I am committed to protecting the rights of my fellow Iowans.
I founded the Higgins Law Firm, PLLC, in 2011, with the mission statement to protect the rights of Iowans. This firm is dedicated to helping injured Iowans — those harmed in car wrecks and other types of accidents, by medical negligence, by unreasonably dangerous products, and by discrimination in the workplace. I also defend Iowans who have been charged with crimes. In each case, I strive to empower clients by giving them agency over their future.
It was working for the Iowa Civil Rights Commission that initially spurred my interest in the area of employment law, particularly laws that prohibit discrimination in the workplace. In screening complaints received by the commission from persons suffering the effects of discrimination, I came to understand the prevalence of harassment and discrimination in the workplace and the terrible harm that is inflicted on victims. I also learned the difference that an attorney advocate can make in the lives of victims of discrimination.
I have called Iowa home my entire life. Born and raised on a small farm west of Ottumwa, my early experiences watching my parents, particularly my mother, face challenges of inequality in the workplace inform my dedication to protecting the rights of working individuals and the families who rely on them.
After graduating from Ottumwa High School, I attended the University of Iowa and then Drake University Law School, where I graduated in 2011.
My wife and I married in 2010, and we are the proud parents of two daughters.
Recognition
- Association of American Trial Lawyers (AOATL): Top 40 Under 40 for Employment Law
- The National Trial Lawyers: Top 40 Under 40 (State of Iowa 2017)
- The National Trial Lawyers: Top 100 Trial Lawyers (2015)
- American Academy of Trial Attorneys: Premier 100 Trial Attorneys (2015)
- Great Plains Super Lawyers: Rising Star (2015, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021, 2022)
- Great Plains Super Lawyer (2024)
Professional and Community Affiliations
- American Association for Justice
- Iowa State Bar Association
- Polk County Bar Association
- Iowa Association for Justice – Board of Governors (2015-Present); New Lawyers Section (Chairman)
- National Employment Lawyers Association
- National Employment Lawyers Association – Iowa Chapter
- Des Moines Branch of the NAACP – Legal Grievance Committee
- Adjunct Professor of Law – Drake Law School
Schedule a free, confidential initial consultation with me, attorney Stuart Higgins, by calling 515-619-9148 or reach out to our West Des Moines law office by sending an email.