Presented by NACBA This panel focuses on recent cases that have reexamined the proper application of the Brunner standard without the punitive standards, as well as cases that have distinguished and explained portions of § 523(a)(8) and why they don’t apply to all private student loans. Finally, the panelists discuss the effect that the CARES Act has had on student loans.

Presented by the Hon. Steven W. Rhodes Consumer Bankruptcy Conference This session addresses the impact that COVID-19 has had on consumer bankruptcy law practice, and what the post-COVID future might look like. The panelists discuss how court policies and procedures have changed over the course of this health crisis, and will provide a high-level review of substantive issues that have been altered in consumer bankruptcy practice, such as mortgage-forbearance issues. The panelists also share their experiences working to safely and effectively meet the needs of clients, manage firm business and improve remote work practices. Highlighted are the importance of proper data-privacy and client-confidentiality measures, and the valuable role of staff productivity measures and tracking controls. The session also delves into creating emergency-preparedness plans to uphold attorney duties and adequately meet the needs of clients and firm staff in the event of an emergency, untimely death or disability of a firm’s principal or key employee.

Presented by the Hon. Eugene R. Wedoff Seventh Circuit Consumer Bankruptcy ConferenceThis session provides a judge’s perspective on preferences for virtual hearings and trials, trustee and debtor attorney discussions on § 341 meetings, and best practices from U.S. Trustee and debtor’s attorney points of view.

Presented by NACTTChapter 13 trustees provide their perspectives on the overlooked benefits of chapter 13 in this session, as well as what constitutes a successful chapter 13 case.