10 Best eDiscovery Certifications For Upskilling In 2024
eDiscovery certifications are valuable for legal professionals, as well as IT specialists who need to manage electronic data for litigation purposes.
I've summarized the best eDiscovery certifications with some notes about who and what each one is best for so you can find the right one for the next step in your career.
Best eDiscovery Certifications Shortlist
- Certified eDiscovery Specialist (CEDS) — Best for comprehensive eDiscovery certification
- Everlaw Product Certification — Best for proficiency in Everlaw software
- Arkfeld eDiscovery Education Center Certifications — Best for in-depth practical training
- National Association of Legal Assistants (NALA) — Best for legal assistants specializing in eDiscovery
- Center for Legal Studies (CLS) by BARBRI — Best for foundational eDiscovery education
- eDiscovery Certification Training — Best for hands-on eDiscovery skills
- UC San Diego Extension eDiscovery and Litigation Technology — Best for advanced litigation technology
- eDiscovery Training with EnCase Information Assurance — Best for comprehensive EnCase training
- Logikcull Certification — Best for mastering Logikcull platform
- Certified eDiscovery Project Manager, CeDPM — Best for project management in eDiscovery
Overview Of The Best eDiscovery Certifications
1. Certified eDiscovery Specialist (CEDS) — Best for comprehensive eDiscovery certification
The Certified eDiscovery Specialist (CEDS) certification, offered by ACEDS, validates a professional's expertise across all critical aspects of eDiscovery, including legal hold, data collection, processing, review, and production. By passing the CEDS exam, professionals demonstrate their proficiency in both the technical and legal components of managing electronically stored information (ESI) during litigation or investigations, earning the recognized CEDS certification.
Issued by: Association of Certified eDiscovery Specialists (ACEDS)
Focus:
- eDiscovery project planning
- Data collection and preservation
- Processing, review, and analysis
- Production and presentation
Prerequisites:
- Education: No formal education requirements
- Work Experience: Recommended but not mandatory
- Exam: Yes, a comprehensive exam covering all aspects of eDiscovery
- Other Certifications: None required
Renewability: Yes, requires ongoing education and recertification
Price:
- Standard package: $1,495
- Complete package: $1,995
Who It’s For: This certification is for professionals who want to demonstrate their wide-ranging knowledge in eDiscovery, enhancing their credibility and career prospects in the legal and IT fields.
2. Everlaw Product Certification — Best for proficiency in Everlaw software
The Everlaw Product Certifications demonstrate proficiency in using the Everlaw platform for various eDiscovery tasks, such as data upload, search, review, and production. They ensure users are equipped to navigate and utilize Everlaw's tools efficiently, enhancing their ability to manage legal documents and facilitate litigation workflows. The certifications validate expertise in leveraging Everlaw’s comprehensive features to streamline eDiscovery processes effectively.
Issued by: Everlaw
Focus:
- Everlaw software navigation
- Document review
- Data analysis
- Case management
Prerequisites:
- Education: No formal education requirements
- Work Experience: None required
- Exam: Yes, practical exam using Everlaw software
- Other Certifications: None required
Renewability: No
Price:
- Content: Free
- Exam fee: Varies per certification track
Who It’s For: This certification is ideal for legal professionals and IT staff who use Everlaw software, ensuring they can utilize all features effectively to manage eDiscovery projects.
3. Arkfeld eDiscovery Education Center Certifications — Best for in-depth practical training
The Arkfeld eDiscovery Education Center provides practical eDiscovery training for law firms, helping professionals enhance their skills in managing electronically stored information (ESI). Their programs focus on the legal and technical aspects of eDiscovery, equipping learners with the tools needed to address modern eDiscovery challenges effectively, with competitive pricing.
Issued by: Arkfeld eDiscovery Education Center
Focus:
- eDiscovery fundamentals
- Legal and technical aspects
- Hands-on training
Prerequisites:
- Education: No formal education requirements
- Work Experience: None required
- Exam: No
- Other Certifications: None required
Renewability: No
Price: $15 per month for each program
Who It’s For: This is for anyone seeking practical skills in eDiscovery, providing a solid foundation for those entering the field or needing hands-on experience.
4. National Association of Legal Assistants (NALA) — Best for legal assistants specializing in eDiscovery
The National Association of Legal Assistants (NALA) offers a specialized certification for legal assistants focusing on eDiscovery, including modules on Relativity and other leading eDiscovery providers. This certification equips professionals with essential knowledge in managing electronically stored information (ESI) within legal proceedings. It provides recognition for expertise in eDiscovery, helping legal assistants enhance their credentials and advance their careers.
Issued by: National Association of Legal Assistants (NALA)
Focus:
- eDiscovery processes
- Legal aspects
- Technology tools
Prerequisites:
- Education: No formal education requirements
- Work Experience: None required
- Exam: Yes
- Other Certifications: Certified Paralegal (CP) or Advanced Certified Paralegal (ACP) designation
Renewability: Yes, every 5 years
Price: $150
Who It’s For: This certification is for legal assistants who want to specialize in eDiscovery, enhancing their qualifications and expanding their career opportunities.
5. Center for Legal Studies (CLS) by BARBRI — Best for foundational eDiscovery education
Center for Legal Studies (CLS) by BARBRI provides a comprehensive education in eDiscovery principles and practices, covering essential legal concepts and practical skills to become an eDiscovery expert. Their programs equip students with the knowledge to manage electronic discovery effectively, helping professionals stay current with industry standards. With flexible learning options, CLS offers an accessible pathway for individuals seeking foundational expertise in eDiscovery.
Issued by: Center for Legal Studies by BARBRI
Focus:
- eDiscovery basics
- Legal concepts
- Technology usage
Prerequisites:
- Education: No formal education requirements
- Work Experience: None required
- Exam: No
- Other Certifications: None required
Renewability: No
Price: Varies per certification
Who It’s For: This certification is suitable for beginners in the eDiscovery field, providing them with essential knowledge and skills to start their careers.
6. eDiscovery Certificate by Legal Technology Society — Best for legal technology enthusiasts
The eDiscovery Certificate by the Legal Technology Society offers specialized eDiscovery courses with comprehensive course materials and practical insights into key processes and technologies. Participants earn a digital badge upon completion and learn to navigate eDiscovery functionality, enhancing their ability to manage electronically stored information (ESI) effectively.
Issued by: Legal Technology Society
Focus:
- eDiscovery processes
- Legal technology
- Data management
Prerequisites:
- Education: No formal education requirements
- Work Experience: None required
- Exam: Yes
- Other Certifications: None required
Renewability: Yes
Price: $160
Who It’s For: This certification is ideal for legal professionals and technology enthusiasts looking to specialize in eDiscovery and legal tech, showcasing their expertise in managing eDiscovery tasks.
7. UC San Diego Extension eDiscovery and Litigation Technology — Best for advanced litigation technology
UC San Diego Extension's eDiscovery and Litigation Technology certification offers advanced education in managing electronic discovery, making it worth it for your team. This program provides CLE credit and professional certifications, equipping legal professionals with the skills needed for the eDiscovery industry. It offers practical insights into the latest technologies and best practices, ensuring proficiency in handling complex digital evidence.
Issued by: UC San Diego Extension
Focus:
- Advanced eDiscovery
- Litigation technology
- Data analytics
Prerequisites: None
- Education: Have completed these courses:
- Understanding E-Discovery and Litigation TechnologyLAW-40068
- Applying E-Discovery and Litigation TechnologyLAW-40069
- Work Experience: None required
- Exam: No
- Other Certifications: None required
Renewability: No
Price: $3,095
Who It’s For: This certification is for professionals seeking advanced knowledge in eDiscovery and litigation technology, enhancing their expertise and career prospects in the legal tech industry.
8. eDiscovery Training with EnCase Information Assurance — Best for comprehensive EnCase training
This certification delivers an extensive, hands-on learning experience for mastering EnCase software in the eDiscovery workflow. Participants will gain a deep understanding of using EnCase for data collection, preservation, analysis, and reporting, ensuring compliance with legal and regulatory requirements. The course covers best practices for managing electronic evidence and provides real-world scenarios to build proficiency in navigating complex eDiscovery challenges.
Issued by: OpenText
Focus:
- EnCase software training
- Information assurance
Prerequisites:
- Education: None
- Work Experience:
- Exam: Completion of course assessments
- Other Certifications Required: None
Price: $3,200
Who It’s For:
- Ideal for professionals seeking to deepen their proficiency in EnCase software for eDiscovery tasks.
- It is tailored for users of OpenText™ EnCase™ Information Assurance (formerly EnCase eDiscovery) and is ideal for current owners or those considering its purchase.
9. Logikcull Certification — Best for mastering Logikcull platform
This certification confirms proficiency in using the Logikcull platform for efficient eDiscovery and data management, covering essential features like data upload, culling, and document review to streamline the eDiscovery process. It is designed for professionals seeking to optimize workflows and ensure compliance in handling digital evidence.
Issued by: Logikcull
Focus:
- Logikcull platform usage
- Data management and eDiscovery
Prerequisites:
- Education: None
- Work Experience: None
- Exam: Completion of platform training
- Other Certifications Required: None
Renewability: No expiration
Who It’s For: Suitable for individuals aiming to demonstrate proficiency in managing eDiscovery projects using Logikcull.
10. Certified eDiscovery Project Manager, CeDPM — Best for project management in eDiscovery
This certification demonstrates expertise in efficiently managing eDiscovery projects, focusing on planning, coordinating, and overseeing all phases of the eDiscovery lifecycle. It equips professionals with the skills to ensure project timelines, budgets, and compliance requirements are met, making it essential for those leading eDiscovery initiatives.
Issued by: eDiscovery Certification Council
Focus:
- Project management
- eDiscovery processes
Prerequisites:
- Education: eDiscovery background
- Work Experience: Project management experience recommended
- Exam: Required
- Other Certifications Required: None
Renewability: Yes, requires periodic renewal
Who It’s For: Designed for professionals who need to exhibit strong project management capabilities in eDiscovery settings.
FAQs about eDiscovery Certifications
What is an eDiscovery certification?
An eDiscovery certification is a professional credential that demonstrates expertise and knowledge in electronic discovery processes, including data identification, preservation, collection, analysis, and production in legal cases.
Who should consider getting an eDiscovery certification?
Legal professionals, including attorneys, paralegals, and litigation support specialists, who work with electronic data in the context of legal discovery, should consider obtaining an eDiscovery certification to enhance their skills and credibility.
How should you prepare for an eDiscovery certification exam?
Preparation for an eDiscovery certification exam typically involves studying relevant materials, such as industry standards, best practices, and legal requirements, as well as participating in training programs or courses offered by recognized organizations.
What are some recognized organizations that offer eDiscovery certifications?
Some recognized organizations that offer eDiscovery certifications include the Association of Certified E-Discovery Specialists (ACEDS) and the Organization of Legal Professionals (OLP).
How does having an eDiscovery certification benefit a legal professional?
Having an eDiscovery certification benefits a legal professional by enhancing their credibility, demonstrating their commitment to staying current with industry standards, and potentially increasing their career opportunities and earning potential.
Other Useful Resources
Here are a few other useful resources to check out:
- Best eDiscovery software guide
- Guide to the eDiscovery process
- Best legal tech podcasts
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