Magna Legal Services, a leading provider of litigation support services, is pleased to announce its acquisition of e-Legal, a premier independent service of process firm based in California. This strategic move enhances Magna’s already comprehensive suite of services and further strengthens its position as an industry leader in litigation support and consulting.
PHILADELPHIA, April 28, 2025 /PRNewswire-PRWeb/ — Magna Legal Services, a leading provider of litigation support services, is pleased to announce its acquisition of e-Legal, a premier independent service of process firm based in California. This strategic move enhances Magna’s already comprehensive suite of services and further strengthens its position as an industry leader in litigation support and consulting.
“By combining our resources and expertise, we’re able to provide even more value to our clients while continuing to innovate in a rapidly evolving legal landscape.” – Jonathan Ackerman, Executive Vice President of Record Retrieval and Co-Founder of Magna Legal Services.
The acquisition, effective April 8, 2025, was facilitated by Chase Culbertson, Head of M&A at Magna Legal Services. E-Legal’s founders, Lisa Huey and Steve Hill, will continue in leadership roles, guiding the e-Legal team as it integrates into the Magna organization.
“We’ve always taken pride in providing high-quality service with a personal touch,” said Lisa Huey, Co-Founder of e-Legal. “Joining forces with Magna allows us to scale our impact without compromising on the values and service standards our clients rely on.”
Steve Hill, Co-Founder of e-Legal, added, “This partnership is a natural evolution for e-Legal. Magna’s national footprint and diverse capabilities create exciting new possibilities for both our clients and our team.”
With the addition of e-Legal, Magna’s workforce now exceeds 800 employees, 4,000 court reporters, 2,000 interpreters, and 100 litigation consultants across 31 locations across the U.S., positioning the combined company as one of the largest litigation support and consulting firms in the nation—both in size and scope of services. E-Legal’s clients will now have access to Magna’s full spectrum of litigation services, including court reporting, document translation, interpreting, medical record retrieval, social media surveillance, visual communications, jury consulting, and nationwide service of process.
“The synergy between Magna and e-Legal is incredibly strong,” said Jonathan Ackerman, Executive Vice President of Record Retrieval and Co-Founder of Magna Legal Services. “By combining our resources and expertise, we’re able to provide even more value to our clients while continuing to innovate in a rapidly evolving legal landscape.”
Mark Williams, CEO of Magna Legal Services, remarked, “We look forward to blending the best practices of both organizations to build a stronger, more agile future together. This acquisition represents another step forward in our commitment to delivering outstanding service and opportunity—to our clients and our people alike.”
To learn more about Magna Legal Services or to place an order for service of process, click below
Private investigators can be an invaluable resource for attorneys, especially when a case hinges on uncovering crucial details or verifying complex facts. Many attorneys rely on private investigators to dig deeper into cases, gather evidence, and help build a stronger argument for their clients. Knowing when to hire a private investigator can make a significant difference in the outcome of a case.
When the Facts Don’t Add Up
Sometimes, the evidence presented by a client or opposing party doesn’t seem quite right. When inconsistencies or contradictions arise, hiring a private investigator can help clarify the situation. These professionals have the tools and experience to verify facts, locate witnesses, and uncover hidden details that may otherwise go unnoticed.
Example:
If an individual is involved in a personal injury case and their statements don’t align with the medical records or other evidence, a private investigator can help track down surveillance footage, identify witnesses, or even look into the background of the defendant. They can also examine social media and public records for any red flags.
When You Need Surveillance
Surveillance is a common reason why attorneys hire a private investigator. Whether it’s monitoring an individual’s activities, gathering evidence for a fraud case, or verifying a witness’s whereabouts, private investigators have the skills and tools to conduct discreet surveillance. They can track a subject’s movements, identify patterns in their behavior, and document key activities that could be crucial in a case.
Example:
In a child custody case, a private investigator might observe one parent’s behavior to determine whether they are meeting the criteria for being a fit guardian. In insurance fraud cases, investigators often monitor individuals suspected of exaggerating their injuries or claims.
When You Need to Find People or Assets
Many legal cases require tracking down individuals or assets. Whether it’s locating a missing witness, an heir, or even someone trying to avoid a subpoena, private investigators specialize in finding people. They have access to databases and investigative resources that are not available to the public, and they know how to search efficiently and discreetly.
Example:
In cases involving debts or financial disputes, private investigators can help identify hidden assets or trace financial transactions. They can uncover bank accounts, properties, or other valuable assets that might be hidden or concealed.
When You Need Expert Research
Lawyers often find themselves sifting through mountains of data to support their case. Whether it’s public records, social media activity, or finding connections between parties, the research involved can be overwhelming. Private investigators bring specialized knowledge to the table when it comes to thorough, detailed research. They know how to search for and analyze information that’s relevant to the case and know where to look when the details aren’t easily accessible.
Example:
In a case involving fraudulent business practices, a private investigator might dig into the company’s history, uncovering past fraudulent activity or finding links to other companies that could be relevant. Private investigators can also comb through social media accounts, online platforms, and other resources to gather evidence for intellectual property theft or other legal matters.
When a Case Needs a Thorough Background Check
In many legal situations, you need to know the full background of a party involved in the case, especially if they’re a witness, expert, or even a potential juror. Attorneys often hire a private investigator to conduct background checks on individuals to ensure they don’t have any hidden agendas or ulterior motives. Private investigators can uncover criminal histories, previous lawsuits, financial difficulties, or any other details that may affect their credibility or reliability in court.
Example:
If an attorney is representing a client in a business dispute and the opposing party has questionable financial history or previous lawsuits related to fraud, a private investigator can uncover these details.
When You’re Dealing with Complex Cases
Some cases involve intricate details and high stakes. When a case is complex or involves multiple parties, finding the right facts to support your case becomes even more critical. Attorneys dealing with high-stakes cases like corporate litigation, fraud, or complex family law matters benefit greatly from hiring a private investigator. In situations like these, hiring a private investigator isn’t just about gathering information; it’s about doing so in a way that holds up in court.
Example:
In a corporate fraud case, a private investigator can trace financial transactions across multiple accounts to uncover hidden assets or fraudulent activities. Similarly, in a complex divorce involving hidden wealth, an investigator can track down offshore accounts or undisclosed properties to ensure a fair settlement.
When You Want to Protect Your Client’s Interests
Attorneys don’t just need to gather evidence against the opposing party. They also need to ensure that their clients are protected from any risks or potential harm. Private investigators can help protect a client’s interests by vetting witnesses, uncovering hidden threats, and even providing security when necessary.
Example:
In high-profile cases or those involving threats, private investigators can help ensure a client’s safety. They may also assist in verifying the legitimacy of claims made by the opposing party, helping to ensure the case remains as fair and secure as possible.
Magna Legal Services (Magna LS), an ALM award-winning leader in court reporting, medical record retrieval and litigation consulting, is proud to announce its merger with Basye Santiago Reporting (BSR), a prominent court reporting firm based in Delaware.
PHILADELPHIA, April 17, 2025 /PRNewswire-PRWeb/ — Magna Legal Services (Magna LS), an ALM award-winning leader in court reporting, medical record retrieval and litigation consulting, is proud to announce its merger with Basye Santiago Reporting (BSR), a prominent court reporting firm based in Delaware. Founded over fifteen years ago, BSR has earned a reputation as a trusted leader in the Delaware market. The merger, effective March 17, 2025, was facilitated by Chase Culbertson, Head of M&A at Magna Legal Services.
“Having known Shenna and Yvonne for over 30 years, I am confident that this merger will be a seamless integration. We look forward to the combined strength of both companies as we continue to lead the industry forward.” – Robert Ackerman, Magna Legal Services
The merger positions both companies for even greater success, as the union forms one of the largest and most comprehensive litigation support and consulting firms in the country. With a combined workforce of over 800 employees, 4,000 court reporters, 2,000 interpreters and 100 litigation consultants across 30 locations nationwide.
“We’re thrilled to unite with Magna Legal Services,” said Yvonne Santiago, Co-founder of BSR. “This merger allows us to provide even greater value to our clients by offering a wider range of services and delivering cost savings through bundled solutions, such as medical record retrieval, investigative services, and jury research. We’ve had a long-standing relationship with Magna’s founders and are excited to reconnect and work together on this new chapter.”
Co-founder Shenna Basye-Cara echoed her sentiments, saying, “Our shared history with Magna’s leadership makes this partnership particularly exciting. With the merger, we’re positioning ourselves to serve clients not only in Delaware, but across the nation, with enhanced capabilities and efficiency.”
Robert Ackerman, Chairman of the Board of Directors Emeritus of Magna LS, shared his enthusiasm, noting, “Having known Shenna and Yvonne for over 30 years, I am confident that this merger will be a seamless integration. We look forward to the combined strength of both companies as we continue to lead the industry forward.”
Mark Williams, CEO of Magna Legal Services, expressed his enthusiasm for the merger, stating, “The combination of BSR with Magna LS will continue to strengthen our presence nationally, and particularly in Delaware and Pennsylvania. We are so enthusiastic to be joining forces with BSR and to further our national and global leadership together.”
To schedule a deposition or learn more about the end-to-end litigation services provided by Magna Legal Services, click below!
Private investigators, attorneys, and legal teams rely on accurate, detailed information. They need to know where someone has been, what they’ve done, and who they’ve been involved with. One method rarely gives the full picture. But when you combine surveillance with background checks, you get a clearer look at someone’s actions and credibility.
Surveillance tracks current behavior. Background checks dig into past records. When used together, they give legal teams reliable, court-ready facts. This combination helps attorneys build strong arguments, spot red flags, and decide who to trust during litigation.
What Surveillance Really Shows
Surveillance is the direct observation of a person, place, or activity. Investigators use it to confirm or disprove claims, verify someone’s daily routine, or gather evidence for legal proceedings. Surveillance helps uncover behaviors that aren’t visible in written reports.
Physical Surveillance
This is the most traditional form. Investigators follow a subject in real time. They document activities through photos, video, or written reports. This method is especially useful in personal injury cases, custody disputes, or workers’ comp investigations. If someone claims they’re too injured to work but gets caught carrying heavy boxes, that footage becomes key evidence.
Digital Surveillance
People share a lot about themselves online.Social media surveillance pulls from platforms like Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and LinkedIn. It can show location tags, photos, group affiliations, or inconsistencies with someone’s public statements. For example, someone denying a relationship with a key witness might appear with that person in recent Instagram posts.
GPS Tracking (with proper legal approval)
In some cases, a court may allow GPS tracking. This shows where someone has been, how long they stayed, and how often they return to certain places. When matched with claims made during testimony or depositions, GPS records can support or challenge a story.
What Do Background Checks Show?
Background checks pull together public records, professional history, and past behavior. They don’t show intent or attitude, but they reveal patterns and red flags that can shape a case strategy.
Criminal History
Attorneys want to know if someone has a criminal past. Background checks may show arrests, charges, convictions, or probation history. A person’s past legal issues can affect their credibility on the stand or expose motive.
Employment and Education Records
A thorough background check can verify where someone has worked or gone to school. This helps confirm qualifications, timelines, and claims made in affidavits or resumes. If someone says they’ve held a job they never actually had, that lie raises questions about other parts of their story.
Civil Court Records
What do background checks show beyond criminal cases? They also highlight civil lawsuits. These can include business disputes, restraining orders, small claims judgments, or divorce records. A pattern of lawsuits or restraining orders can signal that a person is regularly involved in legal trouble.
Financial Red Flags
Bankruptcies, liens, and foreclosures show up in a background check. These details can suggest financial pressure or desperation, which may be relevant in fraud cases, custody hearings, or business litigation. Knowing whether someone is financially stable or struggling can influence settlement decisions.
Licenses and Certifications
Many professions require licenses such as medical, legal, real estate, or financial. A background check confirms whether someone holds a license and whether it’s active, suspended, or revoked. That matters in malpractice cases, professional negligence, or when verifying expert witnesses.
Why Investigators Use Both
Surveillance gives a current snapshot. Background checks show the history. Together, they fill in the blanks.
Let’s say an employee files a workers’ comp claim. Surveillance shows them jogging daily. The background check shows they’ve filed similar claims at two previous jobs. Now there’s a pattern. Without both methods, that pattern may never come to light.
Or take a family court case. A parent claims to be stable and present. Surveillance shows long absences. Background checks reveal multiple arrests for DUIs. Each source backs up the other, giving attorneys stronger ground to argue custody or visitation terms.
Timing Matters in Investigations
A common mistake is waiting too long to request investigative support. Attorneys often bring in help after discovery, or when trial prep begins. By then, some opportunities are gone. Surveillance works best when it starts early. Background checks take time to run, especially if someone has lived in multiple states. Starting both at the same time allows investigators to follow leads as they appear.
For example, a background check might show a subject recently moved. Surveillance at the old address would miss them entirely. But with updated info, investigators can quickly pivot and keep the work productive.
Legal and Ethical Boundaries
Investigators must follow the law during every part of their work. They can’t trespass, record conversations without consent in certain states, or track someone’s location without permission from a court. Background checks must also comply with federal rules, like the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA), especially if used in employment-related cases.
Reputable firms follow strict procedures to protect client interests and prevent evidence from getting tossed in court. Good surveillance and strong background checks follow all legal requirements, so the findings hold up under scrutiny.
A Stronger Strategy With Verified Facts
Attorneys often face pressure to act fast. Deadlines come quickly, and facts can be hard to verify. That’s why it helps to work with investigators who know how to pair modern surveillance with accurate background checks. What do background checks show? The truth about someone’s past. What does surveillance reveal? Their current behavior. Together, they confirm or challenge the story being told.
Let Magna Legal Help You Get the Full Picture
No attorney wants to walk into court with half the facts. At Magna Legal Services, we help you get all the details, not just what’s in the file, but what’s happening right now.Work with expert investigators who combine surveillance with detailed background checks to give you reliable, court-ready evidence. Let us help you build your case with confidence. Contact Magna Legal today to get started.
Social media is often where people share their daily lives, but those posts can also end up as evidence in legal cases. Attorneys can use social media surveillance to uncover the truth. Whether it’s exposing fraudulent claims, verifying alibis, or challenging misleading testimony, what people post online can make a major difference in legal proceedings.
Identifying Inconsistencies Through Social Media
People involved in lawsuits, especially personal injury and workers’ compensation cases, sometimes claim they are unable to work or perform daily activities. However, their social media profiles might tell a different story. An insurance company might see a claimant posting vacation photos while they claim to be bedridden. A personal injury attorney might find a defendant bragging about an incident they said never happened. Social media surveillance helps uncover these inconsistencies, providing a more accurate picture of events.
Courts have accepted social media evidence in many cases, as long as it is obtained legally. Public posts, comments, and even photos shared by others can be used. However, attorneys cannot use deceptive tactics to access private accounts. Courts also require proof that the person posting is actually the one who wrote the content.
What Can and Can’t Be Used in Court
Not everything from social media is admissible in court. The key factors are authenticity, relevance, and how the evidence was obtained.
Public vs. Private Information
Anything posted publicly on social media is fair game. A Facebook post, Instagram story, or TikTok video that is visible to the public can be saved and presented in court. If a post is later deleted, screenshots and archived versions may still be used. Private messages and restricted content require legal access. Attorneys cannot create fake profiles or trick someone into granting access. However, courts can issue subpoenas for social media records if there is a valid reason.
Metadata and Deleted Posts
Metadata from social media posts can provide timestamps, locations, and other useful details. Even if someone deletes a post, forensic experts can sometimes recover it. However, courts require proof that the content is genuine and has not been altered.
Context Matters
A single post does not always tell the full story. A picture of someone lifting a heavy box might seem to contradict their injury claim, but it does not prove they are pain-free. Attorneys must connect social media evidence to other facts in the case.
How Social Media Can Change the Outcome of a Legal Case
Attorneys and investigators frequently use social media to verify claims, challenge testimony, and expose fraud. Below are hypothetical scenarios that reflect real-world cases where social media evidence has played a key role.
The “Injured” Athlete
Imagine a woman filing a lawsuit against a company, claiming a serious back injury from a slip-and-fall accident. She states she is unable to work, exercise, or participate in daily activities. However, her Instagram profile tells a different story. Recent videos show her weightlifting, running marathons, and even rock climbing—all after the date of her alleged injury.
Her social media activity contradicts her claim, and her posts become key evidence in court. The case is dismissed, preventing a fraudulent settlement, and the company avoids liability.
Workers’ Compensation Fraud Uncovered
A man applies for workers’ compensation benefits, claiming a job-related injury has left him unable to perform physical tasks. Yet, his Facebook profile shows something different. Just days after filing his claim, he shares photos of himself playing in a recreational basketball league.
Investigators present the evidence, and the insurance company denies his claim. His employer also uses the social media posts to challenge his credibility, leading to further consequences.
Social Media in Criminal Investigations
A suspect in a robbery claims they were home at the time of the crime. However, their Snapchat location data places them near the crime scene at the exact time the incident occurred. Investigators retrieve geotagged posts showing the suspect in the area, and prosecutors present this evidence in court. The social media data directly contradicts the alibi, leading to a conviction. This scenario highlights how digital footprints can be just as important as physical evidence in criminal cases.
Why Attorneys Rely on Social Media Surveillance
Social media surveillance has become standard practice in legal cases. People often share more online than they realize, making it a valuable source of information. Attorneys use it to fact-check testimonies, and insurance companies use it to prevent fraud. With courts recognizing social media as legitimate evidence, ignoring it can mean missing key details. Whether investigating a personal injury claim, a workers’ compensation case, or a criminal defense, social media can provide critical information.
Need Strong Evidence? Start with Social Media
If you are handling a legal case, don’t overlook social media. The right evidence can make or break a claim. ClaimScout can be your online eyes and ears. Using our proprietary methodology, Magna Legal can monitor a person’s internet activity to determine how it meshes with his/her claim. Contact us today to learn how our social media surveillance services can help.
