MINNEAPOLIS
Thursday, October 9, 2025 - Friday, October 10, 2025
9:00 AM - 3:50 PM | Check-In: 1:30 PM
Minnesota CLE Conference Center
600 Nicollet Mall # 370
3rd Floor, City Center
Minneapolis, MN 55402
THIS YEAR'S INSTITUTE FEATURES:
KEYNOTE ADDRESS:
A Fresh Start to the Honest Debtor: The Role of Bankruptcy in Our Society
PLUS, 8 GUEST SPEAKERS JOIN A TERRIFIC LOCAL FACULTY!
ATTENDEES ALSO RECEIVE:
8:30 – 9:00 a.m.
CHECK-IN & CONTINENTAL BREAKFAST
9:00 – 9:05 a.m.
WELCOME & ANNOUNCEMENTS
9:05 – 10:35 a.m.
The 2025 Annual Bankruptcy Update – Key Cases and Legislative Changes
Stay informed on influential bankruptcy developments from the past year. This session will cover significant decisions from the U.S. Supreme Court, Eighth Circuit Court of Appeals, Eighth Circuit Bankruptcy Appellate Panel, U.S. District Court for the District of Minnesota, U.S. Bankruptcy Court for the District of Minnesota, and Minnesota state courts, along with essential legislative changes that every bankruptcy practitioner should know.
– Alexander J. Beeby, Jeffrey M. Bruzek, Nauni J. Manty & David M. Tanabe
10:35 – 10:50 a.m.
BREAK
10:50 – 11:50 a.m.
KEYNOTE PRESENTATION
A Fresh Start to the Honest Debtor: The Role of Bankruptcy in Our Society
1.0 elimination of bias credit applied for
Professor Melissa B. Jacoby, author of Unjust Debts: How Our Bankruptcy System Makes America More Unequal, will discuss the role the bankruptcy system plays in our society and its varying impact on different segments of our society. Professor Jacoby draws on her extensive experience researching the impacts of bankruptcy and working with bankruptcy policymakers to share some of her observations and thoughts about the theoretical purpose of bankruptcy, how well the current system rises to that challenge, and thoughts about improving that role in light of the power dynamics at play in the courtroom and on Capitol Hill.
– Melissa B. Jacoby
11:50 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
LUNCH (provided to attendees)
12:15 – 12:45 p.m.
LUNCH PRESENTATION
State of the Court
– Chief Judge Katherine A. Constantine
1:00 – 2:00 p.m.
BREAKOUT SESSION A
101
From the Bench – Judicial Perspectives on ABCs and Receiverships
This session explores the critical elements of Assignments for the Benefit of Creditors (ABCs) and receiverships as bankruptcy alternatives through the eyes of the judiciary. Gain valuable insight into what judges look for (and what frustrates them) in ABCs and receivership cases.
– Judge Jamie L. Anderson & Judge Christian M. Sande
102
Chapter 13 Update: New Plan Form, Local Rule Changes, and Emerging Issues
This session provides a timely update on key developments in Chapter 13 practice, including the rollout of the new plan form, recent changes to local rules, and current issues practitioners are facing in courts across the jurisdiction. Speakers will walk through practical implementation tips, identify common pitfalls, and highlight recent case law and procedural trends shaping Chapter 13 practice today.
– Nicole L. Anderson, Heather M. Forrest & Michael J. Gieseke
103
Case Study: The Mall of America® Bankruptcy – Lessons from the Front Lines
Gain an inside look at the high-profile Mall of America bankruptcy case in this engaging case study session. Attorneys directly involved in the litigation and appellate process will walk through key legal issues, strategic decisions, and procedural challenges. They’ll share firsthand insights, practical takeaways, and real-world tips for navigating complex bankruptcy appeals from court dynamics to legal positioning. A must-attend for practitioners interested in appellate strategy, commercial real estate, or high-stakes bankruptcy litigation.
– Alexander J. Beeby & Kristen E. Peterson
2:00 – 2:15 p.m.
BREAK
2:15 – 3:15 p.m.
BREAKOUT SESSION B
201
Merchant Cash Advances – What They Are, How They Work and More!
Merchant cash advances (MCAs) are increasingly common – but often misunderstood – financial arrangements that raise unique legal challenges in bankruptcy and litigation. This session will explain how MCAs work, whether they should be characterized as loans or sales, and how that distinction impacts enforceability. You’ll also learn practical strategies for objecting to MCA claims, defending against improper demands, and pursuing trustee clawbacks when appropriate. Learn how to navigate the complexities of MCAs with confidence.
– Maurice B. VerStandig
202
Scam Alert! How to Identify Elder Financial Abuse
Financial abuse of older Americans is a growing concern. Perpetrators can be overseas scammers or family members and other trusted individuals. Learn how to spot “red flags” as the panelists examine some of the most common forms of financial exploitation in our region and ways to respond to suspected cases.
– Sara E. Diaz & Tracy A. Kennedy
– Kesha L. Tanabe (moderator)
203
Mock Bankruptcy Proceeding – Simulating an Avoidance Action Trial
Observe a real-life demonstration of a preference action. We will have attorneys representing a [debtor in possession/Litigation Trustee] and a preference recipient with a Bankruptcy Judge presiding. This demonstration will walk through the key aspects of preference litigation, including the assertion of an affirmative defense, how to properly offer evidence, witness credibility, offering a practical look at real-world bankruptcy dynamics and strategy.
– Kara E. Casteel, Judge Gregory F. Kishel (Ret.) & Matthew C. Robinson
– Jason M. Reed (moderator)
3:15 – 3:20 p.m.
BREAK
3:20 – 3:50 p.m.
Fireside Chat with New Bankruptcy Judge Mychal A. Bruggeman
– Judge Mychal A. Bruggeman
– Karl J. Johnson (moderator)
3:50 – 4:45 p.m.
ANNUAL INSTITUTE RECEPTION
Join your friends and colleagues for tasty refreshments, plus in-person conversation and connections!
8:30 – 9:00 a.m.
CONTINENTAL BREAKFAST
9:00 – 9:05 a.m.
DAY 2 ANNOUNCEMENTS
9:05 – 10:05 a.m.
Minnesota Economic Outlook: What Bankruptcy Attorneys Need to Know
What do current economic trends indicate about the future of bankruptcy practice? In this session, representatives from the Minnesota Chamber of Commerce will share timely insights about how Minnesota’s economy is performing. Topics include employment and economic growth trends, small business outlook, business formation and closures and state policy issues impacting the state’s economic outlook. Gain a clear perspective on how Minnesota’s economic and policy environment may shape business outcomes in the coming year.
– Brian Cook & Sean O’Neil
10:05 – 10:20 a.m.
BREAK
10:20 – 11:20 a.m.
BREAKOUT SESSION C
301
Chapter 12, Part I – Updates
– Michael L. Gust, Austin J. Peiffer & Joseph A. Peiffer
– Sara E. Diaz (moderator)
302
“Wait ‘til I get my money right” – Attorney Fees in Chapter 7 & 13: Ethical and Practical Issues for Counsel
1.0 ethics credit applied for
This session will explore the legal, ethical, and procedural challenges surrounding attorney fees in Chapter 7 and Chapter 13 cases. Topics will include fee disclosures, reasonableness standards, court approval requirements, flat fees vs. hourly billing, no-look fee guidelines, and clawback risks. Attendees will gain practical guidance on structuring and documenting fees to ensure compliance while maintaining effective client representation. A must-attend for consumer bankruptcy practitioners navigating the evolving fee landscape.
– Jeffrey M. Bruzek, Jeffrey J. Bursell & Bradley Halberstadt
303
Divorce, Death, and Debt – Where Bankruptcy Meets Life’s Other Legal Challenges
Join our experienced panel as they address the key family law and estate planning challenges that arise when clients file for consumer bankruptcy. They will cover the impact of bankruptcy on family law issues like child support, alimony, and marital property divisions, and explore how bankruptcy interacts with estate planning concerns such as asset protection, exempt property, and creditor claims. Equip yourself with the practical knowledge and strategies to manage these complex issues and provide comprehensive guidance to your clients navigating both bankruptcy and family law matters.
– David C. Gapen, Barbara J. May & Robert A. McLeod
– Cheryl Bergian (moderator)
11:20 – 11:35 a.m.
BREAK
11:35 a.m. – 12:35 p.m.
BREAKOUT SESSION D
401
Chapter 12, Part II – Hot Topics
– Matthew J. Bialick, Austin J. Peiffer, Joseph A. Peiffer & Mary Nell Preisler
– Jennifer G. Lurken (moderator)
402
Dealing with Pro Se Parties
Discussion regarding the handling of matters with self-represented litigants. Substantive and procedural topics related to “Show Me the Note” claims, property of the bankruptcy estate, transfers of property interests, sovereign citizens and related creditor rights and remedies.
– Kevin T. Dobie & Orin J. Kipp
403
At the Crossroads of Criminal Defense and Bankruptcy: Strategies, Pitfalls, and Client Guidance
When criminal conduct and bankruptcy intersect, both debtors and their counsel face unique legal and ethical challenges. This session explores the complex issues that arise when judgment enforcement, dischargeability, restitution, and criminal liability come into play. Learn how to advise clients about 341 meetings while protecting their Fifth Amendment rights, how to handle uninvolved spouses and estate payments, and what to watch for when criminal court proceedings and bankruptcy overlap. Additionally, hear practical strategies on how to guide clients through bankruptcy while minimizing the risk of criminal exposure and ensuring compliance with §727 and other provisions.
– Brett D. Kelley, Nauni J. Manty & David G. Velde
12:35 – 1:20 p.m.
LUNCH BREAK (on your own)
1:20 – 2:20 p.m.
Measure Twice, File Once: Toolbox Tips for Local Rules and Procedures
Join us as we unpack recent changes to local rules, highlight updates to forms and filing requirements, and provide practical strategies for staying in compliance. You’ll get tips on avoiding common missteps, insight into evolving court expectations, and a set of practical “toolbox” resources to support efficient and error-free practice. This session will help ensure that your procedural tools are sharp, your filings are precise, and you’re ready for what’s next.
– Chief Judge Katherine A. Constantine, Nicole L. Anderson, Katherine A. Nixon & Tricia M. Pepin
2:20 – 2:30 p.m.
BREAK
2:30 – 3:30 p.m.
The Science of Addiction: Understanding the Brain, Substance Use, and Paths to Recovery
1.0 mental health / substance use credit applied for
This session explores the neuroscience of addiction, what happens in the brain during substance use and behavioral addiction, and how that understanding can inform more effective treatment and recovery strategies. Learn about the key differences and overlaps between chemical and behavioral addictions, the role of brain chemistry in compulsive behavior, and the science behind evidence-based recovery approaches. This session offers valuable insights for legal professionals and anyone working with individuals impacted by addiction.
– Jonathan G. Lofgren
LIVE IN-PERSON
Thursday & Friday, October 9-10, 2025
Minnesota CLE Conference Center
600 Nicollet Mall, Suite 370
Seventh Street & Nicollet Mall, Third Floor City Center
Minneapolis, Minnesota
ONLINE REPLAY
Thursday & Friday, October 30-31, 2025
Attend online
Online replay includes all plenary and breakout sessions. A moderator will be available to answer questions by email.
$495 MSBA members / $495 paralegals / $595 standard rate
Other discounts that may apply:
Scholarships available!
Need-based scholarships are available for in-person and online seminars. For further information or to obtain a scholarship application, contact us at 800-759-8840 or customerservice@minncle.org.
Minnesota CLE is applying to the Minnesota State Board of CLE for 10.5 CLE credits, including 1.0 elimination of bias credit for the keynote plenary session on Day 1, 1.0 ethics credit for session #302, and 1.0 mental health/substance use credit for the closing plenary session on Day 2. The maximum number of total credits attendees may claim for this program is 10.5 credits. Minnesota CLE is an accredited sponsor in Wisconsin and North Dakota.
