Matthew H. McKinney

I am a member at BrownWinick and Chair the firm’s nationally-recognized Government Relations practice group. During the legislative session, I maintain a full-time presence at the Iowa Capitol where I serve as an “on-call” point of contact for both my clients and for elected officials on matters relating to our clients’ interests. 

My Approach

Professional, prepared, and proactive, while moving at the speed of business and achieving client objectives. In short, I know your business depends upon timely and effective representation that achieves objectives. I further understand that while publicly representing your interests with elected officials while on Capitol Hill,  I am a direct extension and reflection of your business’ valuable brand (whether presenting during a committee hearing, advocating during one-on-one meetings, or coordinating a press conference). Consequently, whether your business’ objectives require an aggressive offensive agenda, a thoughtful defensive stand, or careful monitoring, I show up to achieve best-in-class results in a manner that moves your agenda forward, protects your brand, and brings value to your business.

Our team has a reputation of tackling technically complex, politically challenging, bet-the-company projects. From highly-regulated industries such as insurance and alcohol, to utilities and gaming, our background and experience provide valuable insight and perspective that informs our work and approach.

Finally, as a small business owner, former prosecutor, and someone who has been on the ballot and served in a public office, I bring a unique perspective to our team’s work and firm’s client representation. First, having served in public office where I’ve been asked to consider and vote on public policy, knocked thousands of doors, raised record campaign funds, designed and sent thousands of mailers, run social media campaigns, and managed absentee ballot work, my approach and perspective of working with elected officials on the Hill is informed and shaped through this unique experience. Second, as a business owner, I understand practical challenges that owners, management, and executive boards face in managing a business, meeting budgets, and achieving quarterly goals. Finally, as a former prosecutor and litigation attorney - having worked-up and tried countless cases - I know first-hand the importance of thoroughly preparing for the known, and unknown. These unique experiences shape and drive the work our team undertakes everyday as we advance our clients’ agendas.

More About Me

I received my Bachelor of Arts degree in Political Science with a certificate in Entrepreneurship from the University of Iowa in 2004. Shortly thereafter, I received my J.D., cum laude, along with certificates of concentration in litigation, and criminal law and procedure from Creighton University School of Law in 2007. I was also the sole recipient of the David A. Svoboda Trial Advocacy award, recognizing excellence in trial advocacy.

I was admitted to the Iowa State Bar in 2007 and the State of Arizona in 2008. Additionally, I am admitted to practice law in Iowa Federal District Court (northern and southern divisions) as well as in Colorado Federal District Court.

It was a privilege to be elected to the West Des Moines City Council, in the at-large position, in 2019 and then re-elected in 2023. I am an active member of the Iowa and Polk County Bar Associations, in addition to serving as a member of the West Des Moines Chamber of Commerce Board and Executive Committee; the United Way of Central Iowa Policy Cabinet; BRAVO of Greater Des Moines, Des Moines Arts Festival Board of Directors, Taste of the Junction Board of Directors and the Metro Advisory Council ICON Water Trails. I am also a graduate of the West Des Moines Leadership Academy, the Greater Des Moines Leadership Institute, and Leadership Iowa. I have been selected for inclusion in the 2025 Best Lawyers® in America in the area of Government Relations Practice. Finally, it was an honor to have Super Lawyers® recognize me as a “Rising Star” in the area of Government Relations from 2017 - 2021.

My Specialties

• Government Relations
• Litigation / Trial Law
• Data Security and Privacy
• Administrative Law
• Business and Corporate Law
• Health Law