E-mail and Records Management in the Legal Environment

Law firms have historically recognized the need to keep all legal matters in some kind of permanent file. Therefore, the position of "record manager" is well known. However, the definition of a "record" has expanded in scope to encompass all computer-generated documents. Importantly, that now includes e-mail and e-mail attachments. This article will explore the differences between records and documents, the unique challenge e-mail represents and issues to be aware of when setting up a cutting edge records management system.

7 minute read November 01, 2003 at 02:07 PM
By
Kurt Thies
E-mail and Records Management in the Legal Environment

Law firms have historically recognized the need to keep all legal matters in some kind of permanent file. Therefore, the position of “record manager” is well known. However, the definition of a “record” has expanded in scope to encompass all computer-generated documents.

This premium content is locked for LawJournalNewsletters subscribers only

ENJOY UNLIMITED ACCESS TO THE SINGLE SOURCE OF OBJECTIVE LEGAL ANALYSIS, PRACTICAL INSIGHTS, AND NEWS IN LawJournalNewsletters

  • Stay current on the latest information, rulings, regulations, and trends
  • Includes practical, must-have information on copyrights, royalties, AI, and more
  • Tap into expert guidance from top entertainment lawyers and experts
Subscribe Now

Already have an account? Sign In Now

For enterprise-wide or corporate access, please contact Customer Service at [email protected] or call 1-877-256-2473.

NOT FOR REPRINT

© 2026 ALM Global, LLC, All Rights Reserved. Request academic re-use from www.copyright.com. All other uses, submit a request to [email protected]. For more information visit Asset & Logo Licensing.

Continue Reading

Is Your Law Firm’s AI Ready for Answer Engines and Clients?

AI claims are getting more scrutiny and regulators are looking more closely at whether organizations can substantiate what they say their AI does, while courts are beginning to address what happens when AI-generated search summaries get information wrong.

November 01, 2026

When AI Agents Trigger a Crisis, Part 2: Before the Agent Acts

This is the second in a two-part series on AI-driven crises. Part 1 examined communications during an incident while the facts are still developing. Part 2 addresses crisis plans, governance and tabletop exercises before an agent acts on behalf of the business.

November 01, 2026
Centellic Logo

© Copyright 2026 ALM Global, LLC trading as Centellic.

Advertise with Us Customer Support Terms of Service