Consumer

This panel will bring attendees up to speed on Zoom § 341s and best practices, as well as recent and important changes to chapter 13 administrative orders and forms, and will explore trends and tips for handling merchant cash advance (MCA) issues in consumer cases and mortgage-modification mediations. The panelists also will discuss income-driven repayment plans and highlight the DOJ's latest guidance on discharging student loans.

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 emerging and ever-changing role of artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) in the administration of consumer debt, and the effects on bankruptcy cases. The panelists will discuss how the technology has been used in both account-servicing and court filings, where it may be going, and potential pitfalls to be mindful of as AI/ML becomes more common.

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.

Responding to complaints in federal court is a critical aspect of the U.S. legal system. This session will explore the various elements involved in crafting a comprehensive response to a complaint filed in federal court. The panelists will provide an in-depth analysis of the process, strategies and considerations for defendants when addressing allegations brought against them. By examining the Federal Rules of Civil Procedure, case law and best practices, this session will help equip legal practitioners and individuals with a thorough understanding of the response phase in federal court litigation.