Bruning v. Swipies

The primary question in this case is whether, pursuant to Iowa Code section 627.13 (1991), workers’ compensation benefits are exempt from garnishment when the funds are levied upon to satisfy a child support obligation. The district court determined the benefits are not exempt in this situation. We affirm.

The facts are not disputed. On March 12, 1990, Dawn and Kenneth Swipies’ marriage was dissolved. The district court’s dissolution decree ordered Kenneth to pay $175 per month in child support for their child, Kendra. Kenneth did not stay current on his child support obligations, and he…