Attorneys

With nearly 40 years of legal experience, Joe Burns leads the firm’s Litigation practice. His extensive career includes representing both plaintiffs and defendants (including direct representation and as insurance defense counsel) in civil liability claims, ranging from small-value premises liability and motor vehicle cases to complex, high-stakes litigations such as trade secret protection, product liability, construction defect, catastrophic injury and mass tort litigation. His experience includes coordinating the defense of several defendants in the Station Nightclub fire litigation and civil claims arising from the collapse of the World Trade Center on 9/11, where he represented large excess insurance carriers.

A notable achievement in Joe’s career was his role as one of only a handful of co-counsel in securing the largest civil judgment ever entered against the United States, a figure exceeding $100 million, in Limone v. United States, a case involving the wrongful conviction of four men. More recently, Joe secured summary judgment on behalf of Kleen Energy Systems, LLC, in relation to the 2010 Kleen Energy Power Plant Explosion litigation.

Joe’s vast experience and proven track record of success in both routine and high-profile cases have earned him a reputation as a skilled and tenacious litigator. His ability to handle complex legal matters with precision and strategic insight has made him a trusted advisor to clients across a wide range of industries.  Joe’s dedication to achieving favorable outcomes and his deep understanding of the legal landscape continue to drive his success. His leadership of the Litigation practice at Crumbie Law Group ensures that clients receive the highest level of legal representation in even the most challenging of cases.

RECENT PUBLICATIONS

• A Practical Guide to Discovery and Depositions in Connecticut, Chapter on Physical and Mental Examinations and Protected Health Information (MCLE, 2nd Edition 2021)

ROLES & APPOINTMENTS

• Fact Finder/Arbitrator, Connecticut Superior Court
• Special Master, New Britain Superior Court
• Attorney Trial Referee, Connecticut Superior Court
• CT Judicial Branch, Complex Litigation Committee
• Adjunct Professor, CT Law Practice & Procedure, Western New England University, School of Law
• Connecticut Judicial Branch, Commission on Civil Court Alternative Dispute Resolution