Leading with Integrity: Kenneth VanDerBeck’s Journey in Legal Advocacy

Kenneth VanDerBeck is an accomplished attorney based in San Diego, CA, with a strong foundation in law and community service. Originally from New Jersey, Kenneth graduated from the University of Florida, where he laid the groundwork for a career marked by integrity, compassion, and commitment to justice. His experience in the medical field has given him a unique perspective in legal practice, helping him understand cases involving healthcare and ethics with added depth and empathy.

Kenneth’s legal career is distinguished by a dedication to honesty, hard work, and a drive to serve his clients and community. Outside the courtroom, he’s an active volunteer with Newbreak Church and the Red Cross, embracing a hands-on approach to supporting those in need. Kenneth’s core values are shaped by family, friends, and a commitment to continuous learning—qualities that he brings into every professional challenge.

With a strong interest in sports, Kenneth stays active by engaging in rugby, football, tennis, and swimming, maintaining a balanced lifestyle that reflects his dedication to physical and mental wellness. A passionate traveler, he believes in broadening his perspective by connecting with people across cultures. Kenneth’s philosophy is that success is best measured by aligning one’s actions with personal values, and he strives to live by this principle every day, both in his legal career and in his broader pursuits.

What inspired you to pursue a career in law? 

Growing up, I always had a sense of wanting to help people and make a difference. I was drawn to law because it felt like a powerful way to advocate for others and work toward justice. Working in the medical field also showed me how important legal support is in protecting people’s rights, so I wanted to bridge that experience with a career in law.

What was your experience like in law school? 

Law school was intense! It was challenging but incredibly rewarding. There’s a steep learning curve, and you have to stay focused and disciplined. I spent a lot of time studying, discussing cases, and learning to think critically. It pushes you to dig deeper and question assumptions. I also made some lifelong friends who were going through the same grind, which helped a lot.

What was it like preparing for the bar exam? 

The bar exam was definitely one of the toughest parts of the journey. It requires a level of dedication that’s hard to put into words. I spent months preparing, reviewing countless materials, and taking practice exams. It was exhausting, but I knew it was just a necessary step. Passing the bar felt like a huge accomplishment and made all the effort worth it.

Can you tell us about your first year as a lawyer? 

My first year was a big adjustment. Going from law school to real-world cases is a big shift. Suddenly, you’re dealing with actual clients and real-life issues, which adds a new layer of responsibility. There’s a lot to learn on the job, but it’s exciting. I found that my background in medicine was a real asset in understanding certain cases, and I leaned on mentors whenever I needed guidance. The first year taught me to be adaptable and confident in my abilities.

How did your background in medicine help you as a new lawyer? 

Having a background in medicine gave me a unique edge, especially with cases that involved healthcare or personal injury. I understood the terminology and the processes, which helped me better communicate with clients and experts in those fields. It also gave me an added layer of empathy, as I could see things from both a medical and legal perspective. This understanding helped me build trust with clients who were going through tough times.

What was the biggest challenge you faced in your first year? 

The biggest challenge was balancing the high expectations with the reality of being new to the field. Law school prepares you in many ways, but there’s so much you only learn by actually doing the work. The stakes felt very high, and I wanted to make sure I was doing the best job possible for each client. I learned quickly that I had to manage my time well and rely on more experienced attorneys for guidance when needed. Every case felt like a learning experience.

What advice would you give someone just starting their journey in law? 

My best advice is to stay humble, stay curious, and don’t be afraid to ask questions. No one expects you to know everything right away, so lean on mentors and keep learning from each experience. Take care of yourself, too—it’s easy to burn out if you don’t make time for things outside of work. Lastly, remember why you started this journey. Keeping that purpose in mind will help you stay grounded through the challenges.

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