Riker Danzig is pleased to announce that Charles B. McKenna has joined the Firm as a partner, effective December 2, 2019. Formerly Chief Counsel to Governor Chris Christie and Executive Assistant U.S. Attorney for the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of New Jersey, Charlie brings a wealth of experience to Riker Danzig and its White Collar Criminal Defense and Investigations Practice.
“Charlie is an exceptional attorney who is highly regarded throughout the state. We are excited that he will bring his experience and expertise to the Firm and, in particular, to our White Collar Criminal Defense and Investigations Practice. Charlie’s experience as Chief Counsel to the Governor and as head of New Jersey’s Homeland Security Office will add further range to this robust practice area,” said Firm Co-Chair Brian E. O’Donnell.
Charlie comes to Riker Danzig after serving as General Counsel and Managing Director of Renaissance Associates in New Jersey, where he was responsible for all legal matters and consulted on all investigations. He had joined Renaissance after serving for four years as CEO of the State of New Jersey Schools Development Authority.
Charlie spent nearly 20 years at the U.S. Attorney’s Office in Newark, from 1991 to 2010, during which time he served as Chief of the Criminal Division and Executive Assistant U.S. Attorney. During his tenure there, he investigated and prosecuted violations of federal criminal laws including terrorism, tax-related crimes, insurance fraud, white collar crimes, RICO violations, labor racketeering, political corruption and money laundering.
Charlie was then appointed Director of the New Jersey Office of Homeland Security & Preparedness, where he coordinated all aspects of the State’s disaster preparedness, homeland security and terrorism-deterrence efforts. After spending two years at the Office of Homeland Security, he was selected as Chief Counsel to Governor Chris Christie and provided counsel to the Governor on legislative action and major legal matters for the State. While serving the State, Charlie implemented procedures that were instrumental to the responses to Hurricanes Irene and Sandy.
“I am delighted to join Riker Danzig,” said Charlie. “They have an exceptionally strong reputation in New Jersey for representing clients in high-stakes investigations and criminal proceedings, and are known for being creative, smart and aggressive. I look forward to joining them and building upon their highly respected practice.”
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