Meet the Newest Waterfront Law Team Member - Diamond Royster
Diamond Royster is a Pender & Coward, P.C. attorney focusing on waterfront (riparian) property rights, civil litigation, local government and eminent domain/right of way. Keep reading to learn more.
Published by Jim Lang
Read on to learn more about the newest member of the Waterfront Law Team, attorney Diamond Royster.
- Where are you from / tell us about your upbringing?
I am a Hampton Roads native, having been born and raised in Virginia Beach, Virginia. My father served 20+ years in the United States Navy and, upon his retirement, we settled here in Coastal Virginia.
- What led to your first career in education?
The short answer is, I fell into it. Although becoming an attorney had always been my end goal, I have always had a passion for learning and education. That passion increased as I started working for a university shortly after I graduated undergrad. During my time working for the university and taking on various roles, I decided to pursue my masters in higher education, specifically, an M.Ed. in Student Affairs, to increase my knowledge of the field. I am so glad I did, as I believe the knowledge and skills I learned during that time have assisted me in my legal career.
- What led to your decision to switch careers and pursue law?
Law wasn’t necessarily a career-switcher, as it was always the plan. Working in higher education was just an unexpected (but beneficial) pit stop along the way. Growing up, I always envisioned myself as being the next Clair Huxtable (hopefully most of you get that reference). I am passionate about using my skills and giftings to serve the Hampton Roads community and beyond – being an attorney allows me to do that.
- How did you decide to join the Waterfront Law Team of Pender & Coward?
Before becoming an attorney with Pender & Coward, I had the privilege of interning with the firm. One of the first people I met was the Waterfront Team’s fearless leader, Jim Lang. From there, I had the opportunity to learn more about the work he and his team were doing, which intrigued me. Luckily, once I started with the firm as a licensed attorney, they were willing to add me to the team. Ultimately, my interest in the work, my love of Coastal Virginia, and my background as a Navy brat make it a natural fit.
- What has been your biggest surprise / lesson while practicing with the Waterfront Law Team?
A big lesson I have learned is that it is always beneficial to know your rights as a riparian owner (and whether you are even a riparian rights owner). If you ever have a question about that, contact our team.