Hal Brooks is an eDiscovery and litigation technology professional with more than 25 years’ experience. Currently, Hal serves as the CEO of Haystack Holdings with the mission of helping HaystackID mobilize industry-leading computer forensics, eDiscovery, and attorney document review experts to accelerate and deliver quality outcomes in support of investigations and litigation at a fair and predictable price. Having participated in the acquisition and growth of several industry-leading companies, Hal has helped businesses address challenges in the areas of litigation strategy and automated discovery processes. In 1988, he started with Legal Copies International which grew to 26 cities and $100M a year in revenue as a supplier of onsite and offsite litigation support services. LCI was acquired by (Alco) Ikon Office Solutions in 1996. More recently, Hal invested in and served as a board member and consultant for such companies as OnSite Sourcing, DocuForce, Ve Discovery, Technology Assisted Review software startup OrcaTec, and most recently, Envision Discovery. At these companies, he served in leadership roles helping launch revolutionary technology platforms and directing key strategic business decisions. 

In episode 25 of Careers in the Business of Law, Hal shares his transformative journey from battling health challenges in the Carolinas to becoming the CEO of HaystackID with David Cowen. He reflects on the early days of overcoming asthma to pursue an active lifestyle, which paralleled his later professional ventures that required resilience and innovation. Hal discusses his entrepreneurial shift from Xerox to launching and leading companies. Highlighting key career milestones and pivotal influences, Hal underlines the crucial skills of passion, perseverance, and visionary planning essential for next-generation leaders in business and legal operations.

(00:36) Early Influences: Overcoming Health Challenges. As a child in the Carolinas, Hal faced significant health challenges, including asthma and allergies. Despite these obstacles, he found a way to overcome them by gradually increasing his physical activity, ultimately freeing himself from medication and embracing an active lifestyle. Hal's story of perseverance began at his family's dinner table, dreaming of joining his peers outdoors.

(01:59) Entrepreneurial Spark: From Corporate to CEO. Hal's transition from working at Xerox to becoming an entrepreneur started when he met Mark Hahn from Legal Copies. He was drawn into the world of business through a pivotal contract win and the opportunity to build a company from the ground up. Hal learned the intricacies of business from Hahn and his circle, igniting his passion for creating opportunities and building teams.

(02:58) Building Community and Responsibility. During an annual company event in Atlanta, Hal realized the profound responsibility of running a business. The sight of 600 attendees, comprising employees and their families, underscored the real impact of his decisions on their lives. This moment deepened his commitment to his role and to providing for others through his entrepreneurial efforts.

(06:05) Hiring for Passion and Precision in the Legal Industry. Hal emphasizes the importance of passion in the legal services industry, where precision and commitment are paramount. His recruitment strategy focuses on identifying individuals who are not only capable but also passionately engaged in their work, ensuring excellence in service delivery.

(07:25) Guiding Principles in Leadership and Life. In interviews, Hal seeks to understand potential hires' guiding principles and personal benchmarks. He values reflections on personal ethos and historical comparisons, which reveal deep insights into an individual's character and potential fit within the company.

(08:13) A Journey through Faith and Business. Hal discusses his educational background in theology and philosophy, which initially led him toward a career in ministry. However, his desire to make a broader impact and provide for his family guided him toward the business world, where he found his true calling in leadership and entrepreneurship.

(10:05) Advising Future Entrepreneurs: Vision and Reversion Planning. Hal advises aspiring entrepreneurs to start with an exit plan. Understanding the end goal helps in crafting a strategic approach to business development, distinguishing between lifestyle businesses and wealth creation vehicles. His own approach has focused on building enterprises with the potential for significant growth and return on investment.

Mentions:

• Hal Brooks, CEO of HaystackID 

• John Davenport Jr., founder of DTI 

Xerox - Where Hal previously worked. Xerox Website