Joel W. Collins, Jr.

Joel W. Collins, Jr. is a founding partner of Collins & Lacy, P.C., with a career defined by depth, discipline, and a steady presence in the courtroom. His practice focuses on professional liability, white collar criminal defense, and complex civil litigation, where he represents clients facing high-stakes challenges.

Joel earned his J.D. from the University of South Carolina School of Law and holds a B.A. in English from Clemson University. His early years in law were shaped by service, study, and a clear commitment to understanding both the legal system and the people it serves.

Joel’s experience includes defending licensed professionals, such as healthcare providers, attorneys, financial advisors, and insurance agents, in claims arising from their work. He also handles complex civil disputes, including malpractice, breach of contract, non-compete issues, and matters involving tortious interference with contractual relationships.

After law school, Joel served four years in the Judge Advocate General’s Corps of the United States Army, including a year in Vietnam with the Americal Division, earning the Bronze Star and Army Commendation Medals. He later taught at West Point and served as an Assistant U.S. Attorney.

Joel has received wide recognition throughout his career, including honors from Best Lawyers in America and Super Lawyers, as well as a Lifetime Achievement Award from Primerus. In 2018, he was awarded the Governor’s Order of the Palmetto and inducted into the SC Lawyers Weekly Hall of Fame.

Joel is admitted to practice in multiple courts, including the U.S. Supreme Court and several federal appellate courts. Alongside his legal work, he has remained deeply involved in civic and professional organizations, reflecting a long-standing commitment to service, leadership, and mentorship.

Joel W. Collins, Jr. continues to bring experience, judgment, and a strong sense of purpose to every matter, offering clients guidance that is both grounded and resolute in the face of complex legal challenges.

Law Office Affiliations

• Founding Partner, Collins & Lacy, P.C.
• Member, South Carolina Defense Trial Attorneys’ Association
• Member, National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers
• Member, American Board of Trial Advocates
• Member, South Carolina Department of Juvenile Justice
• Fellow, International Society of Barristers
• Member, South Carolina Bar

Licensed State

• South Carolina

Education

• University of South Carolina Joseph F. Rice School of Law
  Juris Doctor (JD)
• Clemson University
  Bachelor of Arts (BA)

Awards & Badges