“I chose the legal field because I love to help other people, solve problems, and dig into the root of issues. I believe that, as an attorney, I have an ability and responsibility to make a lasting impact.”
Attorney Kenneth Bryan (Partner)
Kenneth Bryan joined the Law Offices of James Scott Farrin in 2013 and handles eminent domain cases for our clients. He was selected as a firm Partner in 2024 and is a valued and integral member of the eminent domain team.
Rustic Beginnings
Kenneth was raised in the small foothill town of Cool, California. His parents were whitewater rafting guides for 10 years, and Kenneth and his three siblings grew up exploring the countryside and playing in the open air. His love of nature was only rivaled by his passion for reading, and when he wasn’t outdoors, Kenneth was immersed in any book he could lay his hands on.
Signs of a Legal Mind at an Early Age
Throughout his school years, Kenneth participated in many sports – ranging from baseball, wrestling, track, and cross country to swimming and water polo. Athletics taught him the value of making continuous small gains towards reaching a goal – a lesson that is particularly relevant in the practice of law.
In 7th grade, Kenneth realized that some of his other skills were also particularly suited to a career in law. He participated in a mock trial about the sinking of the Titanic and recognized that his love for debate and knack for research could be forged into seeking fair outcomes for others.
Kenneth double majored in History and Geography at the University of South Carolina Honors College, made the Dean’s List for seven semesters, and graduated cum laude – all while playing water polo and working several jobs on and off campus. Next, Kenneth earned his J.D from the University of North Carolina School of Law, where he worked for a nonprofit mediation center and was chosen as an extern for Judge Linda Stephens at the North Carolina Court of Appeals.
Compassionate and Hard-Working
In addition to his academic accomplishments, Kenneth brought his work ethic and genuine compassion for clients when he joined the firm.
Kenneth recalls one eminent domain client he helped who had recently lost a family member and was disappointed with the government’s initial offer for her property that they were taking. Ken took the case to a jury trial and was able to increase the offer well over the initial offer.1 His pride in this accomplishment is tied closely to the heartfelt thanks his client sent him detailing her gratitude for his time, involvement, persistence, and patience,
Kenneth’s peers also recognize his contributions to the practice of eminent domain law. He has been named to the “Best Lawyers: Ones to Watch”4 list for Eminent Domain and Condemnation Law by Best Lawyers in America for 2021-2024. Kenneth is also a member of the Durham County Bar Association, the North Carolina Bar Association, and North Carolina Advocates for Justice.
Happy at Home
Kenneth and his wife met while he was in law school in Chapel Hill and are now busy and content raising two “kind and energetic” children. His parents were incredible role models for him in both his professional and personal life, and he now seeks to be the same for his own children. In the rare bits of free time he has, Kenneth tries to fit in water polo, hiking, or camping with friends.
Read More
- James Scott Farrin Named to "U.S. News - Best Lawyers" 2023 'Best Law Firms' List, 8th Straight Year4
- 21 James Scott Farrin Attorneys Recognized by "Best Lawyers in America"4
- James Scott Farrin Lawyers Named to 2022 “Best Lawyers,” “Best Lawyers: Ones to Watch,” List, One Named a “Lawyer of the Year”4
- James Scott Farrin Lawyers Named to 2021 'Best Lawyers' and 'Best Lawyers: Ones to Watch' Lists4
- James Scott Farrin Named to 2020 Edition of "Triangle Business Journal" Best Place to Work
For legal reasons and client confidentiality, reviews have been slightly edited to remove identifying information and correct typos.