James A. Clifford

James Clifford focuses his practice on employment law, commercial litigation, disability rights, and special education law and advocacy. He is admitted to the Maine and Massachusetts Bars, the U.S. District Courts in Maine and Massachusetts, and First Circuit Court of Appeals. Jim began his career as an Assistant District Attorney in Massachusetts, then became a commercial litigation associate at large law firms in Portland and Boston. Thereafter, he served as general counsel to several start ups and small businesses. He returned to private practice in 2007. Jim grew up in Lewiston and comes from a long line of lawyers and public servants. He obtained a B.A. in History and Government from Colby College and graduated cum laude from Suffolk University Law School, where he was awarded the Drinan Fellowship in Criminal Law. Jim has had a lifelong interest and commitment to advocating for people with disabilities. Prior to earning his law degree, Jim taught school and worked with young adults with developmental disabilities. A significant part of his law practice focuses on representing injured or disabled individuals. On a more personal level, he is also a parent of a child receiving special education services. Jim serves on the board of Disability Rights Center, Maine's protection and advocacy agency for people with disabilities; Southern Maine Parent Awareness, a statewide parent advocacy group; and StriveU, which provides services for young adults with developmental disabilities as they transition from high school. Jim is a member of the Council of Parent Attorneys and Advocates (COPAA), Maine State Bar Association, Maine Employment Lawyers Association, and Maine Trial Lawyers Association. Jim also sits on the Town of Cumberlandâs Housing Authority and Personnel Appeals Board. He is an avid Red Sox fan, and enjoys golf and skiing. He and his family live in Cumberland.