Ilya E. Lerma, Esq. - Founder & Lead Consultant

As a practicing personal injury attorney with over 25 years of courtroom experience, Ilya understands what you're up against. She's walked in your shoes, securing record-setting verdicts and serving as Past President of the Arizona Association for Justice. But more importantly, she knows how to see through the psychology and excuses of the defense—and she's dedicated her practice to making your great cases legendary.

Ilya founded Ilya Law because she recognized that traditional trial consulting was missing something critical: a deep understanding of personal injury law and the unique challenges PI attorneys face. When insurance companies deploy their predictable psychological tactics, Ilya doesn't just prepare your witnesses—she transforms them. Her witness preparation approach takes your clients and witnesses from nervous to natural, creating testimonies that truly persuade juries.

Whether you engage Ilya Law early in case development or closer to trial, Ilya brings a strategic advantage that only comes from being both a successful litigator and a master consultant. She's helped attorneys nationwide construct opening statements that dismantle defense narratives before they take root, and frame complex cases so juries can see the truth clearly.

As a nationally sought-after speaker at prestigious forums including the American Association for Justice's "Weekend with the Stars" and the National Trial Lawyers Summit, Ilya shares her expertise on defeating defense narratives and exposing insurance company tactics. But her real passion lies in the one-on-one work with attorneys like you—turning your great cases into the legendary wins your clients deserve.

Brad Schaeffer - Director of Trial & Consulting Operations

Brad brings the operational excellence that makes Ilya's vision a reality. With extensive experience as the former Executive Director of Trial Structure, Brad has collaborated with trial attorneys nationwide and understands the intricate details that can make or break a case.

In January 2024, Brad joined forces with Ilya to bring all consulting operations in-house, ensuring that every client receives the personalized attention and strategic depth that sets Ilya Law apart. Brad's comprehensive approach to case development means he's involved from day one, working alongside attorneys to shape and frame cases for maximum impact.

Brad's expertise spans the full spectrum of trial preparation: conducting highly effective focus groups that extract the insights you need to refine your strategy, guiding witnesses through depositions and trial preparations, and building the trust and comfort your clients need to excel in the courtroom. His hands-on approach ensures that no detail is overlooked and every element of your case works together seamlessly.

Supporting Ilya's mission to hold the defense accountable when they refuse to be responsible, Brad provides the operational backbone that delivers innovative methods and actionable insights. Whether you need support throughout your entire case lifecycle or assistance with specific phases, Brad ensures that Ilya Law's proven strategies translate into real results for your clients.

Ready to make your great case legendary? Contact Ilya Law today to discover how our unique combination of legal expertise and consulting excellence can transform your next trial.