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David L. Arnold

Shareholder and CEO

David L. Arnold

Overview

Dave Arnold founded Pender & Coward's eminent domain practice group more than a decade ago. He is a shareholder and CEO of the firm. His law practice focuses in the areas of eminent domain and right of way condemnation for government and business entities, including real estate transactions, litigation and local government.

Dave serves as an advisor to state and government agencies, municipalities, utilities, transit authorities and consultants in all phases of right-of-way projects. He served as General Counsel to the International Right of Way Association ("IRWA") from 2000-2024 and provides legal advice to regional businesses, developers, banks and individuals in real estate development and redevelopment, with an emphasis in syndication, transfer and leverage of historic tax credits. He is sought after for his extensive experience in complex commercial litigation, including defense of local governments and their employees.

A frequent speaker at industry conferences, Dave also leads continuing legal education seminars and meetings of IRWA on topics of eminent domain law and right of way acquisitions. He is certified as a Senior Right of Way Professional (SR/WA) by IRWA. The SR/WA designation is granted to right of way professionals who have achieved professional status through experience, education and examination. While an SR/WA may be a specialist in one area, they must also be familiar with all disciplines associated with the right of way profession.

Dave also co-hosts the popular "Infrastructure Junkies!" podcast which focuses on eminent domain and right of way issues and can be found on iTunes or on any major podcast platform.

  • International Right of Way Association, General Counsel
  • International Right of Way Association, Chapter 52 – Past President
  • Suffolk Bar Association, Past President 2015
  • AV® Preeminent™ Rated, Martindale-Hubbell® Peer Review Ratings™
  • Virginia’s Legal Elite, Civil Litigation, 2013–2023
  • Best Lawyers in America, Eminent Domain and Condemnation Law, 2017-2025, Lawyer of the Year in Norfolk, 2022
  • Coastal Virginia's Top Lawyers, Eminent Domain, 2016-2024
  • Virginia Super Lawyers, 2020-2024
  • Southeastern Public Service Authority, Board of Directors, 2013-2021
David L. Arnold darnold@songfacs.com Shareholder and CEO Pender & Coward, P.C. Phone / Fax: (757) 490-6260 http://ezs.songfacs.com/media/1046/arnold-4943-main-resized.jpg?cc=0.0038291605301914587,0,0.0002343506444642097,0&width=350&height=274&rnd=133342423621370000&format=webp&quality=80