Job market reflects importance of eDiscovery preparedness

Recognizing the importance and the increasing challenges of eDiscovery, companies will focus on hiring professionals that specialize in such litigation technology, according to a recent report from the Cowen Group, 2010 Salary Study.

The report predicts that more than 200 eDiscovery and other litigation technology professionals will be hired during the first six months of 2011. The group also expects this hiring boom to accelerate the competitiveness of landing an eDiscovery support position.

The boom is fueled by the increase in eDiscovery cases and growing complexity of responding to litigation.

"New litigation and resumed work on previously stalled litigation is driving the next wave of litigation support and eDiscovery hiring," said David Cowen, president and founder of the Cowen Group.

Cowen's report expects the jobs to be created at corporations, law firms and eDiscovery support solutions vendors.

Facing an eDiscovery case is becoming ever more common, forcing companies to ensure they are properly prepared. A recent Lexology report revealed that eDiscovery cases slightly increased in 2010, compared to the year before. There were 209 eDiscovery cases through December 1 of last year, compared to 208 total in 2009.