Robert Royce
Staff Attorney

Through my engineering experience across major U.S. shale basins, I have a nuanced understanding of the operational realities behind each clients’ assets. This unique perspective guides my approach in anticipating issues and evaluating risks to craft efficient, effective legal solutions that best align with each client’s business goals. While deadlines and drill schedules change, my commitment to unparalleled client service does not.

Robert Royce advises clients on upstream title and transactional matters.

Prior to law school, Robert worked as an engineer in drilling, completions and production across the Bakken, Permian and Western Anadarko basins. His technical knowledge and field experience serve as the foundation of his practice, allowing him to anticipate challenges, mitigate risks and offer clients a trusted advisor who understands both the legal and operational elements of their business.

Before joining Gray Reed, Robert was an associate at a national oil and gas law firm, where he focused on title examination and due diligence analysis for the acquisition and divestiture of producing and non-producing assets. From preparing acquisition, drilling, division order and supplemental title opinions to drafting and reviewing complex agreements, he works collaboratively with clients to ensure matters proceed efficiently and with confidence.

During law school, Robert was a member of the SMU Science & Technology Law Review, serving as both a staff editor and notes editor, and was published for his comment on Texas's water future. He also clerked at his previous law firm and externed with a Fortune 500 oil and gas company in its legal department.

Organizational Involvement

Professional Activities, Memberships & Affiliations

  • Houston Bar Association
    • Energy Law Section
  • Houston Young Lawyers Association
  • Young Professionals in Energy

Community Activities, Memberships & Affiliations

  • Boy Scouts of America, National Eagle Scout Association
  • St. John's School Alumni Association
Education
  • B.S., with high honors, Mechanical Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology (2020)
  • J.D., Southern Methodist University Dedman School of Law (2024)
Bar Admission
  • Texas (2024)
When I Feel Most At Home
  • Golfing with anyone who asks
  • Cheering for any Georgia Tech team and the Astros, Rockets and Texans
  • Spending time with friends and family--going to concerts and sporting events, or simply relaxing outside