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Matthew Thomas Lindholm

DUI and DWI Attorney at West Des Moines, IA

5.0   61 reviews

also known as Matt Lindholm

Free consultation
Free consultation
  • Licensed for 21 years
    State IA
    Acquired 2002
    Status
    Active No misconduct found

We have not found any instances of professional misconduct for this lawyer.

About Matthew

Learn Matthew’s areas of practice.

2
Practice areas
  1. DUI and DWI
    75%

    21 years

  2. Criminal defense
    25%
    All criminal defense including civil forfeiture proceedings.

    21 years

BAD THINGS HAPPEN TO GOOD PEOPLE ALL THE TIME. WHEN GOOD PEOPLE NEED GREAT LAWYERS CALL US.

I have devoted  my legal career to defending the rights of Iowan’s charged with drug and alcohol offenses with an emphasis on operating while intoxicated, boating while intoxicated, serious injury by vehicle, and vehicular homicide cases.  My interest in the criminal justice system began early in my career while attending Simpson College and majoring in Criminal Justice and graduating Cum Laude in 1999.  After attending Simpson, I received my law degree from Drake University in 2002.  While attending Drake, my passion for the criminal justice system was enhanced by completing an internship at the Warren County Attorney’s Office as well as through completion of the Advanced Criminal Defense Clinic.

 

In 2004 I became a member of the National College of Drunk Driving Defense and am currently one of only a few select attorneys in Iowa to be a member of this organization.  In April 2005, I completed the NHTSA/IACP Standardized Field Sobriety Practitioner Training Course through Walden, Platt and Associates where I became certified to administer and score the same field sobriety tests used by police officers when making an arrest of an intoxicated driver.

 

I continue to hone my skills in defending the rights of Iowan’s by attending other national and local seminars related to criminal and drunk driving defense.  I have also spoken at numerous seminars on issues such as field sobriety testing, breath testing, case law updates, and appellate practice.  My practice also includes the litigation of appeals through the Iowa Court of Appeals and the Iowa Supreme Court.  

 

I have also been an assistant wrestling coach at Valley Highschool since 2004 and currently am a volunteer assistance.  I enjoy working with the kids to help them not only become better athletes but better individuals.  I also enjoy being outdoors and taking my annual fishing trips to Minnesota.

Awards

Client's Choice 2022,2021,2020,2019,2016,2015,2013
Client's Choice
2022 2021 2020 + 4 ...

Photos and videos

Contact Matthew

Gourley, Rehkemper & Lindholm, PLC
440 Fairway Drive
Suite 210
West Des Moines, IA, 50266
Matthew Thomas Lindholm
520 South Pierce Avenue
Suite 209
Mason City, IA, 50401
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Reviews

5.0 / 5.0
  61 customer reviews
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Client's Choice 2022
Client's Choice
Client's Choice is an Avvo award granted to attorneys with a significant number of client reviews over 4 stars in a given year.
Posted by Mike | July 23, 2015
Pulled off a Miracle
Matt was top notch!!!! Being originally from Chicago, IL and unfamiliar with the specifics of OWI laws in this state I made some very critical mistakes in how I handled my interaction with the officers who pulled me over that night by refusing the Breathalyzer both at the arresting site and at the station which makes things worse here as I found out later. After meeting with Matt one time I knew he was the guy in telling me if there was an angle to exploit the charge and actions of the arresting officers he would. He did just that as he was able to find an angle to question one of the officers statements during the arrest which resulted in his filing for a motion to suppress the Breathalyzer refusal. At that point the county prosecutor knowing Matt had a pretty solid argument to have the evidence suppressed and struck a deal with Matt. As opposed to an automatic 12 month suspension, 3 months for a work driving permit and an owi on my record the charges got brought down to a deferred sentence of only a 3 month license suspension, 1 year of probation, cannot get another one for 12 years(and one was enough for me lol), no owi as long as I complete my probation and no other owi charges obviously and some fines. Matt was well worth the money I paid for his services, he and one of his legal assistants kept me promptly informed during all phases of the proceedings including when I did and didn't have to be in court and how things were going to play out. Matt knows his stuff and gives it to you straight. If there is something to your situation he can find to relieve the burden of your case this guy will find it HANDS DOWN!! If you need a superb attorney that is professional, honest and hard working to your benefit you'd be a fool not to seek out Matt. He is absolutely the lawyer you want!!!!!!!!!!
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Posted by Zachary | November 3, 2015
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Shark!!!
After receiving an OWI 1st & a Felony Bribery charge in April of 2015 I knew it was going to take the help of a Shark to get me back on the right side of the law. I consulted a friend of mine that's the police cheif of the small town that I'm from. He highly recommended Matt Lindholm as he knew he was highly respected & feared (in a good way) by the local county attorneys that had had dealings with him. To say my friend was right would be an extreme understatement. Matt was (is) an absolute professional in every degree of the term. Long story short, after watching Matt grill my arresting officer for just over 2 hours straight during depositions; picking apart every lie the officer could fabricate; exposing every hole possible; the County Attorney thought it'd be a good idea to offer a Reckless Driving & an Interference with Official Acts Plea Deal. I never lost my lisence, nor spent a second in jail. Only had to pay a couple fines & moved on with my life. I am forever greatful for Matt & everyone over at GRL Law for helping me through the mess of the legal process.
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Posted by anonymous | August 18, 2022
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Expectations Exceeded
I was charged with a flimsy OWI that seemed spiteful in nature by a hometown cop. After I hired Matt, I didn't have to give up my driving privileges, appear in court, or otherwise lift a finger until he informed me that the charges were dismissed! I'm very grateful to Matt in that my record will remain clean and that I can move on without penalties. He's the guy you want on your side in these circumstances!
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Posted by Greg | August 15, 2022
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Excellent
Matt got my OWI 2 to a reckless driving and was always good to talk to, Emily was always helpful and nice. Saved me a lot of money in the long run.
Posted by Tim | August 10, 2022
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Excellent Court Attorney
I recently hired Matt to represent me. His court appearance and performance was just as you would expect a professional lawyer’s to be. He was charismatic and highly intelligent. His demeanor captured the jury’s attention. All of this resulted in my case being resolved in my favor. I highly recommend Matt and his paralegal Emily. They’re willingness and want to help you in some of your worst times speaks volumes of their character.
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Posted by Al | April 22, 2022
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Owi 3rd
First, I recommend everyone to think before picking up yours keys to drink and drive. I found myself in a tough situation, facing a OWI 3rd case. I recommend hiring Matthew Lindholm and the GRL Firm. Matthew had a plan of action the second we discussed my case. Key word being a plan, which other Law Firms didn’t mention or have. They just proposed ideas. Matthew and his assistant Emily provided great communication, assistance and their time whenever needed. If you do your part and focus to correct your mistakes, Matthew and his team will be there to provide the best outcome. I was very pleased with my outcome. My case was dropped to OWI 2nd and served the minimum 7 days. Compared to doing prison time. I thank God for pointing me in the direction of Matthew. Thanks GRL
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Posted by anonymous | March 23, 2022
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Review of Matt Lindholm And Emily
Matt was an amazing attorney/partner in my case. He was continuously keeping me in the loop and working hard on my case. My case was fairly unique in the fact that i had 3 criminal charges in the midst of a divorce. So not only did he help me to beat all 3 charges through 3 days of court and a 2 day jury trial, he also had to communicate with my divorce attorney to help me with winning shared custody of my children. I highly recommend Matt and his secretary Emily, Emily was the most helpful, kind, sweet, and diligent secretary I've ever worked with. She was always ready to take my calls, answer anything she could, or get me through to Matt ASAP. Great team to work with, thank you for everything!
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Posted by anonymous | March 22, 2022
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Well worth the cost - dismissal
Working with Matt and Emily was as easy as these things can be. I had a charge for DUI, and through their diligence they found issues with proper procedure (not) being followed, leading to a dismissal of charges.
Posted by anonymous | March 22, 2022
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Phenomenal results. DWI to public intoxication
Matt and Emily and the GRL law firm were nothing but a pleasure to work with. Matt and Emily in particular, are some of the most professional and friendly people I’ve had the pleasure to work with. They told me exactly what I needed to do and were very clear on the step by step process and we’re always there to talk to and answer any questions needed. Not only are they amazing to work with, but Matt and Emily produced phenomenal results and gave me that second chance that everyone desires but doesent always get. A Great team that produces incredible results!
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Posted by Blaine | October 23, 2021
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Top notch attorney
Matt’s a very detailed attorney looks at every I told him my objective and he made it happen
Posted by anonymous | June 30, 2021
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
5 star review
Matt and Emily are truly a dynamic duo. I couldn't have asked for a better team after finding myself in a very unfamiliar, tough situation. Emily very promptly replied to each and every question I had and Matt was extremely thorough in examining all angles of my case. Matt's legal expertise and professional relationships led to a favorable outcome without the need to go to trial. I will forever be grateful for their hard work and would recommend Matt to anyone needing excellent representation.
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Posted by Jacob | June 25, 2021
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Allegedly
Matt got me out of the OWI charge, and I was only convicted of wrecless driving. He not only saved my career, but was able to be the reason shirts with my mugshot were made. I can look back and laugh at the situation that could've ruined my life. Thanks so much for being the reason I can say, "Allegedly!"
Posted by Jason | June 25, 2021
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Simply the best
Matt. I can't Thank-you enough for what you did. I got referred to Matt from a family member. I was terrified of the situation I was in, when I spoke to Matt I asked him "Are you the best in the state?" His response "Why are you calling me?" I replied "Well, I was told you were the best in the state." Matt stated "I'll do everything I can for you and if there's a technically, I'll find it." He didn't oversell it but I trusted him after the first phone call. He asked me to read his reviews, I never did. I did however listen in on the DOT hearing, I was really impressed. I trusted he would do the best for my situation and we got my charges pled down and I got to keep my license and my livelihood. Through out the whole situation I had little stress because I had confidence in my attorney's ability. He is worth every penny. Thanks again Matt.
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Posted by Mark | June 25, 2021
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Alaska fishing
I was injured on a fishing boat in Alaska. Mr. Lindholm did an excellent job and got me fair settlement.
Posted by anonymous | June 24, 2021
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Great Outcome!
In early January I was arrested on suspicion of OWI and got a good look at the new jail in Dallas County that evening. The very next afternoon I was with Matt Lindholm face to face in his office, and after thoroughly explaining things, we quickly had a plan. Over the next several months, Matt and Emily Croll did a wonderful job of navigating through the complexities of the situation from start to finish on my behalf. The outcome that Matt was able to help me realize was excellent considering the situation and my family and I are very happy with the end result. I had a number of concerns on the criminal side of the equation, and its impact on my reputation and professional licenses. My concerns in these areas were mitigated as the charges were reduced to simple misdemeanor. I have since given Matt's contact information to my immediate family as well as a few friends. I am hopeful that none of them need to work with Matt or the team at GRL down the road if found in a similar situation, but if they do I am confident they will be in good hands.
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Posted by Lindie | March 8, 2021
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
DUI 2nd offense
Matt, his assistant, Emily, and the whole GRL team were amazing! I was charged with a DUI 2nd offense and after consulting and hiring him as my lawyer, he quickly took care of the matter and my charge was completely dropped. He took the time to explain everything to me in terms I could understand and you could really tell that he truly cares about his clients and wants to support them through these difficult circumstances. I would absolutely go back to him if I am in need of legal representation again!
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Posted by anonymous | December 3, 2020
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Very Professional and Knowledgable Lawyer
Matt is an expert in this area of defense. I would highly recommend him and his team. His assistant Emily was very responsive and always answered all of the questions I had. They kept me informed and I was aware of everything going on all the way through the case. Matt and his team were able to get the charges dropped down to reckless driving and I was able to retain my license. What could have been a dark blemish on both my driving and criminal record were saved by Matt and his team. Hopefully you never would need to hire Matt and his team, but if you do, I highly recommend them!
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Posted by Tyler | November 24, 2020
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Best attorney in iowa
I called Matt after I received an OWI. After hearing what he could do and offer, I hired him. Definitely the best lawyer I have had! Any time I had questions he always answered them. His staff is hands down awesome too. If you are looking for the best dui attorney, Matt Lindholm is your man.
Posted by Tom | October 19, 2020
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Domestic Assault to Disorderly Conduct
Matt is one of the finest lawyers I have ever worked with. He came highly recommended and it was the best decision I could make at such a horrible time. Matt was able to get my assault charges dropped that would of been on my name for life. I received no jail time and a 6 month probation. Matt and Emily were easy to talk to especially during a time that was very difficult for me and my family.
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Posted by anonymous | September 23, 2020
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Great experience!
We are so lucky to have Matt on our side. He knows his business and Emily was great help as well. Can’t thank them all enough!
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Cost

Rates
  • Free Consultation 60 minutes
Payment methods
Cash, Check, Credit Card

Resume

AVVO RATING 10.0 (Superb)

Work Experience

  • Managing Partner
  • GRL Law
  • 2005 - Present
  • Associate
  • Hoyt Law Firm
  • 2002 - 2005
  • Assistant Wrestling Coach
  • West Des Moines School
  • 2002 - 2014

Education

  • Drake University Law School
  • JD - Juris Doctor
  • 2002
  • Simpson College
  • Bachelor of Arts
  • 1999

Legal Cases

  • State v. Nguyen
  • OWI charge dismissed and client's license reinstated
  • Johnston v. Iowa Dept. of Transp.
  • six year license suspension removed
  • State v. Scott
  • Conviction reversed and license reinstated
View all legal cases

Associations

  • DUI Defense Lawyers Association
  • General Member
  • 2014 - Present
  • Iowa Association of Justice
  • Board of Governors
  • 2011 - Present
  • Iowa Association of Justice
  • Criminal Law Core Group
  • 2009 - Present
  • National College of Drunk Driving Defense
  • General Member
  • 2005 - Present
  • National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers
  • General Member
  • 2005 - Present
  • Iowa State Bar Association
  • General Member
  • 2002 - Present
  • Iowa Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers
  • Board Member
  • 2002 - Present
View all associations

Languages Spoken

  • English

Honors and Awards

  • Super Lawyer
  • SuperLawyers
  • 2015
  • Key Person Award
  • Iowa Association for Justice
  • 2014
  • Field Sobriety Testing (2013 Curriculum)
  • Platt and Associates
  • 2014
  • Rising Star
  • SuperLawyers
  • 2014
  • Rising Star
  • SuperLawyers
  • 2013
  • Top 40 Under 40
  • National Trial Lawers
  • 2012
  • Mastering Scientific Evidence in DWI/DUI Cases
  • Texas Criminal Defense Lawyers Association
  • 2010
  • Harvard Summer Session Graduate
  • National College of Drunk Driving Defense
  • 2007
  • Standardized Feild Sobriety Testing Practioner Course
  • NHTSA/IACP
  • 2005
View all awards

Speaking Engagements

  • Story County Bar Association Annual CLE
  • What Every Lawyers Should Know About OWI's
  • 2013
  • Annual Firefighters Convention
  • OWI Consequences
  • 2013
  • IACDL Annual Conference
  • DOT Must Knows
  • 2011
  • 24th Annual Criminal Law Seminar
  • OWI: Putting the Tools We Have To Use
  • 2010
  • Anticipating Issues in Criminal Cases
  • Cell Phone Callers
  • 2009
  • Annual Judges Convention
  • OWI Update
  • 2007
View all speaking engagements

Attorney endorsements

Received (16)
Given (7)
Endorse Matthew
Unknown Attorney | Sep 24
Relationship: Worked together on matter
"Excellent attorney. Aggressive and intelligent."
Criminal defense Attorney | Jun 03
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse Matthew. He is a highly skilled attorney that is well respected in the legal community."
Criminal defense Attorney | May 01
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Matt is an accomplished criminal defense attorney. I would have no hesitation referring a family member or friend to him and his firm. He is known to be well prepared, educated, authoritative, and tenacious. His creativity and approach to a case is unmatched. He will provide excellent advise and defense on your behalf."
DUI and DWI Attorney | Jan 07
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer. He is a skilled advocate and specializes in DUI/OWI work. Very thorough and high ethical standards."
DUI and DWI Attorney | Dec 06
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer. He is well known to be more than qualified and aggressive in defending persons charged with OWI and other criminal charges. Can't go wrong with Matt."
Criminal defense Attorney | Sep 24
Relationship: Worked together on matter
"I worked closely with Matt on a matter that had related cases in California and Iowa. Matt worked diligently to make sure both the clients and I were kept well informed through the process in Iowa. Matt worked aggressively and intelligently on the case which led to a positive result for the clients as well. Based on this experience, I would wholly recommend Matt to properly handle your legal matter."
Criminal defense Attorney | Sep 24
Relationship: Worked together on matter
"My office referred a criminal case that had both an Iowa and California case. Matt did an outstanding job handling his end of the case. The client could not have had better representation. We were kept "in the loop" every step of the way. The work Matt did will pay big dividends in the California end of the case. He made our job easy. I would not hesitate to refer anyone to him."
Criminal defense Attorney | Sep 20
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Matt is an excellent criminal defense lawyer. I routinely refer criminal law matters to him."
DUI and DWI Attorney | Aug 01
Relationship: Co-worker
"One of the best trial lawyers I have had the opportunity to watch and learn from."
Criminal defense Attorney | Jul 31
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Mr. Lindholm is a superb criminal defense attorney. His aggressive and dogged attitude is a major asset to any client he represents. Mr. Lindholm's clients can expect a straightforward, thorough, and extremely competent handling of any type of criminal case. A very down to earth and professional experience is what you'll get from Mr. Lindholm."
DUI and DWI Attorney | Jan 13
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Mr. Lindholm specializes in DUI/OWI defense and represents his clients with a zealous committment that gets results. He has made a name for himself in this community defending simple and complex matters associated with the defense of criminal charges and with drivers license suspensions and revocations with the DOT."
DUI and DWI Attorney | Jul 18
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Matt is among a select few attorneys across Iowa who have the requisite scientific training and well-earned trial experience necessary to properly represent the accused drinking driver. OWI defense is a highly specialized field. Time and again, Matt has put his abilities to work and delivered results at trial in very difficult cases. I wouldn't hesitate to recommend a friend or family member to him for representation. He is one of the best."
DUI and DWI Attorney | Jul 19
Relationship: Friend
"Matt is perhaps the most formidable litigator in the field of DUI/OWI/Drunk Driving law in all of Iowa. If you or a loved one needs an expert practitioner in this area, Matt should be #1 on your list."
Criminal defense Attorney | May 05
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer."
DUI and DWI Attorney | May 02
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I've known Matt and worked along side him for over 10 years. There is nobody better when your livelihood and freedom is on the line. If I or any members of my family were in need of a criminal defense attorney he would be my only call. Matt takes the time to thoroughly investigate every case and works it up better than anybody in the industry. His knowledge of the science and the law means he will identify any and all issues and make sure they are used to the client's advantage. When your back is against the wall Matt Lindholm should be your only call."
Criminal defense Attorney | May 02
Relationship: Worked together on matter
"I endorse this lawyer. Matt defended one of my clients on two important traffic tickets. The tickets were important because the incident resulted in the death of a pedestrian. Matt was creative and relentless in his representation and was successful in having one of the two traffic tickets dismissed. There was the possibility that a vehicular homicide charge would be added, but Matt's efforts casted enough doubt on the veracity of the earlier two traffic tickets that the possibility of a vehicular homicide charge was completely quashed."
View more endorsements
Criminal defense
Criminal defense
Criminal defense
Criminal defense
Criminal defense
Criminal defense
West Des Moines DUI and DWI Lawyer Matthew Thomas Lindholm
Matthew Thomas Lindholm
DUI and DWI Attorney
West Des Moines, IA
Licensed for 21 years
Free Consultation