Robert Clifford, Shannon McNulty, and Juan Thomas Named 2026 Crain’s Notable Leaders in Accounting, Consulting and Law
Contact UsPosted on August 17, 2026To
- Awards & Recognitions
- Clifford Law
For five decades, Robert A. Clifford has helped shape personal injury and aviation law through landmark litigation, leadership, and a commitment to improving public safety. The founder and senior partner of Clifford Law Offices has been named a <a href="https://www.chicagobusiness.com/recognitions/notable/ccb-meet-notable-leaders-accounting-consulting-law-2026/” rel=”nofollow noopener” target=”_blank”>2026 Crain’s Chicago Business Notable Leader in Accounting, Consulting and Law, recognizing a career that has made an impact both inside and outside the courtroom.
Robert Clifford has been at the forefront of some of the nation’s most significant personal injury, wrongful death, and aviation litigation. He is widely known for his work as Lead Counsel in the federal litigation involving the 2019 Ethiopian Airlines Boeing 737 MAX-8 crash and other international aviation disasters. He currently represents families in litigation arising from the 2025 midair collision over the Potomac River and the 2025 UPS cargo plane crash in Louisville.
Bob’s landmark work also includes a $29.6 million verdict for internationally acclaimed violinist Rachel Barton, who suffered severe injuries after being dragged by a Metra train. The case led to changes in Metra boarding safety procedures, including the “second look” procedure requiring conductors to check the platform again before closing the final door.
With a legacy that extends well beyond the courtroom, Bob has spent decades advancing the legal profession through education, mentorship, and service. Throughout his career, he has held leadership positions in major legal organizations, taught and written extensively on trial practice and legal ethics, and mentored generations of attorneys.
Bob is joined on the 2026 Crain’s list by fellow Clifford Law Offices attorneys Shannon McNulty and Juan Thomas.
Shannon, a partner at the firm, has more than 20 years of experience handling complex litigation. Her work includes securing a $34 million verdict against Proline Casement for concealing defective windows and helping secure a $174 million settlement for acute-care hospitals in claims against Purdue Pharma.
Juan, Of Counsel, has built a career spanning litigation, bar leadership, civil rights, legal education, and public service. He serves as President of both the Illinois Bar Foundation and the National Conference of Bar Presidents and is a member of the American Bar Association Board of Governors.
Congratulations to Bob, Shannon, and Juan on being named among Crain’s Chicago Business Notable Leaders in Accounting, Consulting, and Law for 2026!
