It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of our esteemed founder and
partner, Barry Shoults, who died on September 1, 2024. Barry was a resolute leader,
teacher, and valued member of our team. His contributions to Shoults & Brooks, PLLC
will be deeply missed. Barry played a vital role in building strong relationships with our
clients, and his unwavering commitment to excellence, along with his positive spirit, and
will be remembered by all who knew him.
Barry Shoults: (1951 – 2024)
Barry Shoults had practiced law in Lapeer County for over 42 years. He began his legal career with Legal Services of Eastern Michigan in Flint, which provided legal aid to the underserved populations of Genesee and Lapeer counties, before founding his law firm in Lapeer in 1982. Barry earned his bachelor’s degree in political science from the University of Michigan – Flint, and in 1981, he received his Juris Doctorate from the Detroit College of Law, now the Law School at Michigan State University. He was admitted to practice law in Michigan courts in 1981 and in Federal Court in 1984.
Barry served as the Mayor of Lapeer from 1981 to 1989, during which time he participated in the Downtown Development Authority and the City Planning Commission. Prior to this, he was involved with the Lapeer County Planning Commission, the Genesee-Lapeer-Shiawassee County Regional Planning Commission, and the Genesee-Lapeer-Shiawassee County Health Systems Agency. Barry was also elected as a City Commissioner and served one term as an elected County Commissioner. Additionally, Barry served on the board of the I-69 Regional Development Corporation.
Beyond his courtroom contributions, Barry was a pillar of kindness and mentorship, inspiring countless colleagues with his dedication to the law. His legacy will live on in the lives he touched and the legal battles he fought with unwavering determination.
We extend our deepest condolences to his family and loved ones. Our business will continue to operate with a commitment to the values embodied by Barry Shoults, ensuring that his legacy lives on through our work.