Awards & Recognitions

Twenty-one Clifford Law Offices attorneys have been recognized on the 2027 Illinois Super Lawyers® and Rising Stars lists. Super Lawyers, a Thomson Reuters business, is a rating service of outstanding lawyers from more than 70 practice areas who have attained a high degree of peer recognition and professional achievement. The following Clifford Law Offices attorneys have been selected to the 2027 lists (*denotes Rising Star distinction): Robert A. Clifford – Years of selection: Super Lawyers:…

For families whose lives are forever changed by an aviation disaster, the pursuit of accountability extends far beyond the courtroom. In an interview with Lawdragon, Tracy A. Brammeier, partner at Clifford Law Offices, reflects on her work representing victims of some of the world’s most devastating aviation tragedies, the responsibility that comes with that work, and how civil litigation helps drive meaningful safety improvements. Over the course of her career, Tracy Brammeier has played a…

Juan R. Thomas, Of Counsel at Clifford Law Offices, was sworn in as President of the National Conference of Bar Presidents during its Annual Meeting held in conjunction with the American Bar Association (ABA) Annual Meeting on Friday, July 31st. Atty. Thomas also became President of the Illinois Bar Foundation this past June. It is believed this is the first time a lawyer has held a dual presidency in the bar in the same year…

After decades of dedicated service, Richard F. Burke, Jr. is retiring from Clifford Law Offices. Throughout his distinguished career, Rich built a reputation as one of Chicago’s most respected trial attorneys, handling some of the firm’s most complex aviation, product liability, trucking, and catastrophic injury cases. His thoughtful approach, unwavering preparation, and commitment to every client helped shape countless successful outcomes while earning the respect of colleagues throughout the legal profession. “As I step away…

In June 2026, Sarah F. King, partner at Clifford Law Offices, was elected to a two-year term serving on the Chicago Bar Association (CBA) Board of Managers. Known for representing individuals and families in complex medical malpractice litigation, where she has secured numerous record-setting verdicts and settlements, Sarah King has built a career that combines staunch courtroom advocacy with dedicated service to the legal profession. In addition to her litigation practice, she is the immediate…

Illinois Supreme Court Justice Joy V. Cunningham was awarded the 2026 Robert A. Clifford Champion of Justice Award on Thursday, June 25, 2026, at the Chicago Bar Association (CBA) Annual Meeting in Chicago. Justice Cunningham was presented the award by outgoing CBA President Judge Nichole C. Patton of the Cook County Circuit Court. The award, which Judge Patton said is the highest award bestowed by the CBA, was initiated in 2024 by Bob Clifford, founder…

Juan R. Thomas, Of Counsel at Clifford Law Offices, was sworn in as President of the Illinois Bar Foundation (IBF) during the Illinois State Bar Association’s Annual Meeting on June 11, 2026, in St. Louis. In assuming the presidency, he becomes the second African American lawyer to serve as President of the organization since its founding in 1951. A nationally recognized attorney and civic leader, Juan Thomas has dedicated his career to advancing justice, public…

Three Clifford Law Offices attorneys have been named to the 2026 Lawdragon 500 X – The Next Generation guide, which recognizes rising legal leaders making a significant impact on the profession. Partners Tracy A. Brammeier, Charles R. Haskins, and Sarah F. King were selected for their leadership, advocacy, and commitment to pursuing justice for those affected by catastrophic injuries and wrongful death. Their recognition reflects the values that have defined Clifford Law Offices for more…

Bradley M. Cosgrove, partner and Clifford Law Offices, was elected the third vice president of the Illinois Trial Lawyers Association (ITLA), sworn in at its Annual Convention on June 5, 2026. A highly successful trial lawyer with numerous record-breaking verdicts and settlements throughout his career, Bradley Cosgrove has been active in ITLA since becoming a lawyer 20 years ago. He currently sits on the organization’s Board of Managers, along with partner Sarah F. King.  “Coming…