Litigators know eDiscovery can be one of the most unpredictable line items in a case budget. One unexpected dataset, increased custodian counts, complex forensic collections, or intractable opposing counsel, and the numbers start to climb – fast.

After 26 years in eDiscovery, I’ve come to appreciate the evolving complexity and nuance of our work. From paper productions to chat data, the tools and platforms we rely on have transformed dramatically. Yet one thing has remained constant: mastery matters.

In January we published a tongue in cheek bingo card before Legalweek that poked fun of many of the words and phrases used by eDiscovery software and services providers, like “voluminous data” and “explosion of data.”

It was a silly thing, but it resonated because the terms are all ubiquitous.

AmLaw firms get lots of love in eDiscovery circles, leaving many small and mid-sized firms to feel under-resourced and unsure of what to do when they have eDiscovery needs. This brief post is addressed to small law firms, and while it doesn't contain anything earth-shattering, hopefully it will grant a bit of perspective and peace of mind.