Clifford began his legal career in 1913 after studying law at the University of Michigan. He was an active trial lawyer, specializing in cases regarding search and seizure and Prohibition. He once served as assistant Attorney General of Wisconsin where he became well-known for prosecuting corruption cases.
In 1913, Clifford began his legal career by studying law at the University of Michigan. He became an active trial lawyer focusing on search and seizure and Prohibition cases. At some point, he served as assistant Attorney General of Wisconsin, where he was recognized for prosecuting corruption cases.