By Teresa Killeen
WCBA
Kristy Bray serves as the Director for the Washtenaw County Friend of the Court, bringing over six years of dedicated service to the county. Before this role, she served as the Director/Referee for Shiawassee County Friend of the Court, a Judicial Service Officer in Macomb County FOC, and a Referee in Saginaw County FOC, where she gained valuable experience.
Beyond her county work, Kristy is the current President of the Friend of the Court Association (FOCA) for the State of Michigan, having previously served as Vice President and Treasurer. In this leadership capacity, she contributes to the Program Leadership Group and other state workgroups, helping to shape responses to legislative changes, policy updates, and judicial decisions within the child support program.
What area of the law do you like the best and why? My entire legal career has been devoted to family law. Despite the inherent difficulties in guiding people through life’s toughest moments, the ability to truly make a difference, especially by safeguarding the best interests of children and watching families establish healthy co-parenting relationships, is incredibly rewarding.
What is the biggest challenge facing you as an attorney today? Being a family law attorney is inherently personal, requiring attorneys to constantly engage with raw emotions from their clients, such as anger, grief, fear, betrayal, and resentment. This sustained exposure can, unfortunately, result in professional burnout, anxiety, depression, and a reduced capacity for empathy. However, these significant challenges are offset by the deeply rewarding nature of the work, which involves helping individuals navigate critical life transitions and establish foundations for a new future.
Any words of wisdom to pass on to new lawyers? First, find a mentor who will help navigate the complexities of your cases, and be receptive to feedback. Second, never be afraid to ask questions. It’s always better to clarify and understand than to make a mistake. Finally, be kind to everyone at the courthouse, especially court staff. Your kindness will be greatly appreciated and remembered.
Who has been your greatest mentor? I was fortunate to have Hamed Suffety as a mentor and colleague during my nearly ten years as a staff attorney and referee at the Saginaw County Friend of the Court. Hamed took me under his wing, offering invaluable guidance. His practical experience was unmatched, and his patience unwavering. He consistently supported me, challenging me to think deeper on difficult cases, and was a true friend throughout our time together.
What career advice would you give your younger self? Network and volunteer – even when you don’t think you have the time or energy. It’s important to build genuine relationships and invest time in connecting with people - mentors, peers, leaders, and even those in different fields. Also, offer help more than you ask for it. Connections and volunteering will not only open doors to new opportunities but also provide invaluable support, advice, and experiences throughout your career.
What would your second career choice have been if you had not become a lawyer? A high school math teacher, and softball coach. I love numbers, softball, and kids!
Tell us about your family. I have been married to my husband, Dan, for over ten years, and we have a nine-year-old daughter, Deklynn, who is very active in sports. I am highly engaged in my community, serving as a Little League Softball Coach for multiple seasons. I also volunteer extensively at my daughter’s school, contributing to various fundraising and school initiatives. For the last four years, I have been the Athletic Booster President at the school, where I’ve played a key role in developing and implementing new youth athletic opportunities.
What is your favorite movie or book? “To Kill A Mockingbird” by Harper Lee is a book that has stayed with me ever since I read it in high school. Atticus Finch stood for moral courage, intellectual honesty, and standing up for what is right, even when it’s unpopular or difficult – great principles for anyone to follow.
On the film side, my favorite movie is “The Shawshank Redemption.” I really appreciate the powerful message about finding inner strength and holding on to hope.
Can you share a fun fact or something most people don’t know about you? In law school, I was a tighthead prop for our club rugby team. By far, it has been the most grueling and demanding position I’ve played in any sport.
Describe a perfect day off. A perfect day off starts with a cup of coffee from Tim Horton’s and a good book. The heart of the day would be spent relaxing by the pool, taking a nap, and grilling out with my family.
What are some of your favorite places that you have visited? Maui and Oahu are my all-time favorites; however, recent Disney Cruises are a close second.
When you have a little extra money, where do you like to spend it? Any extra money funds vacations or more sports gear for my daughter. Truth be told, if there’s a piece of softball or volleyball equipment on the market, it’s probably in my garage.
What’s the greatest gift we can give ourselves? Time is truly the most incredible gift we can give ourselves. Time cannot be replaced, and once spent, it’s gone forever.
What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever received? Be open to change. Don’t cling to old methods or ideas simply because they’re familiar. Be willing to experiment, fail fast, learn from mistakes, and pivot when necessary.
Why do you choose to be a member of the WCBA? The WCBA is a great way to stay connected, keep learning, and contribute to the legal community in Washtenaw County.
What is the greatest benefit you have enjoyed as a member? Attending the bar events and meeting other attorneys.
________________________________________
Reprinted with permission from the Washtenaw County Bar Association newsletter Res Ipsa Loquitur.
WCBA
Kristy Bray serves as the Director for the Washtenaw County Friend of the Court, bringing over six years of dedicated service to the county. Before this role, she served as the Director/Referee for Shiawassee County Friend of the Court, a Judicial Service Officer in Macomb County FOC, and a Referee in Saginaw County FOC, where she gained valuable experience.
Beyond her county work, Kristy is the current President of the Friend of the Court Association (FOCA) for the State of Michigan, having previously served as Vice President and Treasurer. In this leadership capacity, she contributes to the Program Leadership Group and other state workgroups, helping to shape responses to legislative changes, policy updates, and judicial decisions within the child support program.
What area of the law do you like the best and why? My entire legal career has been devoted to family law. Despite the inherent difficulties in guiding people through life’s toughest moments, the ability to truly make a difference, especially by safeguarding the best interests of children and watching families establish healthy co-parenting relationships, is incredibly rewarding.
What is the biggest challenge facing you as an attorney today? Being a family law attorney is inherently personal, requiring attorneys to constantly engage with raw emotions from their clients, such as anger, grief, fear, betrayal, and resentment. This sustained exposure can, unfortunately, result in professional burnout, anxiety, depression, and a reduced capacity for empathy. However, these significant challenges are offset by the deeply rewarding nature of the work, which involves helping individuals navigate critical life transitions and establish foundations for a new future.
Any words of wisdom to pass on to new lawyers? First, find a mentor who will help navigate the complexities of your cases, and be receptive to feedback. Second, never be afraid to ask questions. It’s always better to clarify and understand than to make a mistake. Finally, be kind to everyone at the courthouse, especially court staff. Your kindness will be greatly appreciated and remembered.
Who has been your greatest mentor? I was fortunate to have Hamed Suffety as a mentor and colleague during my nearly ten years as a staff attorney and referee at the Saginaw County Friend of the Court. Hamed took me under his wing, offering invaluable guidance. His practical experience was unmatched, and his patience unwavering. He consistently supported me, challenging me to think deeper on difficult cases, and was a true friend throughout our time together.
What career advice would you give your younger self? Network and volunteer – even when you don’t think you have the time or energy. It’s important to build genuine relationships and invest time in connecting with people - mentors, peers, leaders, and even those in different fields. Also, offer help more than you ask for it. Connections and volunteering will not only open doors to new opportunities but also provide invaluable support, advice, and experiences throughout your career.
What would your second career choice have been if you had not become a lawyer? A high school math teacher, and softball coach. I love numbers, softball, and kids!
Tell us about your family. I have been married to my husband, Dan, for over ten years, and we have a nine-year-old daughter, Deklynn, who is very active in sports. I am highly engaged in my community, serving as a Little League Softball Coach for multiple seasons. I also volunteer extensively at my daughter’s school, contributing to various fundraising and school initiatives. For the last four years, I have been the Athletic Booster President at the school, where I’ve played a key role in developing and implementing new youth athletic opportunities.
What is your favorite movie or book? “To Kill A Mockingbird” by Harper Lee is a book that has stayed with me ever since I read it in high school. Atticus Finch stood for moral courage, intellectual honesty, and standing up for what is right, even when it’s unpopular or difficult – great principles for anyone to follow.
On the film side, my favorite movie is “The Shawshank Redemption.” I really appreciate the powerful message about finding inner strength and holding on to hope.
Can you share a fun fact or something most people don’t know about you? In law school, I was a tighthead prop for our club rugby team. By far, it has been the most grueling and demanding position I’ve played in any sport.
Describe a perfect day off. A perfect day off starts with a cup of coffee from Tim Horton’s and a good book. The heart of the day would be spent relaxing by the pool, taking a nap, and grilling out with my family.
What are some of your favorite places that you have visited? Maui and Oahu are my all-time favorites; however, recent Disney Cruises are a close second.
When you have a little extra money, where do you like to spend it? Any extra money funds vacations or more sports gear for my daughter. Truth be told, if there’s a piece of softball or volleyball equipment on the market, it’s probably in my garage.
What’s the greatest gift we can give ourselves? Time is truly the most incredible gift we can give ourselves. Time cannot be replaced, and once spent, it’s gone forever.
What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever received? Be open to change. Don’t cling to old methods or ideas simply because they’re familiar. Be willing to experiment, fail fast, learn from mistakes, and pivot when necessary.
Why do you choose to be a member of the WCBA? The WCBA is a great way to stay connected, keep learning, and contribute to the legal community in Washtenaw County.
What is the greatest benefit you have enjoyed as a member? Attending the bar events and meeting other attorneys.
________________________________________
Reprinted with permission from the Washtenaw County Bar Association newsletter Res Ipsa Loquitur.
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