Don Witmyer grew up in a suburb of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. After graduating high school, he enlisted in the U.S. Navy, embarking on a distinguished 10-year career as an Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) technician and deep-sea diver. While working, Don pursued higher education, earning a Bachelor of Science from Regents University (now Excelsior University) and a Master of Public Administration (M.P.A.) from Troy University.

In 1992, Don transitioned from military service to pursue a legal education, enrolling in the evening program at Widener University School of Law in Wilmington, Delaware. During the day, he served as Deputy Director for the Office of Housing and Community Development in Chester County, Pennsylvania, where he led a 25-member team managing $2 million in federal and state grants for low-income community projects.

After earning his Juris Doctor, Don returned to military service — this time as a Judge Advocate General (JAG) officer in the U.S. Air Force. Over the next 11 years, he advised commanders across four southeastern bases on a wide range of military and civil legal matters, while also litigating criminal cases at installations throughout the eastern United States. Don retired in 2008 as a Major, with 21 years of distinguished active-duty service and extensive litigation and trial experience.

Following his military career, Don opened a general law practice in Destin, Florida. For 15 years, he represented clients across Northwest Florida in criminal defense, family law, and civil litigation. During this time, he further expanded his expertise by earning a Master of Laws (LL.M.) in Elder Law from Stetson University College of Law, allowing him to develop his practice to include estate planning, probate, veterans’ affairs, and disability law.

In 2023, Don made the decision to close his private practice, embark on a yearlong journey traveling the country in a motorcoach RV with his wife, and embrace life on the road. After a year away from practicing law, he returned to the Gulf Coast, joining Bernhardt Riley, where he continues to bring his extensive experience, passion for service, and dedication to his clients.

Don is married and the proud father of two wonderful children and three incredible grandchildren. In his free time, he enjoys running, swimming, and, above all, spending time with his family.

Education

• Stetson University College of Law, St. Petersburg, Florida
  Master of Laws (LL.M.) – Elder Law
• Widener University School of Law, Wilmington, Delaware
  Juris Doctor (J.D.)
• Troy University, Troy, Alabama
  Master of Public Administration (M.P.A.)
• Regents University (now Excelsior University), Albany, New York
  Bachelor of Science (B.S.)