No CLE

This is the first in our new series on understanding basic ethics concepts. This panel will address the classic conflict problems that exist for business and consumer attorneys when they are retained. More advanced discussion points will focus on representing multiple entities or individuals in cases.

A Road to Recovery: How to Navigate the Twists and Turns of Insider Litigation

Intellectual Property (IP) is often a critically important part of a company’s value paradigm. Why has IP become an even greater focus for many companies today? How is IP valued in businesses, in litigation and in bankruptcy?

Both equity investors and lenders often evaluate potential transactions in the context of their overall portfolios as well as the potential value proposition presented by the specific opportunity. Capital providers pay attention to risk allocation across industry sectors and asset classes, among other investment considerations. This panel will discuss the role that asset valuation and enterprise valuation play in deal making and strategic portfolio management.

John W. Lucas, Moderator Pachulski Stang Ziehl & Jones LLP; San Francisco Judicial Debate Resolved: The “disinterestedness” requirement should be strictly enforced under § 327 (no waivers or ethical walls). Pro: Hon. Randall L. Dunn U.S. Bankruptcy Court (D. Or.); Portland Con: Hon. Madeleine C. Wanslee U.S. Bankruptcy Court (D. Ariz.); Phoenix Business Debate Resolved: Acceleration of a debt obligation under a credit agreement should act to prevent the lender from enforcing a prepayment premium Pro: Lori Sinanyan Jones Day; Los Angeles Con: Michael H. Strub, Jr. Irell & Manella LLP; Newport Beach, Calif. Consumer Debate Resolved: Attorneys should be permitted to unbundle services under an engagement agreement with a consumer debtor. Pro: Samuel A. Schwartz The Schwartz Law Firm, Inc.; Las Vegas Con: John R. Bollinger Boleman Law Firm, P.C.; Hampton, Va.

Join a distinguished group of panelists involved in the hiring — and firing — of bankruptcy professionals. Hear how you can serve clients better and make them want to work with you.

This panel will provide a retrospective and prospective discussion of the economic and legislative factors that impact chapter 11 filings, as well as insight on industry trends and hot areas for restructuring services. Ben Franklin once remarked that “creditors have much better memories than debtors.”

Health care bankruptcy filings went up 38 percent between 2010-14. This panel will examine current issues facing the health care industry and the intersection of health care law and bankruptcy. Topics will include 363 sales, reorganization, issues related to provider agreements, regulatory issues and health care ombudsmen.

Young lawyers frequently learn that they will be working on a new chapter 11 case when they are directed to start drafting pleadings. This session, spearheaded by members of ABI’s Young & New Members Committee, is geared toward gaining an understanding of what precedes that moment by (1) advising and educating the new(er) generation of bankruptcy professionals on the background and “big picture” of a chapter 11 case, and (2) advising and educating the newest generation of bankruptcy professionals on pre-filing strategies. The panel will explore and help identify operational, financing and litigation problems that may be faced by distressed companies, then will explore both short-term and longer-term strategies that can be pursued before a petition is filed.