The Consumer Bankruptcy Committee hosted a riveting webinar on July 17 on the “Evolution of Consumer Bankruptcy Practice in the COVID-19 Era.” Panelists were Margaret Burks (Chapter 13 Trustee; Cincinnati), John Crane (Robertson, Anschutz, Schneid & Crane LLC; Duluth, Ga.), Jenny Doling (J. Doling Law, PC; Palm Desert, Calif.) and Charissa Potts (Freedom Law PC; Eastpointe, Mich.).
The panel reviewed the trends for consumer bankruptcy practices that have emerged during the COVID-19 pandemic. Marge Burks discussed actions that chapter 13 trustees are taking to hold down costs while continuing to assist debtors. Charissa Potts and Jenny Doling analyzed how the pandemic affected their clients and gave updates on practices In Michigan and California that have developed due to the pandemic, including suspension of plan payments. They also examined the variables that have caused consumer filings to drop precipitously due to the pandemic, and what filing trends will look like moving forward. Finally, John Crane reviewed notices of forbearance, deferments and mortgage modifications, along with agreed orders so that debtors may stay in their homes.
All panelists agreed that we are a long way from being finished with the COVID maelstrom and must continue to be able to work remotely when needed. The panelists also hoped Congress might extend some benefits.
Watch Online: https://cle.abi.org/product/abi-live-evolution-consumer-bankruptcy-practice-covid-19-era