Protecting Your
Rights And Future

Charged With Eluding A Police Officer? You Need A Personalized Defense.

Last updated on February 27, 2024

The police have the right to pull over vehicles if they suspect a driver is under the influence of alcohol. However, being pulled over by the police can be a terrifying experience for drivers – and some drivers react in ways that lead to additional charges of attempting to elude a pursuing law enforcement vehicle.

Being charged with eluding a police officer can result in penalties that are even harsher than those for drunk driving alone. Attorney Shawn Fitzgerald helps clients in Iowa City, Cedar Rapids and surrounding areas with their criminal defense.

Understand What Eluding Means In A Criminal Case

In Iowa, eluding a police officer means that a driver failed to comply with an officer’s signals or orders while driving more than 25 mph over the speed limit. Evidence that shows a driver tried to elude the police may also be used in court to imply that the driver panicked because they knew they were intoxicated.

Attorney Shawn Fitzgerald understands that his clients may have had concerns that prevented them from stopping their vehicle as soon as possible. A simple mistake leading to a criminal charge should not be allowed to ruin a person’s life.

Penalties For Eluding A Police Officer In Iowa

For many years, a criminal charge for eluding a police officer was classified as a misdemeanor. However, new laws changed this misdemeanor to a felony, which makes this offense much more serious. This can cause those charged to face up to 10 years in prison and $10,000 in fines. Experienced criminal defense attorney Shawn Fitzgerald has helped clear the names of many of his clients and wants to do the same for you.

Get In Touch With A Strong Defense Lawyer

It is never too late to get in touch with attorney Shawn Fitzgerald when you need to build a criminal defense case. You can reach out to Johnston, Stannard, Klesner, Burbidge & Fitzgerald, P.L.C. for a free consultation by calling 319-359-6492 or completing our online contact form.

Notable Cases

Cedar County AGCR024516 — PLEA OFFER ACCEPTED — Attorney Shawn Fitzgerald’s client was accused of the crime of Operating a Motor Vehicle While License is Barred as a Habitual Offender §321.560/ §321.561/ §321.555 /§321.556 (An Aggravated Misdemeanor), as well as Failure to Use Child Restraint Devise §321.446 (A Scheduled Violation). Attorney Shawn Fitzgerald was able to secure a plea offer satisfactory to both client and state.

Notable Cases

Muscatine County AGCR057733 — PLEA ACCEPTED, CHARGE REDUCED — Attorney Shawn Fitzgerald’s client was accused of Domestic Abuse Assault §708.2A(2)(b) (A Serious Misdemeanor). An initial plea offer stated the client would have to plead guilty as charged, attorney Shawn Fitzgerald worked for a better offer for his client. The client was able to plead guilty to an amended lesser charge of Disorderly Conduct §723.4(2) (A Simple Misdemeanor).