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Founded by Judge William L. Norton Jr., Norton Institutes has been a pioneer in providing high-level education for legal professionals specializing in bankruptcy law. With a legacy of over 40 years, the institution is recognized for its exceptional in-person and virtual seminars, offering Continuing Legal Education (CLE) credits to attorneys who seek to enhance their knowledge of the ever-evolving field of bankruptcy law. By focusing on both theoretical and practical aspects, Norton Institutes has created a platform for legal professionals to stay up to date with the latest trends and case law. What Sets Norton Institutes Apart? Norton Institutes stands out in the field of bankruptcy law education for several key reasons: Experienced and Expert Speakers:  The organization prides itself on assembling a team of experts who are at the top of their field. This includes retired bankruptcy judges like Keith M. Lundin, Randolph J. Haines, and Leif M. Clark, each of whom brings decades of invaluable experience to the seminar table. The hands-on expertise these speakers share provides practical insights, real-world applications, and a deeper understanding of complex legal issues. Comprehensive Seminar Formats:  Whether you attend in-person or virtually, Norton Institutes' seminars are designed to engage attendees while providing them with the tools and knowledge they need to excel in their legal practices. They utilize an interactive format, allowing professionals to participate in meaningful discussions and exchange insights on bankruptcy law trends. CLE Credits for Attorneys:  As part of its commitment to professional development, Norton Institutes ensures that its seminars are accredited for Continuing Legal Education. This allows legal professionals to earn valuable CLE credits while gaining specialized knowledge that enhances their practice. The Importance of Bankruptcy Law Education The landscape of bankruptcy law is continuously changing due to new legislation, regulations, and case law. For legal professionals specializing in this area, staying current is crucial. Attorneys who practice bankruptcy law often deal with highly complex and sensitive matters, such as debt relief, insolvency proceedings, and creditor-debtor negotiations. A deep understanding of bankruptcy law can make the difference between success and failure in these cases. Norton Institutes has long recognized the importance of education in this field. By hosting seminars that focus on both foundational concepts and recent developments, they ensure that attorneys have the tools to effectively represent their clients in this evolving legal landscape. Their seminars cover everything from procedural updates to deeper discussions on financial restructurings and corporate bankruptcies. Why Choose Norton Institutes for Your Bankruptcy Law Education? Norton Institutes offers numerous benefits that set it apart from other educational institutions: Decades of Experience:  With over 40 years of experience, Norton Institutes has cultivated a reputation for excellence in bankruptcy law education. Their seminars have helped countless attorneys enhance their skills and knowledge, making them a trusted resource for legal professionals. Engaging, Interactive Learning Environment:  Norton Institutes emphasizes practical learning and interaction between experts and attendees. This approach ensures that participants can immediately apply what they learn in real-world scenarios. Unmatched Networking Opportunities:  By attending Norton Institutes' seminars, legal professionals gain access to a network of like-minded professionals, creating opportunities for collaboration, partnership, and knowledge exchange. Upcoming Seminar: February 10-12, 2026 Norton Institutes continues to build upon its legacy with an upcoming seminar scheduled for February 10-12, 2026. This seminar will be focused on recent developments in bankruptcy law and will feature speakers who are leaders in the field. It promises to provide an in-depth look at the latest legal trends, offering a unique opportunity to stay informed about the most current issues facing bankruptcy attorneys. The seminar will also serve as an invaluable networking event, allowing attorneys to meet and interact with some of the brightest minds in bankruptcy law. Whether you are a seasoned attorney or just beginning your practice, the upcoming Norton Institutes seminar will provide the tools, insights, and strategies you need to enhance your professional capabilities. How Norton Institutes Supports the Legal Community Norton Institutes not only educates attorneys but also contributes to the development of the broader bankruptcy law community. Through its seminars, the organization plays an essential role in advancing discussions on bankruptcy law. The events are designed to help legal professionals stay ahead of emerging trends, ensuring they have the knowledge and skills necessary to provide effective counsel in bankruptcy cases. Additionally, Norton Institutes is dedicated to creating a positive, relaxed atmosphere for learning. Their seminars are known for their collegiality and the sense of community they foster among participants. This creates an environment where legal professionals can engage deeply with the material and with each other, gaining both knowledge and connections that will serve them throughout their careers. Conclusion: Stay Ahead in Bankruptcy Law with Norton Institutes In an era of rapid legal changes, staying informed and educated is more important than ever. Norton Institutes offers attorneys an unparalleled opportunity to sharpen their skills, gain insight into the latest trends, and earn CLE credits in a dynamic learning environment. Whether you are attending a seminar for the first time or have been a long-time participant, Norton Institutes remains a trusted resource in bankruptcy law education. As the industry continues to evolve, Norton Institutes is committed to remaining at the forefront, providing educational resources that equip legal professionals with the knowledge and tools necessary for success. Don’t miss your chance to attend their upcoming seminar in February 2026, and take a step toward enhancing your expertise in bankruptcy law.

Norton Institutes mourns the loss of   Jerry Smith, Neal Batson, and John Pearson, three of its more significant contributors through the many years of seminars sponsored by Norton Institutes.   Gerald K. Smith died on October 3, 2025 at the age of 89.   He started his law practice in Phoenix, Az, where he join Lewis & Roca.  He served as Deputy Director of the Commission on the Bankruptcy Laws of the United States in 1972, which produced the first draft submitted to Congress of the current Bankruptcy Code.  The Supreme Court appointed him to the Advisory Committee on the Rules of Bankruptcy of the Judicial Conference of the United States, where he served until 1999.  In this capacity he was one of the nation’s leaders in the development of the Bankruptcy Code and became a principal contributor of the Norton Bankruptcy Law and Practice from 1985 to 1993, and further was a Co-editor of the Norton Bankruptcy Law Advisor from 1985 to 1998.  He was a founding member and director of the American Bankruptcy Institute and played a central role in forming the American College of Bankruptcy, later receiving its prestigious Distinguished Service Award in 2000.  He was a frequent speaker at Norton Institutes at Jackson Hole, Wyoming and as an Adjunct Professor at Arizona State University School of Law.  He was honored as a “Legend of the Law” by the National Conference of Bankruptcy Judges in 2006.   Neal Batson died on September 1, 2025 at the age of 84.  He was a partner at Alston & Bird LLP in Atlanta, Georgia.  He concentrated on commercial litigation, bankruptcy, workouts and business reorganizations through his many years of practice in Atlanta.  He was a member of the first class of the American College of Bankruptcy and later served as President, Director and Chair of the Board of that College.  He was also a Fellow of the American College of Trial Lawyers and President of the Atlanta Bar Association, President of the Southeastern Bankruptcy Law Institute, and an Officer and Director of the American Bankruptcy Institute. He was a member of the American Law Institute, the National Bankruptcy Conference, the American Arbitration Association and the Advisory Committee on the Rules of Bankruptcy Procedure of the Judicial Conference of the United States. He taught at the Federal Judicial Center Workshop for Bankruptcy Judges and was both an Adjunct and Acting Professor at the Emory University School of Law.   He served on the Advisory Committee on the Rules of Bankruptcy Procedure of the Judicial Conference of the United States, during 1993 – 1999, and contributed to Norton Bankruptcy Law and Practice and the Norton Bankruptcy Law Advisor.  He participated on numerous occasions at the Norton Institutes conducted in Park City, Utah and Jackson Hole, Wyoming.  His participation in these seminars was always entertaining and he will be greatly missed. John K. Pearson died on November 2, 2025 at the age of 80.  He served as an Assistant United States Trustee in the Department of Justice in Wichita, Kansas from 1979 to 1982, and from 1986 to 2000 served as the Bankruptcy Judge for the District of Kansas.  As a Bankruptcy Judge, he also served on the 10th Circuit Bankruptcy Appellate Panel from 1995 to 2000.  He was a professor at Presidents College School of Law in Wichita, Kansas, and was one of the Co-managing Editors of the Bankruptcy Law Advisor.  He was one of the first  members of the American Bankruptcy Institute, where he served as on its Board of Directors, 1989-98; Executive Committee, 1989-1994; Secretary, 1991-1995, and was Chair of the ABI Committee on Bankruptcy Rules. After he became a judge, he joined the National Conference of Bankruptcy Judges serving on its Board of Directors from 1991 to 1994.  He was a contributor for the Norton Bankruptcy Law and Practice and wrote numerous articles for the Norton Advisor and the American Bankruptcy Institute Law Journal.  His dry wit will be greatly missed.

For over four decades, Norton Institutes has been a cornerstone of legal education, delivering top-tier seminars for bankruptcy professionals across the United States. Their commitment to providing a comprehensive, hands-on, judge-led educational experience has made them a leading provider of continuing legal education (CLE) in the field of bankruptcy law. Founded with the mission to serve legal professionals in the ever-evolving field of bankruptcy, Norton Institutes has earned a reputation for delivering high-quality, relevant, and practical seminars that address the complex issues faced by bankruptcy lawyers and legal practitioners today. These seminars are designed to provide in-depth insights into the latest trends, rulings, and regulatory changes, equipping participants with the knowledge they need to navigate the complexities of bankruptcy law. An Unmatched Educational Experience One of the key features that sets Norton Institutes apart from other legal education providers is their distinctive seminar format. Unlike traditional lecture-based seminars, Norton Institutes’ events are judge-led and discussion-based. This format fosters dynamic, interactive learning, allowing participants to engage with expert speakers, ask questions, and discuss case studies in a collaborative environment. The seminars focus on practical applications of bankruptcy law, ensuring that attendees not only understand the theoretical aspects but also gain insights into how these principles play out in real-world cases. From Chapter 7 to Chapter 13 bankruptcies, participants learn about the latest case law and how it impacts their practice. By attending these events, lawyers can stay ahead of the curve in an area of law that is constantly evolving. Cutting-Edge Topics and Expert Speakers Each year, Norton Institutes curates an agenda that covers the most pressing issues in bankruptcy law. Their seminars are designed to address the challenges faced by attorneys who specialize in both consumer and business bankruptcy cases. Topics range from the complexities of bankruptcy proceedings to the latest developments in creditor-debtor law, offering attendees an all-encompassing overview of the field. In addition to the diverse seminar topics, Norton Institutes enlists highly respected judges, practitioners, and educators to lead the seminars. These speakers are not only experts in bankruptcy law but also deeply experienced in guiding legal professionals through the nuances of bankruptcy cases. This unique access to some of the most renowned legal minds in the field enhances the value of attending their events. Accessibility for All Legal Professionals Understanding the need for flexible learning opportunities, Norton Institutes has expanded its offerings to include online seminars, making it easier than ever for legal professionals to participate from anywhere in the country. Their February 2026 Online Bankruptcy Law Seminar is a prime example of their commitment to providing accessible education for all legal professionals. This online seminar will be held from February 10-12, 2026, and is designed to bring together lawyers and other legal professionals for a comprehensive review of the most critical issues in bankruptcy law. The online format ensures that professionals who may not be able to attend in person can still benefit from the same high-quality educational experience that Norton Institutes is known for. Why Choose Norton Institutes? Reputation and Legacy : With more than 40 years of experience, Norton Institutes has established itself as a leader in bankruptcy law education. Their reputation for excellence is a testament to the quality of their programs and the expertise of their speakers. Practical, Real-World Learning : The seminar format, which encourages discussion and case analysis, ensures that attendees leave with actionable insights they can apply immediately in their practice. Expertise : By engaging with some of the most respected legal professionals in the field, participants gain invaluable knowledge and experience that can enhance their career and improve their practice. Comprehensive Topics : Norton Institutes covers a wide range of bankruptcy law topics, from basic bankruptcy procedures to the most current developments in the field, making their seminars suitable for both newcomers and seasoned professionals. Convenient Online Access : With the option to attend online, Norton Institutes makes it easier for legal professionals to access critical educational content without leaving their office or home. Conclusion Norton Institutes remains a trusted resource for attorneys seeking to stay at the forefront of bankruptcy law. Whether you're just starting your legal career or you're an experienced practitioner, their seminars offer an invaluable opportunity to learn from the best in the field. By attending a Norton Institutes seminar, legal professionals not only enhance their knowledge but also gain the practical tools needed to excel in their practice. As the landscape of bankruptcy law continues to evolve, it’s essential for legal professionals to keep pace with the latest developments. Norton Institutes provides the education and resources needed to do just that—ensuring that lawyers are prepared to navigate the challenges of bankruptcy law with confidence.

For more than four decades, Norton Institutes on Bankruptcy Law has been a go-to source for advanced bankruptcy law seminars  that combine rigor with a collegial, conversational setting. The organization, founded by the late Judge William L. Norton, Jr. (author of Norton Bankruptcy Law and Practice ), is known for expert-led programming that delivers meaningful continuing legal education  to practicing attorneys across the country.   In February 2026, Norton will host a three-day live, online  seminar designed specifically for lawyers who want an efficient way to stay current on doctrine while earning CLE. Delivered via Zoom over three afternoons, the program will spotlight recent case developments, professional responsibility, consumer practice trends, and Chapter 11 (including Subchapter V) insights—taught by a faculty of retired bankruptcy judges and leading practitioners.   Below is a concise overview of the program structure, faculty, and takeaways to help attorneys understand the Institute’s format and why its online legal education  continues to stand out. Who Is Norton Institutes? Norton Institutes was created shortly after the publication of Norton Bankruptcy Law and Practice  to conduct annual legal seminars nationwide. True to its origins, the Institute emphasizes advanced  discussion of current bankruptcy issues delivered in a relaxed atmosphere. Today, management of the seminars is led by Bill Norton III, and the faculty is drawn from experienced judges and bankruptcy practitioners, many of whom contribute to the Norton treatises.   On its home page, Norton highlights expert-led in-person and virtual seminars that provide top-tier CLE credits for legal professionals—an approach that meets busy lawyers where they are while maintaining the Institute’s long-standing standards.   Inside the Feb. 10–12, 2026 Live Online Seminar Format & Access.  The 2026 program presented via Zoom, enables remote participation from anywhere. Sessions are concentrated in afternoon blocks (Eastern Time) to minimize disruption to court calendars and client work.   Faculty Model.  Each day is moderated by William L. Norton III and led by retired judges and seasoned practitioners known for their clarity and practical focus. Norton’s home page also foregrounds its featured speakers—retired Judges Keith Lundin, Randy Haines, and Leif Clark—reflecting the Institute’s emphasis on judicial perspective.   Day 1 (Mon., Feb. 10): Recent Developments & Ethics Recent Developments in Bankruptcy Law (1:00–3:00 p.m. ET)  Retired Judge Randy Haines will survey major decisions from the prior year, with particular attention to the Supreme Court and Courts of Appeals. For practitioners, this session distills high-impact holdings and trends that often drive strategy in both consumer and business cases. Ethical and Professional Compensation Issues (3:30–5:00 p.m. ET)  Susan Freeman (Womble Bond Dickinson, Phoenix) and Jeff Hellman (Law Offices of Jeffrey Hellman, LLC, New Haven), will review decisions highlighting recurring ethical pitfalls in bankruptcy practice, including fee and compensation questions. Day 2 (Tue., Feb. 11): Consumer Chapter 7 & 13 Developments Recent Developments in Consumer Chapter 7 and 13 Cases (1:00–4:00 p.m. ET) Retired Judge Keith M. Lundin will lead a panel discussion with Henry E. Hildebrand III (Chapter 13 Trustee, M.D. Tenn.), and Richardo Kilpatrick (Kilpatrick & Associates). The panel will examine the past year’s most consequential decisions affecting consumer practice and trustee administration. Day 3 (Wed., Feb. 12): Chapter 11 & Subchapter V Recent Developments in Chapter 11 and Subchapter V Cases (1:00–4:00 p.m. ET) Retired Judge Leif Clark will lead a discussion of recent Chapter 11 decisions, including Subchapter V issues, joined by Rob Charles (Lewis Roca), Andrew J. Currie (Venable), and Bill Norton III. For restructuring lawyers, this session will offer a compact update on key rulings shaping plan feasibility, confirmation issues, and small-business reorganizations. Materials & Added Value Registrants who enroll for all three days  receive a complimentary copy of the Norton Quick Reference Bankruptcy Code and Rules , a practical desk resource that pairs well with the case-law updates covered during the program.   Beyond the publication, Norton’s programming is designed for engaged learning: the Institute’s long-standing “trademark” is advanced discussion delivered in a relaxed atmosphere—an environment that encourages nuanced questions and peer exchange while staying closely tethered to current authority.   Why This Seminar Model Works for Busy Bankruptcy Lawyers Efficient, current content.  By concentrating sessions into three focused afternoons and organizing them around “recent developments,” Norton helps lawyers stay current without losing a full week to travel. The Institute’s homepage underscores the organization’s 40+ year legacy of premier bankruptcy education, signaling a consistent commitment to substantive quality. Judicial perspective.  With retired judges guiding the discussion, attorneys gain insight into how courts are reading—and applying—new authority, which is invaluable when advising clients or refining litigation strategy. Norton’s featured-speaker roster (Judges Lundin, Haines, and Clark) reflects that emphasis. Ethics integrated with doctrine.  Positioning ethics alongside doctrinal updates addresses real-world pain points—particularly fee practices, disclosures, and professional responsibility issues that can surface in any chapter. Practical coverage across chapters.  By splitting consumer (Ch. 7/13) and business (Ch. 11/Subchapter V) tracks across separate days, the seminar lets practitioners prioritize the content most relevant to their dockets while still capturing cross-cutting trends. Looking Ahead Norton’s website also highlights the Bankruptcy Recent Developments Seminar  scheduled for February 10–12, 2026 , reflecting the Institute’s continuity in offering annual, expert-led programming for bankruptcy professionals. Key Details at a Glance (2026 Program) Dates:  Feb. 10–12, 2026 (Mon–Wed) Delivery:  Live, online via Zoom Daily Blocks: Day 1: 1:00–3:00 p.m. ET (Recent Developments), 3:30–5:00 p.m. ET (Ethics) Day 2: 1:00–4:00 p.m. ET (Consumer Ch. 7 & 13) Day 3: 1:00–4:00 p.m. ET (Ch. 11 & Subchapter V) Faculty Highlights:  Retired Judges Randy Haines, Keith M. Lundin, Leif Clark; Susan Freeman; Jeff Hellman; Rob Charles; Andrew J. Currie; Henry E. Hildebrand III; Richardo Kilpatrick; moderated by William L. Norton III Bonus for 3-Day Registrants:  Complimentary Norton Quick Reference Bankruptcy Code and Rules Final Thought For lawyers seeking bankruptcy law seminars  that deliver genuinely useful continuing legal education , Norton Institutes’ 2026 program will offer a concentrated, judge-led deep dive into recent cases, ethical obligations, and both consumer and business practice. With a 40-plus-year reputation and a faculty built around retired judges and seasoned practitioners, Norton continues to provide online legal education  that respects your time while elevating your practice. Keep an eye on the Institute’s updates for the next offering and speaker line-up.