Anthony Collins (judge) facts for kids

Anthony Michael Collins (born in 1960) is an Irish judge. He has been a Judge of the Court of Appeal in Ireland since November 2024. Before this, he worked at important courts in Europe. He was an Advocate General of the European Court of Justice from 2021 to 2024. He also served as a Judge of the General Court of the European Union from 2013 to 2021.

Early Life and Education

Anthony Collins was born on May 23, 1960. His birthplace was Hartford, Connecticut, in the United States. His parents were Irish.

He went to Trinity College Dublin in Ireland. In 1984, he earned a degree in Legal Science. After that, he studied at King's Inns. This is a special place where people train to become barristers. Barristers are lawyers who argue cases in court.

While he was a student, he was active in different groups. He was a leader in some European student organizations. These groups helped students from different countries work together.

Legal Career

In 1986, Anthony Collins became a barrister. This meant he could represent people in court. In 2003, he became a senior counsel. This is a more experienced and respected type of barrister.

His work as a lawyer focused on two main areas. He dealt with European Union law. This is about the rules that apply across countries in the European Union. He also worked on administrative law. This involves rules about how government bodies operate.

From 1990 to 1997, he worked at the European Court of Justice. This is the highest court in the European Union. He was a "référendaire" there. This means he was a legal assistant to Irish judges. He helped judges Tom O'Higgins and John L. Murray. He returned to private law practice in 1997.

Anthony Collins has also written about law. He helped write a book called Civil Proceedings and the State. He also edited a legal magazine, the Irish Journal of European Law, for many years. He is a professor at University College Cork. He is also a "bencher" at King's Inns. This is an honorary position for experienced lawyers.

Judicial Career

Working at the General Court of the European Union

In May 2013, the Irish government chose Anthony Collins for a big job. He became a judge at the General Court of the European Union. This court helps make sure EU laws are applied correctly. He took the place of another Irish judge, Kevin O'Higgins.

He was reappointed for another six-year term in September 2019. While at the General Court, he led different groups of judges. He was the President of the Third Chamber. Later, he was elected President of the Eighth Chamber. Then, he was elected President of the Third Chamber again. Being a President of a Chamber means he was in charge of a section of the court.

Serving as Advocate General of the European Union

In April 2021, the Irish Advocate General, Gerard Hogan, moved to a new role. He became a judge on the Supreme Court of Ireland. An Advocate General is like a legal advisor to the European Court of Justice. They give independent opinions on cases.

The Irish government then looked for someone to finish Hogan's term. Anthony Collins was chosen for this important role. His appointment was confirmed in September 2021. He served as Advocate General from October 7, 2021, until November 1, 2024.

Judge of the Court of Appeal

On October 31, 2024, Anthony Collins was nominated for a new position. The government led by Taoiseach Simon Harris chose him. He was nominated to be a judge of the Court of Appeal in Ireland.

On November 1, 2024, President Michael D. Higgins officially appointed him. He has been serving as a judge on this court since then.