Kretzer files for Cole circuit judge

Attorney Steven M. Kretzer filed for Circuit Judge in Cole County today. Kretzer, a Republican, takes on incumbent Jon Beetem in the Aug. 7 primary.

Kretzer graduated in 2004 from the University of Missouri-Columbia School of Law and made his home in Jefferson City shortly later.

He worked in private practice representing clients in family law, plaintiff's work, appellate work, guardian ad litem and other general practice areas.

Kretzer gained experience in juvenile court as a trial attorney for the Department of Social Services.

His work there led to a position as an assistant prosecutor.

In his sixth year as a prosecutor, Kretzer has tried jury trials, worked as the Drug Court liaison for the 19th Circuit, and prosecuted caseloads exceeding 500 cases. Those cases ranged from traffic offenses and DWIs to burglaries and first-degree assault cases.

Kretzer completed the Jefferson City Leadership Program in 2009.