E-discovery is the process by which parties share, review, and collect electronically stored information (ESI) to use as evidence in a legal matter1. The rules for e-discovery mainly prevent a conflict between business practice and technological safeguards, because they establish the standards and procedures for preserving, collecting, reviewing, and producing ESI in a way that balances the needs of litigation with the realities of technology2. For example, the Federal Rules of Civil Procedure (FRCP) provide guidance on the scope, timing, format, and methods of e-discovery, as well as the sanctions for failing to comply with e-discovery obligations3. The rules also encourage cooperation and communication among parties and courts to resolve e-discovery issues efficiently and effectively4. By following the rules for e-discovery, parties can avoid disputes, delays, and costs that may arise from incompatible or inconsistent business and technological practices.

The other options are not the main purpose of the rules for e-discovery, although they may be related or affected by them. The rules for e-discovery do not directly prevent the loss of information due to poor data retention practices, although they do impose a duty to preserve relevant ESI when litigation is reasonably anticipated5. The rules for e-discovery do not directly prevent the practice of employees using personal devices for work, although they do require parties to identify and disclose the sources of ESI that may be subject to discovery, including personal devices6. The rules for e-discovery do not directly prevent a breach of an organization’s data retention program, although they do require parties to produce ESI in a reasonably usable form and to protect privileged or confidential information7.

References: 1: Everything You Need to Know About E-Discovery, The National Law Review. 2: E-Discovery: The Basics of E-Discovery Guide - Exterro, Exterro.com. 3: Federal Court and Government Agency E-Discovery Rules and Guidelines, Crowell & Moring LLP. 4: FRCP Rule 1, Cornell Law School. 5: FRCP Rule 37, Cornell Law School. 6: FRCP Rule 26, Cornell Law School. 7: FRCP Rule 34, Cornell Law School.