Legal Disclaimer

Last Updated: January 22, 2026

1. No Legal Advice

General Information Only

The information provided on this website is general in nature and is intended to help you understand Iowa expungement law and our services. It is not legal advice and should not be relied upon as such.

Legal advice requires an understanding of your specific facts and circumstances. Every expungement case is different, and outcomes depend on individual case details, court records, timing, and other factors.

No Substitute for Legal Consultation

Information on this website should not be used as a substitute for consulting with a licensed attorney. If you need legal advice about your specific situation, please contact us to schedule a consultation or consult with another qualified attorney.

2. No Attorney-Client Relationship

Website Use Does Not Create Representation

Using this website, reading content, downloading materials, or taking our eligibility quiz does not create an attorney-client relationship. An attorney-client relationship is only formed when:

• You complete our eligibility assessment and qualify for services
• You agree to our Terms of Service
• You make payment for our services
• You sign an engagement letter electronically
• We have completed a conflict check

Communications Before Engagement

Communications with us through this website, email, or phone before an engagement letter is signed are not confidential and are not protected by attorney-client privilege. Do not send confidential information until an attorney-client relationship has been established.

3. Jurisdiction

Iowa Law Only

This website and our services relate exclusively to Iowa expungement law. We do not provide information or services for expungements in other states. Laws vary significantly by jurisdiction.

Licensed in Iowa

Attorney Laurie Heron McCown is licensed to practice law in the State of Iowa only. We do not provide legal services in any other jurisdiction.

4. No Guarantee of Results

Factors Beyond Our Control

Many factors affect the outcome of an expungement case, including but not limited to:

• Specific facts and circumstances of your case
• Accuracy and completeness of court records
• Changes in Iowa law or court rules
• Prosecutor objections or recommendations
• Judicial discretion and individual judges' practices
• Previously unknown information in your criminal history
• Court calendars and processing times

Past Results Not Indicative

Any references to past case results, success rates, or client outcomes do not guarantee or predict similar results in your case. Each case is unique and must be evaluated on its own merits.

5. Accuracy of Information

Information Subject to Change

Iowa expungement law is subject to change through legislation, court decisions, and administrative rules. While we strive to keep this website current, information may become outdated. The law in effect at the time your case is filed controls your case.

No Warranty of Accuracy

While we make reasonable efforts to provide accurate information, we make no warranties about the accuracy, completeness, or timeliness of information on this website. You should independently verify any information before relying on it.

6. Eligibility Quiz Limitations

Preliminary Assessment Only

Our online eligibility quiz provides a preliminary assessment based on the information you provide. It is not a definitive determination of eligibility. A complete review of your official court records may reveal information that affects eligibility.

Dependent on Accurate Input

The quiz results are only as accurate as the information you provide. Incorrect, incomplete, or inaccurate responses may lead to incorrect eligibility assessments.

Not Legal Advice

The eligibility quiz does not constitute legal advice. It is a screening tool to help you determine whether you should consult with us about expungement services.

7. Third-Party Links and Resources

External Websites

This website may contain links to third-party websites, including Iowa Courts Online, government agencies, and other resources. These links are provided for your convenience only.

No Endorsement

We do not endorse, control, or assume responsibility for the content, privacy policies, or practices of any third-party websites. We are not responsible for any damages or losses arising from your use of external sites.

Iowa Courts Online

While we may reference Iowa Courts Online for checking case status, we cannot guarantee the accuracy or timeliness of information displayed on that system. Official court records should be obtained from the clerk of court for definitive information.

8. Limitation of Liability

Website Use

Your use of this website is at your own risk. We are not liable for any damages arising from your use of or reliance on information provided on this website, including:

• Direct, indirect, incidental, or consequential damages
• Lost profits or opportunities
• Data loss or corruption
• Business interruption

Technical Issues

We are not responsible for technical problems, system failures, network issues, or other technological malfunctions that may affect your access to or use of this website.

9. Professional Conduct

Iowa Rules of Professional Conduct

Attorney Laurie Heron McCown is subject to the Iowa Rules of Professional Conduct. Nothing on this website should be construed as violating these rules or as encouraging conduct that would violate them.

Advertising Rules

This website constitutes attorney advertising under Iowa law. All statements comply with applicable advertising rules and regulations.

10. Privacy and Data Security

No Guarantee of Security

While we use reasonable security measures to protect your information, no method of transmission over the Internet or electronic storage is 100% secure. We cannot guarantee absolute security of your data.

Privacy Policy

Our collection, use, and protection of your personal information is governed by our Privacy Policy. Please review it to understand our practices.

11. Changes to Website Content

Right to Modify

We reserve the right to modify, update, or remove any content on this website at any time without notice. We may also discontinue or change our services, pricing, or policies without prior notice.

No Obligation to Update

We are under no obligation to update information on this website, even if we become aware that it is outdated or inaccurate. You should not rely on the website as a source of current legal developments.

12. Expungement Limitations

What Expungement Does

Iowa expungement seals records from public view but does not destroy them. Certain agencies and entities may still be able to access sealed records as permitted by law.

What Expungement Does Not Do

Expungement does not:

• Automatically remove information from private background check databases
• Restore firearm rights (separate process required)
• Guarantee employment or housing approval
• Remove federal records or records from other states
• Erase DNA samples or fingerprints on file
• Affect professional licensing decisions

Third-Party Databases

While Iowa Courts Online will be updated to reflect your expungement, private background check companies may retain outdated information. We do not control or have access to these third-party databases.

13. Scope of Service

Expungement Only

Our services are limited to seeking expungement of Iowa criminal records. We do not provide:

• Criminal defense representation
• Appeals of criminal convictions
• Post-conviction relief motions
• Pardons or clemency applications
• Restoration of rights (voting, firearms, etc.)
• Sealing of juvenile records (separate process)
• Immigration advice or services

Referrals

If you need legal services outside our scope of practice, we may refer you to other attorneys. Such referrals are not endorsements and do not create any obligation on our part.

14. Contact for Legal Advice

Iowa Expungement
Laurie Heron McCown, Attorney at Law
1819 Beaver Ave.
Des Moines, IA 50310
Phone: 515-302-5316
Email: [email protected]

15. Acceptance of Disclaimer

By using this website, you acknowledge that you have read and understood this disclaimer and agree to its terms. If you do not agree, please do not use this website.