Experience Matters. Leadership Matters.

Serving as Scott County Attorney requires more than legal knowledge. It demands leadership, sound judgment, courtroom experience, accountability, and the ability to build a strong team dedicated to justice and public safety.

The County Attorney serves as the chief legal officer for the county, making decisions that affect victims, families, law enforcement, and the community every day. Voters deserve a clear understanding of the qualities necessary to lead this important office.

Leadership That Earns Trust

A County Attorney is not simply a lawyer. The position requires leading a team of prosecutors, victim advocates, professional staff, and community partners toward a common goal: seeking justice and protecting public safety.

Effective leadership means:

• Being present and engaged with the team
• Creating a culture of professionalism and accountability
• Supporting staff while maintaining high standards
• Building trust through consistency, integrity, and fairness
• Making difficult decisions with confidence and sound judgment

Leadership is measured not only by individual accomplishments, but by the strength and success of the entire office.

The Ability to Work as a Team

No County Attorney works alone. Success depends on collaboration with assistant county attorneys, law enforcement agencies, court personnel, victim advocates, social service providers, and community organizations.

The best outcomes are achieved when leaders listen, communicate effectively, respect diverse perspectives, and foster a workplace built on mutual trust and professionalism. Strong teamwork ensures that cases are handled efficiently and that victims receive the support they deserve.

Litigation Experience Matters

Courtroom experience is one of the most important qualifications for a County Attorney. Effective prosecutors must understand every stage of litigation, from charging decisions and motion practice to jury trials and appeals.

Experience handling serious cases provides the judgment necessary to:

• Evaluate evidence objectively
• Make appropriate charging decisions
• Negotiate resolutions when appropriate
• Present cases effectively to judges and juries
• Protect the rights of victims while upholding constitutional principles

A County Attorney must be prepared to lead not only from the office, but also from the courtroom.

Preparing Witnesses and Supporting Victims

Justice depends on truth being heard clearly and effectively. One of the most important responsibilities of a prosecutor is preparing witnesses to testify and ensuring victims understand the legal process.

This requires:

• Strong communication skills
• Patience and professionalism
• Attention to detail
• Empathy for victims and families
• A commitment to making sure every voice is heard

Every case matters, and every victim deserves to be treated with dignity and respect.

Meeting Deadlines and Managing Responsibilities

The criminal justice system operates on strict deadlines and legal requirements. A County Attorney must manage competing priorities while ensuring cases move forward efficiently and professionally.

Strong organization, preparation, and follow-through are essential qualities. The public deserves confidence that their County Attorney is prepared, accountable, and capable of managing a complex and demanding office.

Maturity and Sound Judgment

The County Attorney frequently faces difficult decisions involving public safety, individual rights, and the interests of justice.

These responsibilities require:

• Professionalism under pressure
• Emotional maturity
• Sound legal judgment
• Independence from political influence
• A commitment to fairness and ethical decision-making

The office should remain focused on justice, not politics. Every resident deserves equal treatment under the law regardless of background, affiliation, or circumstance.

Experience Recognized by Fellow Attorneys

Leadership and qualifications are often best evaluated by those who work closest to the position.

For the first time in more than a decade, the Scott County Attorneys Association chose to endorse a candidate for Scott County Attorney. In announcing its endorsement, the Association emphasized the importance of leadership, courtroom experience, and trustworthiness, and identified Ron Hocevar as its clear choice among the candidates.

The endorsement is especially meaningful because the Association’s members have worked alongside all three candidates during their time in Scott County and have firsthand knowledge of the qualities required to lead the office effectively. (please see official press release below)

Proven Leadership for Scott County

As your County Attorney, I have built my career on experience, leadership, and an unwavering commitment to public safety.

• Proven Prosecutor and Leader – Extensive experience handling cases across all levels of severity and leading the County Attorney’s Office.
• Commitment to Public Safety – Every case matters, and every victim deserves a voice.
• Strong Law Enforcement Partnerships – Working collaboratively with law enforcement to keep Scott County safe.
• Innovative Programs – Founder of initiatives such as Veteran’s Court and community outreach programs focused on prevention, education, and second chances.
• Advocate for Families and Community Safety – Dedicated to protecting children, supporting families, and addressing emerging safety concerns.
• Military Veteran – Twenty years of service in the United States Navy, bringing discipline, integrity, and leadership to public service.