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Iowa Supreme Court Rules Against Fees for Dismissed Cases

2/14/2026

32 7 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

In February 2024, Ronald Pagliai faced theft charges in Des Moines, Iowa, and challenged dismissed-case costs.
The Iowa Supreme Court ruled defendants cannot be charged court costs for dismissed cases.
Public defense advocates praised the ruling.
The ruling aligns with similar actions in other states to eliminate court fees for public defenders.
Assistant county attorney Shane McChurch warned the ruling could raise convictions and lower dismissals.

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Story summary

In February 2024, Ronald Pagliai faced theft charges in Des Moines, Iowa, and challenged dismissed-case costs.
The Iowa Supreme Court ruled defendants cannot be charged court costs for dismissed cases.
Public defense advocates praised the ruling.
The ruling aligns with similar actions in other states to eliminate court fees for public defenders.
Assistant county attorney Shane McChurch warned the ruling could raise convictions and lower dismissals.