Professional Compensation/Fees

Many industries have incorporated artificial intelligence (AI) into their operations over the last several years, including the legal industry. This panel will discuss the current status of the use of AI in the legal industry, and will explore the ethical implications and obligations of practitioners when using (or not using) AI. Is AI the answer to increasing access to justice? What are lawyers’ ethical obligations when using (or not using) AI? How have lawyers gotten into trouble when using AI?

Do you ever wonder what a particular Supreme Court decision means for you and your practice? This panel will discuss the Supreme Court’s general approach to deciding cases, including bankruptcy cases, and what those decisions mean for the bankruptcy and larger legal community. The panelists will use decisions from last term (as well as those to be argued this term) to help attendees better understand the decisions, how they might influence lower court decisions, and what it all means for those subjected to their decisions.

This panel will discuss the ethical duties and obligations of debtor’s counsel when unbundling legal services in chapter 7 cases. From the marketing of no money/low money down to adequate disclosures, the nuances of fee bifurcation sometimes create a fine ethical line on which to walk. The panelists will provide practical advice on how to comply with ethical concerns, and will discuss how different districts across the country have addressed the issue.

This panel will focus on disputes regarding engagement as counsel and payment of fees. The panel will cover such issues as unbundling of services, bifurcated fee arrangements and conflicts of interest. The panelists also will discuss a number of ethical issues that have arisen in recent cases.

Bankruptcy judges will discuss the most talked-about current events and controversial opinions in the insolvency world with ABI Editor-at-Large Bill Rochelle.