Preston Killingsworth

Preston's Biography

Preston Killingsworth grew up in Shawnee, Kansas, where he spent most of his summers working in construction and learned the valuable lesson of hard work from an early age. During his time at Sterling College, he played both football and soccer but eventually focused solely on soccer. It was an amazing opportunity, as he saw firsthand how the effort you put in directly correlates to the rewards you receive. Additionally, when people dedicated to their passion come together to achieve a common goal, they can create an unstoppable force. He earned his Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice with a focus on Pre-Law and a minor in Psychology. He knew early on that he wanted to attend law school and devoted much of his studies to achieving that goal. He also served as a peer mentor for students who struggled in their first year of college. During his time as a mentor, he learned how to be patient and accommodating to those who didn’t absorb information in the same way he did.

He received his legal education from Washburn University School of Law, where he participated in Washburn’s Law Journal and served as a Senior Staff Writer. His comment, "Acquitted-Conduct Sentencing," was published in Washburn’s Law Journal Online, Volume 63. He began practicing law before graduating law school, representing clients in Washburn’s Civil Litigation Clinic. He represented indigent clients who needed help with landlord disputes and even negotiated a $10,000+ tax lien down to just below $1,000 for one of his clients. The Civil Litigation Clinic allowed him to combine his passion for helping others with his knowledge of the legal field.

He completed summer internships with the VFW’s In-House Counsel (Veterans of Foreign Wars National Headquarters), Butler and Associates, and DeVaughn James Injury Lawyers. He felt at home with DeVaughn James and quickly realized that this was the place where he could zealously advocate for his clients, invigorate his passion for helping others, and hone his legal skills.

In his spare time, he enjoys golfing, playing soccer, and spending time with his family. He also enjoys watching Arsenal, Nebraska football, and the Chiefs (of course). He has a great deal of respect for veterans, as his grandparents served in Vietnam, both of his parents served in the Army, and his brother is actively serving in the Air Force.