NACBA Backgrounder

The National Association of Consumer Bankruptcy Attorneys (NACBA) provides a powerful voice for consumer debtors and their attorneys to shape public policy, legislation and judicial decisions that protect the Constitutional right to a financial fresh start. Founded in 1992 by a small group of attorneys, the organization has grown to over 2,500 attorneys in all 50 states and Puerto Rico. It is the only organization that is run by and for the benefit of consumer bankruptcy attorneys and their clients.

Over the last 10 years, the consumer credit lobby has spent over $100 million to erode the relief that the federal Bankruptcy Code provides for consumers and small businesses. NACBA has been a leading force in countering this effort, and in making sure that debtors continue to receive the protection guaranteed by the US Constitution and federal and state law.

NACBA's activities extend in many directions, including:

• Advocating in Congress and state legislatures for legislation that preserves debtor rights.
• Filing amicus curiae briefs to support consumers' rights in bankruptcy cases
• Providing bankruptcy-related information on important issues to policy-makers and the media.

In addition, NACBA gives ongoing support for bankruptcy professionals to help them represent their clients more effectively by providing educational opportunities, publishing professional information and establishing forums that facilitate the collegial sharing of information and best practices.

Key NACBA professional activities include:

• An annual convention to support professional growth
• A professional listserv that enables members to share information and ideas
• Regular newsletters on bankruptcy-related issues

NACBA's committed and active membership and the credibility developed by building a long track record of success ensure that NACBA will continue to play a key role in shaping the outcome of policy, legislation and judicial decisions on consumer bankruptcy issues.