Illinois State Approved Sessions

How can you tell whether your next case will have a successful outcome? In this fast-paced, entertaining session, panelists will examine over a dozen key U.S. industries, comparing their performance before and during the pandemic — and even toss in a few post-pandemic prognostications. Discover the key indicators that can predict how your next case might go.

The pandemic changed the world of bankruptcy judges and bankruptcy practitioners. This panel will provide critical information to help you make sure you have the tools necessary to participate in this race to change.

Leading experts on Subchapter V bankruptcy will address key issues and strategies.

If you're looking for black and ethnic minority bankers in senior positions at banks, you'll have to look carefully. And you may not even know that minority banks exist. This panel will include a thought-provoking discussion around diversity and inclusion initiatives based on their personal and professional experience. The goal of the panel is to encourage an open dialogue and educate our attendees on the benefits and challenges of diversity and practical suggestions for achieving a more diverse workplace.

This will be a lively discussion of the latest cases involving student loan dischargeability and issues related to litigating in this area, including what constitutes “undue hardship”, the Brunner Test, consideration of income-based repayment programs and other related topics.

A complex web of divergent actors pose consistent threats to data handled by the judiciary and the legal profession. This salon will focus on basic principles of cybersecurity and best practices for maintaining resiliency. No IT experience required – this session is intended to help empower all participants in managing risk and contributing to the collective defense against this bane of our 21st Century existence.

This program would focus on what each section of 523 is really meant to address. Unfortunately, these complaints, more often than not, tend to recite a story and then the plaintiff tries to establish a cause of action under each provision of 523 to see what will stick, rather than pleading just the correct and applicable section(s).

This session will discuss how to get your consumer bankruptcy appeal across the finish line. We’ll cover strategic considerations, common pitfalls (e.g., standing, finality, mootness) and tips for navigating the course.

What is in a liquidating trust agreement? What sections of the Bankruptcy Code continue to apply? Is a liquidating trustee really an estate representative under 1123(b)(3)? If so, what are the limits? What liquidating trust issues should the bankruptcy court retain jurisdiction over and what should be kicked to state court given it is a trust created under state law?

Hosted by the Business Reorganization and Unsecured Trade Creditors Committees This panel of legal experts and indenture trustees will discuss current insolvency-related corporate trust issues, including pre- and post-default rights, standing to pursue litigation claims, disparate treatment among bondholders and other creditors of equal priority, conflicts between majority and minority bondholders, and settlement mechanics inside and outside of bankruptcy.