Paul Easton

15 Years of ACEDS: A Conversation with Paul Easton

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The Association of Certified E-Discovery Specialists (ACEDS) has been a driving force in shaping the e-discovery profession for 15 years. As part of our anniversary series, we’re spotlighting members whose early involvement helped lay the foundation for the thriving community we see today. In this installment, we’re honored to feature Paul Easton, who joins James Bickley in or Hall of Fame as one of the first three individuals to take and pass the Certified E-Discovery Specialist (CEDS) exam.

Paul’s journey provides a unique perspective on the evolution of the e-discovery industry, the transformative impact of ACEDS, and the innovations that will define the future. His insights are a testament to the professionalism, dedication, and community spirit that ACEDS has fostered over the years.

Maribel: You were among the first to take the CEDS exam and become an ACEDS member. What inspired you to pursue this certification, and what did being an early member mean to you at the time?

Paul: I was already a member of other professional organizations at the time, both bar associations and the Project Management Institute (PMI). I derived a lot of value from the networking, educational resources, and recognition from my participation in such organizations. So, I was pleased to see ACEDS form and develop a certification and training program.

Maribel: Over the last 15 years, the eDiscovery industry has evolved significantly. What are the most pivotal changes or trends that have shaped the industry since ACEDS began?

Paul: Over the last 15 years, the e-discovery industry has seen remarkable changes, though many technological advancements—such as predictive coding, assisted-review technologies, and the shift to cloud-based solutions—have been more incremental than revolutionary. Despite this, these tools have gradually improved efficiency, scalability, and accessibility, shaping how legal teams approach discovery.

The most unquestionably transformative trend, however, has been the growing awareness and adoption of e-discovery technology within the broader legal profession. Fifteen years ago, e-discovery was often viewed as a niche or auxiliary function. Today, it is widely recognized as a critical component of litigation, compliance, and investigations. This shift has not only elevated the importance of e-discovery tools but has also led to the emergence of e-discovery as a distinct profession.

The professionalization of the field has been particularly pivotal. The development of certifications like CEDS, the growth of specialized roles, and the rise of e-discovery experts as integral members of legal teams have all solidified e-discovery as a career path.

Maribel: How has being part of the ACEDS community and holding the CEDS credential impacted your career, personal growth, or perspective on the industry?

Paul: Being part of the ACEDS community and holding the CEDS credential has significantly impacted my career and personal growth. ACEDS has been instrumental in driving the recognition and professionalism of e-discovery as a distinct career path. Over the years, I’ve noticed a growing number of job advertisements specifically listing the CEDS certification as a desirable qualification, which has undoubtedly enhanced my marketability as a candidate and consultant.

More importantly, my ACEDS membership has allowed me to connect with local e-discovery communities, especially during periods of relocation. This network has been invaluable for both personal and professional growth. As someone who has served as a hiring manager for e-discovery positions, I can confidently say that the CEDS credential demonstrates a candidate’s dedication to the profession and commitment to staying current in this rapidly evolving field.

Maribel: As we approach 2025, what are your predictions for the future of the eDiscovery profession? Are there emerging trends or technologies that will redefine how we approach eDiscovery?

Paul: While this is hardly a hot take, I believe generative AI will bring both significant opportunities and challenges to the e-discovery profession. Unlike predictive coding and other assisted-review technologies, which were slower to gain widespread adoption and had less impact than initially anticipated, the development and integration of generative AI are progressing at a much faster pace.

For e-discovery professionals, gaining expertise in generative AI will be crucial. This includes understanding how to appropriately leverage these tools in e-discovery processes while being mindful of their risks and ethical considerations. Generative AI has the potential to disrupt traditional workflows, particularly the more routine, bread-and-butter tasks in e-discovery. Professionals who continue to rely solely on traditional processes risk becoming obsolete in an increasingly AI-driven landscape.

Maribel: With your experience and insight, what advice would you give to professionals entering the eDiscovery field today, and how do you see careers in this space evolving over the next decade?

Paul: Working in e-discovery requires navigating two interconnected worlds: law and technology. To succeed, you must develop a solid understanding of both. If you come from a technical background, take the time to educate yourself on legal principles and the processes surrounding discovery. Conversely, if you come from a legal background, immerse yourself in the technology and its applications in e-discovery. Fortunately, there are more resources than ever to help bridge these gaps. ACEDS is an excellent starting point, and organizations like the EDRM offer free webinars and materials. Additionally, online conferences such as the UF Law E-Discovery Conference and E-Discovery Day provide accessible and valuable learning opportunities.

My best advice is to approach the field with genuine curiosity and passion. E-discovery can be demanding, requiring you to balance complex legal requirements with technological challenges, often under tight deadlines and in high-pressure situations. It’s difficult to thrive in this environment without a deep interest in and enjoyment of the work.

Finally, prioritize building relationships within the e-discovery community. Networking with industry peers can provide support, mentorship, and opportunities for growth. A strong professional network can make all the difference in navigating challenges and staying engaged in this challenging, but interesting and ever-evolving field.

Paul’s journey reflects the transformative growth of e-discovery, the essential role of ACEDS in shaping the profession, and the opportunities that lie ahead. His insights emphasize the importance of staying adaptable, engaged, and connected to the community in a rapidly evolving industry.

Do you have a story about how ACEDS has helped shape your career or expanded your networking opportunities? We’d love to hear from you! Share your experiences with us by reaching out directly—and don’t forget to send any photos or videos from ACEDS events or milestones over the years.

We’ve already received some amazing stories and encourage everyone to keep submitting. Join the celebration on social media using the hashtags #WeAreACEDS and #ACEDSTurns15 to share your memories and connect with others in the community.

Maribel Rivera on Email
Maribel Rivera
VP, Strategy and Client Engagement at ACEDS
As Vice President of Strategy and Client Engagement at ACEDS, Maribel is responsible for local chapter, membership, event management, and strategic partner engagement. A seasoned professional who has helped brands and businesses connect with their audiences and achieve their goals, her breadth of experience, strategic and creative abilities unlock innovation and bring business ideas to life. Prior to ACEDS, she consulted for a variety of private clients in technology, education, and recruiting, crafting and leading marketing and operations solutions for small and mid-sized companies. She also worked as director of sales operations for Fronteo USA Inc. An active member of Women in eDiscovery and ARMA Metro NYC, she also devotes time to charitable work. She speaks regularly on marketing and diversity and inclusion. When she isn’t working, Maribel enjoys traveling, reading, education and working out. Reach her at [email protected].

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