Each of ABI's publications has been written by experts in their fields and has been widely used by the bankruptcy bar and bench and others involved in the bankruptcy process. ABI members receive significant discounts on publications. (En español)

Publications Categories:
Bankruptcy General
Consumer Bankruptcy
Business Reorganization
Specialty Areas/Topics in Bankruptcy
International Insolvency
ABI Conference Educational Materials on CD-rom
ABI Band Merchandise

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Pre-bankruptcy Planning for the Commercial Reorganization: A Brief Guide for the CEO, CFO/COO, General Counsel and Tax Advisor, Second Edition

Now in its Second Edition, Pre-Bankruptcy Planning for the Commercial Reorganization is a practical guide for executives of any financially distressed company considering chapter 11. In the current environment of a credit crisis and severe economic turmoil, the odds of successfully emerging from a chapter 11 case are not necessarily promising, particularly with poor planning. Proactive advance preparation, analysis and a well-defined exit strategy are essential for any company considering chapter 11. This manual assists the CEO, COO, CFO, general counsel and tax advisor of the financially distressed company in planning for, and playing their respective roles in, the reorganization process. The book guides the executive through every step and takes great care to explain the legal and practical considerations—as well as the consequences of each step. This Second Edition reflects important changes brought about by the Bankruptcy Abuse and Prevention Consumer Protection Act of 2005 and takes into account the current restructuring environment. It is a must-have for attorneys and advisors of a financially-distressed company who need an accessible tool to help explain the chapter 11 process and the importance of pre-bankruptcy planning. Softbound, 118 pages.

Product #08-013
Members: $25
Non-members: $45
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Bankruptcy-A Survival Guide for Lenders, Second Edition

Bankruptcy-A Survival Guide for Lenders, Second Edition was developed specifically to assist lenders in understanding the bankruptcy process in business and consumer cases, and their role in that process. This updated edition addresses the changes with the 2005 amendments to the bankruptcy law and covers substantive bankruptcy issues, procedures and strategies for lenders. The Guide features practical advice in the form of "sidebars" geared toward the protection of lenders' interests during a bankruptcy case, and glossaries of both bankruptcy terms and bankruptcy cases, as well as a list of commonly asked questions. Written with the non-attorney in mind, the text cross-references relevant terms and cases in the glossaries for further information, and highlights special points throughout. Executives and managers in banking, as well as turnaround specialists, and lenders in particular, will find the Guide an indispensable resource. Softbound, 176 pages.

Product #08-009
Members: $30
Non-members: $50
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Bankruptcy Fundamentals for the Financial Services Industry: A Handbook for Non-lawyers

Written by Debra Lee Hovatter (Spilman Thomas & Battle, PLLC), this Handbook is designed for nonlawyer professionals who service consumer bankruptcy accounts for financial institutions, servicing companies and debt collectors. It is a guide to understanding the bankruptcy process, the debtor's rights and how bankruptcy affects a creditor’s rights with respect to a consumer bankruptcy account. Among the topics covered are the basics of bankruptcy, the attributes of the different chapters under which a consumer may seek protection, the automatic stay and discharge, reaffirmation and avoiding liens in bankruptcy. This handy primer complements a financial institution’s policies and procedures, and can be a helpful guide for lawyers who do not practice in the bankruptcy arena, but want to understand the concepts. Softbound, 176 pages.

Product #07-017
Members: $25
Non-members: $45
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Bankruptcy Litigation Manual: What Civil Litigators Need to Know

Written by Deborah Williamson, Charles Beckham Jr. and R. Scott Williams, the Manual provides the basic framework of bankruptcy litigation and is of particular use to civil litigators and other attorneys who do not have extensive experience in bankruptcy litigation. It can also serve as a quick reference tool for the more experienced bankruptcy attorney. The Manual provides a broad overview of bankruptcy; discusses the establishment of a claim in a bankruptcy case; highlights the effects of the bankruptcy petition, including retention of counsel and the automatic stay; outlines the jurisdiction of the bankruptcy court; explores procedural considerations such as removal, remand and abstention; addresses discharge and dischargeability of debts; and highlights issues related to settlements. Recognizing the lack of uniformity in the courts and the concurrent jurisdiction that exists in many areas of the state and bankruptcy courts, this Manual is heavily annotated. Softbound, 100 pages.

Product #07-015
Members: $25
Non-members: $45
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ABI's Quick Evidence Handbook

ABI's Quick Evidence Handbook is a practical and highly accessible primer on the mechanics of admitting (or excluding) evidence in bankruptcy cases. Written by Evan Slavitt (AVX Corp.), an experienced litigator and past lecturer at ABI's Litigation Skills Symposium, the new book is especially valuable for new and young practitioners because it spells out what counsel needs to say to get documents admitted, experts qualified and witness testimony into the record. The text covers an overview of the types of evidence (direct, cross-examination, documents, experts and motions in limine) with illustrations on how to get documents and testimony into the record. Also treated are the basics of the hearsay rules that most frequently occur in bankruptcy litigation. An appendix provides a wealth of other practical resources. Softbound, 118 pages.

Product #07-014
Members: $25
Non-members: $45
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ABI's Bankruptcy Appeals Manual: Winning Your Bankruptcy Appeal

Thousands of appeals are filed each year in bankruptcy cases across the country, yet the subject of bankruptcy appeals as a whole has been infrequently discussed or written about. ABI's Bankruptcy Appeals Manual: Winning Your Bankruptcy Appeal provides a complete desktop manual for practitioners faced with an appeal in a bankruptcy case. It includes a discussion of all of the "must know" issues relevant to an appeal--including choosing the proper forum, standing, timing, standards for review and stays pending appeal--and also provides guidance on drafting appellate pleadings and presenting an effective appellate argument. Additionally, the Manual includes the Federal Rules of Appellate Procedure, the Rules found in Part VIII of the Federal Rules of Bankruptcy Procedure, and pertinent provisions from the Bankruptcy Code and other pertinent federal statutes. ABI's Bankruptcy Appeals Manual provides comprehensive coverage of all of the references and practical guidance that a practitioner--whether a novice or seasoned veteran--will need to successfully prosecute, or defend against, a bankruptcy appeal. Softbound, 278 pages.

Product #07-005
Members: $30
Non-members: $50
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Bankruptcy in Practice, Fourth Edition

This comprehensive book, updated to include BAPCPA changes, bridges the divide between classroom theory, courtroom procedure and conference room negotiation. Doctrine and practical counsel are blended in a unique treatment of bankruptcy law and process. New and nonspecialist lawyers, and nonlawyer professionals in particular, will find the book a lifeline to demystifying the arcane rules of the bankruptcy road. Experienced counsel will also find it a refreshing read, not merely a reference to be consulted. Softbound, 512 pages.

Product #07-004
Members: $79.95
Non-members: $125
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The 2008 Bankruptcy Yearbook & Almanac

Since 1991, bankruptcy professionals and researchers everywhere have relied on The Bankruptcy Yearbook & Almanac from New Generation Research, Inc. to stay abreast of the latest industry trends and developments. The 2008 Bankruptcy Yearbook & Almanac is the industry "bible" that puts essential bankruptcy information at your fingertips with more than 450 pages of facts, figures, graphs, research and commentary covering all aspects of bankruptcy. Whether it's used as a quick reference guide or for in-depth research, you'll find The 2008 Bankruptcy Yearbook & Almanac an indispensable resource. Softbound.

Product #08-006
Members: $147.50
Non-members: $295

The 2008 Bankruptcy Yearbook & Almanac CD-ROM

Product #08-007
Members: $147.50
Non-members: $295

The 2008 Bankruptcy Yearbook & Almanac Book and CD-ROM

Product #08-008
Members: $295
Non-members: $500

Mini Rules 2008

This 2008 edition is the complete guide to the new Bankruptcy Rules. Incorporates all BAPCPA and other recent changes. Softbound, 208 pages.

Product #08-001
Members: $25
Non-members: $35
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Mini Code 2008

This 2008 edition is the complete guide to the new Bankruptcy Code. Incorporates all BAPCPA and other recent changes. Softbound, 256 pages.

Product #08-002
Members: $25
Non-members: $35
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General Assignments for the Benefit of Creditors, 2nd Edition: The ABCs of ABCs

This manual, updated to include the 2005 bankruptcy law, provides information on how general assignments are administered and the differences that various state laws have on the administration of the assignment estate. The guide was developed for debtor and creditor lawyers, as well as for creditor professionals who are faced with the prospect of a state law liquidation. Includes 30 pages of sample forms and checklists. Softbound, 118 pages.

Product #06-015
Members: $25
Non-members: $35
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Bankruptcy Overview: Issues, Law and Policy, Fifth Edition

Revised by Prof. Jack Ayer, the ABI Spring 2006 Robert M. Zinman Resident Scholar, this manual incorporates BAPCPA changes and covers the fundamental features of chapters 7, 11, 12 and 13 of the Code. It explains the nature and rights of both secured and unsecured claimants, as well as avoiding powers, executory contracts, discharges, jurisdiction and venue, bankruptcy taxation and the relationship between bankruptcy and family law. Softbound, 200 pages.

Product #06-014
Members: $25
Non-members: $35

ABI Preference Handbook, Second Edition

Second only to the experience of filing a claim in bankruptcy, preference exposure is the most common experience a creditor will encounter in bankruptcy. Updated to address the 2005 changes to the Bankruptcy Code, ABI's Preference Handbook, Second Edition by David B. Wheeler (Moore & Van Allen) provides a streamlined guide to the "ins" and "outs" of preference claims and preference liability, and is written to appeal to lawyers and nonlawyers alike. Softbound, 90 pages.

Product #08-003
Members: $25
Non-members: $45
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Preference Defense Handbook: The Circuits Compared

Written by Deborah Thorne (Barnes & Thornburg LLP; Chicago), David Wheeler (Moore & Van Allen PLLC; Charleston, S.C.) and members of ABI’s Unsecured Trade Creditors Committee, the Handbook is designed to assist practitioners and credit professionals in evaluating the available defenses that may be asserted in a preference avoidance action. Incorporating the important changes made by BAPCPA, the authors review the leading cases in each circuit, interpreting the most common defenses and provide a helpful roadmap for those facing preference demands. Softbound, 112 pages.

Product #06-005
Members: $25
Non-members: $35
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Bankruptcy Issues for State Trial Court Judges, Third Edition

This primer on the relationship of bankruptcy and state law was developed through a grant from the National Conference of Bankruptcy Judges specifically for an ABI educational program to help state trial court judges resolve the conflicts that arise between bankruptcy law and domestic relations, criminal restitution, jurisdiction and many other issues. This resource covers the 2005 amendments to the Code, including concepts such as property of the estate, claims, bankruptcy stays and injunctions, dischargeability, domestic-relations law, criminal proceedings and the structure of the bankruptcy court system. Softbound, 120 pages.

Product #05-022
Members: $30
Non-members: $40
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ABI Guide to Bankruptcy Mediation

This book explains why, when and how mediation can be used in bankruptcy cases, and can be used as a comprehensive and accessible client handout. For attorneys, it provides "how to" guidance with respect to the most common kinds of mediation issues that arise in bankruptcy cases. Suggested procedures adapted to the particular requirements of bankruptcy cases, as well as convenient checklists and cross-references to other bankruptcy-related mediation resources, are also included. Softbound, 54 pages.

Product #05-002
Members: $10
Non-members: $20
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Thorny Issues in Consumer Bankruptcy Cases

Based on a series of successful webinars ABI held in various cities that discussed consumer bankruptcy topics, Thorny Issues in Consumer Bankruptcy Cases addresses some of the "hot and not-so-easy" issues arising in today’s consumer bankruptcy practice. A compilation of materials that was presented during some of the sessions, the book covers such topics as getting the discharge, paying debtor and creditor counsel in chapter 13, credit counseling and debtor education, and post-confirmation modifications. The book traverses the less-traveled path of consumer bankruptcy practice in the wake of BAPCPA by focusing on the recurring "thorny" issues that do not have clearly defined answers, presenting both sides to the arguments. In addition, overturned decisions are presented to help practitioners understand the development of the current positions. For those wading through the sometimes murky world of modern consumer case law, Thorny Issues in Consumer Bankruptcy Cases is a must-have addition to any consumer bankruptcy practitioner’s library. Softbound, 154 pages.

Product #08-012
Members: $25
Non-members: $45
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When Worlds Collide: Bankruptcy and Its Impact on Domestic Relations and Family Law, Third Edition

Divorce and bankruptcy are alike in that each attempts to provide a "fresh start," but the laws are often in conflict. This resource, now updated to include BAPCPA changes, was developed for an ABI educational program to help family court judges better identify and deal with bankruptcy issues, such as the impact of the automatic stay, the power of the courts to enjoin state courts, property of the bankruptcy estate, the impact of the bankruptcy discharge on alimony, child support, maintenance and property settlements, post-petition divorce actions and exempt property. Appendices feature relevant sections of the Bankruptcy Code, a list of cases and articles on the topic, and a directory of bankruptcy judges and bankruptcy court clerks. Softbound, 120 pages.

Product #05-029
Members: $30
Non-members: $40
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Consumer Bankruptcy: Fundamentals of Chapter 7 and Chapter 13 of the U.S. Bankruptcy Code, Second Edition

Written by ABI Consumer Bankruptcy Committee Co-chair Thomas Yerbich, the Consumer Bankruptcy Manual, 2nd Edition provides full coverage of the 2005 amendments, as well as the fundamentals of consumer bankruptcy proceedings under chapter 7 or 13 of the Code. Topics covered include how the two statutory schemes work, their differences, the duties of the debtor in the bankruptcy process, the rights and procedures applicable to creditors, dischargeability/discharge, the automatic stay, commonly asked questions and much more. Softbound, 170 pages.

Product #05-020
Members: $25
Non-members: $35
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Taking Charge of your Finances DVD

Hosted by U.S. Bankruptcy Judge Leif M. Clark (W.D. Texas), this DVD covers the basics of household budgeting, understanding the cost of credit and where to turn should consumers find themselves in severe financial trouble. Both Chapter 7 and 11 are covered in substance and procedure. The video was produced under a grant awarded to ABI by the national Association of Attorneys General. Running time: 15 minutes.

Product #05-016
Member: $5
Non-member: $10

Retention and Payment: Essentials of Being Retained and Paid as Debtor's Counsel in Chapter 11

Retention and Payment: Essentials of Being Retained and Paid as Debtor's Counsel in Chapter 11 is a must-read for attorneys who may be generally unfamiliar with the chapter 11 process but who find themselves representing chapter 11 debtors. The handbook provides important practice pointers on obtaining court approval of the retention as debtor's bankruptcy counsel and obtaining court approval to be paid for services rendered to the debtor. It also contains samples of an engagement letter, a retention application and associated documents, and a fee application. Co-authored by H. Slayton Dabney Jr., an attorney at King & Spalding LLP who has extensive experience with retention issues, the handbook provides an overview of the more significant issues chapter 11 counsel may encounter in navigating the retention and payment process. Softbound, 102 pages.

Product #08-004
Members: $25
Non-members: $45

ABI Fee Study CD-ROM

The results of a groundbreaking study funded by the ABI Endowment Fund available on this limited-run CD-Rom revealed that numerous factors influenced the total professional costs of chapter 11 bankruptcy cases. The study examined a total sample of 1,026 cases filed in 2004; 945 chapter 11 cases were pooled into a "random" sample, and 99 cases were considered in a "big-case" dataset. Order your copy of the ABI Fee Study today to have this valuable information at your fingertips!

Product #07-018
Members: $75
Non-members: $150*
*Join ABI for $125 more ($275 total) and receive the Fee Study CD-ROM FREE!

Chapter 11-"101": The Essentials of Chapter 11 Practice

This is a compilation and expansion of a series of articles first written for the ABI Journal during 2004 and 2005. Now updated and assembled in a handy CD-Rom format, the work is an essential but fast read for new restructuring professionals from attorneys to financial restructuring advisors. Law students and lawyers who are not chapter 11 specialists will also understand the basic contours of the area through this CD-Rom. More than 20 chapters of topics are covered, with extensive supplemental materials from actual cases.

Product #07-013
Members: $20
Non-members: $50
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First Day Motions: A Practical Guide to the Critical First Days of a Bankruptcy Case, Second Edition

Updated to incorporate and outline the BAPCPA amendments, representing the most sweeping changes to "first day" practice in many years, First-day Motions, Second Edition addresses the basics of first-day motions and provides an overview of administrative, operational and substantive motions/orders and the appeal of a first-day motion. Softbound, 152 pages.

Product #06-006
Members: $25
Non-members: $35
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Creditors' Committee Manual, Fifth Edition

A product of the ABI Unsecured Trade Creditor Committee, this manual covers the role, function and responsibilities of committees and committee members. This pamphlet explores complex issues in nontechnical, easily understood language. Updated to include BAPCPA changes. Softbound, 34 pages.

Product #06-009
Members: $5
Non-members: $15
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Reclamation Manual: Sellers' Rights of Reclamation, Stoppage of Delivery and New Administrative Claim, Second Edition

Written by Bruce S. Nathan (Lowenstein Sandler PC; New York) and a task force of members from ABI's Unsecured Trade Creditors Committee, the second edition of ABI's Reclamation Manual includes the 2005 changes to the bankruptcy law and guides lawyers and trade creditors through the exacting requirements that must be satisfied in order to obtain quick relief when either reclamation or stoppage of goods in transit is available as a remedy for unsecured trade creditors. It also outlines the steps creditors must follow to successfully exercise these remedies. Softbound, 54 pages.

Product #06-003
Members: $25
Non-members: $35
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Bankruptcy Business Acquisitions, Second Edition

Edited by Richard Tilton, this book is the essential reference for anyone involved in buying or selling financially distressed companies. Newly revised by 55 of the nation's top bankruptcy experts, Bankruptcy Business Acquisitions, 2d Edition covers the full spectrum of relevant topics - from the Bankruptcy Code and court system to the specifics of pre-packaged plans, bidding incentives, selling assets in regulated industries, strategic roles of the investment banker, tax issues, pension and ERISA issues, due diligence, issuance of securities, trading claims, intellectual property transfers and more. Hardbound, 1,142 Pages; 30 practice tested forms on CD. View the Second Edition's Table of Contents.

Product #06-002
Members: $245 (plus $37.95 shipping)
Non-members: $295 (plus $37.95 shipping)

Distressed Investment Banking: To the Abyss and Back

Written by ABI Investment Banking Committee Co-chair Peter Kaufman and Henry Owsley, this publication is a must-have for distressed market professionals. The authors provide an insider's viewpoint on the methods and complexities of restructuring troubled companies in this fascinating area of investment banking. Distressed Investment Banking demystifies what investment bankers really do and conveys difficult concepts in easily understandable terms. The authors take readers through the general processes associated with consummating a distressed M&A transaction, as well as internal financial restructuring and beyond.

Product #05-015
Members and Non-members: $74.95

Getting Paid: Retention and Compensation in Bankruptcy Cases: A Guide for Nonattorney Professionals

This publication discusses the various aspects of the professional retention process of 11 U.S.C. §§327 and 1103 and the fee payment procedures of 11 U.S.C. §§330 and 331. The handbook was written by six experienced bankruptcy practitioners with the nonattorney professional and their counsel in mind, and provides practical advice on a wide range of issues from the question of who is a professional to the drafting of an engagement agreement to the filing and defense of interim and final fee applications. Getting Paid is a must-read for anyone who plans to work for debtors or committees in a bankruptcy proceeding. Softbound, 170 pages.

Product #05-005
Members: $25
Non-members: $35
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Bankruptcy Issues for Commercial Landlords, Tenants and Mortgagees, Second Edition

Written by David R. Kuney of Sidley Austin, LLP (Washington, D.C.), this revised manual on real estate bankruptcy is a comprehensive, highly readable book on the rights and obligations of tenants, landlords and third parties. The book has been updated to add new cases and issues arising under BAPCPA as well as in other areas where there has been significant development of the law, including letters of credit, landlord claims and the calculation of the statutory cap for such claims. The book also covers lease assumption, rejection, curing of defaults, damage calculations and pre-petition strategies, among other matters. Softbound, 150 pages.

Product #08-010
Members: $25
Non-members: $40
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Bankruptcy and its Impact on Intellectual Property

This handbook covers the basics of IP law, including a description of property rights, license and assignment issues, and infringements. Intellectual property (patents, trademarks, copyrights and trade secrets) can become a significant asset of a debtor’s estate, and special rules apply depending on whether the assets are defined as property of the estate or an executory contract. The handbook outlines what parties can do in a bankruptcy to protect intellectual property rights, including the DIP’s ability to assign IP licenses. The new book, coauthored by a patent litigator and a commercial bankruptcy litigator, is accessible to both the IP professional and the bankruptcy practitioner. Softbound, 100 pages.

Product #07-012
Members: $25
Non-members: $45
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