Robert Don Gifford Receives Clarence Darrow Award for Criminal Defense Excellence

Robert Don Gifford Receives Clarence Darrow Award for Criminal Defense Excellence

OKLAHOMA CITY (Cherokee411) — Robert Don Gifford, founder of GIFFORD LAW, PLLC, has been named the 2025 recipient of the Clarence Darrow Award by the Oklahoma Criminal Defense Lawyers Association (OCDLA). The award honors an Oklahoma attorney who demonstrates the kind of passionate criminal defense advocacy that defined Darrow’s legacy.

Gifford was recognized for his pivotal role in securing a presidential commutation for Native American activist Leonard Peltier, as well as his recent streak of consecutive acquittals in federal court. National data shows that of 71,954 federal jury trials, only 290 ended in acquittals — a rate of about 4%. Gifford achieved multiple not-guilty verdicts within a single year.

Beyond the courtroom, Gifford was honored for his pro bono work and his contributions through writing and public speaking.

“You can only protect your liberties in this world by protecting the other man’s freedom,” Gifford said, quoting Clarence Darrow.

Gifford’s career reflects a broad dedication to justice. In 2013, while serving as an Assistant U.S. Attorney, he was named Prosecutor of the Year by the Oklahoma Bar Association’s Criminal Law Section and was recognized by the directors of the FBI and U.S. Marshals Service. In 2021, the Cherokee Nation awarded him the Medal of Patriotism for his military service and ongoing pro bono work on behalf of veterans.

This article reflects reporting by The Journal Record. For more, visit: https://journalrecord.com/2025/07/01/robert-don-gifford-gifford-law-pllc/.