Patrick M. Collins

Patrick Collins is a highly accomplished former federal prosecutor who represents companies and individuals in government and internal investigations as well as in complex civil and criminal matters in federal courts throughout the United States. A Fellow in the American College of Trial Lawyers, Patrick is a Partner in the firm’s Special Matters & Government Investigations Group, twice named “White Collar Practice Group of the Year” by Law360. 

Widely recognized as a top trial lawyer and passionate advocate for his clients, Patrick has tried 26 cases successfully to verdict. His experience spans civil and criminal claims, as well as high-profile investigations and other matters before United States Attorneys’ Offices across the country and before the U.S. Department of Justice and Securities and Exchange Commission. In 2022, Chambers USA recognized Patrick and noted client feedback that "Patrick Collins is a consummate trial lawyer."

Earlier in his career, Patrick served for 12 years as an Assistant U.S. Attorney in Chicago including four years as Deputy Chief of the Public Corruption Section. He spearheaded the eight-year Operation Safe Road investigation and, with former U.S. Attorney and now K&S partner Zach Fardon, led the prosecution team in the six-month trial and conviction of former Illinois Governor George Ryan.

Prior to joining King & Spalding, Patrick was a partner in the Chicago office of an AmLaw 50 law firm. He has been recognized by Best Lawyers of America for bringing “tremendous ability and credibility to bear. He is a straight-forward communicator, a style which is very much appreciated." 

Chambers USA has recognized Patrick every year since 2013 noting his “impressive track record in taking criminal and civil cases to verdict” and as well as client feedback that he is “very knowledgeable in internal investigations. He's very candid and rigorous. He has a great deal of integrity in the work that he does."

Throughout his professional career, Patrick has been deeply involved in the Chicago community. In 1991, he founded Horizons for Youth, the only organization in Chicago that provides scholarship, mentoring, enrichment programs, and other support for children from kindergarten through college. He served as the organization’s President and as Co-Chair of its Leadership Council, currently serves on the Board of Directors and continues to serve as a volunteer. Patrick has served as a Supervising Attorney for Cabrini Green Legal Aid and a member of the Board of Trustees for Sacred Heart Schools in Chicago.  Since 2013, Patrick has participated in the annual National Hellenic Museum Trial Series, presenting arguments for the prosecution or defense before a panel of judges.  Each year's trial is unique and unscripted, attracting prominent legal minds to try ancient cases with modern consequences in front of a live audience.