212-The Power of Preparation: Trial Lessons from Robert Clifford

Great trial lawyers don’t wing it. In this episode, Michael Cowen sits down with legendary Chicago plaintiff’s attorney Robert A. Clifford to discuss the preparation, strategy, and discipline behind a career handling complex aviation disasters and mass torts.

Clifford shares lessons from his mentor Philip Corboy, explains how mock trials and focus groups help uncover juror bias, and breaks down his approach to case selection, settlement decisions, and working with experts. He also discusses mentoring younger lawyers, building a strong practice, and why preparation, reputation, and integrity remain essential to lasting success in trial law.