Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Your Trusted Iowa Legal Advocates
Kaplan & Frese has served the legal needs of Marshall County and surrounding areas since 1975. Our firm combines over 90 years of collective experience across criminal law, family law, and personal injury representation, with a focus on client-centered advocacy. We prioritize clear communication, ensuring clients remain informed throughout their cases. Our attorneys handle matters in state and federal courts, including complex federal charges and appellate cases.With deep roots in central Iowa, we offer personalized legal strategies tailored to each client's unique circumstances. Our commitment to excellence is reflected in our track record of successful outcomes and client testimonials praising our professionalism and dedication. We provide free initial consultations to ensure accessibility to quality legal representation for all clients.
Services
Criminal Defense
Family Law
Personal Injury
Divorce Representation
OWI Defense
Drug Crimes
Federal Charges
Wrongful Death
Medical Malpractice
Child Custody
Details
- Year established: 1975
Highlights and features
- We offer over 90 years of combined legal experience across multiple practice areas
- Our attorneys handle cases in state and federal courts statewide
- Chad Frese brings nearly 30 years of federal court experience
- We maintain direct client communication throughout all case stages
- Free initial consultations available for all case types
What people say
Sound legal advice
Great attorney
Professional and caring
Great experience
Helpful and personable
Services
Criminal Defense
Our criminal defense attorneys represent clients facing charges ranging from OWI and drug offenses to violent crimes and federal charges. We challenge evidence, protect constitutional rights, and develop strategic defenses tailored to each case's specifics. With experience in Iowa's state and federal courts, we handle complex prosecutions and negotiate plea agreements when appropriate.
Family Law
We provide comprehensive family law representation including divorce, child custody, and spousal support matters. Our attorneys guide clients through Iowa's no-fault divorce process, property division, and custody negotiations while minimizing conflict. We prioritize clients' interests in all family court proceedings and modifications.
Personal Injury
Our personal injury practice handles wrongful death, car accidents, and medical malpractice cases. We investigate negligence, document damages, and pursue compensation for medical costs and lost wages. With experience in Iowa courts, we work with specialists to prove liability and secure fair settlements or verdicts.
Federal Criminal Defense
Chad Frese leads our federal criminal defense practice with nearly 30 years of courtroom experience. We handle complex cases involving drug conspiracies, fraud, and other federal offenses. Our approach combines deep knowledge of federal procedures with aggressive advocacy to challenge prosecutions in U.S. District Courts and appellate tribunals.
Medical Malpractice
We represent clients harmed by medical errors through proven legal strategies. Our attorneys establish standard of care breaches, document damages, and pursue compensation for victims. With understanding of Iowa's two-year statute of limitations, we act swiftly to preserve evidence and build compelling medical malpractice cases.
People
Barry Kaplan
Managing Partner
Practicing law since 1975, Barry Kaplan specializes in family law, criminal defense, and civil litigation. Admitted to Iowa state and federal courts, he has won appeals before the Iowa Supreme Court and Eighth Circuit. A certified mediator, he serves central Iowa from Marshalltown.
Chad Frese
Attorney
Chad Frese brings 27 years of legal experience, including federal prosecution and tribal court representation. Admitted to U.S. Supreme Court, he focuses on criminal defense and complex litigation. Member of National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers, he joined Kaplan & Frese in 2000.
Joel Waters
Attorney
Joel Waters handles criminal, family, and civil cases with a public service background. Graduated from Drake Law School in 2019, he brings recent legal expertise to personal injury and courtroom advocacy. Joined the firm in 2020 after internship experience in Marshalltown.
Questions
Do you offer free initial consultations?
Yes, we provide free initial consultations for all case types to discuss your legal needs and options.
What areas of law do you specialize in?
We focus on criminal defense, family law, personal injury claims, and federal criminal charges in Iowa courts.
How experienced are your attorneys?
Our four attorneys combine over 90 years of experience, including 30 years in federal court and multiple appellate victories.
Do you handle cases outside Marshalltown?
Yes, we represent clients throughout Iowa state and federal courts, traveling to wherever your case requires.
How do you communicate with clients?
We maintain regular communication through updates, phone calls, and office meetings to keep clients informed throughout their cases.
