About the Firm
The Carney Law Firm was founded by Senior Partner, James W. Carney, in 1975. Upon his graduation from Drake Law School and the receipt of his law license in 1975, Jim Carney began his firm in the general practice of law. With over 50 years of hard work and dedication, Jim has built one of the premier lobbying and personal injury practices in the state of Iowa. Jim’s list of loyal legislative clients is long and distinguished, and his list of trial victories and reported Iowa cases is equally impressive. Through more than five decades of practice, Jim has remained true to his mission: to provide first-rate advocacy for his clients with purpose and professionalism.
In 1990, George W. Appleby joined the firm, making partner shortly thereafter, and eventually leading to the rebranding of the firm as Carney Appleby Law. George had been practicing law in the public and private sectors since 1979. George’s practice in both state and federal criminal defense, litigation and appellate practice, and his natural penchant for legislative and administrative advocacy, made him a natural fit for the firm. Over the years George excelled in his lobbying activities and his appellate advocacy, making both a mainstay of his daily practice. Before retiring in 2018, George had expanded his civil litigation portfolio to include personal injury, medical malpractice, and a plethora of other civil trial matters.
In 2009, Scott A. Hall joined the firm as a licensed attorney, later becoming a partner in 2013. Scott began as a law clerk for the firm while attending Drake Law School, and then as an associate attorney after graduation. Scott’s knowledge and experience in the areas of real estate, business, estate planning, and probate allow him to help clients find peace-of-mind during times of change. His abilities within transactional and litigation scenarios, as well as trial work, continue to be an asset to the firm and its clients.
In 2013, Douglas L. Struyk joined the firm, later becoming a partner in 2015. Doug is a vital and integral part of Carney Appleby Law’s legislative lobbying practice. He brings decades of executive, legislative, administrative, government relations, and public policy experience to the firm. In addition to Doug’s impressive legislative resume, he also contributes heavily with the firm’s civil litigation and administrative law functions.
In 2019, Nick Mauro joined the firm and later became a partner in 2020. Nick’s knowledge and experience in areas of trial practice, particularly in personal injury, medical malpractice, and employment, are extensive. Nick’s contribution to the firm’s litigation and trial work has further allowed the firm to bring our clients justice.
In 2018, Katie Raisch joined the firm and later became a partner in 2022. Katie worked as a law clerk for the firm while attending Drake Law School, and then as an associate attorney after graduation. Katie’s practice in family law allows the firm to help families all around the State of Iowa find stability and comfort in times of adversity.
In 2023, Mike Carroll joined the firm, later becoming a partner in 2025. Mike’s knowledge and experience in the areas of civil rights, employment law, and worker’s compensation are an asset to his clients and the firm. Mike is also a mediator, dedicated to helping other Iowa attorneys and their clients work through conflicts toward mutually agreeable solutions.
All of the partners have strong ties to Iowa. The six partners of Carney Appleby Law are proud to be Iowa attorneys and are proud to know and work with Iowa attorneys all across the state.
If you or your loved ones are in need of competent, experienced representation before the legislature, state or federal courts, or any other tribunal, the attorneys of Carney Appleby Law are here to fulfill that need.