Chapter 1 · Indictable Offenses

Rule 2.28. Right to appointed counsel

Amended October 30, 2024 (current)

2.28(1) Representation. Every defendant, who is an indigent person as defined in Iowa Code section 815.9 and who faces the possibility of incarceration, is entitled to have counsel appointed to represent the defendant at every stage of the proceedings from the defendant’s initial appearance before the court through appeal, including probation and parole revocation hearings as provided in Iowa Code section 815.10 and motions to correct illegal sentences unless the defendant waives such appointment.

2.28(2) Limited appearances. Limited appearances are not allowed in criminal cases where there is appointed counsel. However, appointed appellate counsel may file a limited appearance for the purpose of obtaining court records.