Consumer Bankruptcy

Let's Make It Clear: Federal Rules of Bankruptcy Procedure 3001 and 3002 and Lien-stripping in a Distressed Real Estate Market On Dec. 1, 2011, Federal Bankruptcy Rules of Bankruptcy Procedure 3001 and 3002 were amended to provide increased transparency in proofs of claim and costs assessed during chapter 13 cases. This panel will focus on the effects of these changes on debtors, secured lenders and chapter 13 trustees. We will also review recent lien-stripping litigation, including the latest “chapter 20” case developments.

This panel will discuss domestic support obligation (DSO) and alimony/property settlement dischargability issues. When does the automatic stay apply and not apply? Should a bankruptcy be considered before, during or after the divorce? What about exemptions? In addition, the panel will discuss the threshold amount that a trustee is likely to pursue, as well as locating real estate assets and checklists for managing a real estate asset. The panel will also examine procrastination as the greatest enemy of a chapter 7 trustee, and pushing an asset liquidation to closing as quickly as possible.

When is an individual Chapter 11 a better fit for your client? Think through an individual Chapter 11 plan and spot critical issues that can lead to success. A panel of experienced individual Chapter 11 practitioners will guide you, step by step, through a successful individual Chapter 11 case, and discuss problematic issues and solutions you can implement in your individual Chapter 11. Topics include: · Creating a budget on your schedules · Calculating your plan · Working with the US Trustee’s office · Tax issues · Application of the absolute priority rule · “Deemed” voting · “Reasonable and necessary” expenses · Addressing secured mortgage debts in the plan

Amendments to Fed. R. Bankr. P. 3001; payment of tax claims; if a debtor surrenders real property post-confirmation in a Chapter 13 case, can the creditor file a deficiency claim and be paid under the Chapter 13 plan?; treatment of claims for ongoing condominium dues that accrue post-petition in a Chapter 13 when the debtor proposes to surrender the collateral.

11 U.S.C. § 522(d)(12) exemptions IRAs, retirement accounts opened prior to filing; undisclosed assets: circumstances can debtors amend schedules to exempt undisclosed assets?