New 36th District Judge Ponce Clay Plans to ‘Lead with Diversity’ from the Bench

March 2, 2026

Ponce Clay, a military veteran and accomplished attorney, was formally installed as a judge for Detroit's 36th District Court during an investiture ceremony at Oak Grove African Methodist Church. Governor Gretchen Whitmer appointed Clay along with two other judges late last year to fill vacancies on the bench. A Detroit native whose parents migrated from Mississippi, Clay's journey included Navy service, a degree from Morehouse College, and law school at University of Detroit Mercy before founding his own law practice.

Who is affected

Ponce Clay (newly appointed judge)
Detroit residents who will appear in 36th District Court
Governor Gretchen Whitmer (who made the appointment)
Chastity Youngblood and Herman Griffin IV (also appointed to the bench)
Wayne County Probate Judge Terrance Keith and other speaking judges
Approximately 300 ceremony attendees
Members of Clay's community organizations (Phi Beta Sigma, Morehouse alumni chapter, Oak Grove church, Detroit Brownfield Redevelopment Authority)
Former Judge Donald Coleman (whose resignation created the vacancy)

What action is being taken

Ponce Clay is now serving as a judge at Detroit's 36th District Court following his official investiture ceremony.

Why it matters

This appointment is significant because it adds another Black judge to Detroit's bench amid what speakers acknowledged as a "tortured history" of Black judges in America. Clay's deep Detroit roots, military service, extensive education, and understanding of diverse communities position him to deliver justice that comprehends the lived experiences of people appearing in his courtroom. The public investiture ceremony also serves a dual purpose of celebrating the appointment while introducing Clay to potential future voters, as his seat will be up for retention.

What's next

Clay's appointment completes a partial term that expires January 1, 2027, at which point the seat would presumably be subject to election or reappointment.

Read full article from source: Michigan Chronicle