Holly Corkery is an experienced employment law attorney representing public and private sector employers and also conducting independent workplace investigations. Holly advises organizations on the full spectrum of employment and labor law issues, helping employers navigate complex legal challenges with practical, business-focused solutions.
- Holly regularly collaborates with executive leadership and human resources on risk management, compliance, and best practices to prevent legal risk before it occurs. Holly works closely with employers on matters involving employee discipline, employee leave and accommodation issues, civil rights complaints, workplace policies, wage and hour compliance, and employer-related litigation.
- In independent workplace investigations, Holly has experience investigating discrimination, harassment, retaliation, whistle-blower complaints, misconduct, and policy violations at all levels of an organization, including matters involving senior leadership. Holly delivers prompt and clear findings and practical recommendations that help organizations take appropriate action and move forward with confidence.
- Holly also works with insurance companies and self-insured clients to defend employment claims and lawsuits, including discrimination, harassment, retaliation claims.
Education
- The University of Iowa (J.D., 2012)
- Coe College (B.A., 2009)
Professional Affiliations
Active or formerly active in the following organizations:
- Linn County Bar Association, Member, Past President
- Marion Chamber of Commerce, Board of Directors, Past Chair
- Corda Credit Union Board of Directors (current)
- Iowa Municipal Attorneys Association
Additional Biographical Information
- Iowa State Bar Association, Government Practice Group, Council Member (current)
- Volunteer with Junior Achievement of Eastern Iowa
- Marion Leadership in Action Class of 2018-2019
- Iowa Law Review, Bulletin Essays Editor (2011-2012)
Cases and Experience
- Rheeder v. City of Marion, et al (Iowa 2025) (interlocutory appeal granted on denial of summary judgment, obtained reversal on all employment discrimination/harassment/retaliation claims, and received order to grant summary judgment for all defendants.)
- Hyatt v. City of Marion, (Iowa Court of Appeals 2021) (Successful defense of an employee’s civil service appeal upholding termination).
Presentation and Publications
- Contributor, Human Resources Administration and Labor Relations update, Iowa Municipal Policy Leaders' Handbook, 2026
- “Clear Path Forward: Managing the ADA With Confidence,” Iowa Public Employer Labor Relations Association
- Johnston, Iowa September 12, 2025
- “An Employee Complained they were Being Harassed at Work. Now What?” Iowa League of Cities Annual Conference
- Sioux City, Iowa, September 19, 2024
- "Employee Discipline Start to Finish," Iowa Municipal Attorneys Association
- Des Moines, Iowa, June 27, 2022
- "Public Employment Issues," Iowa Municipal Finance Officers Association
- Des Moines, Iowa, April 21, 2022
- Open Records, Issues and Concerns, Iowa Academy of Trial Lawyers
- Des Moines, Iowa, February 24, 2022
- Navigating Employee Leaves of Absence—It’s Hard Enough Without Covid-19!, IASHRM HR 2020 & Beyond Virtual Conference
- October 15, 2020
