Matthew E. Dobson

Matt is a defense attorney at Kohlmeyer Hagen Law Office, practicing out of the firm’s Rochester office. Matt brings experience in criminal law, litigation, and trial advocacy, with a career rooted in dealing with serious, high‑stakes allegations. His practice is guided by a commitment to meticulous preparation, strategic advocacy, and an unwavering focus on protecting the rights and dignity of his clients.

Before joining Kohlmeyer Hagen, Matt served as a Captain in the United States Air Force Judge Advocate General’s Corps, where he built a comprehensive background in criminal defense and prosecution which strengthened his ability to evaluate cases from every angle, understanding not only how charges are built, but where they can be effectively challenged. These cases often involved complex factual records, expert testimony, and required a deep understanding of evidentiary rules. Matt argued motions, examined witnesses, negotiated case resolutions, and advised clients through every phase of the legal process. Matt has a wide range of experience within criminal law but has extensive experience with cases involving allegations of sexual abuse, drug possession and use, DWI, and assault.

Earlier in his career, Matt served as a Chief of Military Justice at both the United States Air Force Academy and Goodfellow Air Force Base. In these positions, he led teams of attorneys and paralegals responsible for prosecuting and advising on serious criminal matters, including sexual assault, major misconduct, and offenses carrying significant collateral consequences. He advised commanders and senior leadership on investigations, charging decisions, and trial strategy. This experience gives Matt a detailed understanding of how cases are evaluated by prosecutors and investigators, allowing him to anticipate challenges and identify weaknesses when defending clients.

Matt earned his Juris Doctor from the University of St. Thomas School of Law in Minneapolis, where he served as Managing Editor of the Journal of Law and Public Policy and was a member of the Trial Advocacy Team and Immigration Appeals Clinic. During law school, Matt gained practical courtroom experience as a certified student attorney with the Minneapolis City Attorney’s Office, appearing on the record in arraignments, pretrial hearings, and court trials involving misdemeanor and gross‑misdemeanor offenses. While pursuing his undergraduate degree he interned with the Wisconsin Public Defender’s Office, further reinforcing his commitment to defense work.

Matt is licensed to practice law in the State of Minnesota and recently returned to the state with his family to continue the practice of defense work with Kohlmeyer Hagen where he approaches every case with discipline and a relentless commitment to fair results.