Consumer Debt

This panel will explore the thorniest questions that have plagued the courts and created circuit splits regarding consumer bankruptcies, including: Does the Bartenwerfer rule only apply to partnerships and agencies; how much, if anything, may chapter 13 debtors contribute to 401(k)s; who gets post-petition appreciation in a home in chapter 13; and are trustees paid if dismissal precedes confirmation?

Customers can play a significant role in Chapter 11 bankruptcy proceedings, both in terms of the value they add to (or detract from) the debtor's business and their potential rights as creditors. In this panel discussion, we will explore the role of customers in Chapter 11 bankruptcy proceedings and the impact they can have on the process, including: The importance of maintaining or rejecting customer relationships and the impact that customer behavior can have on the success of the reorganization or sale process; The creditor role of a customer that can arise by virtue of rejection damages, including the roles and rights a customer gains by becoming a creditor; The consent and approval rights that customers may have in the Chapter 11 process and the implications of these rights for both the debtor and potential bidders in the sale process; The impact that a change of ownership can have on customers, the protections they’re afforded, and how both are addressed in Chapter 11 bankruptcy proceedings. This panel discussion will bring together experts in bankruptcy law, customer relationships, and business strategy to provide a comprehensive view of the role of customers in Chapter 11 bankruptcy proceedings. Whether you represent customers, creditors, or are simply interested in learning more about the bankruptcy process, this discussion will provide valuable insights into this complex area of the law.

This panel will dive into all things claim-related by tapping into the perspectives of a Chapter 13 trustee, a creditor’s rights attorney, a debtor’s attorney, and a bankruptcy judge. When should I file a claim? Is there a downside to filing a claim? What should I attach to a proof of claim? What if I miss the bar date? Is my lien perfected? How can I retain my lien? When can my lien be stripped? Will I receive interest on my claim? When can I get stay relief? Please join us to discuss these issues and more on the claim frontier.

This session will discuss the recent changes with the Department of Justice’s new Student Loan Discharge program. The panelists will explore the scope and limitations of the program, as well as best practices, including the importance of a client's present financial circumstances, expenses and repayment ability.

In this session, financial professionals will discuss understanding the client's current financial situation, tax implications of attorney decisions, and how to build projections and budgets.