Bob Clifford ’69

Bob Clifford ’69 credits his 19 years of Catholic education—including his formative years at Marist—with shaping his values and vision. After earning undergraduate and law degrees from DePaul University, Bob was inspired by legendary trial attorney Phil Corboy, who hired him on the spot after a bold classroom encounter. That moment launched a remarkable legal career rooted in justice, courage, and compassion.

In 1984, Bob founded Clifford Law Offices, a Chicago-based plaintiffs’ trial firm now internationally known for its work in aviation, transportation, personal injury, and class action law. His firm has been involved in nearly every major U.S. commercial airline crash of the last 40 years, including high-profile cases like the Boeing 737 MAX-8 tragedy in Ethiopia. His courtroom achievements include record-setting verdicts, such as the $29.6 million award for violinist Rachel Barton. Bob also played a key legal role following the September 11 attacks, helping secure a $1.2 billion settlement for property damage victims.

In recognition of his extraordinary success and enduring gratitude for his Marist experience, Bob made a transformative $1 million gift to Marist High School during the 2024 Night of Honor, Glory, and Fame. The donation supports scholarships and financial aid, helping ease the burden for future generations of RedHawks. “It wasn’t the experiences that shaped me—it was the people,” Bob said during his acceptance speech. “They made the difference.”

Bob’s legal achievements have earned him extraordinary recognition. In 2024, he was one of only eight personal injury lawyers named to Forbes’ inaugural list of America’s Top 200 Lawyers—the sole recipient from Illinois. He’s been honored by Super Lawyers, The National Law Journal, Chicago Lawyer Magazine, and the Chicago Bar Association, among others. His leadership extends to major professional organizations including the American Bar Association, the American College of Trial Lawyers, and the Inner Circle of Advocates.

Beyond the courtroom, Bob is a generous mentor and community leader. He helped grow the Marist Law Association and serves as honorary chair of the Mock Trial Club, where students team up with alumni to stage real courtroom experiences. He also sponsors the Clifford Symposium at DePaul College of Law, a premier academic gathering now in its 30th year.

Bob supports numerous civic and philanthropic efforts, including the Naples Children & Education Foundation and WTTW public television, where he serves on the board alongside his daughter Erin—the network’s only father-daughter board duo. Despite a demanding career, Bob treasures time with his wife Joan, daughters Erin and Tracy, and grandsons Dominic and Roman (who’s currently beating him at chess).

👉 Read more about Bob’s generous $1 million gift to Marist at the 2024 Night of Honor, Glory, and Fame: Robert Clifford ’69 announces $1 Million Gift to Marist High School