Iowa criminal charge
Malicious prosecution in Iowa
Malicious prosecution is a Serious Misdemeanor under Iowa criminal law, defined by Iowa Code § 720.6. As a Serious Misdemeanor, it is punishable within the statutory sentencing range Iowa sets for that offense class. Iowa classifies offenses as class “A” through class “D” felonies and as aggravated, serious, or simple misdemeanors. Felony prison terms are indeterminate maximums — the statutes set only the ceiling, and release timing is determined by the board of parole.
Defined by Iowa Code § 720.6.
What is the penalty for malicious prosecution in Iowa?
| Penalty | Range | Basis | Authority |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jail / prison | up to 1 years (the court may order imprisonment in addition to the fine (§903.1(1)(b))) | discretionary | Iowa Code § 903.1 |
| Fine | $430 to $2,560 (fine may not be suspended by the court (§903.1(1)); §911 surcharges added on top) | mandatory | Iowa Code § 903.1 |
Applies to current (2026 Iowa Code; fine levels per 2020 Acts ch 1074).
Common questions about malicious prosecution in Iowa
Is malicious prosecution a felony or a misdemeanor in Iowa?
Malicious prosecution is a Serious Misdemeanor in Iowa under Iowa Code § 720.6.
What are the penalties for malicious prosecution in Iowa?
As a Serious Misdemeanor, malicious prosecution carries up to 1 years (no mandatory minimum) of incarceration and a fine of $430 to $2,560 under Iowa Code § 903.1 (current (2026 Iowa Code; fine levels per 2020 Acts ch 1074)).
Which Iowa statute covers malicious prosecution?
Malicious prosecution is governed by Iowa Code § 720.6 (Malicious prosecution).
This reference is informational and is not legal advice. Penalty ranges are the statutory classification ranges; sentencing in a specific case depends on its facts and history.