Models for Building Internal Capacity

1 FOX ROTHSCHILD
An informal e-discovery team of four technologists and an attorney work closely with the lawyer handling a specific case. To manage e-discovery efficiently, the team devises and implements strategies such as a client intake procedure that solicits information about the type and amount of ESI involved in a new case. Each matter has a streamlined e-discovery plan aimed at curbing costs by obviating the need to redo work. Team members handle some of the e-discovery work themselves, and engage tech vendors and contract attorneys as needed.

2 FARELLA BRAUN + MARTEL
All litigation attorneys are expected to be fluent in e-discovery, while a ten-member task force comprised of legal practitioners coordinates efforts to educate the firm's attorneys and clients on the most recent e-discovery developments. According to the firm, this overall expertise ensures that high-volume data sets are efficiently collected, processed, and reviewed, which saves clients money.

3 PILLSBURY WINTHROP SHAW PITTMAN
A discovery team of 23 attorneys, plus additional staff, handles all aspects of discovery in coordination with a provider alliance network, which includes a document review company with some overseas facilities and staff. A core group of attorneys also collaborates on initiatives such as engaging new vendors and developing internal e-discovery training. Typically, a team member oversees the e-discovery efforts on large cases. Clients are billed for managing e-discovery projects, but all services provided by the preferred-vendor network are offered at cost-a savings of 20 percent to 50 percent.

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