About John A. Collins
John A. Collins III built his career in courtrooms and conference rooms across Connecticut and in federal venues. He is a familiar presence in local legal circles thanks to steady involvement in litigation and professional organizations that shape trial and criminal practice in the state.
He prepared for that work at the College of the Holy Cross, where he earned a B.A. in Political Science in 1978. He continued his studies at Case Western Reserve University School of Law, receiving his J.D. in 1981. Those early years established the legal foundation he would use throughout his career.
He began his legal career at Suisman Shapiro in 1981. Over the years he has served the firm as a lawyer handling matters in state and federal forums. The record shows a long association with Suisman Shapiro, where he has worked on cases that take him through the litigation process from pretrial motions to courtroom proceedings.
Collins is admitted to practice in Connecticut and before the Federal Circuit. That combination of admissions has allowed him to work on a mix of matters that can range from trial work in state courts to matters that reach federal appellate levels. He combines courtroom experience with familiarity with procedural requirements in different forums.
His professional memberships reflect the breadth of his interests. He is a current member of the Connecticut Trial Lawyers Association and the Connecticut Criminal Defense Lawyers Association. He also belongs to the American Association for Justice and the National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers. Those affiliations place him among lawyers who handle civil trials, deal with criminal defense issues, and engage in continuing legal education aimed at trial practice and advocacy.
Peers and clients have encountered him in settings that demand preparation and responsiveness. He has spent years managing litigation strategy and responding to the evolving rules that govern evidence and trial procedure. His long tenure at a single firm has provided continuity for clients who require representation across different stages of a case.
He continues to practice at Suisman Shapiro, handling litigation matters in Connecticut courts and in federal venues, including appearances before the Federal Circuit when cases raise the right issues for that court.
