Michael Arleth Email & Phone Number

Des Moines, Iowa

I represent defendants in all types of misdemeanor criminal cases. I am often appointed to handle these cases by judges in Polk County and the eight counties immediately surrounding Polk County. I have entered into and maintained contracts with the Iowa State Public Defender to represent indigent clients in these casesI also represent both petitioners and respondents in family law cases. These cases range from simple divorce proceedings to complex child custody and support matters. I take several cases from the Polk County Bar Association and Iowa Legal Aid Volunteer Lawyers projects. I have been recognized by the Iowa Supreme Court for my continuing commitment to providing pro bono legal service to low income iowans.I also write estate plans and documents to give effect to those plans. Often I can give clients peace of mind that their voice will be heard when the worst happens through a simple will and appropriate powers of attorney. Occasionally, the client's circumstances require more elaborate trusts and wills designed to interact with those trusts.

Researching law and academic support for law students.

Iowa City, Iowa

Completed intake interviews with estate planning client. Analyzed and synthesized estate planning client’s information, creating a database of her family, financial, and employment data.Advised client on estate planning client’s estate planning options, including last will and testament, financial power of attorney, durable medical power of attorney, and living will.Corresponded with client via email and formal client letters regarding the estate planning process.Drafted client’s last will and testament, financial power of attorney, durable medical power of attorney, and living will.Reviewed and analyzed a Medicaid client’s file, including several adverse rulings.Successfully determined that previous adverse rulings resulted from advocates failing to address the cost of certain services compared to the benefits of those services.Wrote a successful request for an exception to policy based on cost-benefit analysis.Met with practice groups to reflect and collaborate on our cases.

Juris Doctor (J.D.)

Activities and Societies: Journal of Gender, Race, and Justice

Bachelor'S Degree, Psychology

Activities and Societies: College Democrats, Omicron Delta Kappa, Delta Epsilon Sigma, Aquinas Scholars, Pi Sigma Alpha, and Poetry Slam.