E-Discovery dodges the bullet...
Of the 2100 layoffs since January 2009, less than 3% (60) have impacted E-Discovery and Litigation Support professionals. See Layoff Tracker for specific details.
Here's a quick overview of how we see E-Discovery staffing in the first quarter...
#1 - Most AmLaw 200 firms are holding off on permanent staffing. This will increase the demand for contract employees and outside vendors for their E-Discovery work.
#2 - Corporate E-Discovery headcount remains flat as they continue to wrestle with budget cuts, layoffs and in-house E-Discovery planning. This should be good news for vendors and outside counsel.
#3 - Vendors are proactively and in some cases aggressively looking for talented sales and client services professionals. Good news for talented individuals that find themselves with a shaky firm.
The use of contract and temporary workers is typical during recessionary periods. If permanent staff cuts go deeper then contract staffing and outsourcing will continue to increase.
While this is not great news if you've been laid off it does offer firms the opportunity to hire experienced talent that is highly motivated and affordable.
I would like to continue gathering valid data points on staffing trends in the litigation support and E-Discovery community. But for this I need your help.
I'm particularly interested in hearing from Human Resource Managers and decision-makers at firms that have had layoffs and/or are using contract staff to fill in the gaps left by layoffs.
Please get in touch with me by e-mail at david@cowengroup.com. All contacts and communications will be kept confidential.
