Practice and Procedure

This high-impact opening plenary will move decisively past the theoretical debate surrounding the use of artificial intelligence (AI) and will focus entirely on its practical applications. The panelists will discuss how firms are applying generative AI today to increase efficiency, reduce administrative workload and deliver better client outcomes, and will provide immediate, actionable intelligence on how AI can be used for specialized legal research, document analysis, financial data modeling and workflow automation in restructuring and insolvency cases.

Hosted by the Bankruptcy Litigation and Commercial Fraud Committees. This interactive session will take a practical approach to exploring best practices in bankruptcy litigation, with a particular emphasis on fraud-related claims. Using hypothetical fact patterns, the panelists will guide attendees through key phases of contested litigation — from the initial investigation and assessment of potential claims to courtroom strategy and trial execution. Topics will include evaluating causes of action and defenses, drafting effective complaints, managing motion practice and employing persuasive techniques in the courtroom, including opening statements, witness examinations and evidence presentation. Whether dealing with traditional bankruptcy disputes or complex fraud allegations, attendees will gain valuable insights into prosecuting and defending litigation in the bankruptcy context.

Discovery in bankruptcy contested matters can be just as complex and consequential as in traditional litigation, but with its own unique rules, limitations and strategic considerations. This panel will address recent case law, jurisdictional nuances, and the practical challenges of balancing efficiency with due process. Whether you’re initiating discovery or responding to it, this session will provide valuable insights into managing discovery effectively within the procedural framework of the Bankruptcy Code. 

Clear, concise writing is essential in bankruptcy practice, especially when your audience includes busy judges and practitioners. This interactive workshop will explore why brevity matters and how to achieve it without sacrificing legal precision. Attendees will learn to spot opportunities to tighten briefs and motions, and gain practical strategies for cutting words while preserving meaning. Whether drafting for court or clients, participants will leave with tools to write more effectively and efficiently.

As artificial intelligence transforms the legal landscape, understanding how to effectively and ethically integrate AI into legal practice is essential. This panel will explore successful strategies for employing AI in legal workflows, offer insights into ethical frameworks and considerations surrounding its use, and provide a comprehensive overview of the current market of AI-powered legal technology solutions. Attendees will leave with practical knowledge to navigate the evolving AI legal ecosystem with confidence and responsibility.

Navigating the intersection of ethics and practice management is critical for consumer bankruptcy attorneys. This session will explore the ethical obligations that arise in everyday practice, including client communication, case oversight, fee disclosures and managing high-volume dockets. The panelists will address common pitfalls and real-world scenarios that challenge compliance with the ABA Model Rules and local court requirements. Attendees will leave with practical strategies for maintaining ethical integrity while operating an efficient and sustainable consumer bankruptcy practice.

Join us for a special session honoring our retiring regional judges as they reflect on their careers, share insights into the evolution of bankruptcy law, and offer valuable perspectives gained from years on the bench. This candid conversation celebrates their service and provides attendees with a unique opportunity to learn from their experiences and legacy.

Mentorship is a cornerstone of professional development and plays a critical role in shaping the future of the bankruptcy bar. This conversational panel will explore how intentional, well-structured mentorships can foster talent, promote inclusion, and build a strong foundation for the next generation of bankruptcy professionals. The panelists will share practical strategies for cultivating meaningful mentor/mentee relationships in both formal and informal settings, including within law firms and financial institutions. Special attention will be paid to the unique opportunities judicial clerkships provide in mentoring early-career attorneys, and how experienced professionals can actively guide aspiring lawyers toward careers in bankruptcy law. The discussion also will highlight the benefits of reverse mentorship, wherein junior professionals offer fresh perspectives and insights that help senior professionals and leaders adapt to emerging trends, technologies and cultural shifts. Attendees can expect an engaging, experience-driven conversation with actionable takeaways.

Featuring the regional judges of the Rocky Mountain Bankruptcy Conference, this session will strive to answer questions you have on current issues.