Ed Hochuli

Ed Hochuli, a retired NFL referee and prominent attorney, is recognized for his commanding presence on the field and his distinguished legal career. After co-founding the Arizona law firm Jones, Skelton & Hochuli, P.L.C. in 1983, Ed Hochuli established a distinguished career as a trial lawyer while simultaneously embarking on a renowned NFL officiating journey. He earned a Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of Texas at El Paso in 1972, where he was an All-Western Athletic Conference academic honoree as a linebacker.

He continued his academic journey by earning his Juris Doctor from the University of Arizona Law School in 1976, clerking for United States District Judge Carl Muecke for two years during his studies. His officiating career began with college games for the Big Sky Conference and Pacific-10 Conference as a line judge, leading to his hiring by the NFL as a back judge in 1990, and subsequent promotion to referee in 1992. Over 28 seasons as an NFL official, Hochuli became one of the league’s most recognizable and respected figures. He officiated two Super Bowls, XXXII and XXXVIII, alongside five conference championship games, solidifying his reputation for excellence in high-stakes environments.

His legal acumen earned him consistent recognition as ‘Best Lawyers in America’ since 2003 and a ‘Southwest Super Lawyer’ in 2007, underscoring his standing as a top-tier attorney in the region. Ed Hochuli retired from his NFL officiating role in March 2018, concluding a remarkable nearly three-decade tenure on the gridiron. He continued his legal practice for several more years before retiring as an attorney from Jones, Skelton & Hochuli, P.L.C. in 2021.

His unique career path showcased an extraordinary capacity for leadership and precision, marked by significant achievements in both the demanding arenas of professional sports officiating and high-stakes legal practice.