#United States #Chicago #Illinois Super Lawyers #Robert Clifford #Clifford Law Offices

Robert A. Clifford: The Undisputed Leader in Illinois Law

In a remarkable achievement, Robert A. Clifford has been recognized as the #1 lawyer in Illinois for the year 2027 by Super Lawyers, marking an impressive 14 consecutive years at the top of this prestigious list. As the founder and senior partner of Clifford Law Offices, Robert's exceptional contributions to the legal field have paved the way for considerable successes in complex civil litigation across the United States.

Founded in 1984, Clifford Law Offices has gained a solid reputation, managing over $5 billion in verdicts and settlements, establishing itself as a powerhouse in plaintiffs' litigation. Robert's extensive experience spans over four decades, during which he has handled some of the most challenging legal cases, consistently achieving significant results for his clients and enhancing the credibility of the legal profession.

Widely recognized for his expertise in aviation litigation, Clifford has represented victims and their families in virtually every major commercial airline disaster in the U.S. since 1979. His notable cases include serving as Lead Counsel in the federal proceedings following the 2019 Ethiopian Airlines Boeing 737 MAX8 tragedy and currently representing families involved in recent high-profile incidents, such as the midair collision over the Potomac River involving an American Airlines aircraft and a U.S. military helicopter, and the unfortunate crash of a UPS cargo plane in Louisville, Kentucky, in November 2025.

Beyond his litigation achievements, Robert Clifford has made substantial contributions to advancing the legal profession through leadership roles and educational initiatives. Serving as President of both the Chicago Bar Association and the Illinois Trial Lawyers Association, as well as chairing the American Bar Association’s Section of Litigation, he has dedicated himself to educating and nurturing the legal community. Furthermore, he has been recognized as a Fellow of the American College of Trial Lawyers since 1994 and is a member of the esteemed American Law Institute and the Inner Circle of Advocates.

Clifford's commitment to legal education is evident in the free annual continuing legal education program organized by his firm since 2008, which delves into emerging legal and ethical issues. His longstanding support for the DePaul University College of Law’s Annual Clifford Symposium on Tort Law and Social Policy speaks volumes about his desire to foster discussions centered on pivotal legal matters.

Reflecting on his illustrious career, Robert A. Clifford states, “After more than four decades in the law, I remain convinced that our profession is at its best when we are willing to take on the difficult issues, challenge what needs to change, and insist on accountability. Those principles have guided my work throughout my career and remain at the heart of what we do at Clifford Law Offices. Righting the Heaviest Wrongs® requires that we never lose sight of who we serve or why the work matters.”

Recognition from Super Lawyers is not solely a testament to Robert A. Clifford’s extraordinary skills; it also highlights the caliber of attorneys at Clifford Law Offices, with 21 of its lawyers receiving accolades on the 2027 Illinois Super Lawyers® and Rising Stars lists. This recognition underscores the deep talent and unwavering dedication that drive the firm’s success.

In conclusion, Robert A. Clifford’s remarkable journey in law, marked by numerous achievements, significant contributions, and an unwavering commitment to justice, not only earns him accolades but also sets a standard for excellence in the legal field. As a driving force in plaintiffs' litigation, he continues to serve as an inspiration to aspiring lawyers, underscoring the importance of accountability and advocacy in the pursuit of justice.