If an associate wants to bring their e-discovery practice to the equity ranks of Big Law, they may not find many seats at the table.

Despite the growing demand, e-discovery isn't a revenue-maker comparable to other practices and is unlikely to lead to an equity partnership or executive committee spot in Big Law. However, worthwhile e-discovery opportunities are growing outside of Big Law, legal hiring observers said.

The biggest roadblock for an e-discovery lawyer with equity partnership ambitions is origination credit, said Zeughauser Group consultant Kent Zimmermann.