Ride the Lightning

Law Firm Data Breach Practice

June 29, 2015

As Bloomberg BNA has reported, law firms are rapidly forming data breach practice groups offering a host of related services, but all reflective of our breach-a-day world. The latest is Akerman, which launched an 18-person Data Law group this month focusing on data security, information governance and e-discovery.

Martin Tully, co-chair of Akerman’s Data Law practice group, explained that while the breaches at Target make national headlines, smaller breaches occur on an almost daily basis. Akerman is working with outside technology vendors to help the firm’s clients install better security systems, and make plans in the event of a data breach. Just as offices hold fire drills, he said, many companies are now engaging in exercises that simulate a breach.

Information governance also presents opportunities as so many clients would love to get rid of the vast amounts of data they pay to store, but are unsure of their legal obligations to preserve it and looking for legal guidance. E-discovery remains an ongoing headache for many businesses who feel overwhelmed by its obligations.

Mary Meeker, of venture capital firm Kleiner Perkins Caufield & Byers, also highlighted the need for better cybersecurity in her annual presentation on Internet trends earlier this year. As she noted, 4 out of 5 organizations don't update their breach response plants to account for the changing threats and corporate processes. 30% of organizations cite a problematic shortage of data security and forensics skills.

Based on our own experience, the vast majority of small to mid-size business lack these skills. But at least there is a growing pool of legal expertise that they can tap. Welcome to the party Akerman.

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