About Ray
Ray M. Shepard is an attorney based in Glen Burnie, Maryland, with over three decades of legal experience. He earned his Juris Doctor from the University of Baltimore School of Law in 1991, following his Bachelor of Science degree from Towson University in 1987. This educational foundation laid the groundwork for a robust legal career that has spanned multiple jurisdictions. Shepard is admitted to practice in Maryland, the District of Columbia, West Virginia, and Virginia, showcasing his versatility and broad legal expertise. In 2011, Shepard joined Smith, Gildea & Schmidt, LLC, a prominent Baltimore-based firm known for its specialization in complex civil, administrative, and criminal litigation.
His practice primarily focuses on health care fraud and abuse, as well as False Claims Act and qui tam matters. Additionally, he handles government and white-collar investigations, along with commercial litigation. His extensive jury trial and appellate experience spans both state and federal courts, making him a advocate for his clients. Before joining Smith, Gildea & Schmidt, Shepard served as an assistant U.S. attorney, where he managed many complex cases. This role provided him with invaluable insights into federal legal processes and enhanced his skills in litigation.
His background in public service is further highlighted by his rank as colonel in the Air National Guard, where he serves as the staff judge advocate for the Joint Force Headquarters in Charleston, West Virginia. This position shows his commitment to serving both his country and his community. Shepard's legal expertise is not limited to health care fraud; it also encompasses employment and labor law, personal injury, and medical malpractice cases. His contributions to the legal field have not gone unnoticed—he was selected for Super Lawyers in both 2007 and 2008, evidence of his professionalism and skill. In addition to his practice, he has been actively involved in legal education, serving as an instructor at Georgetown University Law Center and the Marshall University Forensic Science Center. Community service is a significant aspect of Shepard's life.
He is a member of the St. Agnes Foundation Board, where he contributes to initiatives that support health and wellness in the community. His speaking engagements on legal topics nationwide further demonstrate his commitment to sharing knowledge and fostering understanding of the law. Ray M. Shepard’s diverse experience and dedication to both his clients and community underscore his standing as a attorney in Maryland and beyond.