This page was written, edited, reviewed & approved by Karren Kenney following our comprehensive editorial guidelines Karren Kenney, the Founding Partner, has 30+ years of legal experience as a criminal defense attorney.
When your freedom, reputation, and future are on the line, the criminal defense lawyer you choose matters more than almost any other decision you’ll make. For people facing criminal charges in Costa Mesa and throughout Orange County, Karren Kenney has earned a reputation as one of the most relentless and effective criminal defense attorneys in Southern California.
With extensive courtroom experience, a history of winning tough cases, and a fierce commitment to her clients, Attorney Kenney is the advocate you want in your corner.
To learn more about her background, training, and philosophy, visit the About Attorney Karren Kenney page.
Criminal defense is not just about showing up in court. It’s about deep preparation, smart strategy, and the willingness to fight for clients when the stakes are highest. Attorney Karren Kenney is widely regarded as one of the best criminal attorneys in Costa Mesa because she:
Her results speak for themselves. To see examples of dismissals, reductions of charges, and not guilty verdicts, visit the Case Results page.
Whether you are a first-time offender or facing serious felony charges, Attorney Kenney knows how to protect your rights and your future. Her Costa Mesa criminal defense practice includes:
For a more detailed list of the types of cases she handles, visit the Criminal Defense Practice Areas page.
No matter what you are accused of, you deserve a powerful defense and a lawyer who is not afraid to challenge the government’s case.
From the moment Attorney Kenney takes on a case, she begins developing a strategic defense plan tailored to your situation. She carefully reviews:
By identifying weaknesses in the prosecution’s case and filing appropriate motions, she often succeeds in getting evidence suppressed, charges reduced, or cases dismissed before trial.
This commitment to proactive defense is one of the reasons so many clients view her as the best criminal attorney to handle complex Costa Mesa cases.
Not every case can or should be resolved through negotiation. When necessary, Attorney Kenney is fully prepared to take your case to trial. She is known for:
When you hire Karren Kenney, you are hiring a trial lawyer with the courage and skill to fight your case all the way if that’s what justice requires.
You can read what past clients have to say about working with her on the Reviews page.
Facing criminal charges can be one of the most stressful experiences of your life. Attorney Kenney understands this and is committed to guiding you through the process with honesty and compassion. Clients appreciate that she:
You are never just a case number. You are a person whose future matters.
Attorney Kenney represents clients in Costa Mesa and throughout Orange County, including:
Her familiarity with local courts, judges, and prosecutors gives her insight into how cases are typically handled in Orange County and how to position your case for the best possible outcome.
If you or a loved one has been arrested, received a notice to appear, or learned you are under investigation in Costa Mesa, you should not wait to get legal help. The earlier a skilled criminal defense attorney gets involved, the more options you may have.
Call Karren Kenney today to discuss your case and your rights.
Phone: (855) 505-5588
Website: https://www.kenneylegaldefense.us
Criminal defense is a highly specialized area of law. A lawyer who focuses on criminal cases understands local procedures, judges, prosecutors, and defense strategies. As a dedicated criminal defense attorney serving Costa Mesa and Orange County, Karren Kenney knows how to navigate the system to protect your rights and achieve the best possible outcome.
If you’ve been arrested, do not discuss your case with the police, friends, or on social media. Politely assert your right to remain silent and your right to an attorney. Then contact Attorney Karren Kenney as soon as possible so she can begin protecting your rights and gathering evidence in your favor.
In many cases, yes. While no attorney can guarantee a specific result, a skilled criminal defense lawyer can often negotiate reduced charges, alternative sentencing, diversion programs, probation, or other options that can help you avoid jail or prison time. Attorney Kenney evaluates every possible strategy to minimize the impact on your life.
Attorney Kenney handles a wide range of criminal matters, including DUI, drug offenses, domestic violence, theft, white collar crimes, juvenile cases, violent crimes, and more. For a full overview, visit her Criminal Defense Practice Areas page.
The best way to know is to speak with her about your case. You can also review her About page, Case Results, and Reviews to see her experience and what past clients have said. These pages will give you a clear picture of why so many clients trust her as their Costa Mesa criminal defense attorney.

