Charles D. Melton

Charles D. Melton is a seasoned business attorney in Bakersfield who represents business owners, developers, farmers, investors, and lending institutions throughout the San Joaquin Valley. His practice covers commercial law, creditors’ rights, general business matters, real estate, mergers and acquisitions, agriculture, and oil, gas, and energy matters. He advises clients on major transactions and everyday legal issues across agriculture, commercial real estate, energy, and finance.

Charles earned a B.A. from the University of the Pacific, graduating cum laude in 1984. He later received his J.D. from the University of California Hastings College of Law in 1987. His education provided a strong foundation for analyzing business concerns, structuring transactions, and explaining the legal and practical considerations that shape important commercial decisions.

Charles has substantial experience with real estate transactions, mergers and acquisitions, private equity buyouts, property leasing and dispositions, and succession planning. He guides clients through transactions of different sizes while providing day-to-day business advice. He began his legal career with a civil litigation law firm in Bakersfield and practiced there for more than 30 years. That experience continues to inform his practical approach to complex commercial matters.

Charles D. Melton is admitted to the State Bar of California and the United States District Court for the Northern District of California. He is also affiliated with the Kern County Bar Association. By combining transactional knowledge with experience in industries important to the San Joaquin Valley, he helps clients evaluate opportunities, address risks, and make informed decisions. His broad background supports clients facing interconnected business, property, lending, and industry concerns.

Law Office Affiliations

• Founding Attorney, Zimmer & Melton, LLP
• Member, State Bar of California
• Member, Kern County Bar Association

Licensed State

• California

Education

• University of California Hastings College of Law
  Juris Doctor (JD)
• University of the Pacific
  Bachelor of Arts, Cum Laude

Awards & Badges