Key Highlights:

• Data retention determines how far back backups can recover information
• Short retention windows can permanently erase critical files
• Many firms back up frequently but retain data for only days or weeks
• Case management systems often have limited built-in retention
• Proper retention can recover documents thought to be lost forever
• Retained backup data has saved law firms from six-figure losses

Retention isn’t about how often you back up — it’s about how long data is kept. A firm may back up hourly or nightly, but if retention is set to seven days, older versions of data are automatically deleted as new backups are created

For example, with a seven-day retention window, the eighth backup overwrites the first. That means if a file goes missing or is corrupted beyond that window, it’s gone — even though backups were technically running the entire time.

This catches many firms off guard. In this video, we’ll share about a law firm that was missing a signed document that their case management system claimed still existed. When the file couldn’t be retrieved, the only reason it was recovered was because it existed in long-term retained backup data — more than two years old. That single recovery helped the firm avoid a six-figure loss.

If you don’t know how long your firm’s data is retained — or want clarity on whether it’s enough — a short conversation can help.

A call with N8 Solutions allows you to:

• Review your current data retention strategy
• Understand where retention gaps may exist
• Get practical guidance based on real law firm scenarios

Whether it confirms your setup is solid or uncovers hidden risks, the insight alone can help protect your firm from costly surprises.

Book a call with N8 Solutions to talk through your data retention and backup strategy.