Karren Melinda Kenney

Karren Melinda Kenney

also known as Karren Kenney, JD, CFS, CFE

4.8
Rating: 9.8

Licensed for 31 years

Federal crime Lawyer at Costa Mesa, CA
Practice Areas: Federal Crime, White Collar Crime, Criminal Defense

2900 Bristol Street, Suite C204, Costa Mesa, CA

About Karren

Biography

Practice Areas

3

Practice Areas

Federal Crime 40%

Experienced and Strategic Federal Criminal Defense

31 years | 1,000 cases

40%
White Collar Crime 40%

Attorney and Certified Fraud Examiner Specializing in While Collar Crime Defense

31 years | 500 cases

40%
Criminal Defense 20%

Zealous Criminal Defense Representation for All Types of Felony Cases Throughout California

31 years | 1,000 cases

20%

Fees and Rates

Cost

Free Consultation

$0 first 15 minutes


Payment Methods

  • Check
  • Credit Card

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Licenses

Licensed in Texas for 1 year

State: Texas

Acquired: 2024

Eligible to Practice in Texas

No misconduct found

Licensed in District of Columbia for 3 years

State: District of Columbia

Acquired: 2022

Good Standing

No misconduct found

Licensed in California for 31 years

State: California

Acquired: 1994

Active

No misconduct found

Location

Kenney Legal Defense

2900 Bristol Street, Suite C204, Costa Mesa, CA, 92626

Kenney Legal Defense

401 West A Street, Suite 200, San Diego, CA, 92101

Kenney Legal Defense

1301 McKinney Street, 3rd Floor, Houston, TX, 77010

Kenney Legal Defense

80-157 Champions Way, La Quinta, CA, 92253

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Karren Melinda Kenney's Reviews

Avvo Review Score

4.8 /5.0

54 Client Reviews

Showing 1 - 5 of 10 reviews | Practice Area Knowledge

Posted by Daniel F. | July 07, 2025 | Hired Attorney | Criminal Defense

Best Criminal Attorney EVER

I am writing to offer my strongest recommendation for Karren Kenney, a truly exceptional criminal defense attorney who represented me in a recent criminal matter. Thanks to Karren’s unmatched expertise, commitment, and legal strategy, we achieved the best possible outcome—I was not sentenced to any j...ail time, received no probation, and only had to complete a quick, less than an hour, book and release. From our very first meeting, Karren Kenney impressed me with her deep knowledge and broad awareness of criminal law, professionalism, and reassuring presence during a highly stressful time in my life. Karren took the time to thoroughly understand every detail of my case, developed a well-thought-out defense strategy, and communicated with me clearly every step of the way. She was always very communicative and would get back to me immediately if I had a question or concern. Throughout the proceedings, Karren demonstrated sharp courtroom skills, confidence, and the ability to adapt under pressure. It was clear that she had earned the respect of both the court and opposing counsel. I always felt that I was in capable hands—and the outcome proved that to be true. Because of her unwavering hard work and dedication, I was able to move forward with my life without the burden of a criminal sentence. I will forever be grateful for Karren’s service, and I would highly recommend Karren Kenney to anyone in need of a skilled and compassionate criminal defense attorney. Sincerely, I’m Seriously Lucky to have the best attorney

Posted by anonymous | March 20, 2025 | Hired Attorney | Criminal Defense

Exceptional Legal Support Across Criminal, Fraud, and Civil Matters

I feel incredibly fortunate to have had the opportunity to work with Karren Kenney. From the moment I brought my case to her, she has gone above and beyond in every aspect of her service. She’s not only incredibly knowledgeable about the law but also an expert in fraud analysis, which has been invalu...able in my situation. Her direct yet kind approach has made it easy to trust her and communicate openly. What stands out most about Karren is her unwavering commitment to finding the best solution to my legal issues. She doesn’t stop until she’s provided me with a clear and effective path forward. While I originally reached out to her for one case, she consistently checks in to make sure I’m doing well, and when any new legal concerns arise, whether in criminal defense, fraud-related matters, or civil issues, she’s always there to offer her expertise and support. I can honestly say I wouldn’t want to hire anyone else for criminal defense, fraud investigations, or civil matters. Karren is truly exceptional, and I’m grateful to have her by my side.

Posted by Jason | December 20, 2023 | Hired Attorney | Criminal Defense

Exemplary Criminal Defense Attorney

My judicial matter was one of very high sensitivity. The odds were very heavily stacked against me, and perhaps, even from an average lawyer's standpoint, one could say that my situation would have been indefensible before a jury at trial. However, Karren Kenney is no average lawyer, but the exemplar...y criminal defense lawyer that you would want to fight for you, regardless of your circumstances. I was initially charged with state charges, then eventually charged with a federal offense carrying a statutory maximum of 10 years imprisonment (alongside lifetime supervised release and a ludicrous restitution amount). My prior counsel did not presume my innocence in this matter at all, did not even attempt to request a bail hearing (or lower my ridiculous state bail amount) due to the nature of the charge, did not show me a single Bates stamp of evidence against me, and simply wanted me to sign a plea agreement immediately, in order to not face much higher charges and be convicted of them because my situation was apparently hopeless. To me, this was inadequate, so I retained Karren Kenney as my legal counsel for this matter in place of my prior counsel. Because of Karren, her wonderful staff, and their fighting spirit, I was able to come out on pretrial release on home confinement (with the state bail amount being reduced from $1 million to $100) in 2021, and subsequently view all relevant evidence against me in order to adequately exercise my due process rights. In 2022, the state charges would be dropped entirely, and the federal prosecution would supercede with the aforementioned severe charges and we would take the matter to trial at the start of 2023. The trial would ultimately end in mistrial and the federal prosecution would come forward with a far more reasonable plea agreement (than they initially offered) in place of the exaggerated charges they'd accused me of in their superseding indictment. I would sign this agreement and be imposed a sentence of 46 months, which would be the best outcome that this matter could have come to. If you could hire any lawyer, it is common sense that one would want a lawyer who genuinely believes in the Constitution, giving the defendant (regardless of what he or she is being charged with) a fighting chance and the benefit of the law, guilty or innocent. Despite the matter ending the way it did, Karren Kenney has been a major positive influence to me (so much so that I myself have become interested in paralegal programs as well as law school) during these past three years and gives me hope for the American justice system. If there is anyone on this continent that fulfills the vocation of "American criminal defense lawyer" to the fullest, it is Karren Kenney. Her ethics as a lawyer are above reproach, and others practicing criminal defense should look towards her as an example. May God bless you, your team, and your family, Karren. I pray you all have a Blessed and Merry Christmas!

Karren Kenney

Replied last December 20, 2023

Thank you so much for the kind words Jason! It was my pleasure to fight for you during the past few years. I wish you great success in the future as I know God has amazing things planned for you!

Posted by John | January 31, 2023 | Hired Attorney | Criminal Defense

Best Criminal Defense Firm in Orange County!!

Karren is the DISMISSAL QUEEN!! Imagine being falsely accused of a crime twice in two separate matters!! It happened to me and as a result of Karren's representation, both my federal and state criminal cases were dismissed with prejudice!! You can always count on Karren to back you up, no matter who ...your opponent is. I highly recommend her and her talented firm. Because of her help and expertise, I was able to resolve my criminal matters, and most importantly, finally, apply for American citizenship! I will always be grateful to her for everything she has done for me! There are not enough good things to say about Karren and her firm. Because she genuinely cares for you, she goes the extra mile to protect you and fight for you with passion, dedication, and empathy. Karren is highly knowledgeable, trustworthy, and hard-working, and communicates effectively so you are always kept informed and updated along the way. Her unique rapport with prosecutors and judges benefits her clients in a number of ways, and she is a fearless and relentless fighter who knows the ins and outs of both state and federal criminal justice systems. Regardless of the situation, she will do everything in her power to achieve a positive result. Karren and her firm will give you the strength you need to get through your difficult situation to the other side. Kenney Legal Defense Firm is the best criminal defense firm in Orange County!

Karren Kenney

Replied last February 01, 2023

Thank you so much for the kind review!!! It was a pleasure fighting for the dismissal of your cases these past few years. I am thrilled that you can finally move forward with obtaining US citizenship! Please stay in touch! :)

Posted by anonymous | April 26, 2022 | Hired Attorney | Criminal Defense

Most Knowledgeable Criminal Attorney I have ever met!

I would like it to be known, Karren Kenney is the best criminal defense attorney I have ever met. I have worked in an office with over 13 attorneys which none of them were Criminal Defense. I did learn how attorneys work, and interact with their clients. I had got myself into trouble that should have... sent me to jail! Karren, with her knowledge kept me out, fought hard, and was extremely honest with me. Her and her team walked me through every step of the way and always responded right back to me when I needed to make contact. I would recommend her to everyone that needs a Criminal Defense Attorney! As I said, I had worked with attorneys for a long time. They did not engage with their clients as she does. I could not have made it through this situation without Karren and her team. Thank you Karren and team!

See All Client Reviews

Karren Melinda Kenney's Lawyer Endorsements

Endorse Karren
Stacy Marie Kelly headshot
Stacy Kelly

Criminal defense lawyer | Nov 01

Relationship: Co-worker

"I had the pleasure of working with Ms. Kenney in the Orange County Publice Defender's Office for 11 years, and if any of my family or friends need an attorney, I would undoubtedly refer them to Ms. Kenney. She cares about each and every client and devotes herself to each case as if it were her only case. Ms. Kenney can skillfully assist a client through each stage of the proceedings. Ms. Kenney is an excellent negotiator, and she would be able to negotiate a favorable resolution if that is what her client desires. If the case cannot be resolved, Ms. Kenney is an exceptionally skilled litigator, who will dissect and organize each case down to the minute detail while preparing for litigation. Her cross-examination skills and passion will continue to serve her clients well and lead to favorable results in trial."

Miles David Jessup headshot
Miles Jessup

Criminal defense lawyer | Jan 02

Relationship: Worked together on matter

"Karen has ably handled numerous serious and violent felony matters over the years, most recently spearheading our white collar crime and major frauds unit. She has continued to prove herself a most capable and effective litigator: compassionate and responsive to the clients, respected by the bench and opposing counsel, and loved by juries. She is about the most charming and able pit bull I've ever known. I would trust Karen to handle my most complex, difficult and sensitive cases with deep understanding of the risks and opportunities therein, and to get the best possible result."

Amir Soleimanian headshot
Amir Soleimanian

Unknown lawyer | Dec 08

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer."

Hovanes Margarian headshot
Hovanes Margarian

Unknown lawyer | Nov 03

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer."

Peter John Marek headshot
Peter Marek

Criminal defense lawyer | Aug 06

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Karren spent 11 years as a senior deputy public defender handling thousands of cases. Her experience and knowledge of law and procedure is superb. Her reputation as a criminal law trial attorney is well know. Reviews by former clients are to be envied. READ THEM! If you are in or near Costa Mesa get a consultation and than hire her, I would! Experience counts."

Michael Finbar Hill headshot
Michael Hill

Criminal defense lawyer | Jan 13

Relationship: Co-worker

"I had the pleasure of working with Ms. Kenny while we she was with the Orange County Public Defender. She is a dedicated, hardworking and talented litigator. She will represent each client to the best of her ability. I wholeheartedly endorse her."

Sara W Ross headshot
Sara Ross

Criminal defense lawyer | Apr 01

Relationship: Worked together on matter

"Ms. Kenney is a fierce and compassionate lawyer who will enthusiastically defend her clients and advocate tirelessly on their behalf. I endorse this lawyer."

April S Gilbert headshot
April Gilbert

Criminal defense lawyer | Mar 01

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer. Ms. Kenney is an aggressive negotiator and litigator. She is an experienced trial lawyer who gets excellent results for her clients."

Albert Lee Crosner headshot
Albert Crosner

Criminal defense lawyer | Feb 06

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer. Ms. Kenney is a well experienced criminal defense attorney and is highly respected in her community."

Timothy Ryan Brown headshot
Timothy Brown

Criminal defense lawyer | Feb 06

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Stellar attorney with valuable insight to AVVO questions. I endorse this lawyer."

Michael Stephen Berg headshot
Michael Berg

Criminal defense lawyer | Feb 05

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"karren is a superb attorney with excellent people skills! she has a terrific reputation with court staff, judges, prosecutors and fellow criminal defense attorneys. i highly recommend her to anyone seeking a top-notch attorney!"

Edward Thomas Dunn Jr headshot
Edward Dunn

Criminal defense lawyer | Jan 16

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Karren Kenney is a gifted criminal defense attorney with substantial experience handling the most complex of criminal cases. Having worked on one of her cases before, I found her strategic decisions saavy and tactically well considered. Her trial skills are outstanding and her arguments persuasive. Karren is thoroughly professional and does meticulous work, and I recommend her without qualification."

Mark Andrew Gallagher headshot
Mark Gallagher

White collar crime lawyer | Jan 15

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer. Karren Kenney is my go to lawyer for anyone facing a white collar charge or matters in federal court. Many lawyers claim they can handle "any case" but the truth is the best lawyers specialize. White collar crimes and federal court issues require a special kind of lawyer, and that lawyer is Karren Kenney."

David Isaac Hammond headshot
David Hammond

Criminal defense lawyer | Jan 15

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Karen is an exceptional trial lawyer who is well respected throughout the state. She is known for her thorough preparation and extraordinary trial skills."

Deborah Barnum headshot
Deborah Barnum

Criminal defense lawyer | Jan 09

Relationship: Co-worker

"I endorse this lawyer."

George William Abbes headshot
George Abbes

Criminal defense lawyer | Jan 05

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer. Karren is an excellent litigator with substantial experience with complex criminal cases including white collar crime involving millions of dollars."

Terri Lynn Bianchi headshot
Terri Bianchi

Consumer protection lawyer | Nov 26

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer."

Erica Lynn Gambale headshot
Erica Gambale

Criminal defense lawyer | Nov 01

Relationship: Co-worker

"I was privileged to work and learn from Karren for over 11 years at the Orange County Public Defender's Office, where she was known for her bulldog trial skills. During that time, she worked tirelessy to perfect her expertise in major fraud. Her work ethic can not be matched. If you want a lawyer with integrity who will not back down until all of your needs are met, then this is your woman. I would confidently refer any friend or family member in need of fraud representation to Karren Kenney."

View All Endorsements
James D Riddet headshot
James Riddet

White collar crime lawyer

Christa Marie Hill headshot
Christa Hill

Family lawyer

Edward Thomas Dunn Jr headshot
Edward Dunn

Appeals lawyer

April S Gilbert headshot
April Gilbert

Criminal defense lawyer

William Charles Hoggard headshot
William Hoggard

Business lawyer

Erica Lynn Gambale headshot
Erica Gambale

Criminal defense lawyer

Experience

Rating:  9.8 (Superb)

Honors

2018

Certified Fraud Examiner (CFE), Association of Certified Fraud Examiners

2016

Peer Review Rated, Martindale-Hubbell

2013

Certified Fraud Specialist (CFS), Association of Certified Fraud Specialists

2012

Top contributor, AVVO.com

2011

Recognition for 10 years of service, Orange County Public Defender

2006

Recognition for 5 years of service, Orange County Public Defender

2003

Attorney of the Year, Orange County Public Defender

Work Experience

2024 - Present

Of Counsel | Senior Trial Attorney, Tharpe & Howell

2014 - Present

Federal Criminal Justice Act (CJA) Conflict Trial Panel Attorney, United States Disttict Court - Central District of California

2012 - Present

Trial Attorney, Kenney Legal Defense Firm

2001 - 2012

Senior Deputy Public Defender, Orange County Public Defender's Office

Associations

2025 - Present

San Diego County Bar Association

2013 - Present

Califoria DUI Lawyers Association

Member

2012 - Present

Federal Bar Association (Orange County chapter)

Member

2012 - Present

Orange County Criminal Defense Bar Association

Member

2012 - Present

Association of Certified Fraud Specialists

Associate Member

2010 - Present

Association of Certified Fraud Examiners

Member

2010 - Present

National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers

Member

2001 - Present

Orange County Bar Association

Member

2013 - 2017

Orange County Bar Association

LRIS Executive Committee Member

2007 - 2012

Orange County Attorneys Association

Secretary/Treasurer

2001 - 2012

California Public Defenders Association

Member

2001 - 2012

Orange County Deputy Public Defender’s Association

Member

Sample of Legal Cases

People v. R.S.

Case dismissed!

People v. Alvarez

Case dismissed!

USA v. Wardein

Not guilty on all charges

People v. Trevino

NOT GUILTY on all charges and lesser included offenses

People v. Gutierrez

Case dismissed

People v. Fears

dismissed

People v. Oregel

Not guilty on all counts

People v. Nguyen

Not guilty on all counts

See More Legal Cases

Education

2018

Association of Certified Fraud Examiners (ACFE)

Certified Fraud Examiner (CFE)

2003

California State University, Fullerton

Certificate in Basic Applied Forensics

1994

Thomas Jefferson SOL

JD - Juris Doctor

1990

California St Univ Fullerton

BA - Bachelor of Arts

Speaking Engagements

2017

Orange County Criminal Defense Bar Association monthly meeting

Trial Tactics

2010

Annual General Membership Meeting Prosecutors and Public Defenders - Why We Matter!

2003

Law Day

Defending Freedom

Publications

Languages

English

Spanish

Activity

Avvo Rating

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What determines Avvo Rating?
  • 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