Socius is pleased to announce Blake Hilty as the firm’s new Managing Member. Blake joined the firm as a member five years ago with a practice focused on divorces that involve complex financial matters.

 

Learn more about Blake in our Q&A with him below.

​

 

What inspired you to become an attorney?

My parents told me that whenever the topic of careers came up, starting when I was young, I always said I wanted to be a lawyer. During law school, realizing how much of an impact someone can have helping people as a lawyer solidified my choice to become an attorney. So that is the path I chose.

​

What was your first job ever?

I was a dishwasher at a golf course restaurant in Arlington, WA, where I grew up. I played golf for free back then, but I’m not much of a golfer now.

​

You have completed ultramarathons and competed in more than 20 marathons. How does being an avid runner of that caliber play into your work as an attorney? 

Being patient, process-driven, and consistent directly translate to our work in law. All three are required to become a better runner and a better attorney. It takes time and commitment, and you have to put in the work to improve every day. People tend to overestimate what they can do in a day and underestimate what they can do in a year—it’s a long-term play when it comes to both endeavors.

​

What are some parallels between running a race and running a firm?

Being able to handle the ups and downs is key throughout a race and in our business. During a marathon, there are difficult points in the race, but you don’t stop. You work through each difficulty, come out the other side, and you finish. Running a race and managing a law firm require adapting to fluid situations and not always knowing what the next day will bring.

​

What is something your colleagues and clients might not know about you (until now)?

Soon after graduating law school, I applied to work for the FBI. My wife is an IRS attorney, and I was interested in the law enforcement side. Nothing materialized from the application process, and I’m grateful to be where I am.

​

What are your priorities and goals for Socius as you lead the firm?

We have been working from home during the past year and will likely continue to do so for a bit longer. My focus is to ensure things continue to run like normal until we can safely return to the office. Running like normal for Socius involves attorneys and staff working together to achieve results for clients while also making sure everyone stays connected. The latter has been a challenge during the pandemic, but it remains a priority.

​

What is unique about the team you have here at Socius? 

We have a solid team that knows how to handle being under a lot of pressure. Everyone at the firm does an amazing job managing that pressure while providing excellent legal services. Also, Socius is comprised of lawyers and staff with outstanding experience in several core practice areas. I know that our divorce clients benefit from our diverse bench in that respect, and that the diversity among us as individuals helps us see issues from all angles. I am excited about the year ahead, in large part because of our strong team and the great synergies our people have maintained.