Kari K. Shay

Kari Shay has worked with education and municipal clients for close to 25 years, assisting clients on matters related to finance, business contracts, elections, and general school law.

In addition to traditional legal knowledge, Kari has a background in tax and accounting which allows her to advise clients from a unique perspective in areas of business and finance, including the proper use of funds and expenditures. Kari is currently the only attorney to serve on the Michigan Department of Education (MDE) Referent Group or advisory board for Bulletin 1022 (Michigan Public School Accounting Manual).

Kari’s finance experience is diverse and includes serving as bond and note counsel on all forms of capital projects, refunding bonds, tax credit bonds, as well as short-term borrowings for cash flow and other purposes, and equipment purchases. 

With her understanding of issues from both a legal and accounting perspective, she has developed a unique proficiency in issues related to the proper use of public funds. Kari frequently advises clients on donations, fundraisers, parent support groups and booster clubs, and the formation of educational foundations.

Kari maintains a philosophy and strong interest in assisting school districts and other officials with understanding her areas of practice and frequently presents at seminars, conferences and provides onsite training. In 2020 Kari was nominated to serve as a Board Member of the Michigan Women in Finance. She is also a member of the National Association of Bond Lawyers (NABL), Michigan Council of School Attorneys (COSA), Bond Club of Detroit, and other professional organizations.