Blank Rome Adds Two to Its Roster

Summary: Blank Rome welcomes a real estate partner and a government relations principal.

Blank Rome had an eventful week with two new additions to its Washington, D.C. office. Real Estate Attorney David Houston joined the Real Estate group at Blank Rome LLP , and Scott D. Hatch became a principal at Blank Rome Government Relations LLC, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Blank Rome LLP comprised of lobbying professionals.

Mr. Houston will focus his practice on commercial leasing, zoning, land use, and development. He was previously a partner at Reed Smith LLP . His work involves representing owners, land developers, institutions, companies, and lenders for over 30 years. Much of his previous work involves department stores, big box stores, specialty retailers, theaters, fitness and entertainment stores, in-line retail stores, and restaurants.

He has been recognized by Chambers USA as a leading Real Estate attorney for Northern Virginia since 2007. He earned his J.D. from George Washington University Law School and his B.A. from the University of Virginia.

Mr. Hatch is coming from Manatt, Phelps & Phillips, LLP, where he was a Managing Director for the Federal Government Affairs and Public Policy Practice. Mr. Hatch counsels leaders in the highest levels of Congress, nonprofit organizations, and business, and serves clients in areas such as energy, defense, philanthropy, healthcare, and technology.

Before working at Manatt, he founded Capitol Management Initiatives in 2001 and served as the Managing Partner. The idea to form the organization came after the lead singer of U2, Bono, asked him to represent his antipoverty foundation, ONE. Mr. Hatch earned his B.A. from the University of Notre Dame.

Source: blankrome.com

Houston Photo: blankrome.com

Hatch Photo: manatt.com