§ 202.20-j Adherence to the Electronically Stored Information (“ESI”) Guidelines Set Forth in Appendix Hereto

When a case involves electronic records like emails, texts, or digital files, everyone involved is expected to follow a specific set of guidelines for handling that information. These guidelines are listed in Appendix A of the court rules, and they cover how to collect, share, and manage electronic evidence during a case.

This applies to both parties in the lawsuit and to outside people or companies who might have relevant electronic records, even if they aren't directly part of the case. Following these guidelines helps keep the process consistent and avoids disputes over how electronic evidence should be handled.

If you're involved in a case that includes electronic records, it's worth reviewing Appendix A closely. Knowing what's expected upfront can save time and prevent problems later, especially if there are disagreements about producing or preserving digital information.