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#Bankruptcy Clinic

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The Bankruptcy Clinic is an extension of the Pro Bono Bankruptcy Program that was started in 2009. In its first year of operation, the program received the President’s Award from the New York State Bar Association for excellence in pro bono service.

The Bankruptcy Clinic accepts referrals from Legal Aid of Mid-New York of indigent individuals in need of bankruptcy relief. Students works with clients to obtain and analyze their personal and financial histories, prepare bankruptcy petitions and schedules, provide representation at the first meeting of creditors, and address any issues that arise in the case. The program has assisted dozens of individuals in obtaining a fresh financial start.

Individuals in need of bankruptcy assistance should contact Legal Aid of Mid-New York at (877) 777-6152 for eligibility screening.

Students Can Expect:

The class component will include basic training in consumer bankruptcy law, including a review of the state law judgment collection process, exemptions both in and out of bankruptcy, the Chapter 7 bankruptcy process, the means test and dismissal rules, exceptions to discharge, the scope and function of the discharge, reaffirmation, and an overview of the Chapter 13 process. The class component will focus on the applicable New York and federal bankruptcy statutes. In addition, the Clinic students will discuss the status of and issues that arise in their cases.

Clinic students will represent indigent individuals in need of bankruptcy protection. A bankruptcy client will be assigned to each clinic student. First year pro bono student volunteers will also assist the Clinic students as part of a team. The Clinic students and volunteers will work with the clients to obtain the information required by the Bankruptcy Code, organize the information, and prepare the petition and supporting

bankruptcy schedules. Students will also represent the client at the official meeting of creditors, and will be responsible for addressing any issues that arise in the case.

Credits Requirements:

• 1 Semester Clinic