Overview
The Electronic Discovery Reference Model (EDRM) serves as a conceptual framework for the electronic discovery process. It provides a standard for organizations to manage electronic data during investigations and litigation. This model outlines the essential stages from data creation to final presentation in a formal setting.
Information Governance
Establishing policies and procedures to manage information throughout its lifecycle. This stage focuses on reducing risk and costs associated with data management before any legal action commences.
Read Detailed AnalysisIdentification
Locating potential sources of electronically stored information. Specialists identify relevant data repositories and determine the scope of information that may be pertinent to the legal matter.
Read Detailed AnalysisPreservation
Ensuring that potentially relevant data is protected against alteration or destruction. A legal hold is typically issued to prevent the routine deletion of records.
Read Detailed AnalysisCollection
Gathering electronically stored information from the identified sources. The collection must be conducted in a manner that maintains the integrity of the original data and metadata.
Read Detailed AnalysisProcessing
Reducing the volume of gathered information through technical means. This stage involves filtering data by date range, file type, or keywords and converting it into formats suitable for review.
Read Detailed AnalysisReview
Evaluating the processed data for relevance and privilege. Legal teams assess documents to determine if they should be produced to the opposing party or withheld based on legal protections.
Read Detailed AnalysisAnalysis
Evaluating the content and context of the information. This phase uses advanced tools to identify patterns, key themes, and relationships within the data set.
Read Detailed AnalysisProduction
Delivering the relevant information that is not privileged to the requesting parties. The data is provided in agreed formats and accompanied by appropriate documentation.
Read Detailed AnalysisPresentation
Displaying the findings before an audience, such as a judge, jury, or administrative body. This final stage involves the strategic use of evidence to support legal arguments.
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