Clifford Law Offices named ‘Illinois Powerhouse’ in Law360’s 2025 Regional Powerhouses series, which honors firms that are leading the legal field in their states through high-profile cases, consistent results, and professional leadership.
Known for its exceptional results in complex legal cases, Chicago-based Clifford Law Offices received this recognition following a year of significant outcomes for clients, totaling over $200 million in verdicts and settlements across a variety of practice areas, including aviation, transportation, medical malpractice, mass torts, and other matters. These achievements reflect the firm’s longstanding reputation for diligent advocacy and its leadership in Illinois trial practice.
In an interview with Law360, Robert A. Clifford, the firm’s founder and senior partner, reflected on what this acknowledgment represents for the firm:
“We’ve worked very hard over the years to build a firm that can handle the most complex cases, and to be recognized for that in Illinois is a tremendous honor.”
Over the course of the year, Clifford Law Offices has been at the forefront of cases that not only secured justice for clients but also helped establish safety standards and accountability in major industries. The firm’s notable recoveries have included a $56 million record verdict obtained by partners Bradley M. Cosgrove and Craig J. Squillace on behalf of a 39-year-old mother of four who bled to death following a negligent surgical procedure that went unnoticed and several confidential settlements over the 2019 crash of a Boeing 737 Max8 in Ethiopia.
“You have to be able to look people in the eye and have the experience and the power behind you to say, ‘I will make this right for you in the best way that I can,'” explains Sarah F. King, partner at Clifford Law Offices and an established medical malpractice attorney.
A wealth of resources, a culture of tenacity, and a philosophy of always being the most prepared team in the courtroom have been central to the firm’s record of success. These qualities enable Clifford Law Offices to anticipate challenges, handle them with precision, and consistently deliver results for those recovering from catastrophic injury or the loss of a loved one.
But what empowers Clifford Law Offices to be a true powerhouse goes beyond verdict and settlement results. Mr. Clifford has fostered a culture of participation, education, and philanthropy, inspiring his team to fully engage in the legal profession and find unique ways to give back to the community. The firm’s attorneys participate in numerous projects that connect personal interests with professional growth. From coaching mock trial teams to leading within professional bar organizations, participating in countless continuing legal education events, and promoting the growth and success of city-wide programs for children and families, this small firm makes a significant impact in Chicago and across the state.
“I believe being active in the organized bar not only makes you a better lawyer, but it also helps your business improve, improves the profession, and improves the things the profession is providing to the community.”
–Robert Clifford
Clifford Law Offices’ recognition as a 2025 Regional Powerhouse reflects the firm’s ongoing impact in Illinois and its broader influence on national litigation as well as the strength of its attorneys, the depth of its resources, and a commitment to securing meaningful outcomes for those it represents.
To read the article in full, click here.