Consumer Bankruptcy

Bankruptcy and student loans do not mix because of Brunner, but as outstanding student loan debt nationwide has risen to $1.5 trillion and climbing, there is a huge need for a solution to the student loan debt crisis. During this session, you will learn the different options student loan debtors have, and identify ways to be compensated for your services. Also, you will receive an inside look from a chapter 7 trustee on how to identify (and hopefully avoid) the pain that could come with a dreaded tuition clawback.

Knowing the Bankruptcy Code, following the latest case law, and effectively advocating for your client in court are just some of the skills that make a consumer practitioner successful. But much of hard work in making a case successful happens before it is filed. This panel will examine the art of pre-bankruptcy planning in the consumer case, including strategies for marshaling the most accurate information from your client, selecting the chapter that is most appropriate for your client’s situation, and developing a strategy for prosecuting the case.

The leadership of ABI's Commission on Consumer Bankruptcy releases its Final Report and Recommendations during this panel. The 17-member Commission examined dozens of issues over the last two years. The Final Report focuses on reductions of barriers to entry, enhancing the fresh start and making chapter 13 work for all stakeholders.

In this roundtable format, attendees can visit with leading judges (each presiding at their own table) to discuss and debate the nation’s most important recent business and consumer bankruptcy decisions.

It is difficult to confirm reorganization plans in small business cases and individual chapter 11 cases. This panel will discuss best practices in getting these types of cases across the finish line.