Poster #110 - From Courtroom to Classroom: Advancing Digital Evidence Competency in Legal Education and Practice

• In Event: ASC Poster Session I

Abstract

Digital evidence(DE) plays a critical role in modern day legal proceedings. However, there is limited empirical research on the specific challenges legal professionals encounter with digital evidence as well as their perceived adequacy of their training in this regard. This study seeks to identify the challenges experienced by practicing lawyers in the United States via online surveys (n = 79). Participants answered questions focusing on their legal training, educational background, and recommendations for training approaches on digital evidence. Participants also responded to open-ended questions about the challenges they face with DE, current training methods, as well as recommended changes to training methods. The preliminary findings highlight key challenges including format inconsistencies, authentication, and high volumes of evidence. Participants also reported gaps in the adequacy of their legal training and suggested preferred methods to bridge these gaps. We will utilize thematic analysis to identify the best training methods as recommended by participants. The findings will provide insight on how to improve current curricula in legal educations as well as professional development resources for all lawyers. This is particularly critical as the prevalence of digital evidence continues to grow in both criminal and civil cases.

Authors

• Tafadzwa Mlambo, University of Tulsa

• Yi Ting Chua, University of Tulsa