Dustin Miller launches law firm in 14th Circuit

By: Shelia Mader

In April 2025, Dustin Miller, a familiar name in the local legal community, opened his own law firm, Miller Law PLLC, marking a new chapter in his legal career. Located in Panama City, Florida, right across the street from the Bay County Courthouse, Miller’s firm is poised to offer comprehensive legal services, specializing in criminal law and related civil matters such as expungements, traffic tickets, and injunction hearings.

Miller’s path to criminal law was not something he initially set out to pursue. “I didn’t really choose criminal law; it kind of chose me,” Miller reflects. Before embarking on his legal journey, he spent four years working in car dealerships alongside his family. However, his career took an unexpected turn when he received a call on a Sunday from Larry Basford, the State Attorney for the 14th Judicial Circuit. The offer was simple but life-changing: a position at the State Attorney’s Office (SAO), a role Miller describes as a privilege.

“I’m very happy to have the experience that I gained at the SAO. It was a great environment to work in, and they were very good to me,” Miller recalls. He served in the office from May 2021 until April 2025, honing his legal skills under the guidance of Basford, who Miller credits as an influential mentor.

Although Miller initially joined the prosecution side due to his admiration for Basford and his desire to gain trial experience, the courtroom quickly became a space where he felt most at home. “Being in a courtroom is the first time I felt 'at home' since probably playing sports in high school,” Miller says, reflecting on his passion for trial law. Over his tenure at the SAO, Miller prosecuted 17 felony trials as first chair and participated in several other trials as second chair, building an extensive trial record that would serve as the foundation of his legal career.

After years of experience on the prosecution side, Miller has found his time at the SAO invaluable in shaping his current approach to criminal defense, “I think it gives me a different viewpoint on how cases are likely to unfold, and that helps me understand what the prosecution’s strategy might be,” Miller notes. This perspective is key as he now works on the defense side, where he can apply his in-depth knowledge of prosecutorial tactics to advocate for his clients.

Dustin Miller’s roots run deep in the region. Raised in Marianna, Florida, he was a standout student at Marianna High School, graduating as the Valedictorian in 2009. Miller was heavily involved in extracurricular activities, including Student Government, National Honor Society, and the Beta Club, all of which reflect his commitment to leadership and community.

His academic journey continued at Chipola College, where he graduated Summa Cum Laude with a 4.0 GPA in 2011. Miller then went on to pursue his undergraduate degree in political science and communication studies at the University of Florida (UF), graduating with honors in 2013. He furthered his education at UF’s Levin College of Law, earning his Juris Doctorate in 2016. It was during his time at UF that Miller developed a strong interest in criminal law, a field that ultimately shaped his career.

Dustin Miller’s law firm, Miller Law PLLC, located at 239 East 4th Street in Panama City, represents more than just a business venture. It’s the culmination of years of dedication, training, and hands-on experience in the courtroom. Miller offers services in criminal law and related civil matters, such as expungements and traffic-related cases. His office’s location, so close to the Bay County Courthouse, allows him to stay closely connected to the heart of the legal community.

“I’m excited to continue helping the people in this community,” Miller says. “This office is a chance for me to not only represent clients but to build lasting relationships with the people I serve.”

Miller is married to Belle Chin Miller, and together, they are the proud parents of Benjamin, their three-month-old son. As he embarks on this new chapter, Miller is not only focused on his legal career but also creating a balanced family life.

For those in need of legal representation, Dustin Miller can be reached by email at dustin.miller@millerlawpllc.org or by phone at (850) 526-8927. More information about his services is available on his website: millerlawpllc.org.

With his blend of experience, personal connection to the community, and passion for criminal law, Dustin Miller is primed to make a lasting impact as a dedicated advocate for his clients in the Florida Panhandle.