Illinois State Approved Sessions

The use of artificial intelligence and machine learning is becoming increasingly prevalent in the practice of law. Lawyers are using AI to assist in a multitude of tasks, including document management and review, analytics, and legal research. This program will provide an overview of how AI is being used by lawyers today, the advantages and drawbacks in using AI, and the potential ways in which AI may be used now and in the future in bankruptcy practice.

Against the backdrop of the recent COVID-19 health crisis, this session will focus on issues relating to crisis management in the business and practice of bankruptcy law. The panelists will discuss best practices for disaster recovery and business-continuity planning, technology solutions for navigating a crisis, and various legal and ethical issues that arise during a time of crisis. The panelists will also address mental health and personal wellness issues that can arise during and after a crisis.

This panel of legal experts will break down topical circuit-level and bankruptcy court rulings that are dividing circuits across the country.

This session will focus on the loan and debt-relief options that were created by the Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security Act (CARES Act) of 2020, and their impact on debtors and bankruptcy law and practice. The session will begin with a brief primer on the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) lending program and Main Street lending programs, then delve into the various bankruptcy issues that have since emerged related to these lending programs, including access to loans, priority and subordination of lender claims, and certifications regarding future bankruptcy filings.

Whether you are a seasoned practitioner looking for a refresher on basic concepts or are venturing into the area of distressed business valuation for the first time, this session provides a toolbox overview of the fundamentals of valuation methodology. Topics include: definitions of value commonly used valuation methodologies CAPM and MCAPM application of systemic and unsystemic risk adjustments

Many higher-education institutions find that COVID-19 simply shined a harsh spotlight on what had already been a slow burn, ignited by demographics, debt, distress and denial. Join our panelists for a thoughtful conversation about how we got here, and which institutions are most at risk. A discussion of chapter 11 issues and alternatives for nonprofit colleges will follow, with time for questions at the end.

Back by popular demand! This panel is in the format of the classic current-events TV program “Crossfire” and will address “hot” and “interesting” bankruptcy issues that are not being addressed in the other sessions. Each topic discussed will have parties taking opposing positions (pro/con).

This panel will discuss recent developments and decisions in international insolvency, including chapter 11 for non-U.S. companies, U.S. chapter 15 and offshore “soft touch” assistance.

This session will address how COVID-19 and stay-at-home orders prompted the rapid adoption of technology by the courts, the lessons learned along the way, and where technology can be used to further improve the efficiency, efficacy and safety of the bankruptcy process.

To make meaningful progress, legal professionals and the organizational cultures they inhabit must adopt a learning goal orientation and be willing to change. Join this keynote panel of legal professionals from across the nation for an active discussion on the business impacts of racial and gender diversity, equity, and inclusion within the legal industry. The panel will begin with a plenary session followed by breakout rooms.