Jim Collins

Jim Collins is a Colorado local government lawyer and Partner Emeritus whose career has focused on special districts, municipalities, and public-sector administration. He has worked with local governments for decades, providing legal and practical guidance on governance, management, and organizational issues. His background includes service in municipal government, special district consulting, and law practice. Although retired, Jim remains connected to Colorado’s special district community and its evolving legal needs.

Jim holds Bachelor’s, M.B.A., and J.D. degrees. He completed law school at the University of Denver while working in local government and special district management. Earlier, he worked in municipal government positions in Michigan and Colorado, including roles with the City of Littleton. His business and legal education, combined with public administration experience, prepared him to advise special districts on legal, financial, governance, and operational matters.

Jim helped shape Colorado’s special district community through several pioneering roles. In 1973, he created and operated the state’s first special district management and financial consulting firm. He co-founded the Special District Association of Colorado in 1975 and served pro bono as its Executive Vice President through 2021. In 1978, he co-founded one of Colorado’s first law firms centered on special district law, serving local governments for more than four decades.

Jim Collins has combined legal practice, public service, and professional leadership throughout his career. He served two terms as mayor of Littleton and participated in numerous local, state, and national bar associations. His long service to the Special District Association helped support education, legislative advocacy, and coordination among Colorado districts. His career reflects sustained involvement in local government law, public administration, and the development of Colorado’s special district community.

Law Office Affiliations

• Partner, Collins Cole Winn & Ulmer, PLLC
• Member, Colorado Bar Association

Licensed State

• Colorado

Education

• University of Denver
  Juris Doctor (JD)
• University of Denver
  Master of Business Administration (MBA)
• University of Denver
  Bachelor’