Overview
Richard "Rich" Colbert is a trial and appellate attorney representing individuals and business entities in complex and general business litigation matters, principally within the Connecticut state courts. He has handled a wide variety of complex and high-stakes matters, including:
- Multimillion-dollar commercial lending and finance disputes
- Defense of sexual abuse claims against religious, charitable and educational organizations
- Employer-employee fiduciary duty matters
- Commercial property tax appeals
- Construction malpractice claims
- Commercial real estate disputes
- Substantial personal injury claims
Rich has tried cases before Connecticut state court judges and juries, participated in scores of successful mediations and arbitrations, and handled appeals to the Connecticut Appellate and Supreme Courts. Clients know and value Rich's ability to manage and conduct large, complex trials, behind the scenes and in the courtroom. As a result of his extensive and unique state court knowledge, Rich also regularly serves as local counsel for international law firms involved in matters pending in Connecticut state courts. Rich served as the chair of the firm's Hiring Committee from 2002 through 2004, and as chair of the firm's Trial Training Committee in 2005 and 2006. Rich served as law clerk for the Connecticut Judicial Department Superior Court Division in 1990-1991.
Experience
Represented Fortune 500 international postage and document technology company in alleged breach of contract action involving a $50 million bid for a government contract with the United States Military Academy
Represented international lumber and mill wood products company in an alleged breach of investment and lending agreement action involving damages claims in excess of $24 million
Represented former corporate officer in connection with mismanagement and fraud claims brought by investors against a $400 million hedge fund
Represented Connecticut attorney in a landmark case involving a contingency fee dispute with a successor attorney; obtained substantial jury verdict and thereafter, prevailed on appeal to the Connecticut Supreme Court in case of first impression
Represented Fortune 500 global management consulting firm in a multimillion-dollar usurpation of corporate opportunity and breach of fiduciary duty action
Education and Credentials
Education
- Vermont Law School, J.D., 1990
- Western Connecticut State University, B.S., 1987
Admissions
- U.S. District Court, District of Connecticut
- State of Connecticut
Affiliations
- Fairfield County Bar Association, Board of Directors
- American Bar Association
- Connecticut Bar Association
- Connecticut Defense Lawyers Association
Recognition and Community
No aspect of this advertisement has been approved by the highest court of any state. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome. See Awards Methodology.
Recognitions
Chosen for inclusion in The Best Lawyers in America (Woodward/White, Inc.) for Appellate Practice, 2025
Selected to the list of Connecticut Super Lawyers (Thomson Reuters), Business Litigation, 2007-2024
Selected to the Super Lawyer (Thomson Reuters), Corporate Counsel, list, 2010
United Way of Western Connecticut's Volunteer Award, 2013
Community Involvement
The Volunteer Center of United Way of Western Connecticut, Board of Directors, 2012-present
Lawyers for Children America, Regional Director
The Volunteer Center of Southwestern Fairfield County, Chairman of Board, 2010-2012