Charlie Denton champions clients through environmental and toxic tort litigation, enforcement defense, and regulatory compliance initiatives. He navigates complex legal terrains that range from multi-district litigation defense to opposing class actions to pollution insurance disputes to alternative dispute resolution – crafting strategic paths designed to achieve client-focused solutions.

Environmental issues can significantly impact an organization's bottom line and reputation. Charlie's ability to distill complicated issues into actionable strategies helps clients manage risks effectively – whether in courtrooms, boardrooms, or mediation. His guidance frequently protects both financial interests and environmental integrity.

In commercial transactions, Charlie's experience is often the critical factor to a successful outcome. He guides clients through environmental risk management in mergers, acquisitions, and divestitures. His counsel on lender liability issues and environmental audits can prove invaluable for real estate transactions and facility assessments. Charlie also tackles waste management and remedial actions and defends against citizens' suits.

Beyond litigation, Charlie serves as a neutral mediator and arbitrator in various forums. His balanced approach to dispute resolution stems from active listening and a deep understanding of the business and legal nuances inherent in these types of matters. This skill set allows him to bridge gaps between disparate parties, fostering a constructive dialogue that can lead to creative outcomes.

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Environmental law is where science meets policy. My role is to zealously advocate client interests in this complicated and dynamic environment."
Experience
  • Administrative Law Judge trial defense of road commission for soil erosion and sedimentation claims, including water resources protection; favorable settlement after 2 days of trial.
  • Barnes & Thornburg represented a Japanese cathode material manufacturer for ion lithium batteries for automotive in acquiring a $35 million federal grant from the Department of Energy to establish a new manufacturing plant in Battle Creek Michigan.
Credentials

Education

  • Ohio University, B.A., 1978
  • University of Michigan Law School, J.D., 1981

Bar Admissions

  • Georgia
  • Indiana
  • Michigan
  • Wisconsin

Court Admissions

  • U.S. Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit
  • U.S. Court of Appeals for the Eleventh Circuit
  • U.S. Court of Appeals for the Seventh Circuit
  • U.S. Court of Appeals for the Sixth Circuit
  • U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Michigan
  • U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Wisconsin
  • U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Georgia
  • U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Indiana
  • U.S. District Court for the Western District of Michigan
  • U.S. Supreme Court
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