New Federal Rules Prompt Assessment of Record Retention Policies

As of December 1, the Federal Rules of Civil Procedure streamline the disclosure of electronic records between litigants. (Link, see especially Rules 16, 26, 33, 34, and 37.) Previously, the exchange of electronic records was haphazard and sanctions for failing to produce were more difficult to obtain. Experts thus urge institutions to have (and follow) explicit policies regarding destruction of electronic records. (Chronicle of Higher Ed.) Ombuds would be well advised to make sure they follow suit.