Can I Destroy This? Managing Corporate Records in an Ever Expanding Recorded World

Abstract

When one thinks of in-house corporate lawyers, they likely think of contract drafting and review, compliance matters, advising business lines and employees on legal issues, or advising executives on legal risks. However, one job function of a corporate lawyer that may be just as important is the oversight of the company’s records retention policies. Too often this company task is overlooked and undervalued, This article makes the case for why it’s critically important for a company to maintain a solid, company-wide records retention policy. It also explores the negative implications that companies could endure for not having such a policy in place. Finally, it provides a framework for companies to utilize in crafting and implementing their own records retention policies.