Firm News

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…

Bradley M. Cosgrove, partner at Clifford Law Offices, spoke with editors at Climbing Magazine regarding the record $50 million verdict he obtained for an eight-year-old boy who was raped at a summer climbing camp. Cosgrove and partner Charles R. Haskins received the verdict following a two-week trial in Cook County Circuit Court. Cosgrove told Climbing Magazine, “For any gyms who don’t currently have a bathroom supervision policy for minors, this $50 million verdict serves as…

Clifford Law Offices is saddened by the loss of Robert P. Sheridan, Of Counsel, whose distinguished legal career and decades of service to the legal profession left a lasting mark on the firm, his colleagues, and the clients he served. Bob served as one of the firm’s most trusted legal minds. A thoughtful strategist and accomplished appellate attorney, he devoted his career to researching, developing, and advancing the legal arguments behind many of the firm’s…

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…

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…

Joseph T. Murphy, partner at Clifford Law Offices in Chicago and former U.S. Army Captain, represents the victim, Benjamin Del Real, a current U.S. Army servicemember, who was shot during the Secret Service-involved shooting in Washington, D.C., on May 23, 2026. Mr. Del Real was hospitalized, underwent surgery, and is currently recovering from his injuries. Murphy stated: “At this time, we are investigating the circumstances surrounding the incident and gathering all available facts. We will…

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…