Abstract: A method of analyzing and organizing chat and instant message log files begins by receiving chat session log data files (200). The method continues by scanning and marking (206A) the chat session log data files to maintain existing relationships such as attachments. The method continues by re-ordering segments (206B) of the chat session log data files according to provided objectives such as category. The method continues by loading message data into a message organizer and writing to a readable format for output (214). The method continues by re-scanning for desired metadata and outputting a load file with any metadata discovered (216/504/509). The output readable format, including the required metadata, can be analyzed (218) for one or more of: litigation, compliance or legally-defensible review applications.