Jerome’s professional journey began with a bachelor’s degree from Humphreys University. He then pursued his legal education at Humphreys Law School, graduating with a Juris Doctor and a Master’s degree in Legal Studies.

He also holds a Paralegal Studies certificate from Boston University and a Master of Laws in Taxation from the University of San Francisco. His diverse knowledge and experience allow him to provide comprehensive legal services to his clients.

Jerome interned at the San Joaquin Public Defender’s Office and completed an externship at the Third District Court of Appeal in Sacramento, gaining a deep understanding of the criminal justice system and the challenges faced by those seeking justice within it.

Labor law litigation

At the Law Office of Timothy McCandless (June 2009 to May 2013), Jerome gained experience in all aspects of civil litigation at the trial and appellate levels. He has a strong track record of counseling individuals on key factual and legal issues, developing and executing briefing strategies, and successfully arguing motions — including motions for summary judgment, motions to dismiss, and federal and state appellate briefs. He is trained in discovery motions and in taking and defending depositions.

Collaborative courts

From fall 2014 to January 2015, Jerome provided direct services to individuals dealing with parolee reentry, AB 109 and Prop 47, and expungement clinics in the collaborative courts of San Joaquin County.

Criminal defense

As an intern at the Public Defender Office of San Joaquin, Jerome represented defendants in all aspects of trial. He tried cases in San Joaquin Superior Court, including Pitchess motions and felony and misdemeanor offenses; was trained in investigation, motions, trial preparation and trial advocacy; and served as co-counsel in a high-profile murder trial.

Family law

At the Family Law Clinic of San Joaquin, he provided direct services to clients dealing with abuse prevention orders, divorce and custody cases, and assisted with research and trial preparation.

Court of Appeal

During his winter internship at the 3rd District Court of Appeal in Sacramento, Jerome drafted appellate opinions on complex legal issues — demonstrating his ability to analyze legal precedent and write clear, persuasive opinions, and contributing to the Court’s decision-making process.

Jerome has been an active volunteer with the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People for several years. As 2nd Vice President, he has advocated for the rights and equality of people of color, and as Youth Advisor he provides guidance and support to the organization’s young members.

As a law student, he was an active member of the Black Law Student Association and was certified as a law student at the Law Office of Timothy L. McCandless and the Law Office of Ralph Cingcon.

Jerome has over a decade of experience in credit repair and debt management, helping individuals improve their credit scores and reach their financial goals. His book, How Can I Fix My Credit, is a comprehensive guide to understanding credit and how to improve it.

Today, Jerome is the CEO of the Law Offices of Jerome A. Clay in Stockton, California, providing legal services in tax law, employment law and investigations to individuals, businesses and organizations. He is licensed to practice law in California and is a member of the California State Bar and the American Bar Association.

Outside the office he is a father, educator and civil rights advocate who enjoys traveling, hiking and spending time with his family.