After graduation, Hodgman was admitted to the Bar of the Supreme Court of Tasmania and served as associate to the Rt Hon.

Throughout his career, Hodgman largely specialised in criminal law, and represented a number of high-profile clients, including Mark "Chopper" Read.

In 1992 Hodgman returned to state politics in the lower house electorate of Denison, which he held until defeated in 1998, when the size of parliament was reduced from 35 to 25 members.

His son, Will Hodgman, was elected to the House of Assembly in 2002 from the neighbouring seat of Franklin, and was Premier of Tasmania from 2014 to 2020.

On the popular Get This radio show, the team had a featured segment using the soundbite "one right up the bracket", in which callers air their grievances.

[3] In his farewell speech he spoke briefly about his political career including electorates represented, ministerial offices held, opposition to the invasion of East Timor and flooding of Lake Pedder.