Kevin O'Grady

The NCDD Member in the Spotlight is Kevin O'Grady of Honolulu, Hawaii. Kevin has been practicing law for over 25 years. Kevin was born in Queens, New York, but grew up primarily on Long Island. His father was a chiropractor, and his mother was a paralegal for a small firm in New York. His mother served as one of Kevin’s primary influences in pursuing law. She wrote a book called Judicial Carousel, documenting her observations as a paralegal and challenges in the legal system. She instilled in Kevin the value of challenging unjust laws which violate the rights of the people.

Kevin earned a psychology degree from the University of Arizona in Tucson before earning a MS in Criminal Justice from Chaminade University in Honolulu. He then went on to obtain his law degree from Touro College in New York. Throughout his life, Kevin has been a reserve volunteer deputy sheriff, security guard, lifeguard, and EMT. He also served on active duty in the US Military as a Judge Advocate (and continues to do so with the rank of Lieutenant Colonel). The service brought him and his family back to Hawaii where Kevin decided to open his law practice upon completion of active duty.

Aside from the NCDD, Kevin is also a member of the Arizona State Bar (inactive), the Hawaii State Bar, Hawaii Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers, the American Council of Second Amendment Lawyers, and the National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers. Additionally, Kevin has practiced in the Federal District Courts of Arizona, the Northern District of Texas, and the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit and the United States Supreme Court.

One of Kevin’s favorite wins came when he took a laser gun case to the Hawaii Supreme Court and won, making the standard much higher. Kevin is also proud of a case he argued before the Hawaii Supreme Court regarding the right to transcripts. Further, Kevin has won at least a half dozen administrative driver license hearings by arguing the choice to decline performing SFSTs does not evidence consciousness of guilt.

When he is not working, Kevin enjoys traveling with his family, studying history, and going to the shooting range. His two sons share his interest in history and firearms. Kevin coached baseball for both boys and was a Cub Scout and Boy Scout Assistant Scoutmaster.

Kevin approaches the law with integrity, knowledge, and honesty. Integrity is the core of credibility and reputation. Knowledge provides confidence when making arguments or explaining the law. Forthright candor produces the professionalism necessary in front of the court, jury and opposing counsel.

Kevin’s favorite thing about being a lawyer is the ability to protect the rights of his clients. His advice to new attorneys is that integrity and credibility are key. He takes inspiration from something his mother used to say: “Stand by your beliefs, follow God and you will not slip up”. The NCDD is grateful for everything Kevin has done for our profession and our country.

When asked about the NCDD, Kevin specified he loves the camaraderie, networking, and sharing of knowledge. He appreciates each member bringing a unique perspective which helps prepare others who may experience the same challenges in the future. Thank you Kevin for everything you do for the NCDD, our profession and your service to our country. Integrity is choosing your thoughts and actions based on values rather than personal gain. You certainly define this. We are honored to have you among us.