Iowa criminal charge
Maliciously suing out a warrant in Iowa
Maliciously suing out a warrant is a Serious Misdemeanor under Iowa criminal law, defined by Iowa Code § 808.10. 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 § 808.10.
What is the penalty for maliciously suing out a warrant 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 maliciously suing out a warrant in Iowa
Is maliciously suing out a warrant a felony or a misdemeanor in Iowa?
Maliciously suing out a warrant is a Serious Misdemeanor in Iowa under Iowa Code § 808.10.
What are the penalties for maliciously suing out a warrant in Iowa?
As a Serious Misdemeanor, maliciously suing out a warrant 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 maliciously suing out a warrant?
Maliciously suing out a warrant is governed by Iowa Code § 808.10 (Maliciously suing out a warrant — officer exceeding authority).
Legal terms used in this law
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.