Digital Forensics for Attorneys

The UNC School of Government has posted a new on-demand virtual CLE entitled, Digital Forensics for Attorneys. Digital forensics expert Larry Daniel teaches this one-hour course which attorneys can view for free or purchase for $50 if CLE credit is needed. Daniel’s program provides an overview of digital forensic concepts, case examples, and relevant terminology. Attorneys will learn the basic information needed to understand the process of computer and cell phone forensics; the primary areas of focus in digital forensics; and the proper methods for search and seizure of electronic evidence.

Daniel discusses document metadata and the capabilities of computer forensic recovery of email, internet history, documents, and pictures. He also provides answers to common questions, such as: What is a forensic copy of a hard drive? What kind of information can be recovered?  How do I know if the evidence was properly obtained and preserved? What is a computer forensics expert and what should an attorney expect from such an expert?

This program is a great way for attorneys to learn more about the type of analysis performed on digital devices and is an excellent refresher for anyone confronting digital forensic evidence in a case.

Digital Forensic Evidence

On Tuesday, the Supreme Court considered the constitutional limits on police use of new forms of technology as it heard oral arguments in United States v. Jones. The Court examined how the Fourth Amendment applies to warrantless tracking of cars using GPS devices. The Justices considered the extent to which the police could use a GPS device placed on a suspect’s car and collect data from the device (in that case, for a month). The case is expected to be decided next year.  For more coverage, click here or here.

If you have a case involving digital evidence, such as computer or network evidence, cell phone evidence, cell phone tower information being used to “track” a suspect, GPS devices, digital images or other types of electronic or digital evidence, take a look at the new Digital Evidence page of the IDS Forensics website. I’ve posted reference materials, articles, information about experts, and links to other online resources.

As always, if you have filed motions, subpoenaed records or researched a related topic, please email me if you’re willing to share what you’ve done with other attorneys.