Discharge/Dischargeability

4th Circuit Maryland Jun 1, 2021

Arbitration Clause Results in Temporary Stay of ‘Core’ Proceedings in Bankruptcy Court

Decision by Bankruptcy Judge Michelle Harner demonstrates the flaw in the Fourth Circuit’s rule requiring parallel proceedings in bankruptcy court and in arbitration when disputes are both core and non-core.
1st Circuit Massachusetts May 12, 2021

Judge Elizabeth Katz Gives Some Relief for a Debtor Ineligible to Discharge Student Loans

Massachusetts bankruptcy judge requires flexibility from both the government and the debtor who is saddled with huge student loans.

Filing a Timely Extension Motion Won’t Extend a Deadline Without an Order

Creditors’ lawyers shot themselves in the foot by having the bankruptcy judge moot a motion for an extension of the dischargeability deadline.

Costs of a Disciplinary Proceeding Held Nondischargeable Under Section 523(a)(7)

Another court strains to explain why costs incurred by disciplinary authorities were not in compensation for “actual pecuniary loss.”
11th Circuit Mar 25, 2021

General Discharge Barred Suing the Debtor to Collect a Nondischargeable Debt

The Eleventh Circuit narrowed its Jet Florida rule that allowed suing a discharged debtor as nominal defendant.
10th Circuit Kansas Mar 17, 2021

Inability to Cover Accruing Interest Was Pivotal on Discharging Student Loans

Eligibility for an income-based repayment program is relevant only on the third Brunner test regarding good faith.