Hon. Poncé D. Clay

Poncé D. Clay is a Judge of the 36th District Court in Detroit, Michigan, a retired United States Navy Lieutenant Commander, and a lifelong public servant. A Detroit native and graduate of Morehouse College, he also holds a Juris Doctor and MBA from University of Detroit Mercy.

Judge Clay served more than 20 years in the Navy, earning distinction as a Combat Systems Officer, Navigator, and leader of large-scale operations with Top Secret/SCI clearance. Following his military service, he built a career in law and real estate as the founding attorney of Clay Law PLC and a licensed real estate broker, focusing on probate, real estate, and veteran advocacy.

He has represented thousands of veterans and previously served as Division Director of Veteran Services for Wayne County, expanding access to critical benefits. Judge Clay’s commitment to community is reflected in his past service as Chair of the Detroit Board of Ethics, State Bar of Michigan Commissioner, and adjunct professor teaching trial skills. His work consistently centers on service, accountability, and practical justice. His career reflects a steady commitment to leadership, discipline, and improving the lives of others through law and public service. Service.Justice.Detroit