About William S.
William S. Hastings is a partner at Locke Lord LLP, a prominent law firm with offices in Seattle, Washington, and Dallas, Texas. With over 25 years of legal experience, Hastings has developed a robust practice focusing on complex litigation and regulatory matters. He is admitted to practice in multiple jurisdictions, including Washington, Louisiana, and Texas, as well as several federal appellate circuits and the U.S. Supreme Court. His broad admission allows him to represent clients across various legal fields. Hastings earned his Juris Doctor from Vanderbilt University Law School in 1997.
Prior to that, he received his Bachelor of Arts, cum laude, from the Paul M. Hebert Law Center at Louisiana State University in 1994. During his time at Vanderbilt, Hastings was actively involved in moot court competitions—an experience that developed his advocacy skills. He also served as an editor for the Vanderbilt Law Review, where he contributed to legal scholarship and analysis. At Locke Lord LLP, Hastings represents clients across diverse industries, including energy, healthcare, and technology. His practice encompasses both trial and appellate work, handling cases from initial filings through appeals. He has successfully defended clients in complex commercial disputes, showcasing his ability to navigate intricate legal challenges.
Additionally, Hastings has significant experience in regulatory compliance matters, representing clients before various federal and state agencies, which is crucial in today’s heavily regulated business environment. Before joining Locke Lord LLP, Hastings was an associate at a boutique litigation firm in New Orleans, Louisiana. This role provided him with experience in environmental and securities litigation, further broadening his expertise. He also clerked for the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Louisiana, gaining insight into federal court procedures that benefits his current practice. This judicial experience enhances his understanding of the intricacies involved in federal litigation. Hastings is an active member of the Washington State Bar Association, where he has served on several committees, including the Appellate Practice Section and the Pro Bono Committee.
His commitment to the legal community extends to his membership in the American Bar Association and the Federal Bar Association. In 2020, he was recognized by Washington Super Lawyers as a Rising Star in the field of appellate law, highlighting his contributions to the profession. Outside of his legal practice, Hastings is dedicated to community service, volunteering with local organizations that provide legal assistance to underserved populations. He also serves on the board of a nonprofit focused on environmental conservation in the Pacific Northwest, reflecting his commitment to both legal and community advocacy.
