Governor Don Siegelman was born February 24, 1946, in Mobile, Alabama, and is a lifelong resident of the state. He was educated in Mobile's public schools and graduated from Murphy High School. Siegelman's first job was that of a laborer on the Alabama State Docks. Siegelman attended the University of Alabama and was elected president of the student government association before graduation in 1968. He received his degree in political science. Following graduation, Siegelman joined the Air National Guard.
Siegelman received his law degree from Georgetown University School of Law in 1972. While in law school, Siegelman worked as a Capitol Hill policeman, appointed by former U.S. Senator Jim Allen, and as a law clerk with the United States Department of Justice. He continued his education at Oxford University in England, where he studied international law.
Siegelman began the practice of law in Birmingham with Eleventh Circuit Court of Appeals Judge the late Robert S. Vance. He also served as a prosecutor for the city of Vestavia. In 1971, he organized voter registration in Alabama, Mississippi, and Florida. Siegelman also served as an executive director of the Alabama Democratic Party.
Don Siegelman was first elected to public office in 1978. He received more votes for the office of Secretary of State than any candidate on the ballot. Siegelman was re-elected Secretary of State in 1982. In 1986, Siegelman was elected Attorney General. During the first year, he passed more legislation than any other attorney general in the history of Alabama. In 1990, Siegelman came in second in the gubernatorial primary for the democratic nomination.
Siegelman practiced law with the firm of Cherry, Givens, Peters, Lockett and Diaz.
As Lieutenant Governor, Siegelman organized a task force to curb school violence. He also formed a business advisory council to attract new jobs for Alabamians and expand existing industry.
He is married to the former Lori Allen of Birmingham and they make their home in Montgomery with their children Dana and Joseph.
