The Legacy and Commitment of the Clifford Law Offices
Continuing Legal Education Program

Robert A. Clifford
Robert A. Clifford, Founder and Senior Partner at Clifford Law Offices

The Clifford Law Offices Continuing Legal Education Program embodies the professional values and enduring legacy of Robert A Clifford. The notable career of Attorney Clifford is defined not only by his record of success in the courtroom but also by his unwavering commitment to advancing the legal profession. At the core of this legacy is the conviction that continuous learning, mentorship, and ethical leadership are vital to the practice of law.

For over forty years, Mr. Clifford has established a reputation as one of the nation’s leading trial lawyers, characterized by his dedication to clients, integrity, and leadership. Beyond his achievements as an attorney and advocate, he has dedicated himself to the betterment of the profession itself, ensuring that lawyers at every stage of their careers have access to the tools, knowledge, and guidance necessary to serve clients and the public with excellence.

In 2008, Clifford Law Offices hosted its first Continuing Legal Education event, establishing an annual, now semi-annual, program that encourages innovative thinking and offers practical learning opportunities for attorneys and litigators. The program has evolved into a respected platform for refining legal skills, the examination of emerging issues, and the preparation of the next generation of attorneys and litigators to navigate the increasing complexities of the profession. Each year, thousands of legal professionals join Clifford Law Offices and invited experts to engage in thought-provoking discussions, panels, and real-world simulations that provide a deep exploration of the law.

The program also reflects Mr. Clifford’s belief that the practice of law involves a deep civic responsibility. Each annual program directly addresses topics of legal ethics, professional conduct, and the lawyer’s role as a steward of justice, often with a critical examination of modern ethical dilemmas that influence the legal landscape. By emphasizing these themes, the program not only highlights concerns and solutions but also reinforces the highest standards of professionalism, helping to develop a community of attorneys who act with integrity, responsibility, and a dedication to serving their clients and the broader community.

When COVID-19 disrupted the norms of the legal profession, along with the rest of the world, it became apparent that mental health guidance was a necessary yet lacking resource for many attorneys, judges, and legal professionals. In 2022, Clifford Law Offices launched an additional annual program, facilitated by Erin Clifford, Managing Director at the firm and a corporate wellness consultant. Erin’s CLE programs are designed to help legal professionals in high-stress environments understand and develop skills that lead to a balanced lifestyle and a more fulfilling, happier life.

Mr. Clifford’s dedication to the advancement of the law through education is also evident in his long-standing sponsorship of the DePaul University College of Law Annual Clifford Symposium on Tort Law and Social Policy, now in its 31st year. This annual event brings together scholars, thought leaders, and advocates from around the world to examine critical issues in tort law and consumer protection, engage in conversations that shape the future of the field, and provide accessible continuing education for lawyers, students, and professionals alike.

To learn more about the past programs provided by Clifford Law Offices, click here.