Kirke graduated from Carroll High School, Ozark, Alabama in 1988, and from Huntingdon College with a Bachelor of Arts Degree in 1992. Kirke graduated from Jones School of Law, Faulkner University, with Juris Doctor Degree in December of 1996.  Kirke was admitted to the Alabama State Bar in April 1997.  Kirke practiced law in the firm of Adams, Spivey & Adams from 1997 until January 2005. Kirke defeated four opponents in his election as District Attorney for the 33rd Judicial Circuit.