Join us at the 30th Annual Central States Bankruptcy Workshop June 8-10, 2023, as we return to the newly renovated Grand Traverse Resort & Spa in beautiful Traverse City, Mich.
Kick off the weekend with a reception on the shores of Lake Michigan. Each day of the conference, design your own learning experience with specially designed business, consumer and skills tracks, and exchange ideas with esteemed regional judges and experienced colleagues.
This program and location are not to be missed. Come celebrate 30 years of ABI’s Central States Bankruptcy Workshop!
Optional Event
Pickleball Tournament
Get ready for some serious pickleball action! We're excited to announce a thrilling tournament that's sure to bring out the best players in the game. Whether you're a seasoned pro or a first-time player, this tournament is the perfect opportunity to showcase your skills, make new friends and have a blast. We can't wait to see you on the court! Cost to play is $25 per person; please check the appropriate box on the registration form.
Optional Event
Young & New Members Pub Outing
Calling all young and new members! Indulge in a pub outing where you can sample the flavors of local brews while forging new connections. Cost is $65 per person; please check the appropriate box on the registration form.
Sponsored by Fredrikson & Byron P.A.
Speaker/Sponsor Reception (by invite only)
Sponsored by Barnes & Thornburg LLP
Opening Reception
Bar sponsored by Frost Brown Todd LLP and Levenfeld Pearlstein, LLC
All-Day Coffee
Sponsored by Wolfson Bolton Kochis
Breakfast
Sponsored by MorrisAnderson
Welcome by Central States Bankruptcy Workshop Program Chairs
The Case of Lac du Flambeau Band v. Coughlin at the Supreme Court and the Intersection of Bankruptcy and Sovereign Immunity
Refreshment Break
Snacks and Small Bites sponsored by Perkins Coie LLP
Concurrent Sessions (5)
Business Tracks
Subchapter V: What We Know and Don’t Know After Three Years
Using case law examples, this panel will discuss various aspects of subchapter V in the three years since it became law. Topics will include § 523 and non-individual debtors, whether the minimum required information (e.g., cash flow, tax returns, MORs) is enough to allow creditors to make informed decisions, the role of the subchapter V trustee, the U.S. Trustee guidelines for subchapter V trustees and whether they broaden the role beyond what is set forth in 11 U.S.C. § 1183, what happens when the subchapter V trustee’s role becomes burdensome on small business debtors, and the issues on which a subchapter V trustee has standing to appear before the court.
The Wild, Wild West of Crypto
Following a brief introduction into the modern-day Wild, Wild West of currency that is crypto, this panel will discuss the rise in crypto bankruptcy filings, the unique issues and challenges of crypto bankruptcies, and the future of crypto.
Retail Cases from Coast to Coast: What Can Unsecured Creditors Expect to See?
This panel will discuss the current (post-COVID) landscape of retail and franchise cases, as well as pre-filing issues, first-day issues, post-filing “right-sizing” and § 363 sale issues.
Consumer Track
Chapter 7 and Chapter 13 Conversions
Skills Track
Mediation and Risk Analysis
The panelists and the audience will discuss the fundamentals of mediation and risk assessment, focusing on key skills that can increase the effectiveness of their mediations. This session will cover best practices for mediators to maximize their chances for successful mediations, common pitfalls in assessing your client’s risk and how to overcome them, and the importance of confidentiality in mediation.
Refreshment Break
Snacks and Small Bites sponsored by Perkins Coie LLP
Concurrent Sessions (5)
Business Tracks
Bankruptcy Alternatives and High Times
Panelists from around the Central States region will discuss the current status of receiverships in their states, with a specific focus on cannabis cases.
Mass Torts and Insurance Issues
Recent Issues with Fraudulent Transfers and Preferences
This panel will address recent case developments in fraudulent transfer and preference law, and their practical implications for practitioners. The discussion will include whether and how to advise clients preparing for bankruptcy with an eye toward fraudulent transfer and preference issues, and whether and how to recover on and monetize these actions during bankruptcy.
Consumer Track
Property of the Estate
Skills Track
Trial Skills: Valuation Hearings
This panel will present a mock trial focusing on valuation, with the panelists serving as counsel arguing each side, and as a witness and a judge. The session will cover direct and cross-examination topics that come into play with valuations, including expert witness issues, applicable evidentiary rules and procedural aspects.
Optional Event
Family Picnic
This event is FREE; please check the appropriate box on the registration form.
Sponsored by Cozen O’Connor. Entertainment sponsored by Adelman & Gettleman, Ltd. and Jenner & Block LLP
Optional Event
Wine Tour
Join fellow enthusiasts for an afternoon of wine-tasting and discovery as you sample local wines, learn about the art of winemaking, and tour the wine scene of Traverse City. Cost is $85 per person; please check the appropriate box on the registration form.
Sponsored by B. Riley Financial, Inc.
Optional Event
Tour de ABI Bicycle Outing
Immerse yourself in nature as you pedal your way through the annual Tour de ABI bike ride. Get ready for an unforgettable experience filled with fresh air, camaraderie and the beauty of the outdoors. Cost is $20 per person; please check the appropriate box on the registration form.
Sponsored by Commercial Recovery Associates, LLC and Ice Miller LLP
Optional Event
S’mores at the Shore
Unwind, relax and enjoy the company of your fellow attendees as you share stories, laughter and delectable treats by the shores of Lake Michigan. This is a FREE event; please check the appropriate box on the registration form.
Sponsored by Fox Rothschild LLP
Breakfast
Morning Announcements
Circuit Splits & Hot Topics with Bill Rochelle
Join ABI Editor-at-Large Bill Rochelle for this fun and informative session as he and several bankruptcy judges discuss circuit splits and hot topics on important bankruptcy issues. An attendee favorite!
Refreshment Break
Snacks and Small Bites sponsored by Warner Norcross + Judd LLP
Repeat Concurrent Sessions (3)
Bankruptcy Alternatives and High Times
Mass Torts and Insurance Issues
Recent Issues with Fraudulent Transfers and Preferences
Consumer Track
Student Loans
Refreshment Break
Snacks and Small Bites sponsored by Warner Norcross + Judd LLP
Repeat Concurrent Sessions (2)
Subchapter V: What We Know and Don’t Know After Three Years
Retail Cases from Coast to Coast: What Can Unsecured Creditors Expect to See?
Consumer Track
Avoidance Actions
Judicial Roundtables: Problems, Problems, Problems
Adjourn
| Early (by 4/28/23) | Regular (4/29/23-5/19/23) | Late (after 5/19/23) | ||
| Workshop Rates* | ||||
| ABI Member | $695 | $745 | $815 | |
| New ABI Member** | $1,095 | $1,145 | $1,215 | |
| Govt./Academic/Nonprofit ABI Member | $415 | $465 | $515 | |
| Govt./Academic/Nonprofit New ABI Member** | $535 | $595 | $635 | |
| Consumer (Debtor)*** | $315 | $370 | $470 | |
| * There will be a $50 fee added to all on-site registrations. | ||||
| ** Includes a one-year ABI membership for first-time members — a $425 value! You must be an ABI member to attend. Membership is individual and nonrefundable. If your membership has expired, select the member rate and add in your membership-renewal fee. | ||||
| ***This rate is available only to full-time consumer debtor attorneys. Members will be designated as a consumer debtor specialist in the online membership directory for consumer conference rates. | ||||
| Exhibitor Rates | ||||
| ABI Member Exhibitor Registration*** | $1,500 | |||
| New ABI Member Exhibitor Registration**** | $1,900 | |||
| Additional Booth Representative | $500 | |||
| *** Includes one 6’ table and full registration for one booth representative. | ||||
| **** Includes one 6’ table, full registration for one booth representative AND a one-year ABI membership for first-time members only — a $425 value! | ||||
| Attendee Price | Guest Price | Child 13 & under Price | ||
| Optional Events | ||||
| Young & New Members Pub Outing | $65 | $65 | n/a | |
| Opening Reception | $0 | $50 | $20 | |
| Dessert & S’mores Under the Stars | $0 | $15 | $10 | |
| Family Picnic | $0 | $0 | $0 | |
| Wine Tour | $85 | $85 | n/a | |
| Tour de ABI Bicycle Outing | $20 | $20 | $20 | |
ABI DEFINES A “GUEST” AS A SPOUSE, CHILD OR COMPANION — NOT A PROFESSIONAL COLLEAGUE. A professional colleague is defined as someone who consults with or is employed by an organization whose members are eligible for ABI membership. If a professional colleague is found to be registered as a guest, ABI reserves the right to cancel his or her event registration. Any person not meeting the criteria of “guest” who wishes to participate in any ABI function at the conference is required to register separately at the full conference rate.
Cancellation Policy
All fees, except a $75 handling fee, will be refunded if written notice of cancellation is received by May 17, 2023. No refunds will be granted after May 17, but substitutions will be allowed. After May 17, upon written request, a coupon for 20% off the registration fee (not including optional events) will be issued, which can be used (by the canceling registrant only) for any ABI educational program up to one year after this conference, or for this same conference next year.
Anti-Harassment Policy
The American Bankruptcy Institute is dedicated to providing a harassment-free conference experience for everyone, regardless of gender, gender identity and expression, sexual orientation, disability, physical appearance, body size, race, age or religion. We do not tolerate harassment of conference participants in any form. Sexual language and imagery are not appropriate for any conference venue, including talks. Conference participants violating these rules may be sanctioned or expelled from the conference without a refund at the discretion of the conference organizers. Our anti-harassment policy can be found at https://www.abi.org/about-us/bylaws-and-policies.
Hotel
The Grand Traverse Resort and Spa is regarded as one of Michigan’s premier vacation destinations. It has been ranked among the nation’s finest resorts, with accolades from Golf Digest, USA Today, Family Circle, Condé Nast, Travel + Leisure and more. ABI has arranged a special conference rate of $209 single/double (Hotel rooms) and $249 single/double (Tower rooms) per night. Make your reservations by May 17, 2023, to reserve the special rate. ABI cannot guarantee anyone a room after the May 10 cutoff or after the specially rated ABI block has been filled. You will receive a special room reservation link after you have registered with ABI.
Spa Discount: The Grand Traverse Resort and Spa has graciously extended attendees a 10% discount off spa treatments valued at $99 or more. To receive the 10% group discount, make your appointment with the spa at 800-748-0303, ext. 6750 or [email protected].
Air and Ground Transportation
The Grand Traverse Resort and Spa is just six miles northeast of Traverse City, Mich., and 10 minutes from Traverse City’s Cherry Capital Airport (TVC). For guests who are flying in, the resort offers complimentary Airport Shuttle service to and from the resort. Contact the front desk at 800-236-1577 to reserve shuttle service. Detroit and Chicago are within a 4- to 6-hour drive.
Workshop Chairs
Advisory Board
ABI will seek 8.25 hours of CLE credit in states calculating CLE on a 60-minute hour, and 9.9 hours of CLE credit in 50-minute-hour states. Credit hours granted are subject to each state’s CLE credit-approval regulations and might not be approved prior to the program. NY MCLE: This transitional and non-transitional program has been approved in accordance with the requirements of the CLE Board for a maximum of 9.5 credit hours. California MCLE: ABI certifies that this activity has been approved for MCLE credit in the amount of 8.25 hours.
The American Bankruptcy Institute is registered with the National Association of State Boards of Accountancy (NASBA) as a sponsor of continuing professional education on the National Registry of CPE Sponsors for Group Live (live in-person) programs. State boards of accountancy have final authority on the acceptance of individual courses for CPE credit. Complaints regarding registered sponsors may be submitted to the National Registry of CPE Sponsors through its website: www.learningmarket.org.
- Recommended CPE Credits and Field of Study: Specialized Knowledge
- Program attendees can earn up to 9.5 CPE credits.
- Prerequisites: none
- Advanced preparation: none
- Program Level: intermediate
- Delivery Method: Group Live
If recorded sessions are offered: CPE credit is available for live sessions only. CPE credit is not available for recorded versions of live sessions.
How to request CPE credit: To request CPE credit for your participation (and obtain a certificate of completion), you will need to complete an ABI Attendance Affidavit. Attendance Affidavits are available at the end of the entire conference, after we have verified your attendance. To receive CPE credit, please click "+ Add Accrediting Agency" and select NASBA (National Association of State Boards of Accountancy).
NOTE: All attendees seeking CPE credit must sign in and sign out. You may only claim credit for sessions within the period between your sign-in and sign-out; credit will be adjusted or modified accordingly.
You will receive a personalized link to submit your Attendance Affidavit via email within 7 business days of the last day of the conference.
*ABI offers intermediate-level courses, which assume that attendees have some knowledge in insolvency matters (pursuant to the “Statement on Standards for CPE Programs” established by AICPA and NASBA). ABI is registered with the National Association of State Boards of Accountancy (NASBA) as a sponsor of continuing professional education on the National Registry of CPE Sponsors. State Boards of Accountancy have the final authority on the acceptance of individual courses for CPE credit. Complaints regarding registered sponsors may be submitted to the National Registry of CPE Sponsors through its website, www.nasbaregistry.org. For more information regarding administrative policies such as complaints and refunds, please contact the American Bankruptcy Institute at (703) 739-0800.
ABI acknowledges that in some instances there will be persons who need to attend an educational seminar for CLE credit who are not able to pay full registration fees. ABI will handle such instances on a case-by-case basis and will work with the individual on alternative solutions. For persons who cannot meet the full registration rate, ABI will offer a reduced rate based on what the individual can reasonably afford to cover the cost of meals and materials. For persons unable to pay a reduced rate, we may allow the individual to work at our registration area for a few hours during attendee check-in, or assist in conference set-up. ABI also has reduced rates for government employees, professors, law clerks and students. Illinois Attorneys: If registration fees are more than $500, attorneys who qualify will receive a reduction of at least 50% off the registration fee. For information on tuition assistance, send an e-mail to [email protected].