When selecting a PI lawyer, the first and most crucial question to ask is about their experience with cases similar to yours. Whether your case involves a car accident, slip and fall, workplace injury, or medical negligence, you want a lawyer who has successfully handled these specific situations. A PI lawyer who has represented clients with injuries and circumstances like yours will be more equipped to anticipate obstacles, develop targeted strategies, and optimize the chances of a successful outcome.

Years of practice matter, but relevant experience matters more. Don’t settle for vague answers. Request specific examples of cases they’ve handled, how they approached them, and what results they achieved. Their past performance provides insight into how they might handle your situation.

1. Clarify Their Approach to Strategy and Negotiation

Every PI lawyer approaches legal strategy differently. Ask how they develop case strategies and whether they lean toward settling or pursuing litigation. A competent PI lawyer should explain their process for building a case, from evidence collection to communication with insurance companies and opposing counsel.

Discuss negotiation tactics upfront. Some lawyers focus heavily on reaching settlements quickly, while others are more aggressive and willing to go to court to maximize compensation. Understanding a lawyer’s approach helps you decide if their style aligns with your expectations.

Also, consider how involved they expect you to be throughout the case. Some clients prefer to be hands-off, while others want regular updates and strategic input. Be clear on your communication preferences and ensure the lawyer’s process supports them.

2. Understand Their Trial Experience and Courtroom Readiness

Many personal injury cases settle out of court. However, your PI lawyer must be prepared to go to trial if necessary. Ask how often they’ve taken cases to court and what their trial results have been.

Courtroom experience plays a pivotal role in a lawyer's ability to command respect from insurance companies. Insurers know which lawyers are willing and able to go the distance. A seasoned trial attorney brings additional leverage during settlement negotiations, increasing the odds of a favorable offer.

Even if your goal is to settle, choosing a lawyer with a proven courtroom record ensures you’re prepared for any outcome.

3. Discuss Legal Fees, Contingency Agreements, and Additional Costs

Hiring a PI lawyer usually involves a contingency fee arrangement, where the lawyer only gets paid if they win your case. Still, it’s essential to understand the exact terms. Ask what percentage they charge upon a successful recovery—In our experience, it is typically between 25% and 40%. Then, clarify what happens if the case doesn’t settle or win at trial.

Inquire about any additional out-of-pocket expenses you may be responsible for. These might include court filing fees, costs for expert witnesses, or fees for obtaining medical records. Some lawyers absorb these costs unless they win; others require clients to reimburse them regardless of the case outcome.

Discuss how billing is handled. Be clear on the payment structure from the start—whether the attorney charges hourly, works on a contingency fee basis, or uses a flat fee arrangement. Ask if you’ll receive itemized statements detailing expenses such as court filing fees, expert witness charges, or administrative costs. Clarify how often these updates will come—monthly, quarterly, or at key milestones. Determine whether these expenses will be deducted directly from your compensation or billed to you separately. A well-drafted contract serves as a roadmap for the project and reduces the likelihood of misunderstandings or disputes. Having a written breakdown in your retainer agreement ensures both parties are on the same page, helping you avoid unpleasant surprises and disputes over payment later in the process.

4. Evaluate Their Communication and Availability

Strong communication is vital during a legal case. Ask how the PI lawyer plans to keep you informed—whether via phone, email, or scheduled meetings—and how often they’ll provide updates. Some clients want frequent check-ins, while others prefer only critical updates.

You should also ask who your primary point of contact will be. Will you communicate directly with the PI lawyer handling your case, or will a paralegal or case manager be your go-to contact?

Response time matters. Clarify how long it typically takes them to return calls or respond to emails, and request examples of their standard turnaround times for both urgent and routine matters. Consistent delays in communication can create unnecessary stress, particularly if important deadlines or negotiations are approaching. Knowing whether they aim to respond within hours or days gives you realistic expectations and helps you choose someone whose availability matches your needs. This transparency can save you frustration down the line, especially if urgent issues arise during your case.

5. Ask for Their Assessment of Your Case and Potential Outcomes

Finally, ask the PI lawyer for their honest assessment of your case. What do they see as the strengths and weaknesses? What evidence will be most critical? Are there any red flags that could affect your claim?

No lawyer can guarantee an outcome, but an experienced PI lawyer should offer a general outlook based on your facts. Ask about the potential settlement range and what could influence it positively or negatively.

Also, verify that your case falls within the statute of limitations for your state. The statute of limitations is the legal time limit you have to file a claim, and it can vary significantly depending on your location and the type of case. For example, some personal injury claims may have a deadline of just one or two years, while other civil matters could allow more time. If you miss this deadline, the court may refuse to hear your case entirely, regardless of its merits. This makes it crucial to confirm the timeline early and ensure your lawyer is aware of any approaching cutoffs. A skilled attorney will track all relevant dates, gather necessary evidence promptly, and act quickly to protect your right to seek compensation.

6. Additional Insights and Market Context

The demand for PI legal services is growing. According to Market Research, overall, revenue is expected to rise at a CAGR of 3.6% to $58.6 billion. This growth reflects the increasing complexity of injury claims and greater awareness among victims about their legal rights. With more lawyers entering the market, your choice must be guided by substance—not sales pitches.

Avoid being swayed by flashy advertisements or vague promises. Focus instead on the lawyer’s case history, responsiveness, and approach to client relationships. Your case deserves dedicated attention from a professional who’s equipped to handle its nuances.

Hiring the right PI lawyer can significantly affect the outcome of your case and your peace of mind throughout the process. Ask meaningful, pointed questions that reveal how a lawyer will handle your case—not just what they claim they can do.

Prioritize those who demonstrate clear thinking, timely communication, and a results-oriented approach. Make sure their fee structure is transparent and that their courtroom capabilities are well-established, even if your case doesn’t go to trial.

The goal is to find a PI lawyer who is not only experienced but also prepared to handle your case with the seriousness it deserves. By asking the right questions, you place yourself in the best possible position to secure compensation and move forward.

If you're ready to speak with a seasoned team that will advocate fiercely on your behalf, contact Mahoney & Mahoney, LLC today. Schedule a consultation and learn how our firm can help you pursue the compensation you deserve.