The Litigation and Practice Support Data Collection Lead is responsible for overseeing the firm’s data collection activities in connection with e-discovery and digital forensics in litigation and investigative matters. This role requires a deep understanding of the legal, technical, and procedural aspects of digital evidence identification, preservation, and collection. The successful candidate will lead a team of analysts and technicians, develop and enforce standardized protocols, and work cross-functionally with legal, compliance, and cybersecurity stakeholders to ensure defensible, efficient, and secure collection practices. The role demands strong leadership, excellent communication skills, and a commitment to maintaining data integrity, confidentiality, and chain-of-custody standards. Innovation, operational excellence, and the ability to navigate evolving technology and legal landscapes are essential to advancing the maturity of the firm’s litigation support capabilities.

• Manage and oversee the collection of digital evidence in support of client matter engagements.
• Advise lawyers and client regarding identification, preservation and collection
• Supervise a team of analysts and technicians during acquisition processes.
• Coordinate with legal, compliance, and cybersecurity teams to support investigations and litigation holds.
• Ensure proper handling of sensitive data and maintain strict confidentiality and integrity of all collected materials
• Develop and implement standardized procedures for evidence collection, preservation, and chain-of-custody documentation.
• Maintain and calibrate collection tools and technologies (e.g., Relativity Collect, Pinpoint Labs, and Cellebrite).
• Provide guidance on best practices for remote and on-site collections across various devices and data sources (e.g., laptops, mobile devices, cloud platforms).
• Conduct quality control and audit checks to ensure completeness and accuracy of forensic collections.
• Document methodologies and findings in clear, defensible reports suitable for legal proceedings.

Salaries vary by location and are based on numerous factors, including, but not limited to, the relevant market, skills, experience, and education of the selected candidate. If an estimated salary range for this role is available, it will be provided in our Target Salary Range section. Our compensation package also includes bonus eligibility and a comprehensive benefits program. Benefits information can be found at Sidley.com/Benefits.

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform the Duties and Responsibilities (Duties) above satisfactorily and meet the requirements below. The requirements listed below are representative of the minimum knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations will be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the job. If you need such an accommodation, please email staffrecruiting@sidley.com (current employees should contact Human Resources). 

Education and/or Experience: 

Required:

• Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Information Systems, Digital Forensics, or a related technical field, or equivalent experience in a related area
• A minimum of 3 years of experience in digital forensics, e-discovery, or litigation support with a focus on data collections
• Demonstrated expertise in forensic collection tools and platforms (e.g., Cellebrite, FTK Imager, X1 Social Discovery, Relativity Collect, Pinpoint Labs)
• Strong understanding of e-discovery lifecycle, EDRM framework, and chain-of-custody protocols
• Experience coordinating with legal teams on collection strategy and execution
• Familiarity with data sources such as mobile devices, cloud platforms (e.g., M365, Google Workspace), laptops, and enterprise systems
• Excellent documentation and reporting skills, particularly for defensibility in legal proceedings

Preferred:

• Relevant industry certifications, such as EnCase Certified Examiner (EnCE), Certified Computer Examiner (CCE), GIAC Certified Forensic Analyst (GCFA), Cellebrite Certified Operator/Examiner (CCO/CCE), or AccessData Certified Examiner (ACE)
• Experience providing expert or fact witness testimony in legal proceedings related to digital forensics or data collection

Other Skills and Abilities:

The following will also be required of the successful candidate:

• Strong organizational skills
• Strong attention to detail
• Good judgment
• Strong interpersonal communication skills
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
• Able to work harmoniously and effectively with others
• Able to preserve confidentiality and exercise discretion
• Able to work under pressure
• Able to manage multiple projects with competing deadlines and priorities

Sidley Austin LLP is an Equal Opportunity Employer

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