Clifford was raised one of 13 children on a large cattle and grain farm in the Weyburn, Saskatchewan area. He graduated from Weyburn High School and continued his education with the University of Saskatchewan. There he achieved his Bachelor of Arts (English/Philosophy) and thereafter his Juris Doctor (1966). He was called to the Bar in 1967. He joined Stringam as counsel in 2024.

Clifford has practiced law in Swift Current since 1966. He has experience in most areas of the law including criminal, civil litigation, family law, surface rights and mineral rights, wills & estate planning, all types of farm and ranch and commercial sales, and general practice.