John D. Jacobsen

Hometown

• West Branch, IA

Education

• Simpson College, B.A. 2002
• Drake University, J.D. 2005
• Admitted to Iowa Bar 2005
• Admitted to Federal Bar, Northern and Southern Districts 2005

Areas of Practice

• Civil: Dissolution of Marriage/Divorce, Custody, Child Support, Name Change

Having practiced family law for over ten years, there is no typical case, nor 'one size fits all' mentality.  Each and every case, each and every client brings with them facts, considerations and a history unique to their case.  That is why it is important to understand those facts and utilize the skills gained over the past decade to your advantage.  Legal proceedings that involve your loved ones, children, spouse and the like can be a very stressful, emotional time, but with personal attention and care for each of our clients, from the attorneys to the office staff, the service provided will be truly remarkable.  I  provide my clients useful information and insight as to the laws in the State of Iowa, as well as my knowledge of the manner in which the Courts will often review and ultimately rule in a given case.    

When evaluating a case it is important to identify the strengths and weaknesses not only of the opponents case, but also that of your own in determining the framework for the outcome desired.  By assessing those considerations, coupled with the law itself and knowledge of the Courts/Judges lends to effective representation and advocacy for my clients.

• Criminal: State and Federal Defense, OWI/DUI, Possession of a Controlled Substance, Theft, Assault, Burglary, Domestic Abuse, DOT matters

The world of criminal defense is an ever evolving area of law.  New Supreme Court and Iowa Supreme Court rulings change the landscape of defense at every turn.  I have represented clients in all levels of criminal matters from traffic tickets to multiple felony Indictments.  Assessing the strength of the Government's case and preventing the trampling of your rights is incredibly important in every single case.  Without the ability to review each case, in light of the law and the facts, a Defendant can be lost, confused and feel ill prepared for their case, that is why our Firm prides itself on reviewing each and every detail in order to provide you the care and attention you deserve.  

In my federal criminal practice, since 2005, I have been honored to be one of the youngest members of the CJA panel, a short list of attorneys approved and capable of handling the complex legal issues within the United States Code and the United States Sentencing Guidelines.  The assistance provided to my clients as to the law and the connection with the Court is one that I pride myself upon.  Through the my advocacy and keen awareness of the Court,  I have secured multiple judgments where it was recommended and urged by the Government that my client be sent to prison, yet my client walked out the courthouse doors at my side.  

• Appellate: Criminal and Civil

Working on appeals is a time consuming matter.  The need to thoroughly search the records, filings and transcripts of each matter take a great deal of time and energy.  Then comes the second step of taking those facts and mixing the law to those facts for a persuasive appeal.  Having done State and Federal Appeal work is very rewarding and an important component of our legal system.