Kirk Obear

Kirk Obear is a Wisconsin criminal defense attorney who represents individuals facing charges involving assault and battery, drug crimes, homicide, sex crimes, violent crimes, and white-collar crimes. His practice also covers DUI and DWI, federal crimes, juvenile matters, parole and probation, restraining orders, driver’s license suspension, speeding, and traffic tickets. He assists clients with expungement matters as well. His work centers on protecting the rights, freedom, and reputations of accused individuals while challenging abuses within the criminal justice system.

Kirk earned a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from Mount Olive College, now Mount Olive University, graduating summa cum laude with a 4.0 grade point average. He maintained a full course load during nights and weekends while serving full-time in the United States Air Force. He later earned his Juris Doctor from the University of Buffalo. His professional education also included trial advocacy training at the Attorney General’s Institute in Washington, D.C., a program for Assistant United States Attorneys.

Kirk brings experience from both sides of the courtroom to criminal defense. As Chief of Military Justice at Scott Air Force Base, he supervised military trials and prosecuted hundreds of cases. He also served as a Special Assistant United States Attorney for the Southern District of Illinois. He later became Area Defense Counsel at Peterson Air Force Base, achieving acquittals on nearly 60% of litigated charges during his assignment. After nine years working alongside Wisconsin defense attorneys, he opened his own practice in 2008.

Kirk Obear has received Super Lawyers recognition for 15 years, including recognition in 2026. He has also been featured in Super Lawyers and holds Lead Counsel verification. His military honors include the John Levitow Award, Air Force Meritorious Service Medal, Air Force Commendation Medal, and Air Force Outstanding Unit Award with Valor Device. Alongside his defense practice, he supports national advocacy initiatives and trains younger attorneys to protect defendants’ rights through dedicated criminal defense work.

Law Office Affiliations

• Founder, Kirk Obear & Associates
• President, Wisconsin Association of Criminal Defense Attorneys
• Board of Directors, National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers

Licensed State

• Wisconsin

Education

• University at Buffalo School of Law
  Juris Doctor (JD)
• Mount Olive College
  Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology