Trusted Lawyers Who Will Fight for You
When you need aggressive representation with a caring touch, turn to Frese & Waters, LLP. Not only do we have more that 50 years of experience in courtrooms and legal proceedings throughout all 99 Iowa counties, but we live and work in the community of Marshall County.
We are honored to help our friends and neighbors with their legal issues. And we take pride in our communication, keeping you updated and answering your questions, so you’ll never wonder what’s happening with your case.
Our firm was established more than 80 years ago, and many of our clients refer their family to us, generation after generation. But having a long history as a local firm doesn’t mean we don’t think globally. We have handled cases with worldwide implications and reach. No issue is too complex or too difficult. We are tough litigators who relish getting in the trenches to get you the best results possible.
Our attorneys
CHAD FRESE
Chad Frese’s 30 years of experience in the legal profession, combined with his membership in professional organizations such as the National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers, enable Mr. Frese to provide unparalleled legal representation to his clients.
Chad has earned admissions to all Iowa Courts to include: the Supreme Court of Iowa, Northern District of Iowa Federal Court, Southern District of Iowa Federal Courts, U.S. Court of Appeals Eighth Circuit, and U.S. Supreme Court. He also represents the Sac and Fox Tribe of the Mississippi in Iowa’s tribal court.
Chad earned his Bachelor of Arts Degree from Mount Mercy University in Cedar Rapids in 1992. In 1996 he earned his Juris Doctor from Drake University in Des Moines, Iowa.
Prior to becoming a partner at Frese & Waters, LLP, in 2000, Chad practiced general law at Moon Law Office. His first position upon graduating from law school was as a Narcotics and Career Criminal Prosecutor for the Marshall and Hardin County Attorney’s Office.
JOEL WATERS
Joel Waters is a partner at Frese & Waters, LLP, where he provides clients with experienced, dedicated representation across a broad range of legal matters. His practice includes criminal defense, family law, personal injury, civil disputes, among others. Mr. Waters is known for his tireless advocacy, practical problem-solving, and commitment to achieving the best possible outcomes for his clients.
A native of Iowa, Mr. Waters earned his undergraduate degree from the University of Iowa and his Juris Doctor from Drake University Law School. Since beginning his legal career, he has developed a reputation as a skilled litigator both in and out of the courtroom. Mr. Waters has successfully obtained criminal acquittals and civil jury verdicts on behalf of his clients, demonstrating his ability to navigate complex legal issues and present compelling cases before judges and juries alike.
Whether representing individuals facing serious criminal charges, guiding families through challenging domestic matters, or pursuing justice for the injured, Mr. Waters approaches each case with professionalism, integrity, and a commitment to his clients’ rights and interests.
C. Aron Vaughn
In 2014, Aron began his work as an attorney at Frese & Waters, LLP and practices primarily in the areas of criminal defense, family law, tort litigation, personal injury and contract disputes. Aron is an experienced attorney who works diligently to obtain his clients’ legal goals. In his career, he has represented well over 1,000 clients, obtaining successful civil jury verdicts, criminal trial acquittals of both felony and misdemeanor charges, and successful appellate decisions in the Iowa Appellate Courts.
C. Aron Vaughn was born and raised in Marshalltown, IA. He attended Marshalltown High School prior to obtaining his bachelor’s degree in English at the University of Iowa. Aron went on to attend Drake University Law School and worked as a legal intern at Kaplan & Frese from 2012-2013. In 2013 he earned his Juris Doctor degree from Drake.
