Atlanta, Georgia – Retired Judge Clifton Newman, known for presiding over the high-profile Alex Murdaugh murder trial in South Carolina, has embarked on a new chapter in his legal career. JAMS, the largest global provider of alternative dispute resolution (ADR) services, announced Newman’s addition to their team as a panelist. This move highlights Newman’s esteemed reputation and expertise in the legal field.
With over 23 years of experience as a judge on the South Carolina Circuit Court, Newman oversaw an array of civil and criminal cases, including the widely publicized State v. Richard Alexander Murdaugh trial. Additionally, he presided over cases related to professional negligence, business torts, construction defects, insurance coverage, wrongful death, and class actions.
At JAMS, Newman will handle ADR, which encompasses mediation and arbitration, allowing parties in civil suits to resolve their disputes without resorting to costly trials. Based at JAMS’ Atlanta Resolution Center, Newman will serve as an arbitrator, mediator, and special master, specifically handling construction, business/commercial, personal injury and torts, class action/mass torts, insurance, wrongful death, shareholder actions/business divorce, and health care cases across the country.
Chris Poole, CEO of JAMS, expressed confidence in Newman’s appointment, highlighting his thoughtful decision-making approach and expertise across various areas of the law. Newman himself shared his commitment to applying his even-tempered and consistent approach to resolve ordinary, complex, and high-profile matters at JAMS. This expansion of his career marks a new opportunity for the retired judge to continue making significant contributions to the legal world.
Newman’s illustrious career began with a successful private practice in Cleveland, Ohio. Eventually settling in South Carolina, he served as an assistant solicitor for Williamsburg County for 16 years and spent 24 years in private practice before being elected to the South Carolina Circuit Court in 2000, where he served until his recent retirement.
With a B.A. from Cleveland State University and a J.D. from the Cleveland State University School of Law, Newman brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to JAMS. His appointment to the esteemed panel strengthens the organization’s capabilities and reaffirms Newman’s reputation within the legal community.
As Newman embarks on this new endeavor, he aims to resolve disputes and make significant contributions to the legal field using the same approach that propelled him to become a respected figure in the South Carolina legal community and beyond. Despite retiring from the bench, his expertise, dedication, and commitment to justice remain unwavering as he continues to serve the community through alternative dispute resolution.