2024 Ones to Watch Rising Stars: Roy Schwartz, Zetlin & De Chiara LLP

“Roy procured summary judgment in a dispute concerning a prominent real estate developer’s failure to pay our client in connection with a high-profile New York City development project. His work on this and other high-profile construction cases helped lead to his recent promotion to Partner, effective January 2024.” - Michael Vardaro, Managing Partner at Zetlin & De Chiara LLP.

Beyond your professional achievements, what are some of your passions or hobbies? I am an avid reader. In my spare time I enjoy books by Barbara Kingsolver, Patrick Radden Keefe and, of course, Kurt Vonnegut.

Who are the key people in your life that have contributed to your success? After law school, I clerked for an Appellate Judge in New Jersey. The judge instilled the importance of efficiency, editing, and surrounding yourself with smart, capable people. I continue to apply these things in my practice as a lawyer.

Outside of your career, where else do you seek continuous learning and personal growth? I continuously learn and grow as a father to two amazing kids. I’ve recently rediscovered algebra, learned some steps to a kata, became somewhat knowledgeable about history topics from Henry VIII to Revolutionary War propaganda, and baked decent brownies. Fatherhood continues to make me a better human being.