On 6/2/05, Gary L. Grieme <[log in to unmask]> wrote:
> >>>>  Please read the confidentiality statement below  <<<<
>
> <For the most part, they seem to have no problem with the destruction
> period, just with the event
> date to start the clock ticking.>
>
> This might be the central issue.  It's fine to start with a clear-cut
> guideline, e.g., "destroy 5 years after case closed or appeal process
> expired," but when a matter is closed, the attorney should have input to
> say either the standard retention period is OK, or the file needs to be
> retained until year X for reason Y.  That probably applies for inhouse
> counsel records in any industry.  Gus, getting all the lawyers aboard is
> like herding cats but by asking for their input on each case that might
> eliminate all their valid reasons for not complying.


I have a fundamental problem with the above. Asking the attorney if
the standard retention period is ok or do they need to keep it longer
just doesn't ring right with me. Where is the consistency in the
retention program? Wouldn't it be better to establish retention
periods for different types of matters then to continually ask the
attorneys opinion on how long to keep the file? Now I agree that
getting the attorneys to all agree on a standard retention period is
like herding cats, but isn't that our job?

--
Peter Kurilecz
Richmond, Va

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