March 20, 2025

From student to mentor: ASU Law alum leads the way in eDiscovery

When Robert Singleton graduated with his JD from the Sandra Day O’Connor College of Law at Arizona State University in 2002, eDiscovery, the process of identifying, collecting, preserving and producing electronically stored information for use in legal proceedings like litigation or investigations, was still in its infancy. So, when he joined Squire Patton Boggs and was tasked with developing a strategy for reviewing and producing the massive volume of documents in a bankruptcy case, this daunting challenge led to the evolution of eDiscovery at the firm.

“Throughout the bankruptcy, I had frequent discussions with firm leadership about the growing role of electronically stored information in litigation,” Singleton said. “Recognizing that eDiscovery would become a standard and critical part of legal practice, I was asked to collaborate with another attorney at the firm to establish a comprehensive plan for how the firm would handle eDiscovery going forward. This initiative led to the creation of a dedicated team of legal and technology professionals focused on staying at the forefront of eDiscovery innovations.”

 

This marked the beginning of a journey into uncharted territory, igniting Singleton’s passion for weaving electronic discovery into the very fabric of his career.

 

Over the past 23 years, Singleton has witnessed eDiscovery’s dramatic transformation, driven by advancements in technology, evolving legal standards and the increasing volume and complexity of electronically stored information. The rise of collaboration platforms, which generate vast amounts of chat messages, shared documents and video recordings, has created new challenges in the collection, preservation and review of data. These changes have pushed eDiscovery professionals to continually adapt their workflows, embracing cutting-edge technologies to manage diverse data types effectively.

 

“Additionally, advancements in artificial intelligence and machine learning have revolutionized document review, making processes like technology-assisted review and continuous active learning more commonplace,” Singleton added. “These technologies allow legal teams to prioritize and analyze large datasets more efficiently by identifying relevant documents through predictive coding and iterative learning. AI-driven solutions not only reduce the time and cost associated with traditional linear review but also improve the accuracy and consistency of document classification.”

 

As AI technology continues to advance, its impact on eDiscovery will only grow. Firms that integrate these tools will be better equipped to handle the ever-expanding data landscape, reduce manual review burdens and deliver strategic insights to their clients more efficiently.

 

To help navigate the ever-changing world of eDiscovery, Singleton returned to ASU Law to share the practical knowledge he’s gained throughout his career.

 

“Teaching offers a unique opportunity to engage with students who bring fresh perspectives and enthusiasm to the subject through their insightful questions and curiosity, often leading to thought-provoking discussions that challenge me to view legal and technological issues from different angles,” Singleton explained. “Interacting with students also provides a valuable exchange of ideas. The legal landscape is constantly evolving, especially in the world of eDiscovery and legal technology. Students’ perspectives — often informed by their familiarity with emerging technologies and digital platforms — contribute to dynamic classroom conversations about how those tools might influence future legal practice.”

 

Most importantly, Singleton views teaching at ASU Law as a way to give back to the institution that played such a pivotal role in shaping his career.

 

“ASU Law provided me with opportunities that helped launch my path in eDiscovery, and I’m committed to helping students navigate their journeys,” he said. “By blending real-world experiences with academic concepts, I hope to equip them with the skills and confidence they need to succeed in the ever-changing legal profession.”

 

Singleton has also been heavily involved in the ASU-Arkfeld eDiscovery, Law and Technology conference. Celebrating its 10th year last week, the conference served as a forum for legal professionals, technologists and academics to engage in meaningful discussions about the evolving landscape of eDiscovery and legal technology. It provides attendees with the tools and strategies needed to navigate complex eDiscovery challenges while examining the ethical and legal implications of new technologies, ensuring practitioners stay informed and compliant.

 

At the end of the conference, attendees get to unwind with a bit of fun during Ethics Jeopardy, hosted by Singleton, who is always dressed in his signature bow tie. This tradition has become a favorite at the conference.

 

The eDiscovery course and conference reflect ASU Law’s focus on science and technology innovations, addressing how advancements in eDiscovery technology and case law are transforming the practice of law.

 

For more information on ASU Law’s Science and Technology Innovations area of expertise, visit law.asu.edu/science-and-technology-innovations.

Written by Crystal Jimenez