificates in Litigation and Dispute Resolution and Constitutional Law and Civil Rights. He also completed the Neal & Bea Smith Law Center’s Criminal Defense Clinic, which provided practice-oriented training relevant to defending people facing prosecution.

Scott’s background includes preparation for criminal hearings and contested cases where the outcome turns on witness accounts, legal procedure, and the reliability of evidence. His undergraduate studies in criminology and psychology complement his criminal defense work, while his litigation and constitutional law training supports the assessment of legal challenges. In practice, he researches the facts and governing law, communicates with clients about their cases, and prepares arguments for court rather than relying on generalized approaches.

Scott A. Michels is affiliated with the Iowa Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers, the National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers, and the DUI Defense Lawyers Association. His profile also lists a National Trial Lawyers Top 40 Under 40 recognition. He is admitted in Iowa and the federal district courts for the Northern and Southern Districts of Iowa. Scott’s approach centers on diligent case preparation, protecting procedural rights, and giving each client an informed understanding of the issues involved in a criminal case.

Law Office Affiliations

• Partner, Gourley, Rehkemper & Lindholm PLC
• Member, Iowa State Bar Association
• Member, DUI Defense Lawyers Association
• Member, Iowa Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers
• Member, National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers
• Member, Polk County Bar Association

Licensed State

• Iowa

Education

• Drake University Law School
  Juris Doctor (JD)
• Upper Iowa University
  Bachelor of Arts (BA)

Awards & Badges