Last spring, the e-discovery industry was confronted with the realities of the COVID-19 pandemic, which thrust legal tech—and businesses in general—into an unknown future categorized by closed court rooms and clients reevaluating their external spending. But now, almost a year into the public health crisis, veterans of the e-discovery industry may have reason to feel optimistic, even as COVID-19 cases continue to rise in states across the country.

For starters, the litigation work that has traditionally helped to sustain e-discovery providers is beginning to return to normal levels now that many have adapted to a virtual configuration. Meanwhile, a new wave of potential court cases stemming from COVID-19 liability or business securities-related investigations could carry providers through 2021.

"I think people are generally optimistic about recovery in 2021," said Kiwi Camara, CEO of DISCO.