The Role of Electronically Stored Information (ESI) in Your Case

In today’s world, almost everything we do leaves a digital footprint. Text messages, emails, social media posts, phone records, and even GPS data can become critical pieces of evidence in a legal dispute. Courts call this type of material Electronically Stored Information (ESI), and it plays a central role in many cases today. At the Law Office of Erin Bradley McAleer, we help clients understand how ESI can be used for or against them and why managing it correctly is vital to protecting your case.

What Counts as Electronically Stored Information (ESI)?

ESI is any information stored in electronic form. This includes documents saved on computers, messages on your phone, posts on Facebook or Instagram, and records stored in cloud accounts. Even metadata—like the time and location a file was created, can become evidence. Because ESI is everywhere, it is often one of the most powerful tools in litigation.

Why ESI Matters in Your Case

For clients, ESI can make or break a case. A single email, text, or screenshot may confirm your side of the story, or be used by the other side to challenge it. Courts also expect both parties to preserve electronic evidence once they know a case might happen. If important ESI is deleted or mishandled, the court can impose penalties that hurt your credibility or even weaken your defense.

How Attorneys Use ESI Strategically

An experienced attorney knows how to use ESI strategically. This means more than just collecting digital files. It involves reviewing metadata, challenging the authenticity of electronic evidence, and making sure the other side produces what they are required to share. It also means protecting you from accusations of destroying or withholding electronic records. At our firm, we carefully review ESI to ensure it supports your case rather than creates unexpected risks.

Protecting Yourself as a Client

If you are involved in a legal dispute, one of the best things you can do is preserve all electronic information related to your case. Save text messages, emails, and documents instead of deleting them. Do not post about your case on social media. Bring everything you think might matter to your attorney, even if you are not sure it is important. Being proactive about ESI gives your attorney more tools to work with and prevents surprises later on.

How the Law Office of Erin Bradley McAleer Can Help

Managing electronic evidence is one of the most complex parts of modern litigation. At the Law Office of Erin Bradley McAleer, we understand how judges treat ESI, how opposing parties may try to use it, and how to build a strong strategy around it. Our thorough approach helps clients avoid costly mistakes while using digital evidence to their advantage.

If you are facing a legal dispute where electronic evidence may come into play, contact the Law Office of Erin Bradley McAleer today. We will guide you through the process and protect your case every step of the way.