The legal community of Phoenix, Arizona, and all who knew him are mourning the untimely passing of Colin P. Ahler, a distinguished attorney whose life was defined by unwavering integrity, tireless dedication, and deep compassion. His sudden departure has left a profound void in both his professional circles and personal relationships.
A Legacy of Academic Excellence and Legal Mastery
Born and raised in Arizona, Colin was recognized early on for his academic brilliance. He graduated summa cum laude with a Bachelor of Science in Economics from Arizona State University, earning the prestigious Moeur Award for achieving the highest GPA in his class. He continued his academic journey at Harvard Law School, where he earned his Juris Doctor and laid the groundwork for a legal career marked by excellence and service.
Colin launched his legal career at Perkins Coie LLP, where he practiced from 2005 to 2014 and rose to the position of Counsel. In 2014, he joined Snell & Wilmer LLP in Phoenix, becoming a partner and co-chair of the firm’s antitrust practice group. His focus on antitrust and unfair competition law, appellate litigation, and government contracting earned him recognition as a leading authority in his field.
A Distinguished Career in Antitrust and Appellate Law
Throughout his career, Colin demonstrated remarkable clarity and precision in navigating complex legal matters. He represented clients in significant antitrust cases in both state and federal courts, including class actions and multi-district litigation. His deep knowledge of the Sherman, Clayton, Robinson-Patman, and Arizona Antitrust Acts made him a trusted advisor to companies, joint ventures, and trade associations.
Colin also left a mark in appellate law. He briefed and argued numerous cases before appellate courts, including the U.S. Supreme Court, Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals, Arizona Supreme Court, and Arizona Courts of Appeals. His appellate work reflected his commitment to upholding constitutional principles and pursuing justice with rigor and empathy.
In the area of government contracting, Colin was a recognized expert, representing clients in bid protests and advising on procurement laws and compliance. His ability to bridge the nuances of antitrust and government contracts made him an invaluable legal strategist.
Honored and Respected by His Peers
Colin’s contributions to the legal field did not go unnoticed. He was named in The Best Lawyers in America® for Antitrust Law in both 2024 and 2025, a testament to his expertise, leadership, and respect within the legal community. His colleagues often sought his counsel on the most challenging legal issues, and he was known for his mentorship, humility, and clear moral compass.
A Life of Service Beyond the Law
Beyond his professional accomplishments, Colin was deeply committed to his community. He served on the board of Nourish Phoenix (formerly ICM Food & Clothing Bank) from 2016 to 2023, playing a key role in efforts to support vulnerable populations. His pro bono work with the Arizona Justice Project and Florence Immigration and Refugee Rights Project further demonstrated his lifelong commitment to justice and equality.
A Devoted Family Man and Compassionate Friend
At the heart of Colin’s life was his family. He is survived by his loving wife, children, and extended family, who were his greatest source of pride and strength. He was known for his warm, approachable demeanor, and his ability to make everyone feel seen and valued. His personal relationships were a reflection of his professional values—kindness, honesty, and respect.
A Life of Purpose
The sudden loss of Colin P. Ahler is deeply felt across the legal profession and the broader Phoenix community. He leaves behind a powerful legacy—one not only of legal brilliance but of compassion, service, and unwavering ethical commitment.
His contributions will continue to influence and inspire future generations of attorneys and community leaders. In remembering Colin, we celebrate a life that embodied justice, service, and humanity. His presence will be sorely missed, but his spirit will live on in the countless lives he touched.
