Newport Beach Councilmember William O’Neill still remembers the pride he had for his father, Lawrence O’Neill, when he was sworn in as the Fresno Superior Court judge. Even at age six, he recognized the significance of the event. Thirty years later, in December 2019, O’Neill was in a similar position when he was appointed Newport Beach mayor by fellow councilmembers. At 36, he was one of the youngest in recent memory to hold the position. His path to public service boils down to advice from his dad. “Just try your best and we’ll be proud of you,” O’Neill said, recounting a motto he’s internalized to this day and teaches to his own children, ages six and nine. It’s also one of the reasons he’s become so successful, both as a public servant and partner at law firm Ross, Wersching and Wolcott. As former mayor, current councilmember, and Newport Beach finance …