Brian O'Bleness816.691.3314e-mail| vCard
It's a Family Affair Martial Arts is a family affair for Brian O'Bleness, partner at Stinson Morrison Hecker LLP. In 2003, Brian's wife and 2-year-old son began to explore the art of taekwondo. Three years later, with their encouragement, Brian and his then 3-year-old daughter began their technical training. "Now, everyone has his or her black belt in our family...except for my 2-year-old daughter," Brian said. "And please don’t tell her that she doesn’t have hers yet; she has a mean front kick!" With two instructors by her side, it won't be long before the O'Bleness toddler is old enough and skilled enough to earn her black belt ranking. "When I'm not protecting client interests, I'm training in taekwondo with my family, and assisting my wife, Cyndie, who recently founded her own not-for-profit school to teach martial arts and self-defense to women and children," Brian said. "Cyndie is the chief instructor and develops accessible, special programming, to empower special populations, and those who have been victims of violence." O'Bleness, former chair of Stinson's Business Litigation Division, has a deep respect for the art and finds that martial arts training helps him maintain clear focus and better deal with stress. "Martial arts training has had a positive effect on my children, as well. They are confident, mindful young people, and the physical aspect of it keeps them fit," Brian said. Core to martial arts is the concept of improving one's whole self, both mentally and physically. Training is centered around five tenets: 1. Courtesy – behavior that demonstrates consideration, cooperation and generosity 2. Integrity – honesty, trustworthiness and incorruptibility 3. Perseverance – determination, steadfastness, persisting in spite of difficulties 4. Self-Control – exercising restraint over one's impulses, self-discipline 5. Indomitable Spirit – unconquerable courage At Stinson, Brian is known for his expertise in antitrust and his skills in litigation. In addition, he conducts internal investigations involving alleged violations of the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act and other malfeasance. Brian has handled a variety of pro bono cases over the years and currently serves as an Advisory Board member for CASA of Jackson County. A well respected attorney, Brian believes in building character and caring for the community. Through martial arts, he has spent quality time with his family and taught his children and others to believe in themselves, and to persevere no matter what challenge lies ahead.
It's a Family Affair
Martial Arts is a family affair for Brian O'Bleness, partner at Stinson Morrison Hecker LLP. In 2003, Brian's wife and 2-year-old son began to explore the art of taekwondo. Three years later, with their encouragement, Brian and his then 3-year-old daughter began their technical training.