As a first generation college graduate, Ray’s personal expectations for success and community service were fueled by the support and sacrifices of his family throughout each stage of his life. It’s a lifetime of hard work, commitment, and service that has now brought him to pursue a seat on the Cuyahoga County Court of Common Pleas.
Ray began his legal career as a solo practitioner, defending indigent clients in criminal cases and representing members of his hometown in various civil matters. He then served as an Assistant County Prosecutor in Mahoning County assigned to the Felony, Misdemeanor, and Juvenile Drug Courts, giving him experience in all aspects of the legal system. Ray even served as an Assistant Attorney General for the State of Ohio. Now, after twenty-eight years of practicing law, he is a Senior Counsel at a well regarded Cleveland law firm, where he provides counsel to individual, corporate and not-for-profit organizations and assists many organizations as they address their issues and interests with governmental entities.
Ray’s long career has taken him into courtrooms across Northeast Ohio, and even to the Ohio Supreme Court. His experience at the Ohio Supreme Court is one of the cases of which he is most proud, not only because of the prestige of the Court but because he was successful in advocating for a program that served disadvantaged women and children. A program that continues to grow and serve the community to this day.
Ray has also been a leader in Northeast Ohio Democratic politics for nearly 30 years. In 1994 Ray was elected Treasurer of the Mahoning County Young Dems and then served on the Executive Committee and as Treasurer of the Mahoning County Democratic Party. After moving to Cleveland, Ray immediately began to get involved with his new community and served on the Executive Committee for the Cuyahoga County Democratic Party for over 13 years. In addition to serving on the Executive Committee of Cuyahoga County Democratic Party, Ray has brought his service to numerous community boards including, the Cleveland Landmarks Commission, the Cleveland Playhouse, and the Catholic Diocese of Cleveland.
