Practice and Procedure

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.

Think you know what evidence makes it into the record — and what gets tossed? This interactive session will present real-world-inspired hypotheticals highlighting evidentiary challenges in chapter 11 cases. From valuation disputes to insider transactions and confirmation battles, you’ll be asked to weigh in: Is it admissible? Is it persuasive? Is it even relevant? Join us as we explore the fine line between proof and puffery in the bankruptcy courtroom. Audience participation is not just encouraged — it’s required!

Join IWIRC and ABI for a fireside chat with Camille Bent, a partner at BakerHostetler in New York. She will be discussing challenges she’s faced throughout her career; the importance of equity, inclusion and belonging; and the importance of fostering mentorship and inclusivity in your legal practice and business-development efforts.