Charles K. Kenyon Jr.

Charles K. Kenyon Jr.

also known as Charles Kyle Kenyon

4.7
Rating: 10.0

Licensed for 46 years

Criminal defense Lawyer at Madison, WI
Practice Areas: Criminal Defense, DUI & DWI, Violent Crime ... +13 more

5555 Odana Road, Suite 101, Madison, WI

About Charles

Biography

Practice Areas

16

Practice Areas

Criminal Defense 51%

Former District Attorney Former Public Defender

47 years | 1,000 cases

51%
DUI and DWI 31%

Certified to Administer Field Sobriety Tests - same training as officers.

47 years | 250 cases

31%
Domestic Violence 3%

Former District Attorney Former Public Defender

3%
Violent Crime 3%

Former District Attorney Former Public Defender

47 years | 100 cases

3%
Child Abuse 1%

Former District Attorney Former Public Defender Psychology Degree

47 years | 25 cases

1%
Computer Fraud 1%

Former District Attorney Former Public Defender

1%
Credit Card Fraud 1%

Former District Attorney Former Public Defender Business School and Accounting Background

47 years | 15 cases

1%
Expungement 1%

Former District Attorney Former Public Defender

41 years

1%
Identity Theft 1%

Former District Attorney Former Public Defender

47 years

1%
Insurance Fraud 1%

Former District Attorney Former Public Defender

1%
Juvenile Law 1%

Former District Attorney Former Public Defender Psychology Degree Trainer on ADHD and law

47 years | 250 cases

1%
Personal Injury 1%

Former District Attorney Former Public Defender

1%
Securities and Investment Fraud 1%

Former District Attorney Former Public Defender

1%
Sex Crime 1%

Former District Attorney Former Public Defender

1%
White Collar Crime 1%

Former District Attorney Former Public Defender

47 years

1%

Fees and Rates

We have not found any cost information for this lawyer


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Licenses

Licensed in Wisconsin for 46 years

State: Wisconsin

Acquired: 1979

Good Standing

No misconduct found

Location

Charles Kyle Kenyon, Attorney at Law

5555 Odana Road, Suite 101, Madison, WI, 53719-1281

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Charles K. Kenyon Jr.'s Reviews

Avvo Review Score

4.7 /5.0

12 Client Reviews

5 star (11)
4 star (0)
3 star (0)
2 star (0)
1 star (1)

Posted by Brandon | March 7, 2018 | Hired Attorney

This review is from a person who hired this attorney.

Absolutely horrible

I hired Mr. Kenyon in both a civil and criminal defense case regarding Marijuana and DUI. I've found that Charles did not keep proper notes regarding my case, as I've had to constantly remind him of what took place on the day of my arrest. During a suppression hearing regarding evidence, he admitted ...evidence we were trying to suppress. He was regularly late for court, and was not at his office at times we scheduled meetings. In the end, I had to fire Mr. Kenyon and appoint a public defender. Definitely not worth the $6k flat fee retainer.

Charles Kenyon

Replied last October 6, 2018

This client hired another law firm who hired me. I worked hard with him and moved to suppress the evidence against him. I did not negotiate the fee with him nor did he hire me directly. This case has lasted more than a year and involved numerous court appearances. He and his friend told police they were smoking pot earlier in the day/evening. They were in a parking lot and tried to pull out when police came. They said that the police indicated that they were to stay there while the officer went inside to serve papers and that client got out of his closed car to inquire as to the reason. They testified to this in court. Had his been the only evidence, the case would have been dismissed. The officer testified that when he went there to serve papers on a third party, the client got out of his car and approached him, at which time he smelled marijuana. At that time, he told client to return to his vehicle and later was told about the smoking marijuana by client and friend, following which he arrested client for operating under the influence of a controlled substance and discovered paraphernalia in the vehicle. The officer testified that he did not attempt to stop client's vehicle from leaving until after that contact where he smelled marijuana. The police report did not mention anything before the officer was approached by the client. The officer had a dash video which started when he pulled up to conduct the work with client, but was not running when he originally stopped on the street to serve papers. This is understandable, since the dash video is activated by turning on the emergency lights. On the video, officer goes over the circumstances of the initial encounter with client. He does not dispute this on the video. In meeting with the client, I emphasized to him that if the police officer denied having stopped him prior to smelling the marijuana, the judge would likely believe the officer. She did. I am sorry that the client is upset. I do not think any other attorney could have gotten a better result in this case. He now has had three lawyers on his case. He was offered reduction of the criminal charge to non-criminal in return for a plea to the civil charge. As of my last contact with the prosecutor, the offer was still on the table. This case is still pending. The officer did attempt an administrative suspension of his license. Because of my actions in requesting a hearing, that suspension did not happen. He still has his license as of this writing, I believe. Update, September. Client accepted the plea offer that I had advised prior to discharge.

Posted by anonymous | March 6, 2017 | Consulted Attorney

This review is from a potential client who consulted with this attorney.

Call him, he's experienced and advised best next steps in first call!

Charles' immediate response to my questions helped me to make a plan for best next steps. He told me upfront what his fees would be and gave me free advice on what to expect. He's an experienced public defender who fights for the people. Thank you, Charles!

Posted by anonymous | October 5, 2016 | Hired Attorney

This review is from a person who hired this attorney.

Outstanding service

I was arrested at 5 a.m on a Saturday morning and I asked a family member to find an attorney for me. She contacted Mr. Kenyon. He was extremely responsive and met with me over the weekend to set my expectations, gather facts, and begin formulating a strategy. He met with me again early Monday... morning, briefed me on the steps he had taken, and once again did a fine job of ensuring I knew what would be happening over the next few days. As it turns out, my charges were dropped a few hours later, but it was clear that Mr. Kenyon was an excellent choice and had a firm grasp of dealing with the legal process, and developing a strategy for my defense. I would highly recommend him.

Posted by anonymous | August 9, 2016 | Hired Attorney

This review is from a person who hired this attorney.

Excellent attorney

Charles Kenyon is superb. He knows the law and he knows the system. He is respected by others in the system. For example, In our case he filed a motion to suppress because the OWI stop was dubious. The D. A. knows that he does not file such motions frivolously, as do some attorneys just to impress th...eir clients. in fact the D.A. told him it was a relevant thing to do in our case, even before the hearing. I believe that this (that Charles was going to file the motion) also caused the D.A. to look carefully at the entire case. The arrest itself was based on bad practices--the video showed this and Charles spotted this right away. By the time we got to the hearing on the motion to suppress, the D.A. was ready to dismiss all the charges and the judge granted the dismissals. The knowledge and the respect that Charles has are big pluses. He also met with us whenever requested and answered all our questions along the way. Recommended highly with no reservations.

Posted by anonymous | August 4, 2016 | Hired Attorney

This review is from a person who hired this attorney.

Very grateful for a experienced and knowledgable attorney!

I was facing an OWI (2nd), Refusal of Chemical Test, and a Fleeing charge. After looking around for DUI attorneys, my family and I found Charles Kenyon. Charles was honest and very informative. After hiring Charles, I was VERY impressed with his knowledge of the Justice System especially alcohol rela...ted offenses. He answered every question my family and I had. He explained the process that we would be going through in detail. He didn’t leave one stone unturned. Charles carefully examined all the evidence including the video tape in my case and got a dismissal of all charges. I am very grateful for all the work Charles put into my case and the outcome he got. If you are ever in the unfortunate situation where you need an experienced and knowledgeable attorney, look no further than Charles Kenyon.

Charles Kenyon

Replied last August 9, 2016

I was very pleased to be able to bring this result about. Every case depends on the facts and the evidence. I told the client up-front that refusal cases can be very difficult in Wisconsin and that dismissal was not likely. Knowing what the officer's training was for conducting field sobriety tests was crucial.

See All Client Reviews

Charles K. Kenyon Jr.'s Lawyer Endorsements

Endorse Charles
Stephen P. Johnson headshot
Stephen Johnson

Criminal defense lawyer | Nov 18

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer. I have followed Attorney Kenyon in his career as District Attorney, Assistant Public Defender and as Private Legal Counsel. I am impressed by the breadth of his knowledge in Criminal and DUI law. He is passionate in his defense of his clients. I have known him for over 20 years and highly recommend this skilled advocate."

Andrew Mishlove headshot
Andrew Mishlove

Criminal defense lawyer | Sep 04

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse Charles Kenyon. I recall that that in the late 1970s, when I was a law student intern, learning criminal defense in Madison, Wisconsin, I would see Mr. Kenyon fighting for his clients in court. I was impressed then, and I am still impressed. He is an intelligent and dedicated advocate. I am happy to make this endorsement. Andrew Mishlove"

Thomas Kenny headshot
Thomas Kenny

Criminal defense lawyer | Sep 16

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer."

Julie Fowler headshot
Julie Fowler

DUI and DWI lawyer | Feb 18

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer."

Ali Komaili headshot
Ali Komaili

Unknown lawyer | Aug 26

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer."

Peter J. Biscontini headshot
Peter Biscontini

Consumer protection lawyer | Aug 24

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer."

Adam A Studnicki headshot
Adam Studnicki

Unknown lawyer | Aug 19

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Mr. Kenyon is a well-respected lawyer and a valuable asset to this community. His continuing dedication to the law and his clients is admirable."

Trevor J. Pedersen headshot
Trevor Pedersen

Unknown lawyer | Jul 27

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse attorney Charles Kenyon Jr. Outstanding legal answers on Avvo. He is an asset to our profession."

H. Scott Aalsberg headshot
H. Aalsberg

Criminal defense lawyer | Jul 27

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"When your are charged with a crime you need a lawyer. When you need to win you need Charles Kenyon, Jr. one of the most respected lawyers in the country! I endorse him.."

Michael J. Cronkright headshot
Michael Cronkright

Criminal defense lawyer | May 05

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer."

Webb Millsaps headshot
Webb Millsaps

Criminal defense lawyer | Apr 03

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Mr. Kenyon consistently provides informative answers. His writing is concise and well reasoned. He does a fine job of observing if any pertinent facts that may be missing from a question, but which could affect the analysis. His passion shows through in his answers, as well. I endorse this lawyer."

Stephen Michael Vighi headshot
Stephen Vighi

Unknown lawyer | Mar 27

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer."

Elie Isaac Aghabi headshot
Elie Aghabi

Child abuse lawyer | Mar 24

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"As echoed by my fellow peers, Charles is a top notch attorney. I endorse this lawyer."

John B. Elbert headshot
John Elbert

Criminal defense lawyer | Mar 14

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Charles is an experienced, highly respected attorney who always represents his clients with the utmost of skill,knowledge and understanding.i can readily endorse him without hesitation or reservation."

Michael Alvarez headshot
Michael Alvarez

DUI and DWI lawyer | Mar 10

Relationship: Other

"I endorse this lawyer. Mr. Kenyon has a comprehensive understanding in the areas of DUI/DWI and Criminal Law. His contributions and commitment to assisting individuals on this website demonstrate his high level of expertise and professionalism, you wont find a better attorney in your area."

Zebulon Kelly Chandler headshot
Zebulon Chandler

Computer fraud lawyer | Feb 26

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer."

Kendall Lance Horween headshot
Kendall Horween

Criminal defense lawyer | Feb 23

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer. Give Charles a call and you will find a caring and knowledgeable counselor ready to fight for your for your future"

Byron A. Bergeron headshot
Byron Bergeron

Criminal defense lawyer | Feb 14

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer. He speaks the truth. He will tell the blunt truth. He will give you the best truth money can buy and the truth no money can buy. Trust him he has your best interest at heart. I know him to be a great a great lawyer."

Michael David Birchmore headshot
Michael Birchmore

Criminal defense lawyer | Feb 11

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"If you have been accused of a crime, you will definitely want to speak with Charles Kenyon, Jr. He is a highly respected and very capable attorney."

Stephen Walter Sawyer headshot
Stephen Sawyer

Criminal defense lawyer | Feb 11

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Attorney Kenyon is an intelligent and experienced practitioner in criminal law. His work in this area is first-rate."

View All Endorsements
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Sarah Schmeiser

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Dominic Anderson

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Kirk Obear

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Adam Walsh

Criminal defense lawyer

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Joel Winnig

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Hal Harlowe

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Gerald Mowris

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Helene Zinberg

Criminal defense lawyer

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Marinus Petri

Criminal defense lawyer

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Lester Pines

Unknown lawyer

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Timothy Helmberger

Criminal defense lawyer

Richard B. Jacobson headshot
Richard Jacobson

Criminal defense lawyer

Daniel M. Berkos headshot
Daniel Berkos

Criminal defense lawyer

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David Shudlick

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Edward Burke

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Stephen Holden

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Experience

Rating:  10.0 (Superb)

Honors

2012

NHTSA Field SobrietyTests Administration, Platt and Associates

1998

Ruben Society for Public Service, Office of State Public Defender

Work Experience

2002 - Present

Attorney, Kenyon Law Offices

1991 - 2002

Assistant State Public Defender, Wisconsin State Public Defender's Office

1988 - 1991

District Attorney, Kewaunee County Wisconsin

Associations

1979 - Present

State Bar of Wisconsin

Member

State Bar of Wisconsin, Children's Law Section

Founding Member

Marinette County Bar Association

Past President

Door-Kewaunee Bar Association

Past President

National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers

Lifetime Member

Wisconsin Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers

Member

Dane County Bar Association

Member

Sample of Legal Cases

Felony OWI/DUI/DWI Drunk Driving

Misdemeanor, 29 days jail, probation

Child Abuse and Bail Jumping

Not guilty, dismissed

OWI - Breathalyzer has fudge factor.

Not guilty, dismissed

Fourth Offense OWI - Drunk Driving

reduced to reckless driving

Multiple Personality Explains Away "Confession"

Acquitted on that charge.

Undercover police officer lies for living argument.

Not guilty, dismissed

See More Legal Cases

Education

1989

Northwestern University Center for Public Safety

none

1978

University of Wisconsin Law School

JD - Juris Doctor

1975

University of Wisconsin, Madison

BA - Bachelor of Arts

Speaking Engagements

N/A

Wisconsin Public Defender Presentation

Presentation

N/A

Wisconsin Department of Justice Presentation

Presentation

N/A

National College of District Attorneys Presentation

Presentation

N/A

American Bar Association Presentation

Presentation

Languages

English

Activity

Avvo Rating

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  • Experience & background Years licensed, work experience, education
  • Legal community recognition Peer endorsements, associations, awards
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Avvo Rating Levels
10.0 - 9.0 Superb8.9 - 8.0 Excellent7.9 - 7.0 Very Good6.9 - 6.0 Good5.9 - 5.0 Average4.9 - 4.0 Concern3.9 - 3.0 Caution2.9 - 2.0 Strong Caution1.9 - 1.0 Extreme Caution