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Representing a Debtor or Creditor in a Bankruptcy Proceeding? It’s an Ethical Minefield Either Way!

Consumer lawyers on behalf of both debtors and creditors deal with myriad ethical issues to ensure effective and economical representation of their clients. This panel will explore the implications of representing individuals, small businesses, insiders and creditors, including what to do when your client becomes your creditor (how far can you go to get paid?) and how to avoid breaching the attorney/client privilege (just who do or can you talk to?). In a small business, the owner often considers counsel to be representing “her” interest. How does counsel for a business deal with this issue under the ethical rules and the Bankruptcy Code? For the creditor, what are the implications of potential conflicts by counsel to the debtor? Can the creditor reach out to a principal of the corporate debtor directly on their guarantee without violating the Rules of Professional Conduct? What are the ethical limits of “unbundling services” to make it more affordable for the client, whether you represent a debtor or a creditor? This panel will explore ways to accomplish your client’s goals, as well as the ethical boundaries of representation under those scenarios.

Ethics

ABI will team up with IWIRC for an exciting and interactive discussion of real-world ethical dilemmas arising in bankruptcy practice, including while working from home. Play along with our panel of lawyers and judges as they discuss the “3 Cs” — confidentiality, communication and competence — along with information hygiene, duty to supervise, remote depositions and trials, judicial ethics, and much, much more!

Trial Preparation and Evidence

A trial is fraught with opportunities for lawyers on both sides to make mistakes. By using hypotheticals infused with current and common issues, this panel will provide useful tips for successful examination and cross-examination, preparation for common motion practice, and laying a proper foundation for submission of evidence.

You Can Check Out Any Time You Like, but You Can Never Leave (Chapter 11, That Is)

This panel will analyze issues that arise in, and provide helpful tips for, the winding up of a chapter 11 case (as well as any special or different considerations for subchapter V cases), including early planning for the wind-down, closing the case, conversion vs. structured dismissal vs. plan, the preservation of claims and claim objections for a liquidating trust and related privilege considerations, professional compensation and final tax returns, winding down debtor obligations such as employee benefit plans, and cost and funding issues.

e-Learning Topics

e-learning-topics

Administrative Expense Claims

Reviews processes and requirements for post-petition claims that get priority payment, including professional fees, utilities, and goods received within 20 days of filing.

Alternative Dispute Resolution

Examines mediation, arbitration, and other non-litigation approaches to resolve bankruptcy disputes efficiently and cost-effectively.

Asset Sales

Analyzes issues practitioners may face when completing asset sales in and out of bankruptcy, and best practices for successful outcomes.

Automatic Stay

Explores scope and application of automatic stay protection, including exceptions, violations, and procedures for obtaining stay relief.

Claims

Discusses the evaluation, trading, and resolution of bankruptcy claims. Covers creditor rights and their impact on restructuring.

Bankruptcy Litigation

Studies recent case law and rules of practice, evidence and procedure, connecting professionals engaged in bankruptcy-related litigation.

Certification

Covers professional certification requirements and processes for bankruptcy practitioners, including specialized credentials and continuing education.

Corporate Governance

Analyzes fiduciary duties, management responsibilities, and board oversight during bankruptcy proceedings and restructuring.

Court Administration

Reviews court procedures, filing requirements, and administrative processes in bankruptcy cases.

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