How to Make the Document Review Process More Efficient
Document review is one of the most labor-intensive parts of the litigation process. Even with support from eDiscovery solutions, document review can require considerable time, energy, and expense. A research brief published by the RAND Institute found that document review accounts for 73% of the total cost of document production, which in turn accounts for much of the cost of litigation. Here are some ways to help make the document review process more efficient:
Maintain Consistent Standards and Processes Across Multiple Cases
While each case is unique, standardizing certain processes can improve efficiency by preventing attorneys and support staff from having to start fresh every time they begin a review. Certain elements are present in every case, and using the same case team for similar case types or for similar clients can create efficiencies. For example, using a document review team with extensive experience in antitrust matters to handle a new antitrust matter will reduce the need to explain core concepts and issues. Similarly, using consistent templates for collecting data and tagging documents across similar case or client types will speed the review process without sacrificing quality.
Choose the Right Team
Document review requires a distinct skill set, particularly when complex privilege or confidentiality designations are required. A review team needs strong project management skills and technological knowledge along with legal and subject matter expertise. Getting started with the right team can reduce the cost of document review by promoting maximum efficiency.
Choose the Right Tools
Document review and production no longer require lawyers to pore over every potentially responsive document in a litigation. Technology-assisted review (TAR), along with an experienced document review team, can use artificial intelligence and machine learning to help identify responsive documents. A document review team experienced in working with TAR tools can handle the details of managing the TAR process, freeing partners, associates, and in-house counsel to deal with other aspects of litigation.
Learn More
Baer Reed provides a wide range of support services for law firms and in-house counsel, helping them streamline and optimize complex litigation processes like document review and privilege review. Contact us today to learn more.
- On August 29, 2023
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