National eDiscovery Leadership Institute Conference

The National eDiscovery Leadership Institute (NeLI) is an annual conference dedicated to advancing the field of electronic discovery (eDiscovery) by providing high-quality educational opportunities to legal professionals and fostering cooperation between the bench and the bar. Established in 2014, NeLI is organized by a team of experienced legal practitioners and scholars, including Robin Perkins, founder and chair of Kutak Rock's eDiscovery Practice Group, and Tessa K. Jacob, founder and chair of Husch Blackwell's eDiscovery Solutions Group. The conference is held in collaboration with the University of Missouri-Kansas City (UMKC) School of Law, which hosts the event at its Student Union in Kansas City, Missouri.

The conference covers a wide range of topics pertinent to eDiscovery, including government investigations, the use of artificial intelligence in document review, data privacy and security, and ethical considerations in electronic discovery. Sessions are designed to provide practical insights and strategies, featuring panels such as "Government Matters," which discusses best practices for responding to government subpoenas, and "The Judges’ Debate Each Other," where judges deliberate on complex eDiscovery issues. Additionally, the conference includes mock hearings and negotiations to simulate real-world scenarios and enhance attendees' understanding of eDiscovery processes.

NeLI offers numerous networking opportunities, including interactive sessions, panel discussions, and social events such as cocktail receptions and plated dinners. The conference features an array of notable speakers, including esteemed judges like Hon. Xavier Rodriguez of the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Texas and Hon. Noelle C. Collins of the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Missouri, as well as leading practitioners and academics in the field of eDiscovery.

The conference is ideal for legal professionals involved in litigation, compliance, and information governance, including attorneys, in-house counsel, judges, and eDiscovery specialists. Attendees gain valuable insights into the latest developments and best practices in eDiscovery, enhancing their ability to manage electronic information effectively in legal proceedings.