Metadata has emerged as a critical component of electronic discovery (eDiscovery), yet it often remains underutilized or inadvertently compromised. Metadata, defined as the embedded information within electronic files, plays a pivotal role in the management, preservation, and production of electronically stored information (ESI). This hidden data provides essential context, offering insights into the authenticity, integrity, and chronology of electronic evidence. Despite its significance, metadata is susceptible to alteration or deletion, often occurring without detection. As the legal profession increasingly intersects with digital technologies, a basic understanding of metadata has become crucial for legal practitioners.
This whitepaper serves as a primer on metadata in eDiscovery, introducing its concept, importance, and common pitfalls. By highlighting real-world examples and best practices, we aim to raise awareness among legal professionals about the value of metadata and the potential consequences of its mismanagement. Our goal is to equip attorneys with foundational knowledge to navigate metadata-related issues, ultimately avoiding unnecessary complications in litigation and promoting more effective client representation in our increasingly digital legal landscape.