For Immediate Release: Wednesday, Aug. 13, 2025
Media Contact: Zach Carlyle | zach.carlyle@iowa.gov | (515) 415-7235
DES MOINES – The Iowa Department of Corrections (DOC) is pleased to announce the promotion of Shannon Archer to General Counsel, effective immediately. Archer, who previously served as Legal Counsel for the department, has been instrumental in navigating complex legal landscapes and providing exceptional guidance to the DOC.
Archer’s impressive legal career spans over 15 years, with more than 60 jury trials conducted. During that time, she represented the DOC in civil trials as an Assistant Attorney General, the State of Iowa in criminal prosecutions as an Assistant Polk County Attorney, and also contracted with the State Public Defender's Office to represent indigent clients facing Class A felony charges. She is a nationally recognized expert and educator on topics including domestic violence and sexual abuse. Before joining the DOC, Archer served as both an Assistant Attorney General and an Assistant Polk County Attorney. She holds a law degree with honors from Drake University and a Bachelor of Arts in Mathematics, cum laude, from Wartburg College.
In her new role, Archer will provide legal expertise to the DOC’s leadership team, staff, and the Board of Corrections. She will also manage legal services for more than 8,500 incarcerated individuals and 30,000 probationers and/or parolees.
“Shannon has consistently demonstrated the skills, integrity, and dedication needed to excel in this critical role,” said Director Dr. Beth Skinner. “Her ability to manage complex legal challenges and her unwavering commitment to justice have already made a significant impact on our department. We are incredibly excited to see her lead our legal team and continue to serve the people of Iowa with the same excellence she has always shown.”
“I am honored and excited to step into the role of General Counsel for the Iowa Department of Corrections,” said Shannon Archer. “I am passionate about our mission to promote public safety and justice, and I look forward to working with our talented team to uphold the highest legal standards and support the goals of the department. This is a tremendous opportunity, and I’m ready to embrace the challenges and responsibilities that come with it.”
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About the Iowa Department of Corrections
The Iowa Department of Corrections is making significant strides to implement evidence-based practices system-wide that are proven to reduce victimization, reduce recidivism and enhance community safety. The IDOC is a nationally recognized leader in corrections for innovation and implementation of evidence-based practices. Being on the forefront of innovation and practice, the IDOC continues its commitment to be the best corrections system in the country.
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