Alternative Dispute Resolution

This interactive nuts-and-bolts panel will discuss three phases of settlements in the context of a bankruptcy case: (1) negotiating a settlement, including evaluating the benefits of settlement versus litigation risk and expense, negotiating tactics and strategies, and the role of the mediator; (2) drafting term sheets and settlement agreements, an overview of the law on the enforceability of term sheets and settlement agreements (both pre- and post-court approval), and the components of the settlement agreement; and (3) consummating the settlement, with an emphasis on Federal Rule of Bankruptcy Procedure 9019 standards, the necessary components of a motion to approve compromise, presentation to the bankruptcy court, the bankruptcy court’s role in evaluating the settlement and the court’s order approving the settlement, the nonbankruptcy aspects of a settlement, and post-settlement actions.

Featuring the Judges of the 22nd Annual Rocky Mountain Bankruptcy Conference

War and Peace: Recent Trends and Developments in Bankruptcy Litigation and Mediation

Discussion of issues suited for cross border mediation, different mediating styles and local practices, judges as mediators, ethics and conflicts of interest, the ABI Model local Rule and much more.

Ethical Issues in Professional Fee Disputes: Mediation vs. Litigation

Experienced mediators will discuss this popular alternative dispute resolution device, including how best to prepare for mediation, the benefits of mediation, whether it is suitable for all disputes in bankruptcy, different styles employed by mediators, and perhaps a few war stories.

In today’s post-BAPCPA environment, why file for bankruptcy at all? Consideration of alternatives, including out-of-court restructurings, state law restructuring statutes, ABCs, foreclosures; receiverships; discussion of common problems, including solicitations and hold-outs.

Your favorite judges will answer the most difficult questions fielded from ABI members in the weeks before this event and from members of the audience. Hear the judges provide their input on best practices, interesting arguments and the current state of the law.

Consumer Mortgage Modification Mediation: A Florida Success Story

From labor disputes in the American Airlines case to the negotiation of chapter 9 plans for Detroit, Stockton and San Bernardino, bankruptcy judges have looked to their colleagues to serve as mediators. What is the impact of this practice? Does it change the dynamics among the parties? Is there a role for private-sector mediators? Going forward, will bankruptcy cases continue to be fertile ground for alternative dispute resolution?