Judge Stephanie Ray Federalist Society
Judge Stephanie Williams Ray serves on the Florida First District Court of Appeal, a position she has held since her appointment by Governor Rick Scott in June 2011. With a background in both legal practice and academia, Judge Ray has significantly contributed to Florida’s judicial system. Her involvement with the Federalist Society, particularly the Tallahassee Lawyers Chapter, reflects her engagement with conservative legal thought, though her role within the organization is more about participation than leadership.
Early Life and Education
Born on June 6, 1970, in Vicksburg, Mississippi, Judge Ray pursued higher education with distinction. She graduated cum laude with a Bachelor of Arts from Vanderbilt University in 1992. Subsequently, she earned her Juris Doctor with honors from Florida State University College of Law in 1995, where she was active on several legal publications, including the Florida State University Law Review and the Journal of Land Use & Environmental Law.
Professional Background
Before her judicial appointment, Judge Ray built a diverse legal career. She began as an attorney at Ausley & McMullen, P.A., in Tallahassee from 1995 to 1999. Her academic roles at Florida State University College of Law included Assistant Dean for Academic Affairs (2000-2004), Associate Dean for Administration (2004-2007), and Assistant Dean for Development (2007-2008). She also served as Chair of the Florida Public Employees Relations Commission from 2008 to 2011, overseeing labor and employment matters for public employees in Florida.
Judicial Appointment and Tenure
Judge Ray was appointed to the Florida First District Court of Appeal by Governor Rick Scott in June 2011. She was retained by voters in 2012, 2018, and most recently in 2024, with 66.4% of the vote. Her current term is set to expire on January 7, 2031. During her tenure, she has contributed to numerous decisions impacting Florida’s legal landscape.
Engagement with the Federalist Society
Judge Ray’s affiliation with the Federalist Society, particularly the Tallahassee Lawyers Chapter, indicates her engagement with conservative legal thought. The Federalist Society is known for promoting a textualist and originalist interpretation of the Constitution. While Judge Ray’s participation suggests an alignment with these principles, her specific contributions to the organization are not detailed in available public records.
Judicial Philosophy and Approach
Judge Ray’s legal philosophy emphasizes adherence to the rule of law and respect for judicial precedent. Her tenure as Chair of the Florida Public Employees Relations Commission demonstrated her ability to analyze complex legal issues while managing significant responsibilities. This approach reflects her commitment to upholding the integrity of Florida’s legal system.
Community Involvement
Beyond her judicial duties, Judge Ray has been active in various community organizations. She has served on the boards of the Legal Aid Foundation, the Ronald McDonald House of Tallahassee, and the Brehon Institute for Family Services. Her involvement in these organizations highlights her dedication to public service and community welfare.
Judge Stephanie Williams Ray’s career reflects a commitment to the legal profession and public service. Her engagement with the Federalist Society underscores her connection to conservative legal thought, though her role within the organization appears to be more participatory than leadership-oriented. Through her judicial decisions and community involvement, Judge Ray continues to influence Florida’s legal landscape.