Judge Robert J Collins lived his passion for the law. As a lawyer and a Cook County Circuit Court Judge he also held the law in high regard. He spent his life ensuring that the law was respected at every opportunity.

His is the story of a love affair with the legal system. It is a tale that was initiated by politics and clout, yet was in no way beholden to it. And in these days when each week seems to reveal yet another example of judicial corruption, it is the history of a "good" judge, a modern day "untouchable," and a reminder of what service on the bench ought to be.

In a 1985 profile of Judge Collins for the Chicago Tribune, Jim Spencer wrote:

"Collins' distraction is the LAW. Surely in his mind's eye the word is capitalized, because for almost half a century it has regulated his relationships, dictated his demeanor, set his schedule. It is a sacrosanct concept that has excited him beyond professional responsibility and seduced him with an elemental attraction."

Early in Judge Collins' legal career he defended a Japanese soldier who was a prison camp commander charged with war crimes. He said of that defense, "A lawyer, like a doctor can't be concerned with nationality and politics. You have to be sure your client gets a fair trial."

He later served in the office of corporation counsel for the City of Chicago and then for 16 years on the bench. A native of Chicago, Collins graduated from DePaul University Law School and served in the US Army.

"When we talk about legal matters," he said, "those are emotional matters. When I talk about myself . . . it's not even important."

Judge Collins was recognized with such comments as:

"He is the standard by which other criminal court judges are most often measured" --The Chicago Council of Lawyers as quoted in the Chicago Tribune.
"Bob was a gentleman's gentleman, a lawyer's lawyer and a judge's judge. One does not have the pleasure of knowing many great and good people like Bob Collins over the span of one's life." --from a letter written by William M. Madden, published in the Chicago Tribune.

Judge Collins' commitment to the law and expectation of legal excellence led him, after retiring from the bench, to join Tobin, Petkus & Muñoz.

"He was an inspiration for me," said Craig Tobin. "His advice, his manner, his style and grace guided my steps each day. I am a better lawyer and, more importantly, a better person because of Judge Collins."

Judge Collins served as Tobin's mentor, confidante and even legal researcher for many years. The relationship was unique in Chicago legal circles and rewarding for both men.

Collins passed away in December of 1997, yet, for the firm of Tobin, Petkus & Muñoz, remains a symbol of dedication to the practice of law.