Charles E. Ward

Partner Of Counsel

Charles has a diverse practice in the areas of residential and commercial real estate, commercial and residential mortgage lending transactions, real estate development, business transactions, business formations (corporate entities, partnerships and limited liability companies) and business acquisitions. He has significant experience negotiating and drafting purchase agreements, loan documents, coordinating and managing closings, and advising clients on all aspects of real estate transactions. He has represented community associations, such as condominiums and homeowner associations.  He has represented both landlords and tenants by drafting and negotiating leases for shopping centers, office space and other types of properties. In addition, Charles represents owners, general contractors, suppliers and contractors in connection with construction and payment claims. He has been a speaker at seminars on such topics as mechanic’s and materialmen’s liens and commercial leases. 

Credentials

Education

University of Kentucky College of Law (J.D., 1973)

Berea College (B.A., 1970)

Bar admissions

  • Kentucky

Court admissions

  • U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Kentucky

Affiliations and memberships

  • American Bar Association
  • Kentucky Bar Association
  • Fayette County Bar Association
  • Lexington Rotary Club

Distinctions

  • Peer Review Rated AV in Martindale-Hubbell
  • Best Lawyers®
    • “Lawyer of the Year” in Lexington for Real Estate Law (2016, 2021)
    • Real Estate Law (2002-2024)

News
  • August 21, 2025

    260 Dinsmore Attorneys Listed as 2026 Best Lawyers®, Ones to Watch

  • August 15, 2024

    250+ Dinsmore Attorneys Named 2025 Best Lawyers ®, Ones to Watch

  • August 17, 2023

    200+ Dinsmore Attorneys Named 2024 Best Lawyers®, “Ones to Watch”

  • August 18, 2022

    2023 Best Lawyers® List Recognizes 190 Dinsmore & Shohl Attorneys

  • August 19, 2021

    Best Lawyers® Recognizes 191 Dinsmore & Shohl Attorneys

  • August 20, 2020

    19 Dinsmore Attorneys Named ‘Lawyer of the Year’ by Best Lawyers®

  • August 20, 2020

    Best Lawyers® Recognizes 180 Dinsmore & Shohl Attorneys