Sarah F. King, partner at Clifford Law Offices, has been inducted as a Fellow of the International Academy of Trial Lawyers (IATL), one of the most prestigious organizations in the legal profession. Her induction was formally recognized at the Academy’s 2026 Annual Meeting, held April 8–12 in Charleston, South Carolina.
The IATL is an invitation-only fellowship comprised of the world’s leading trial attorneys. With a focus on upholding and advancing the Rule of Law, the Academy limits its membership to just 500 active trial lawyers in the United States, along with about 150 Fellows from 30 countries. Its members represent both plaintiffs and defendants in civil litigation, as well as prosecutors and criminal defense attorneys, all committed to excellence in advocacy and the pursuit of justice.
Sarah King’s induction reflects a career defined by disciplined case preparation, sharp litigation strategy, and a consistent ability to secure meaningful outcomes for those she represents. A notable medical malpractice attorney in Chicago known for her record-setting case results and unwavering dedication to justice, Sarah has earned a reputation for tenacious courtroom advocacy. She has secured numerous multi-million-dollar verdicts and settlements for clients harmed by medical negligence and misconduct, particularly on behalf of injured women and children, and has established herself as a trusted advocate for individuals and families navigating complex and often devastating circumstances.
Beyond her courtroom achievements, Sarah is widely recognized as a leader within the legal community. She is a Past President of the Women’s Bar Association of Illinois and currently chairs its political action committee, WILPOWER. In these roles, she has advanced initiatives that support women’s leadership in law and promote equity across the profession.
Sarah was named Best Lawyers® 2026 “Lawyer of the Year” in Medical Malpractice Law – Plaintiffs and was included in Forbes America’s 2025 Best in State Top Lawyers. She has also been recognized by Crain’s Chicago Business as one of its 2025 Notable Litigators & Trial Attorneys. Additional honors include listings in Lawdragon 500 Leading Plaintiff Consumer Lawyers, Illinois Super Lawyers®, and Best Lawyers® in America across multiple years.
In 2024, Sarah was appointed by the Illinois Supreme Court to serve on the Supreme Court Committee on Character and Fitness, reflecting the high regard for her integrity and professional judgment. In 2025, she received the Advocate for Diversity Award from the Diversity Scholarship Foundation in recognition of her ongoing efforts to advance inclusion within the legal field.
“Sarah’s induction into the International Academy of Trial Lawyers is a testament not only to the results she has achieved but also to the discipline, judgment, and credibility she brings to every case she tries.”
– Robert A. Clifford, founder and senior partner at Clifford Law Offices
Sarah’s selection as a Fellow of the International Academy of Trial Lawyers places her among a distinguished group of trial lawyers whose work continues to shape the practice of law and strengthen the civil justice system. She joins Clifford Law Offices founder and senior partner Robert A. Clifford and partners Kevin P. Durkin, Keith A. Hebeisen, and Bradley M. Cosgrove in this distinction.
Congratulations, Sarah!