Mark Surguy & Saida Joseph examine the latest methods for the outsourcing of document review
In Lord Justice Jackson’s litigation costs report last year, he noted that the growth in electronically-stored information (ESI) has directly led to the increase in legal costs, particularly those associated with the disclosure process. As advances in technology continue, more and more information is transmitted and stored electronically, via smart phones, tablets, multiple mobile phone devices, and communication terminals such as Bloomberg, as well as traditional desk top machines, databases and servers. Does this mean that legal costs are equally going to increase in line with this ever-expanding volume of ESI?
Modern disclosure process
The modern disclosure process is made up of a number of features, including locating, collecting, processing and reviewing the electronic data. Document review is commonly thought of as the most expensive element of any electronic disclosure exercise and can account for as much as 60%-85% of the total cost of a single case.