Des Moines Attorney Fights License Revocation Over Ethics Violations

Valerie Cramer accused of 'fleecing' clients and making 'preposterous' claims about the judiciary

Jan. 30, 2026 at 4:07pm

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A Des Moines attorney named Valerie Cramer is fighting the state's efforts to revoke her law license over a series of alleged ethics violations. The Grievance Commission of the Iowa Supreme Court has recommended revoking Cramer's license, accusing her of making false claims about judges and court staff, intentionally misleading courts, and overcharging vulnerable clients.

Why it matters

This case highlights concerns about attorney misconduct and the disciplinary process for lawyers in Iowa. The allegations against Cramer, if true, could undermine public trust in the legal system and raise questions about oversight of the legal profession.

The details

The disciplinary case stems from a complaint filed by the Iowa Supreme Court Attorney Disciplinary Board in 2024, alleging numerous ethics violations related to Cramer's competence, client trust accounts, billing for legal work, and false representations made to the court. The Grievance Commission found Cramer 'was basically fleecing these limited estates of all their assets' and that her 'preposterous' conspiracy theories about the judiciary were 'intentional and calculated'.

  • The Grievance Commission recommended revoking Cramer's license in July 2025.
  • The disciplinary case was initiated by a complaint filed in November 2024.
  • Cramer appealed the commission's findings and recommendation in August 2025.
  • The Iowa Supreme Court heard oral arguments in the matter on January 20, 2026.

The players

Valerie Cramer

A Des Moines attorney who has been licensed to practice law in Iowa since 2003 and is fighting the state's efforts to revoke her law license.

Grievance Commission of the Iowa Supreme Court

The commission that recommended revoking Cramer's law license, alleging she made false claims about judges and court staff, intentionally misled courts, and overcharged vulnerable clients.

Iowa Supreme Court Attorney Disciplinary Board

The board that filed the original complaint against Cramer in November 2024, alleging numerous ethics violations.

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What they’re saying

“There is no evidence of pervasive ethical breaches or ongoing risk to the public. No client suffered harm, no funds were misappropriated, and no clear and convincing evidence established intentional dishonesty.”

— Valerie Cramer (Court filings)

What’s next

The Iowa Supreme Court has yet to issue a decision on the Grievance Commission's recommendation to revoke Cramer's law license.

The takeaway

This case highlights the importance of attorney oversight and disciplinary processes to maintain public trust in the legal system. The allegations against Cramer, if true, could undermine confidence in the legal profession and raise concerns about how vulnerable clients are treated.