Jessica M. Donels, Appellate Attorney in Des Moines, Iowa

Jessica concentrates on appellate, criminal defense, general, and immigration. Each area below outlines the kind of case Jessica handles, typical outcomes to expect, and how the intake process starts.

• Appellate

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• Criminal Defense

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• General

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• Immigration

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Jessica's primary office is at 2910 Grand Avenue, Des Moines, IA, 50312. In-person meetings are by appointment; a phone intake usually comes first.

Working with a new appellate attorney should feel structured. Here's how the first two conversations with Jessica usually go, from the moment you request a consult to the day representation begins.

Jessica discusses fees during intake so the arrangement fits the matter. Contingency, hourly, and flat-fee options are all common in appellate practice — ask which fits.

• How much does it cost to hire Jessica for a appellate case?

  Cost depends on the type of matter, the fee model (contingency, flat, hourly), and how contested the case becomes. Jessica walks through the likely range during the consult so there are no surprises.

• Does Jessica offer a free consultation?

  Jessica charges for the initial consult; that fee is credited toward representation if you retain Jessica's office. Some appellate attorneys offer free consults — check Jessica's current terms during booking.

• How long do appellate cases in Iowa typically take?

  Simple appellate matters can wrap in a few weeks; disputed cases can run 6–18 months from intake to resolution, longer if the matter goes to trial. Jessica gives a realistic estimate for your facts at the consult — vague answers here are a red flag.

• Can Jessica take my case if I'm outside Des Moines?

  Jessica is licensed in Iowa. Matters governed by Iowa law are the natural fit. Out-of-state matters are handled case-by-case, sometimes with local co-counsel. Ask during intake — Jessica will tell you if the case is a fit or refer you to someone closer to your court.

• What should I bring to my first meeting with Jessica?

  Bring every document that touches the dispute: contracts, correspondence, police or medical reports, filed pleadings, invoices, photographs, insurance letters. Also bring a written timeline of what happened, in your own words. Jessica will filter what matters — over-preparing at intake is always cheaper than needing a second meeting.

• Is Jessica accepting new appellate clients right now?

  Jessica's intake status shifts week to week. Submit the form; the office will confirm availability or refer the matter out.