Navigating the Maze: Lauren Fishman on Compliance, Governance, and eDiscovery Innovation
- Cosmonauts Team
- Oct 28
- 5 min read
In a world where data crosses borders faster than regulations can keep pace, legal professionals face an increasingly complex landscape of compliance, governance, and risk. At Future Lawyer Canada, Lauren Fishman, National Director of eDiscovery and Information Governance at Borden Ladner Gervais LLP (BLG), will share her expertise on the panel “Navigating the Maze: Compliance, Governance, and Regulation.”
With over 15 years at the intersection of law and technology, Lauren has witnessed eDiscovery evolve from paper files to machine learning and generative AI, integrating these innovations into defensible, value-driven legal processes.
Her expertise in applying these innovations while maintaining client trust and compliance makes her insights invaluable. Here, Lauren shares her perspective on how technology, governance, and strategy intersect to address modern legal challenges.
You have over 15 years of experience at the intersection of law and technology, with a particular emphasis on eDiscovery. How have you seen this field evolve, and what do you anticipate will be the most significant changes in the next five years?
LF: The field of eDiscovery has undergone a remarkable transformation since I began practicing. We started out sifting through boxes of paper documents, then moved to scanning and using OCR technology to digitize and search those files. More recently, we have embraced powerful tools like machine learning and, now, generative AI, which enable us to review and analyze vast amounts of information with unprecedented speed and efficiency. The pace of technological advancement seems to accelerate every year, bringing new solutions that continually reshape how we work.
You've been recognized as a "Change Agent in Law."(2019 Lexpert Zenith Awards) What do you see as the most significant change happening in the legal industry right now?
MP: One area that deserves much more attention is the impact we are now seeing on the apprenticeship model. For centuries we have essentially developed lawyers in the same way: Go to law school, followed by hands-on experience under the guidance of more experienced lawyers. With the rise of advanced tools and technologies, some of the work that articling students and young associates do can now be automated or streamlined. If they don’t get that foundational experience researching or drafting agreements, etc., how will they develop into trusted advisors? This shift has significant implications for the future of legal expertise, and it’s one that we are actively addressing internally by rethinking how we are training and supporting our younger lawyers. One example is the creation of our new Professional Journey Office, which supports our lawyers throughout every stage of their careers with McCarthy Tétrault. But across the legal industry as a whole, I think this is an important topic that warrants more attention. It’s important to ensure that the next generation of lawyers is properly equipped not only with the technical skills, but with the judgment and strategic insight that will set them up for future success.
While this evolution is exciting, it also presents challenges in keeping up with the latest developments and ensuring that any new technologies are implemented in line with best practices, and that processes and workflows are defensible to ensure that the integrity of the legal process is preserved.
You are involved in professional organizations like the Association of Certified E-Discovery Specialists (ACEDS). How does being part of these groups help you stay at the forefront of legal technology and practice?
LF: Being part of professional organizations like ACEDS allows me to connect with a diverse group of industry professionals and engage in meaningful discussions about the latest trends in legal technology, workflow innovations, and new developments. Keeping pace with these changes can be challenging, so regular meetings are invaluable for staying informed and catching up on areas I might have missed. Additionally, I actively contribute to the community by developing content for newsletters and continuing professional development sessions, which helps both myself and others remain at the forefront of the field.
BLG is known for its litigation practice. How does your work in eDiscovery and information management support the firm's overall litigation strategy?
LF: My role involves working closely with our litigation lawyers to make sure they are aware of the comprehensive eDiscovery and information management services we provide, right from the outset of a case. This includes everything from the initial preservation and identification of potentially relevant data, through to production and trial preparation. By collaborating from the outset, we help to ensure that our clients benefit from unparalleled service delivered in accordance with best practices.
We also place great emphasis on delivering these services in the most cost-effective and efficient manner possible, always striving to maximize value for our clients while maintaining the highest standards of quality and integrity throughout the litigation process.
Future Lawyer Canada has a key theme of "Navigating the Maze: Compliance, Governance, and Regulation Across Jurisdictions." Why is this topic so critical for modern lawyers to understand?
LF: This topic is critical because the legal landscape is becoming increasingly complex, particularly as organizations operate across multiple jurisdictions with differing regulations and compliance requirements. Modern lawyers must not only be aware of the evolving rules, but also understand how to advise clients on navigating these intricacies in a way that minimizes risk. The rise of cross-border data transfers, evolving privacy laws, and heightened regulatory scrutiny mean that a nuanced understanding of compliance and governance is essential for delivering effective legal advice and protecting client interests. Ultimately, staying up to date on these topics is essential for maintaining professional credibility and ensuring successful client outcomes.
What key takeaways do you hope attendees will gain from the panel discussion on compliance, governance, and regulation?
LF: I hope attendees will leave the panel discussion with a clearer understanding of the practical challenges and solutions involved in managing compliance, governance, and regulation across different legal environments. They should come away with insights into how technology and robust information management frameworks can be leveraged to address jurisdictional complexities, as well as practical tips for fostering a culture of compliance within their organizations. Most importantly, I want participants to feel empowered to proactively anticipate regulatory changes and adapt their practices to protect their clients’ interests.
Lauren Fishman underscores that as data moves faster than regulation, the modern lawyer must master compliance, governance, and defensible technology integration. Success in litigation and advisory work now hinges on leveraging tools like AI within robust frameworks that actively minimize risk and maximize value for the client. Are your firm's processes ready for the next wave of digital evolution and cross-jurisdictional scrutiny?
Get practical insights on mastering the complexities of the digital legal landscape from Lauren Fishman and fellow panellist on the “Navigating the Maze” panel at Future Lawyer Canada.
Private Practice and In-House professionals can claim complimentary passes to learn, connect, and be part of shaping the future of law.
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