45^th Annual Jay L. Westbrook

Bankruptcy Conference

Austin Nov 19-20, 2026 Four Seasons Hotel $845 Individual "Early-bird" | $945 after Aug 7 | $1,045 after Nov 5 $760 Group rate per person (5 registrants minimum) "Early-bird" | $850 after Aug 7 | $940 after Nov 5 $675 Group rate per person (10 registrants minimum) "Early-bird" | $755 after Aug 7 | $835 after Nov 5

Live Webcast Nov 19-20, 2026 $795 Individual $715 Group rate per person (5 registrants minimum) $635 Group rate per person (10 registrants minimum) $100 Add-on rate for in-person registrants

Overview

Now in its 45th year, UT Law CLE’s Jay L. Westbrook Bankruptcy Conference stands as one of the nation’s premier bankruptcy law programs. Each year, the conference brings together a distinguished national faculty of leading judges, academics, and practitioners for cutting‑edge discussions on the most important issues in bankruptcy practice. Recognized for its depth, insight, and exceptional networking opportunities, the Westbrook Conference continues to be a cornerstone event for professionals across the bankruptcy community.

Event Schedule

Program is subject to change.
All times are Central Time Zone.

Day 1 November 19, 2026
Day 2 November 20, 2026

Time

Credit

Subject

Speaker
Thursday Morning, Nov. 19, 2026
Presiding Officer:
Sean B. Davis, Baker Donelson - Houston, TX
7:30 am
Austin Only

Registration Opens

Includes continental breakfast.
8:10 am

Welcoming Remarks
8:30 am

1.00 hr
0.25 hr ethics

Recent Developments – Part I

Some of these recent cases get better with time. Some not so much. But all are “interesting” and several are really important or at least really funny.

Moderator:
Jay L. Westbrook, The University of Texas School of Law - Austin, TX
Panelists:
R. Byrn "Byrnie" Bass Jr., Attorney at Law - Lubbock, TX
Demetra Liggins, McGuireWoods - Houston, TX
Angela Littwin, The University of Texas School of Law - Austin, TX
Bill Rochelle, American Bankruptcy Institute - New York, NY

Moderator:
Jay L. Westbrook, The University of Texas School of Law - Austin, TX
Panelists:
R. Byrn "Byrnie" Bass Jr., Attorney at Law - Lubbock, TX
Demetra Liggins, McGuireWoods - Houston, TX
Angela Littwin, The University of Texas School of Law - Austin, TX
Bill Rochelle, American Bankruptcy Institute - New York, NY
9:30 am

15-Minute Break
9:45 am

0.75 hr ethics

AI: When to Use It, and When Not To

Knowing when to lean on generative AI, and when to hold back, is now a core professional skill for the bankruptcy professional. This session unpacks how and when AI belongs in bankruptcy work and where it doesn't. The discussion covers the themes and trends shaping AI adoption, why most legal AI initiatives fail, and a practical adoption framework for implementing generative AI effectively in a bankruptcy context while managing client privacy expectations and bridging the gap between seasoned practitioners and the next generation of lawyers. It then turns to the ethical frontier: client disclosure obligations, ABA Formal Opinion 512, and the professional responsibility risks of AI-generated errors under Rule 9011. For the consumer bankruptcy audience, the session also examines how AI is changing the landscape for pro se filers and issues like car lender disputes, solar panel financing, and mechanics liens—with implications extending into business bankruptcy as well. This interactive session is grounded in real practitioner experience, attendees leave equipped to use AI with sound judgment, sharp ethical instincts, and real practical skill.

Jason S. Brookner, Gray Reed - Dallas, TX
Joseph R. Tiano, Jr., Legal Decoder, Inc. - Falls Church, VA

Jason S. Brookner, Gray Reed - Dallas, TX
Joseph R. Tiano, Jr., Legal Decoder, Inc. - Falls Church, VA
10:30 am

0.75 hr

Staying Ahead of the Curve: Anticipating the Future of Bankruptcy

Bankruptcy is changing — for individuals, for businesses, and for Texas. This experienced panel examines the trends and developments poised to reshape the field in the near future.

Pam Bassel, Standing Chapter 13 Trustee for the Northern District of Texas, Fort Worth Division - Fort Worth, TX
Gabriel Morgan, Weil, Gotshal & Manges LLP - Houston, TX
Hon. Michael M. Parker, U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Western District of Texas - San Antonio, TX

Pam Bassel, Standing Chapter 13 Trustee for the Northern District of Texas, Fort Worth Division - Fort Worth, TX
Gabriel Morgan, Weil, Gotshal & Manges LLP - Houston, TX
Hon. Michael M. Parker, U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Western District of Texas - San Antonio, TX
11:15 am

0.75 hr

National Bankruptcy Conference: A Legislative Dialogue

The National Bankruptcy Conference has advised Congress on bankruptcy legislation since the 1930s. Throughout its history, the Conference has studied emerging issues in bankruptcy law, developed consensus positions on proposed legislation, and served as a nonpartisan resource to members of Congress, congressional committees, and their staffs on technical bankruptcy matters. This panel of Conferees discusses the Conference and some of its recent work, including proposed amendments to chapter 15, a streamlined restructuring process in a proposed chapter 16, renewed efforts to increase the subchapter V debt limits, and a number of consumer bankruptcy proposals.

Ronit Berkovich, Weil, Gotshal & Manges LLP - New York, NY
Richard B. Levin, Jenner & Block LLP - New York, NY
Tara Twomey, Former Director, United States Trustee Program - Washington, DC

Ronit Berkovich, Weil, Gotshal & Manges LLP - New York, NY
Richard B. Levin, Jenner & Block LLP - New York, NY
Tara Twomey, Former Director, United States Trustee Program - Washington, DC
12:00 pm
Austin Only

Pick Up Lunch

Included in registration.
Thursday Afternoon, Nov. 19, 2026
Presiding Officer:
R. Byrn "Byrnie" Bass Jr., Attorney at Law - Lubbock, TX
LUNCHEON PRESENTATION
12:30 pm

0.75 hr
0.25 hr ethics

Bankruptcy in Texas: From the Alamo to the Texas Two-Step and Beyond

Texans are fiercely independent risk takers and national leaders in entrepreneurship and in ways of addressing the fallout of taking financial risks — bankruptcy. The panel offers a brief history of bankruptcy in Texas from the Republic of Texas to the oil barons, to the silver barons, to booms and busts, to high flying airlines, to LME’s. The panel offers the unique Texas perspective on the “fresh start”, and describes why Texas has been at the forefront of bankruptcy innovations, from adoption of the first homestead exemption to the invention of the Texas Two Step.

Moderator:
Charles A. Beckham, Jr., Haynes and Boone, LLP - Houston, TX
Panelists:
Zack A. Clement, Attorney at Law - Houston, TX
Ryan Manns, Norton Rose Fulbright US LLP - Dallas, TX
Deborah D. Williamson, Dykema Gossett PLLC - San Antonio, TX

Moderator:
Charles A. Beckham, Jr., Haynes and Boone, LLP - Houston, TX
Panelists:
Zack A. Clement, Attorney at Law - Houston, TX
Ryan Manns, Norton Rose Fulbright US LLP - Dallas, TX
Deborah D. Williamson, Dykema Gossett PLLC - San Antonio, TX
1:15 pm

30-Minute Break to Tracks
General Business Track
Presiding Officer:
Jay H. Ong, Munsch Hardt Kopf & Harr, P.C. - Austin, TX
1:45 pm

0.75 hr

DIP Financing and Alternative Financing Strategies in Lower to Middle Market Cases

Explore approaches professionals can utilize to ensure that narrow-margin chapter 11 debtors can successfully reach the finish line.

Mark A. Castillo, Carrington, Coleman, Sloman & Blumenthal, L.L.P. - Dallas, TX
Hon. Brenda T. Rhoades, U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Eastern District of Texas - Plano, TX
Rachael L. Smiley, FBFK Law - Plano, TX

Mark A. Castillo, Carrington, Coleman, Sloman & Blumenthal, L.L.P. - Dallas, TX
Hon. Brenda T. Rhoades, U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Eastern District of Texas - Plano, TX
Rachael L. Smiley, FBFK Law - Plano, TX
2:30 pm

0.75 hr

Hot Topics in Subchapter V: From Eligibility, to Confirmation, to Post-Confirmation

Follow a hypothetical debtor through a Subchapter V case and vote at each turning point before the judge rules from the bench. A bankruptcy judge, a Subchapter V trustee, and a debtor's counsel use the story to tackle some of the hottest, most contested questions in Subchapter V today.

Todd Headden, Hayward PLLC - Austin, TX
An Nguyen, Nguyen Law PLLC - Austin, TX
Hon. Eduardo V. Rodriguez, U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Southern District of Texas - Houston, TX

Todd Headden, Hayward PLLC - Austin, TX
An Nguyen, Nguyen Law PLLC - Austin, TX
Hon. Eduardo V. Rodriguez, U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Southern District of Texas - Houston, TX
3:15 pm

0.50 hr

Bankruptcy Alternative: Why are Receiverships on the Rise?

Given the ever-increasing costs of bankruptcy, the panel discusses why varying forms of receivership are becoming a commonplace solution.

Gregory S. Milligan, Harney Partners - Austin, TX
Trip Nix, Kane Russell Coleman Logan PC - Austin, TX

Gregory S. Milligan, Harney Partners - Austin, TX
Trip Nix, Kane Russell Coleman Logan PC - Austin, TX
3:45 pm

10-Minute Break
3:55 pm

0.75 hr

Understanding and Contending with MCAs

This discussion provides both debtor and creditor perspectives on how merchant cash advances (MCAs) have been addressed in bankruptcy proceedings in recent years, along with important case law developments that impact both sides.

Moderator:
Timothy A. Million, Husch Blackwell LLP - Houston, TX
Panelists:
Matthew W. Bourda, The Lane Law Firm, PLLC - Houston, TX
Jeff D. Carruth, Condon Tobin Sladek Sparks Nerenberg PLLC - Dallas, TX

Moderator:
Timothy A. Million, Husch Blackwell LLP - Houston, TX
Panelists:
Matthew W. Bourda, The Lane Law Firm, PLLC - Houston, TX
Jeff D. Carruth, Condon Tobin Sladek Sparks Nerenberg PLLC - Dallas, TX
4:40 pm

0.75 hr

CRO/Interim Leadership: Perils, Pitfalls and Pathways to Success in Operating Companies in Chapter 11 or Out of Court Workouts

Navigating an operating company through financial distress requires far more than balance-sheet engineering; it demands immediate triage, transparency, and decisive operational leadership. Speakers share their opinions and guidance for avoiding governance traps, fixing broken business models, and preserving enterprise value in Chapter 11 and out-of-court workouts.

Drew McManigle, MACCO Restructuring Group, LLC - Houston, TX
Charlie Shelton, Hayward PLLC - Austin, TX

Drew McManigle, MACCO Restructuring Group, LLC - Houston, TX
Charlie Shelton, Hayward PLLC - Austin, TX
Complex Business Track
Presiding Officer:
Kelli S. Norfleet, Haynes and Boone, LLP - Houston, TX
1:45 pm
Austin Only

0.75 hr

The State of Private Credit and Potential Impacts on Restructuring Practice

Private credit has seen tremendous growth and has become a dominant player in certain segments of the corporate debt stack with US private credit at about $1.7 trillion and global private credit at about $3.5 trillion. Private credit, while not dominant in total corporate borrowing in the US, has become a dominant force in certain sectors including leveraged buyout financing and middle market direct lending. What are some of the key potential challenges facing private credit in the current financial environment? What are some potential impacts of private credit on the restructuring practice? Could private credit and sovereign debt be setting the stage for a potential systemic global risk?

Moderator:
William L. Wallander, Vinson & Elkins LLP - Dallas, TX
Panelists:
Edward I. Altman, New York University, Stern School of Business - New York, NY
Jonathan C. Lipson, Temple University - Beasley School of Law - Philadelphia, PA

Moderator:
William L. Wallander, Vinson & Elkins LLP - Dallas, TX
Panelists:
Edward I. Altman, New York University, Stern School of Business - New York, NY
Jonathan C. Lipson, Temple University - Beasley School of Law - Philadelphia, PA
2:30 pm
Austin Only

0.75 hr

To Opt-In or Opt-Out: Practical Suggestions on How to Approach Third-Party Releases

The law governing third-party releases continues to evolve at a rapid pace, with significant developments emerging across the country and within the Fifth Circuit. Moving beyond prior conference coverage, this panel provides an updated and critical examination of recent Fifth Circuit developments—including In re The Container Store—and offers practical guidance for practitioners navigating these issues in chapter 11 plan practice.

Hon. Scott Everett, U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Northern District of Texas - Dallas, TX
Kristian W. Gluck, Norton Rose Fulbright US LLP - Dallas, TX
Lydia R. Webb, Gray Reed - Dallas, TX

Hon. Scott Everett, U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Northern District of Texas - Dallas, TX
Kristian W. Gluck, Norton Rose Fulbright US LLP - Dallas, TX
Lydia R. Webb, Gray Reed - Dallas, TX
3:15 pm
Austin Only

0.50 hr

Issues and Trends in LMEs

Explore the current issues and trends in liability management exercises, including market trends and responses to court decisions related to Serta, Converge One, Del Monte, and others.

Brent Herlihy, PJT Partners - New York, NY
Chad Husnick, Kirkland & Ellis LLP - Chicago, IL

Brent Herlihy, PJT Partners - New York, NY
Chad Husnick, Kirkland & Ellis LLP - Chicago, IL
3:45 pm
Austin Only

10-Minute Break
3:55 pm
Austin Only

0.75 hr

Comparison of Foreign and U.S. Insolvency Regimes and Predictions for the Future

The panelists discuss restructuring statutes from certain other countries in contrast with Chapter 11 and discuss current trends in cross-border insolvency, including the increased use of Chapter 15.

Hon. Lisa G. Beckerman, U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Southern District of New York - New York, NY
R. Adam Swick, Akerman LLP - Austin, TX

Hon. Lisa G. Beckerman, U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Southern District of New York - New York, NY
R. Adam Swick, Akerman LLP - Austin, TX
4:40 pm
Austin Only

0.75 hr

Mass Torts or a Mass of Torts? Knowing the Difference and How It Impacts a Reorganization

Discuss the difference between mass tort bankruptcy cases and bankruptcy cases involving large numbers of torts for separate injuries both in type and in occurrence. Explain how companies navigate restructurings under both scenarios, what the scenarios have in common, and how their differences impact issues with insurance, releases, continuing liabilities, and achieving a value-maximizing transaction. Hear analysis from the creditors’ perspective, including how these cases affect claim reconciliation, adjudication, trust procedures, and creditors’ recoveries and natural tension that exists between the secured creditors who want to increase their chances of being repaid and the unsecured creditors who want to maximize unsecured creditors’ access to recoveries from an often limited pool of assets.

Erin E. Jones, Jones Murray LLP - Houston, TX
Felicia Gerber Perlman, McDermott Will & Schulte - Chicago, IL
Nicholas Zluticky, Stinson LLP - Kansas City, MO

Erin E. Jones, Jones Murray LLP - Houston, TX
Felicia Gerber Perlman, McDermott Will & Schulte - Chicago, IL
Nicholas Zluticky, Stinson LLP - Kansas City, MO
Consumer Track
Presiding Officer:
Pam Bassel, Standing Chapter 13 Trustee for the Northern District of Texas, Fort Worth Division - Fort Worth, TX
1:45 pm

0.75 hr

Addressing Practical Problems in Consumer Cases

Explore common and increasingly complex issues encountered in consumer bankruptcy cases, including reaffirmation agreements, property surrender, client-filed pro se pleadings, and more. Discuss practical strategies for identifying, preventing, and resolving these issues while protecting debtors' rights and ensuring creditor and servicer compliance throughout the bankruptcy process.

Richard W. Anderson III, Leinart Law Firm - Dallas, TX
Hon. Marvin Isgur, U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Southern District of Texas - Houston, TX
Kelli L. Johnson, Mackie Wolf Zientz & Mann, P.C. - Dallas, TX

Richard W. Anderson III, Leinart Law Firm - Dallas, TX
Hon. Marvin Isgur, U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Southern District of Texas - Houston, TX
Kelli L. Johnson, Mackie Wolf Zientz & Mann, P.C. - Dallas, TX
2:30 pm

0.75 hr

Ashes to Assets: Inheritance, Disclosure, and Other Probate Problems in Bankruptcy

Gain insight on probate issues bankruptcy attorneys need to spot early, including inherited assets, deceased debtors, non-filing heirs, estate administration, exemptions, claim disputes, disclaimers of inheritance and the automatic stay’s impact on probate proceedings. Review practical red flags, common traps, and strategies for keeping “family drama” from becoming case-ending litigation.

Megan Baumer, Law Office of Michael Baumer - Austin, TX
Cristina Rodriguez, The Office of Tiffany Castro, Chapter 13 Trustee - Houston, TX
Marvin Sprouse, Sprouse Law Firm - Austin, TX

Megan Baumer, Law Office of Michael Baumer - Austin, TX
Cristina Rodriguez, The Office of Tiffany Castro, Chapter 13 Trustee - Houston, TX
Marvin Sprouse, Sprouse Law Firm - Austin, TX
3:15 pm

0.50 hr

Judicial Estoppel under the “Totality of the Circumstances” Test

What will judicial estoppel look like in bankruptcy cases after the Supreme Court’s big decision in Keathley? Discuss practical implications for bankruptcy practitioners, what case law from other circuits may tell us about how the “totality of the circumstances” test will be applied in the Fifth Circuit (and elsewhere), and what other tools are in the bankruptcy court’s “arsenal” (as Justice Sotomayor’s concurrence put it) to police wrongdoing.

Hon. Christopher G. Bradley, U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Western District of Texas - Austin, TX
Behrooz P. Vida, The Vida Law Firm - Bedford, TX

Hon. Christopher G. Bradley, U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Western District of Texas - Austin, TX
Behrooz P. Vida, The Vida Law Firm - Bedford, TX
3:45 pm

10-Minute Break
3:55 pm

0.75 hr

Making the Call: Personal vs. Commercial Chapter 7 — Including Best Practices for Navigating SBA Loans Inside and Outside Bankruptcy

John Akard Jr., Coplen & Banks, P.C. - Houston, TX

John Akard Jr., Coplen & Banks, P.C. - Houston, TX
4:40 pm

0.75 hr

The Means Test: When Does It Matter and Why Do We Care?

The Means Test can be difficult to navigate if you aren’t sure where to begin, what information is needed/relevant, or if it is even worth digging into for your specific scenario. From income (what is considered income, what is too much income?) to marital adjustments, household size (can you count them as a dependent?), and special circumstances, this presentation explores the ins and outs of the Means Test, for both Chapter 7 and 13, and will have you feeling like a pro in no time.

Anne Elizabeth Burns, Chapter 7 Panel Trustee, Cavazos Hendricks Poirot, P.C. - Dallas, TX
J. Robert Vanhemelrijck, Vanhemelrijck Law Offices PC - San Antonio, TX

Anne Elizabeth Burns, Chapter 7 Panel Trustee, Cavazos Hendricks Poirot, P.C. - Dallas, TX
J. Robert Vanhemelrijck, Vanhemelrijck Law Offices PC - San Antonio, TX
5:25 pm
Austin Only

Adjourn to Reception
Austin Only

Jay L. Westbrook Bankruptcy Conference Reception (5:25 p.m. to 6:25 p.m.)

Join program faculty and attendees for drinks and hors d'oeuvres.
Thursday Evening, Nov. 19, 2026
Austin Only

Young Lawyers Committee Annual Evening Reception (8:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m.)

Please join the Young Lawyers Committee of the Bankruptcy Law Section. All are invited to join in the celebration!

Location will be announced soon.

Time

Credit

Subject

Speaker
Friday Morning, Nov. 20, 2026
Presiding Officer:
Ashley L. Harper, Hunton Andrews Kurth LLP - Houston, TX
8:00 am
Austin Only

Conference Room Opens

Includes continental breakfast.
8:30 am

0.75 hr
0.50 hr ethics

The Next Frontier of AI: Hiring, Training, and Matter Pricing

Like the move from book research to Westlaw and Lexis, AI is changing not whether lawyers add value, but where they add value. This presentation explores how AI may reshape the law firm leverage model—from the skills firms hire for, to the way associates are trained, to how bankruptcy matters are staffed, supervised, and priced.

Liz Boydston, Thompson Coburn LLP - Dallas, TX
Alexandria Rahn, Thompson Coburn LLP - Dallas, TX

Liz Boydston, Thompson Coburn LLP - Dallas, TX
Alexandria Rahn, Thompson Coburn LLP - Dallas, TX
9:15 am

0.75 hr
0.25 hr ethics

Work-Life Balance for Bankruptcy Lawyers

Tips and pointers for managing deadlines, stress, and billable hours requirement while also prioritizing your physical and mental health and well-being.

Dr. Brooke Robinson, University of Mary Hardin-Baylor, Mayborn College of Health Sciences - Belton, TX
Hon. Shad Robinson, U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Western District of Texas - Austin, TX

Dr. Brooke Robinson, University of Mary Hardin-Baylor, Mayborn College of Health Sciences - Belton, TX
Hon. Shad Robinson, U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Western District of Texas - Austin, TX
10:00 am

15-Minute Break
10:15 am

0.75 hr
0.50 hr ethics

From Likes to Liability: Social Media Investigations, Hidden Assets, and Evidentiary Best Practices

This panel explores practical techniques fiduciaries and other parties-in-interest may use to investigate hidden assets and uncover bankruptcy fraud, with particular focus on social media as an investigative tool, including the ethical boundaries practitioners must observe when mining public and quasi-public platforms for evidence. The panel also addresses the evidentiary path for getting social media-derived evidence authenticated and admitted, including the growing challenge of deepfakes and AI-manipulated content, and how parties can authenticate or challenge digital evidence in an era where images, video, and audio can no longer be taken at face value.

Amber M. Carson, Gray Reed - Dallas, TX
Annmarie Chiarello, Winstead PC - Dallas, TX
Hon. E. Lee Morris, U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Northern District of Texas - Fort Worth, TX

Amber M. Carson, Gray Reed - Dallas, TX
Annmarie Chiarello, Winstead PC - Dallas, TX
Hon. E. Lee Morris, U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Northern District of Texas - Fort Worth, TX
11:00 am

0.75 hr
0.25 hr ethics

Funding the Fight: The Role of Litigation Finance in Bankruptcy

The litigation finance industry has experienced massive growth in recent years, and the topic continues to engender spirited debate within the legal community. Litigation finance is particularly well suited for the bankruptcy world, where holders of affirmative claims often lack financial wherewithal to pursue them. This program explains common applications in bankruptcy and addresses common questions on issues such as attorney fee splitting, conflicts of interest, confidentiality, privilege, litigation decision-making and independent professional judgment. Also, this presentation explores unique rules and considerations in bankruptcy surrounding disclosure and obtaining court approval, when necessary.

Hon. Michelle V. Larson, U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Northern District of Texas - Dallas, TX
Amy Tellegen Geise, Omni Bridgeway - Houston, TX

Hon. Michelle V. Larson, U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Northern District of Texas - Dallas, TX
Amy Tellegen Geise, Omni Bridgeway - Houston, TX
11:45 am

0.75 hr
0.25 hr ethics

Recent Developments - Part II

More recent cases. More evolving issues. Still interesting.

Moderator:
Aaron M. Kaufman, Gray Reed - Dallas, TX
Panelists:
Omar J. Alaniz, Reed Smith LLP - Dallas, TX
Brian T. Cumings, Graves Dougherty Hearon & Moody - Austin, TX
Cristina Rodriguez, The Office of Tiffany Castro, Chapter 13 Trustee - Houston, TX

Moderator:
Aaron M. Kaufman, Gray Reed - Dallas, TX
Panelists:
Omar J. Alaniz, Reed Smith LLP - Dallas, TX
Brian T. Cumings, Graves Dougherty Hearon & Moody - Austin, TX
Cristina Rodriguez, The Office of Tiffany Castro, Chapter 13 Trustee - Houston, TX
12:30 pm
Austin Only

Pick Up Lunch

Included in conference registration.
Friday Afternoon, Nov. 20, 2026
Presiding Officer:
Angela Littwin, The University of Texas School of Law - Austin, TX
LUNCHEON PRESENTATION
12:50 pm

0.75 hr

Closing Lunch with Professor Mechele Dickerson

Gain insight into why it is so hard for lower- and middle-income young adults in this country to become and remain middle class. Hear suggestions on things our country’s leaders should do to restore middle-class stability and security.

A. Mechele Dickerson, The University of Texas School of Law - Austin, TX

A. Mechele Dickerson, The University of Texas School of Law - Austin, TX
1:35 pm

Adjourn

Day 1 November 19, 2026
Day 2 November 20, 2026

Download Schedule

Conference Faculty

John Akard Jr.

Coplen & Banks, P.C.
Houston, TX

Omar J. Alaniz

Reed Smith LLP
Dallas, TX

Edward I. Altman

New York University, Stern School of Business
New York, NY

Richard W. Anderson III

Leinart Law Firm
Dallas, TX

R. Byrn "Byrnie" Bass Jr.

Attorney at Law
Lubbock, TX

Pam Bassel

Standing Chapter 13 Trustee for the Northern District of Texas, Fort Worth Division
Fort Worth, TX

Megan Baumer

Law Office of Michael Baumer
Austin, TX

Hon. Lisa G. Beckerman

U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Southern District of New York
New York, NY

Charles A. Beckham, Jr.

Haynes and Boone, LLP
Houston, TX

Ronit Berkovich

Weil, Gotshal & Manges LLP
New York, NY

Matthew W. Bourda

The Lane Law Firm, PLLC
Houston, TX

Liz Boydston

Thompson Coburn LLP
Dallas, TX

Hon. Christopher G. Bradley

U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Western District of Texas
Austin, TX

Jason S. Brookner

Gray Reed
Dallas, TX

Anne Elizabeth Burns

Chapter 7 Panel Trustee, Cavazos Hendricks Poirot, P.C.
Dallas, TX

Jeff D. Carruth

Condon Tobin Sladek Sparks Nerenberg PLLC
Dallas, TX

Amber M. Carson

Gray Reed
Dallas, TX

Mark A. Castillo

Carrington, Coleman, Sloman & Blumenthal, L.L.P.
Dallas, TX

Annmarie Chiarello

Winstead PC
Dallas, TX

Zack A. Clement

Attorney at Law
Houston, TX

Brian T. Cumings

Graves Dougherty Hearon & Moody
Austin, TX

A. Mechele Dickerson

The University of Texas School of Law
Austin, TX

Hon. Scott Everett

U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Northern District of Texas
Dallas, TX

Amy Tellegen Geise

Omni Bridgeway
Houston, TX

Kristian W. Gluck

Norton Rose Fulbright US LLP
Dallas, TX

Todd Headden

Hayward PLLC
Austin, TX

Brent Herlihy

PJT Partners
New York, NY

Chad Husnick

Kirkland & Ellis LLP
Chicago, IL

Hon. Marvin Isgur

U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Southern District of Texas
Houston, TX

Kelli L. Johnson

Mackie Wolf Zientz & Mann, P.C.
Dallas, TX

Erin E. Jones

Jones Murray LLP
Houston, TX

Aaron M. Kaufman

Gray Reed
Dallas, TX

Hon. Michelle V. Larson

U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Northern District of Texas
Dallas, TX

Richard B. Levin

Jenner & Block LLP
New York, NY

Demetra Liggins

McGuireWoods
Houston, TX

Jonathan C. Lipson

Temple University - Beasley School of Law
Philadelphia, PA

Angela Littwin

The University of Texas School of Law
Austin, TX

Ryan Manns

Norton Rose Fulbright US LLP
Dallas, TX

Drew McManigle

MACCO Restructuring Group, LLC
Houston, TX

Gregory S. Milligan

Harney Partners
Austin, TX

Timothy A. Million

Husch Blackwell LLP
Houston, TX

Gabriel Morgan

Weil, Gotshal & Manges LLP
Houston, TX

Hon. E. Lee Morris

U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Northern District of Texas
Fort Worth, TX

An Nguyen

Nguyen Law PLLC
Austin, TX

Trip Nix

Kane Russell Coleman Logan PC
Austin, TX

Hon. Michael M. Parker

U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Western District of Texas
San Antonio, TX

Felicia Gerber Perlman

McDermott Will & Schulte
Chicago, IL

Alexandria Rahn

Thompson Coburn LLP
Dallas, TX

Hon. Brenda T. Rhoades

U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Eastern District of Texas
Plano, TX

Dr. Brooke Robinson

University of Mary Hardin-Baylor, Mayborn College of Health Sciences
Belton, TX

Hon. Shad Robinson

U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Western District of Texas
Austin, TX

Bill Rochelle

American Bankruptcy Institute
New York, NY

Cristina Rodriguez

The Office of Tiffany Castro, Chapter 13 Trustee
Houston, TX

Hon. Eduardo V. Rodriguez

U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Southern District of Texas
Houston, TX

Charlie Shelton

Hayward PLLC
Austin, TX

Rachael L. Smiley

FBFK Law
Plano, TX

Marvin Sprouse

Sprouse Law Firm
Austin, TX

R. Adam Swick

Akerman LLP
Austin, TX

Joseph R. Tiano, Jr.

Legal Decoder, Inc.
Falls Church, VA

Tara Twomey

Former Director, United States Trustee Program
Washington, DC

J. Robert Vanhemelrijck

Vanhemelrijck Law Offices PC
San Antonio, TX

Behrooz P. Vida

The Vida Law Firm
Bedford, TX

William L. Wallander

Vinson & Elkins LLP
Dallas, TX

Lydia R. Webb

Gray Reed
Dallas, TX

Jay L. Westbrook

The University of Texas School of Law
Austin, TX

Deborah D. Williamson

Dykema Gossett PLLC
San Antonio, TX

Nicholas Zluticky

Stinson LLP
Kansas City, MO

Planning Committee

Sean B. Davis—Chair

Baker Donelson
Houston, TX

April Stephens Rogers—Director

The University of Texas School of Law
Austin, TX

Hon. John C. Akard

U.S. Bankruptcy Judge, Retired
Tomball, TX

Omar J. Alaniz

Reed Smith LLP
Dallas, TX

Kimberly A. Bartley

Waldron & Schneider
Houston, TX

R. Byrn "Byrnie" Bass Jr.

Attorney at Law
Lubbock, TX

Pam Bassel

Standing Chapter 13 Trustee for the Northern District of Texas, Fort Worth Division
Fort Worth, TX

Katharine Battaia Clark

Thompson Coburn LLP
Dallas, TX

Megan F. Clontz

Ferguson Braswell Fraser & Kubasta PC
Plano, TX

Brian T. Cumings

Graves Dougherty Hearon & Moody
Austin, TX

Ashley L. Harper

Hunton Andrews Kurth LLP
Houston, TX

Christy Heimer

Heimer Law Offices P.C.
Austin, TX

Hon. Marvin Isgur

U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Southern District of Texas
Houston, TX

Erin E. Jones

Jones Murray LLP
Houston, TX

Aaron M. Kaufman

Gray Reed
Dallas, TX

Deborah B. Langehennig

Austin, TX

Hon. Michelle V. Larson

U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Northern District of Texas
Dallas, TX

Tara LeDay

Husch Blackwell LLP
Austin, TX

Demetra Liggins

McGuireWoods
Houston, TX

Angela Littwin

The University of Texas School of Law
Austin, TX

Ryan Manns

Norton Rose Fulbright US LLP
Dallas, TX

Kelli S. Norfleet

Haynes and Boone, LLP
Houston, TX

Jay H. Ong

Munsch Hardt Kopf & Harr, P.C.
Austin, TX

Hon. Michael M. Parker

U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Western District of Texas
San Antonio, TX

Michael R. Rochelle

Rochelle McCullough PLLC
Dallas, TX

Cristina Rodriguez

The Office of Tiffany Castro, Chapter 13 Trustee
Houston, TX

Hon. Joshua P. Searcy

U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Eastern District of Texas
Tyler, TX

Eric M. Van Horn

Stinson LLP
Dallas, TX

William L. Wallander

Vinson & Elkins LLP
Dallas, TX

Jay L. Westbrook

The University of Texas School of Law
Austin, TX

Deborah D. Williamson

Dykema Gossett PLLC
San Antonio, TX

Megan Young-John

Porter Hedges LLP
Houston, TX

Venue

Four Seasons Hotel

98 San Jacinto Boulevard
Austin, TX 78701-4082
512-478-4500 (reservations)
Map

Accommodations

A room block has been reserved at the Four Seasons Hotel. Attendees will receive instructions to make their reservations in their registration confirmation message.

Parking Information

Daily self parking: $22
Daily valet: $25
Overnight valet parking: $60

Additional Information

The conference will take place in the Four Seasons Ballroom located on the lake level of the hotel.

Our Sponsors

Thank you to our sponsors! Click each logo below to learn more.

Vinson & Elkins LLP

Vinson & Elkins LLP
www.velaw.com/

At Vinson & Elkins, our people are our strongest asset. Collaborating seamlessly across 12 offices worldwide, we provide outstanding client service. Our lawyers are committed to excellence, offering clients experience in handling their transactions, investments, projects and disputes across the globe.
We make the business of our clients our business, and are recognized professionals in key industries driving our global economy forward. Our market-leading approach comes from our experience — experience gained from representing entrepreneurial innovators in their most important deals and disputes for over 100 years. Our commitment to excellence, coupled with our commercial approach to solving problems, allows us to collaborate with clients to achieve results.
MACCO Group

MACCO Group
www.macco.group/case-studies

MACCO Restructuring Group, LLC (“MACCO”) is a national, award-winning, middle-market focused interim leadership and financial advisory practice. Based in Houston, Texas, it has professionals and locations from coast to coast who possess real world business experience and have led and managed companies serving as CEOs, CROs, CFOs, as senior lenders or in fiduciary roles such as operating chapter 11 trustee, assignee, and receiver.

MACCO believes businesses in operational or financial peril, and the people who own or manage them, should have access to cost-effective, straightforward solutions. MACCO’s attributes of independence, high-ethical standards, and our willingness to take accountability, each allow us to act quickly, move confidently and execute precisely to “put out the fire and protect the stakeholders from getting burned.”
VERITAS Restructuring Group

VERITAS Restructuring Group
vrg.co

Founded in 2008 and operating as VERITAS Restructuring Group (VRG), we are a recognized leader in middle-market business restructuring and turnaround management providing financial advisory and interim management expertise. We help organizations navigate financial and operational challenges with practical, results-driven solutions. Since 2009, we have maintained an A+ Accredited Rating, the highest available in our industry, reflecting our commitment to excellence, integrity, and measurable client results. We deliver innovative, tailored restructuring and bankruptcy, financial advisory and interim management solutions guided by core values of integrity, innovation, and client-centricity. Our experienced professionals provide cost-effective strategies that address immediate needs while supporting long-term success. We specialize in stabilizing operations, improving performance, and creating clear paths for businesses, debtors, lenders, and UCC committees across diverse industries nationwide. Visit www.VRG.co for more information and or contact Pablo Bonjour at Pablo@VRG.co.
Jones Walker LLP

Jones Walker LLP
www.joneswalker.com

Jones Walker LLP is a law firm committed to helping clients address today’s challenges, maximize opportunities, and set the stage for future success. Our bankruptcy and restructuring team touts a national footprint, industry focus, and top-tier attorneys providing unparalleled guidance to creditors, debtors, and other business stakeholders. Our experienced attorneys provide counsel at every step, from pre-bankruptcy planning and negotiation of out-of-court workouts and restructurings, to representing clients in bankruptcy court litigation, appeals, and complex Section 363 asset sales and bidding procedures. Attorneys in the practice group are equally skilled in state and non-bankruptcy law remedies and proceedings, such as receiverships. Jones Walker’s bankruptcy and restructuring practice is dedicated to helping businesses, creditors’ committees, lenders, trade creditors, and customers navigate distress within the marketplace.
Reed Smith LLP

Reed Smith LLP
www.reedsmith.com

Reed Smith is a dynamic international law firm dedicated to helping clients move their businesses forward. With an inclusive culture and innovative mindset, we deliver smarter, more creative legal services that drive better outcomes for our clients. Our deep industry knowledge, long-standing relationships and collaborative structure make us the go-to partner for complex disputes, transactions, and regulatory matters.

For more information, please visit www.reedsmith.com.
Financial Software Solutions

Financial Software Solutions
www.trustesolutions.com/

Financial Software Solutions, LLC, (FSS) provides modern fintech tools that enhance productivity and mobility for fiduciaries including TrusteSolutions, the intuitive case management platform for the chapter 7 bankruptcy industry delivering streamlined workflows, smarter automation, and confident compliance. Case Organization for Receivers and Executives (CORE), the turnkey case management solution bringing clarity and control to the most complex receivership and chapter 11 and chapter 11 Subchapter V cases with features like automated accounting and streamlined reporting. For online office management that’s on point, including time and billing, document sharing, petition preparation, filing and management, BlueStylus delivers right-sized features attorneys and professionals need without the excess they don’t.
Parkins & Rubio LLP

Parkins & Rubio LLP
www.parkinsrubio.com/

Parkins & Rubio LLP is a boutique business law firm, with offices in Houston and New York, comprised of experienced financial restructuring, business bankruptcy attorneys and bankruptcy litigators focused on debtor-creditor rights, corporate bankruptcies, bankruptcy litigation and complex debt restructurings. Our experience includes oil and gas (up-stream, mid-stream, and down-stream, oil field service companies), real estate, financial, chemical, airline, health care, automotive supply chain, trucking, logistics, restaurants, hospitality, private equity and corporate governance. Each of the founding partners of the firm is enthusiastic about the practice of law and has devoted their entire careers to the practice of restructuring, bankruptcy law and bankruptcy litigation. We use our expertise to provide top-tier legal representation to our clients with an uncompromising commitment to ethical, efficient hard work to optimize client results and to build strong and lasting relationships with our clients.
Haynes and Boone, LLP

Haynes and Boone, LLP
www.haynesboone.com/

Founded in 1970, Haynes and Boone, LLP is among the fastest-growing firms in the Am Law 100, providing a full spectrum of legal services across multiple sectors, including corporate, energy, financial services, real estate, restructuring, litigation, intellectual property and specialty transactions. The firm’s nearly 700 lawyers practice across 19 global offices in California, Colorado, Illinois, New York, North Carolina, Texas, Virginia, Washington, D.C., London, Mexico City and Shanghai. Thirty-One different firm practice areas were ranked in the 2023 Chambers USA Legal Guide, and in 2024, Haynes Boone became the first Am Law 100 firm to ever earn a Gold-level Bell Seal from Mental Health America, recognizing its industry-leading commitment to creating a mentally healthy workplace. For more information, visit haynesboone.com.
Kane Russell Coleman Logan PC

Kane Russell Coleman Logan PC
www.krcl.com/

KRCL is nationally recognized for its deep experience in complex bankruptcy matters, including representing more than 50 creditors’ committees across 19 states and consistently securing exceptional results for its clients. As one of the few mid-sized regional law firms that routinely goes head-to-head with major national and international firms, KRCL is known for tackling high-stakes disputes that require the right mix of tenacity, creativity, and strategic thinking. Clients rely on the firm to navigate their most challenging bankruptcy issues—particularly those demanding innovative solutions and an unwavering commitment to results.

Founded in 1992, Kane Russell Coleman Logan PC is a full-service law firm with offices in Dallas, Houston, and Austin. The firm represents a broad spectrum of clients, from Fortune 500 companies and middle-market businesses to emerging companies and entrepreneurs. KRCL provides comprehensive legal services spanning transactional, litigation, employment, and bankruptcy matters in Texas and across the United States. For more information, visit www.krcl.com.
Weil, Gotshal & Manges LLP

Weil, Gotshal & Manges LLP
www.weil.com/

Founded in 1931, Weil, Gotshal & Manges LLP has been a preeminent provider of legal services for the past 90 years. With approximately 1,200 lawyers in offices on three continents, Weil has been a pioneer in establishing a geographic footprint that has allowed the Firm to partner with clients wherever they do business. The Firm's four departments, Corporate, Litigation, Restructuring, and Tax, Executive Compensation & Benefits, and more than two dozen practice groups are consistently recognized as leaders in their respective fields. Weil has become a highly visible leader among major law firms for its innovative diversity and pro bono initiatives, the product of a comprehensive and long-term commitment which has ingrained these values into our culture. Our proven, demonstrated experience allows the Firm to provide clients with unmatched legal services. Please see www.weil.com for more information, including awards and rankings.
Stinson LLP

Stinson LLP
www.stinson.com/

Stinson LLP collaborates with clients ranging from individuals and privately held enterprises to national companies and international public corporations. Our accomplished attorneys leverage deep knowledge and experience to deliver practical guidance, helping clients minimize risks and realize opportunities. We take pride in our collaborative approach, our lasting relationships and our unique perspectives. Connect with us at one of our 16 offices nationwide and at www.stinson.com.
Bracewell LLP

Bracewell LLP
bracewell.com/

Bracewell LLP is a leading law firm that is known worldwide for its unique depth and experience in the energy, infrastructure, finance and technology sectors. To complement our sector-focused excellence, we boast an impressive and diversified array of market-leading substantive practices, including award-winning transactional, litigation, regulatory and government relations practices. This robust mix of sector and practice strengths has allowed us to be a firm of choice for many of the world’s largest and most successful corporate enterprises, financial institutions, private funds and governmental entities.

Our firm’s success is anchored by four authentic pillars of strength: a culture based on personal relationships, collaboration and a shared passion for the firm and its clients; our distinction as a destination firm for talent; blue-chip clients; and a reputation for excellence as a sector and large practice powerhouse.
East West Bank

East West Bank
www.eastwestbank.com/en/commercial-banking/fiduciary-deposits

For the third consecutive year, Bank Director named East West Bank the No. 1 best-performing bank in America. Founded in 1973 in Los Angeles, East West Bank has become a leading global financial institution.

Its Specialty Deposit Services team delivers specialized banking and treasury management solutions for entities navigating complex fiduciary and restructuring environments.

The team supports liquidating trustees, bankruptcy and restructuring attorneys, federal and state court receivers, chief responsible and restructuring officers, assignees and debtors in possession.

Backed by dedicated relationship management and streamlined administration, East West Bank helps safeguard funds and simplify court-mandated obligations with precision and transparency.
Jackson Walker

Jackson Walker
www.jw.com/

Since Jackson Walker’s founding in 1887, our attorneys have represented some of the most influential companies and business leaders in the world. Today, we remain firmly rooted in Texas while serving clients around the globe. With more than 500 attorneys, we are the largest firm in Texas and represent Fortune 500 companies, multinational corporations, major financial institutions, insurance companies, and a wide range of public companies and private businesses. We have been recognized by Law360 as a “Texas Powerhouse” and an “elite law firm” that regularly provides counsel to industry-leading clients.
Munsch Hardt Kopf & Harr, P.C.

Munsch Hardt Kopf & Harr, P.C.
www.munsch.com

Munsch Hardt is a Texas-based law firm with more than 39 years of experience representing commercial clients on any legal matter they may face during the life cycle of their business, from start-up ventures to established institutions with legal needs across Texas and around the world. Munsch Hardt’s Bankruptcy, Restructuring & Insolvency practice ranks among the largest and most experienced insolvency practices in the Southwest. Our practice has been consistently ranked by Chambers USA – Texas since 2005, as well as regionally every year since 2010 in the categories of “Bankruptcy and Creditor Debtor Rights / Insolvency and Reorganization Law” and “Litigation-Bankruptcy” by U.S. News – Best Lawyers® “Best Law Firms”, published by Woodward/White, Inc. To learn more, please visit our website at www.munsch.com.
Riveron

Riveron
riveron.com/

Founded in 2006, Riveron is a catalyst for the CFO, solving complex challenges and creating lasting improvements to finance, accounting, and technology functions. With over 1,200 professionals across 18 international offices, Riveron teams bring industry perspective and a full suite of solutions focused on the office of the CFO, M&A, and distress. Our multidisciplinary approach combines authenticity, collaboration, and technical expertise to bring clarity to chaos and spur momentum for change.
AlixPartners, LLP

AlixPartners, LLP
www.alixpartners.com

AlixPartners is a results-driven global consulting firm that specializes in helping businesses respond quickly and decisively to their most critical challenges—from urgent performance improvement to complex restructuring, from risk mitigation to accelerated transformation. These are the moments when everything is on the line—a sudden shift in the market, an unexpected performance decline, a time-sensitive deal, a fork-in-the-road decision. We stand shoulder to shoulder with our clients until the job is done, and only measure our success in terms of the results we deliver. We partner with you to make the right decisions and take the right actions. And we are right by your side. When it really matters.
Baker Donelson

Baker Donelson
bakerdonelson.com

Baker Donelson is among the largest law firms in the country, with more than 700 attorneys and public policy advisors representing more than 30 practice areas to serve a wide range of legal needs. Clients receive knowledgeable guidance from experienced, multi-disciplined industry and client service teams, all seamlessly connected across more than 20 offices in Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Louisiana, Maryland, Mississippi, New Jersey, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, Virginia, and Washington, D.C.
Clark Hill PLC

Clark Hill PLC
www.clarkhill.com/

At Clark Hill we offer our clients an exceptional team, dedicated to the delivery of outstanding service. We recruit and develop talented individuals and empower them to contribute to our rich diversity of legal and industry experience. With locations spanning across the United States, Ireland, and Mexico, we work in agile, collaborative teams, partnering with our clients to help them reach and exceed their business goals.
Dykema Gossett PLLC

Dykema Gossett PLLC
www.dykema.com

Dykema is a leading national law firm, serving business entities worldwide on a wide range of complex business issues. With approximately 375 professionals based in 13 offices located in California, Illinois, Michigan, Minnesota, Texas, Washington, D.C., and Wisconsin, Dykema consistently delivers top value to clients. We provide practical, results-oriented counsel, earning accolades from clients nationwide for our efforts on their behalf in the courtroom and in the boardroom. Unparalleled client service is at the heart of our approach to the practice of law. That focus has been a cornerstone of our success for the past 100 years and allows us to give timely, creative, and cost-effective solutions to the challenges that face creditors and financially distressed companies. Dykema is distinguished by our collaborative partnerships with our clients which has earned the firm a national tier one ranking in Bankruptcy and Creditor Debtor Rights/Insolvency and Reorganization Law in the edition of U.S. News - Best Lawyers® “Best Law Firms,” and the ranking as a top firm in Texas for Bankruptcy/Restructuring by Chambers USA. www.dykema.com
Gray Reed

Gray Reed
www.grayreed.com

The Corporate Restructuring & Bankruptcy Department at Gray Reed assists clients in pursuing efficient, innovative and sophisticated solutions in distressed financial situations. We provide prompt, effective advice and responses that allow for the quick assessment of available alternatives, and the ability to minimize losses, resolve disputes and maximize value. Our attorneys have significant experience representing troubled companies, trustees, secured and unsecured creditors, official and ad hoc committees, equity holders, owners, managers and other constituents in financial distress, workout, turnaround, restructuring, planning and bankruptcy scenarios—both in and out of court. Our Corporate Restructuring and Bankruptcy Department, along with two of its partners, are proud to be ranked in the Chambers USA 2023 legal directory.
Hayward PLLC

Hayward PLLC
haywardfirm.com/

Hayward PLLC is a bankruptcy, litigation and creditors' rights law firm with attorneys in Dallas and Austin, Texas. HPLLC prides itself on resolving complex commercial problems for its clients using the talents of its large firm-experienced partners to solve problems at small firm prices. We focus on meeting the needs of our clients in many areas of business restructurings and commercial litigation, including significant Chapter 7 and 11 cases. Combining breadth of knowledge with many decades of experience, HPLLC represents its clients in the divergent strategies and agendas that are encountered in workout, restructuring, and insolvency matters as well as other aspects of commercial litigation.
Holland & Knight LLP

Holland & Knight LLP
www.hklaw.com/

Holland & Knight is a global law firm with approximately 2,200 lawyers and other professionals in 35 offices worldwide. The firm’s lawyers and advisors provide representation in bankruptcy and restructuring, litigation, corporate and finance, real estate, healthcare and governmental matters. Interdisciplinary practice groups and industry-based teams provide clients with efficient access to attorneys throughout the firm.
Hunton Andrews Kurth LLP

Hunton Andrews Kurth LLP
www.Hunton.com

For more than 120 years, Hunton Andrews Kurth has served clients across the globe with a collaborative and purposeful approach. With offices strategically located in the United States and around the world, the firm is known for its strength in the energy, financial services, real estate, and retail and consumer products industries, as well as its considerable depth across numerous practice areas. Hunton fosters a strong culture built upon an unwavering commitment to its clients, colleagues, and communities. We have 22 full-time restructuring lawyers located in Houston, Dallas, Richmond and New York City. Our practice focuses on representing parties in out-of-court and bankruptcy court financial restructurings across the country and clients include private-equity firms, hedge funds, secured lenders, investors, debtors, unsecured creditors, boards of directors and various official and ad hoc committees. To learn more, please visit www.hunton.com.
McGuireWoods LLP

McGuireWoods LLP
www.mcguirewoods.com

McGuireWoods is a full-service firm providing legal and public affairs solutions to corporate, individual and nonprofit clients worldwide for more than 200 years collectively. Our commitment to excellence in everything we do gives our clients a competitive edge in everything they do. Our law firm, over its 187-year history, has earned the loyalty of our many longstanding clients with deep understanding of their businesses, and broad skills in corporate transactions, high-stakes disputes, and complex regulatory and compliance matters.

Our Restructuring and Insolvency department stands ready to assist clients with any and all insolvency situations. Our team has handle large regional, national and international matters and our practice crosses industries, including energy, retail, transportation, real estate, manufacturing and telecommunications.

Our goal is to leave clients wondering why all service providers do not deliver more than they expected. More proactive thinking. More diverse views. More innovative approaches. More connections. More value.
Norton Rose Fulbright US LLP

Norton Rose Fulbright US LLP
www.nortonrosefulbright.com/en-us

Norton Rose Fulbright is a global law firm. We provide the world’s preeminent corporations and financial institutions with a full business law service. With more than 50 offices in 29 countries, our global restructuring and insolvency lawyers are at the forefront of many of the most significant cross-border restructuring and insolvency cases involving complex multi-jurisdictional issues and regional insolvency laws.

Our team acts for a full range of clients delivering worldwide restructuring and insolvency services in all key industry sectors. Our client portfolio includes lenders, private equity and distressed debt funds, hedge funds, bondholders, public and private corporations, debtors, liquidators, examiners, office-holders, secured and unsecured creditors, committees, management and other relevant stakeholders.
Oliver Wyman

Oliver Wyman
www.oliverwyman.com

Oliver Wyman is a business of Marsh (NYSE: MRSH), a global leader in risk, reinsurance and capital, people and investments, and management consulting, advising clients in 130 countries. With annual revenue of $27 billion and more than 95,000 colleagues, Marsh helps build the confidence to thrive through the power of perspective. For more information, visit oliverwyman.com, or follow us on LinkedIn and X.
Rochelle McCullough PLLC

Rochelle McCullough PLLC
www.romclaw.com/

The law firm of Rochelle McCullough PLLC primarily focuses its practice on matters involving corporate bankruptcy; counsel to financially distressed business entities; and commercial reorganization and creditor rights. The firm typically is retained by Chapter 11 debtors-in-possession, official and unofficial committees of creditors, bond holders or equity owners, corporate Chapter 7 and 11 trustees, post-confirmation trustees and other interested parties in the various commercial transactions involving bankruptcy estates. Rochelle McCullough handles all available forms of avoidance actions, appellate work in bankruptcy contexts, as well as more informal restructuring or dissolution efforts. Rochelle McCullough also has a litigation department which handles civil trials and appellate work in State and Federal Courts, representing litigants in general matters of commercial litigation, typically involving the legal claims of directors and officers liability, professional misconduct and malpractice, personal injuries, wrongful death and employment, sex, age and racial discrimination.
Weaver

Weaver
weaver.com/

When difficult-to-uncover facts are needed to win the day, organizations turn to Weaver’s Forensics and Litigation Services team. One part sleuth, one part financial professional, our forensic accountants support clients through some of their most challenging moments. Our highly specialized professionals uncover otherwise overlooked data trails, clues and gaps to deliver much-needed results in disputes, litigation, investigations and other predicaments.
Winstead

Winstead
www.winstead.com/

Winstead is a leading Texas-based law firm with national practices serving clients across the country. We focus on exceeding our clients’ expectations by providing innovative solutions to their business and legal opportunities and challenges. We work as a trusted counsel to public and private companies, governments, individuals, universities, and public institutions. Our business, transactions and litigation practices serve key industries including real estate, financial services, investment management and private funds, higher education and P3, airlines, healthcare and life sciences, sports business and wealth management.

Bankruptcy Conference

Overview

Event Schedule

Thursday Morning, Nov. 19, 2026

Thursday Afternoon, Nov. 19, 2026

Thursday Evening, Nov. 19, 2026

Friday Morning, Nov. 20, 2026

Friday Afternoon, Nov. 20, 2026

Conference Faculty

Planning Committee

Venue

Four Seasons Hotel

Accommodations

Parking Information

Additional Information

Our Sponsors

Vinson & Elkins LLP

MACCO Group

VERITAS Restructuring Group

Jones Walker LLP

Reed Smith LLP

Financial Software Solutions

Parkins & Rubio LLP

Haynes and Boone, LLP

Kane Russell Coleman Logan PC

Weil, Gotshal & Manges LLP

Stinson LLP

Bracewell LLP

East West Bank

Jackson Walker

Munsch Hardt Kopf & Harr, P.C.

Riveron

AlixPartners, LLP

Baker Donelson

Clark Hill PLC

Dykema Gossett PLLC

Gray Reed

Hayward PLLC

Holland & Knight LLP

Hunton Andrews Kurth LLP

McGuireWoods LLP

Norton Rose Fulbright US LLP

Oliver Wyman

Rochelle McCullough PLLC

Weaver

Winstead

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