ALFN Member Meeting
(ALFN LAW FIRM/FORECLOSURE Trustee & Associate Members only)
SUNDAY, JULY 20 | 4:00 PM - 5:00 PM | GRAND SIERRA BALLROOM
Join the ALFN Leadership Team for our annual update on the ALFN’s recent activities, new initiatives, membership opportunities and ways to get more involved. This session is closed, and only available for Law Firm/Foreclosure Trustee Members and Associate Members (service providers) of the ALFN.
client Meeting
(Servicers, investors & GSE’s only)
SUNDAY, JULY 20 | 4:00 PM - 5:00 PM | ALPINE BALLROOM B
Bringing together Mortgage Servicers, Investors and GSE's for a closed-door, peer-to-peer discussion addressing the latest issues impacting Mortgage Servicers. Each year we bring together top servicing executives and now it’s your time to talk amongst yourselves. This session is closed, and only available for Mortgage Servicers, Investors and GSE’s.
Discussion Leader:
Discussion Leader:
- Jacquelyn Cayon, VP, Sourcing | Global Supplier Services, J.P. Morgan
GENERAL SESSION 1
Management Best Practices - How to Be a Multiplier, Not a Diminisher
MONDAY, JULY 21 | 9:00 AM - 10:00 AM | GRAND SIERRA BALLROOM
This session will be based on the book Multipliers, by Liz Weisman, that does a deep dive into the two fundamental types of managers - multipliers and diminishers. Multipliers exhibit management qualities that allow them to unlock the potential of their employees and mold them into independent, successful individuals, whereas diminishers get overly involved, kill the energy in the room, and do not allow their employees to grow.
All of us are multipliers or diminishers at any given point in time (some fall more on one end of the spectrum or the other), and this panel will explore the traits of each of these types of individuals, discuss real world examples of how the panelists have embodied these personas (good and bad), and ways all of us can improve our management styles to become better multipliers and less as diminishers.
Moderator:
Speakers:
All of us are multipliers or diminishers at any given point in time (some fall more on one end of the spectrum or the other), and this panel will explore the traits of each of these types of individuals, discuss real world examples of how the panelists have embodied these personas (good and bad), and ways all of us can improve our management styles to become better multipliers and less as diminishers.
Moderator:
- Blake Strautins, Esq., Managing Partner, Managing Partner of Litigation, Kluever Law Group, LLC
Speakers:
- Alicia Dux, AVP of Agency Foreclosure, Bankruptcy & Loss Mitigation, BSI Financial Services
- Annalise Hayes DeLuca, Esq., Partner, McMichael Taylor Gray, LLC
- Jim Timberlake, Esq., President, Baer Timberlake
- Marcy Ford, Esq., Managing Partner, Trott Law, P.C.
GENERAL SESSION 2
Keynote Speaker Presentation
Amelia Rose Earhart
Learn to Love the Turbulence: The Power of a Pilot in Command Mentality
MONDAY, JULY 21 | 10:15 AM - 11:15 AM | GRAND SIERRA BALLROOM
Thank You Keynote Speaker Sponsor - ProCirrus Cloud Technologies
Thank You Keynote Speaker Sponsor - ProCirrus Cloud Technologies
Pilots are known for their clear communication skills, decisiveness, situational awareness, information processing, workload management, and overall sense of personal responsibility. These same skills are invaluable in today’s workplace, given the varied tasks and responsibilities each team member is required to perform. This talk will teach you how to take flight toward new, elevated goals, with confidence and a sense of agility.
Amelia Rose Earhart's keynote message will ask you to ponder the question, “what’s your relationship with turbulence?”, meaning, how do you react when things don’t go exactly as planned? By sharing her story of how she endured and recovered from major professional turbulence, while planning and completing a flight all the way around the world, Amelia shares practices to illuminate new paths using all 360 degrees of our personal compass, embrace challenges by diffusing their power with preparation, and empower us to elevate to new heights by acting with multiple levels of situational awareness.
Amelia Rose Earhart's keynote message will ask you to ponder the question, “what’s your relationship with turbulence?”, meaning, how do you react when things don’t go exactly as planned? By sharing her story of how she endured and recovered from major professional turbulence, while planning and completing a flight all the way around the world, Amelia shares practices to illuminate new paths using all 360 degrees of our personal compass, embrace challenges by diffusing their power with preparation, and empower us to elevate to new heights by acting with multiple levels of situational awareness.
GENERAL SEssion 3
Regulatory Compliance Trends Fireside Chat
TUESDAY, JULY 22 | 9:00 AM - 10:00 AM | GRAND SIERRA BALLROOM
Join us for an insightful fireside chat exploring the evolving regulatory environment shaping the default mortgage servicing industry in 2025. Attendees will gain a forward-looking perspective on compliance strategies, risk mitigation, and how to stay ahead in a landscape where regulatory momentum is increasingly decentralized.
Moderator:
Speaker:
Moderator:
- Natalie Grigg, Esq., Partner, Tromberg, Miller, Morris & Partners, PLLC
Speaker:
- Nathan Willner, Esq., VP of Government Affairs (State), National Creditors Bar Association (NCBA)
concurrent breakout sessions
TUESDAY, JULY 22 | 10:15 AM - 3:00 PM | GRAND SIERRA AB, CD & ALPINE B BALLROOM
BREAKOUT SESSION 1
10:15 AM - 11:15 AM
Grand Sierra Ballroom AB
The State of State Enforcement Actions
With the sweeping changes at the CFPB, many states are expected to take the lead on consumer and mortgage lending/servicing enforcement. This panel will discuss which states are most likely to lead the charge, what types of enforcement actions are likely and what servicers and attorneys should anticipate.
Moderator:
Speakers:
10:15 AM - 11:15 AM
Grand Sierra Ballroom AB
The State of State Enforcement Actions
With the sweeping changes at the CFPB, many states are expected to take the lead on consumer and mortgage lending/servicing enforcement. This panel will discuss which states are most likely to lead the charge, what types of enforcement actions are likely and what servicers and attorneys should anticipate.
Moderator:
- Deanne Stodden, Esq., Partner, Messner Reeves LLP
Speakers:
- Manny Newberger, Esq., Founding Shareholder & Vice President, Barron & Newberger, PC
- Ryan Bourgeois, Esq., General Counsel/Compliance Officer – Partner, BDF Law Group
BREAKOUT SESSION 2
10:15 AM - 11:15 AM
Grand Sierra Ballroom CD
Post-Foreclosure Issues
Join us for an insightful panel session that addresses the multifaceted challenges of post-sale foreclosure, creative title resolutions, and squatters' rights. Our expert panel will delve into the complexities of achieving clear marketable title, analyzing common impediments such as title issues, litigation, bankruptcy, missing documentation, and uncooperative third-party buyers, and offering practical solutions to mitigate these costly delays. Addressing clouds on title is a key challenge for foreclosure firms, and the discussion will cover title insurance policies, resolving common issues like prior unreleased trusts, legal description errors, and prior judgments, as well as creative solutions for uncommon issues like improperly executed documents, easements, and boundary disputes, illustrated through case studies. Additionally, with evolving laws on squatters' rights, the panel will provide timely insights into pending and existing legislation in states like Texas, Florida, and California, and strategies for dealing with squatters and other post-sale challenges. Gain comprehensive insights and practical strategies from experienced panelists on navigating these complex post-foreclosure issues, ensuring smoother processes and better outcomes for all involved.
Moderator:
Speakers:
10:15 AM - 11:15 AM
Grand Sierra Ballroom CD
Post-Foreclosure Issues
Join us for an insightful panel session that addresses the multifaceted challenges of post-sale foreclosure, creative title resolutions, and squatters' rights. Our expert panel will delve into the complexities of achieving clear marketable title, analyzing common impediments such as title issues, litigation, bankruptcy, missing documentation, and uncooperative third-party buyers, and offering practical solutions to mitigate these costly delays. Addressing clouds on title is a key challenge for foreclosure firms, and the discussion will cover title insurance policies, resolving common issues like prior unreleased trusts, legal description errors, and prior judgments, as well as creative solutions for uncommon issues like improperly executed documents, easements, and boundary disputes, illustrated through case studies. Additionally, with evolving laws on squatters' rights, the panel will provide timely insights into pending and existing legislation in states like Texas, Florida, and California, and strategies for dealing with squatters and other post-sale challenges. Gain comprehensive insights and practical strategies from experienced panelists on navigating these complex post-foreclosure issues, ensuring smoother processes and better outcomes for all involved.
Moderator:
- Adam Diaz, Esq., Partner, Diaz | Anselmo
Speakers:
- Jianna Jaquez Santos, Esq., Associate Attorney, McCabe Weisberg & Conway
- Joe Camillo, Jr., Esq., Managing Partner – New England, ALAW
- Keller Mackie, Esq., President, Mackie Wolf Zientz & Mann, PC
BREAKOUT SESSION 3
10:15 AM - 11:15 AM
Alpine Ballroom B
AI in Legal Practice
Explore the transformative impact of AI on the legal industry in this engaging panel session. Our expert panelists will discuss how AI technologies are revolutionizing legal practice, from automating routine tasks to enhancing decision-making processes.
Key topics will include:
Join us to gain valuable insights into the current and future applications of AI in the legal field, and learn how to leverage these technologies to enhance your practice and stay ahead in a rapidly evolving industry.
Moderator:
Speakers:
10:15 AM - 11:15 AM
Alpine Ballroom B
AI in Legal Practice
Explore the transformative impact of AI on the legal industry in this engaging panel session. Our expert panelists will discuss how AI technologies are revolutionizing legal practice, from automating routine tasks to enhancing decision-making processes.
Key topics will include:
- AI-Powered Legal Research: Discover how AI tools are streamlining legal research, providing faster and more accurate results, and enabling lawyers to focus on higher-value activities.
- Document Automation and Analysis: Learn about AI-driven solutions for drafting, reviewing, and analyzing legal documents, reducing errors and increasing efficiency.
- Predictive Analytics in Litigation: Understand how AI is being used to predict case outcomes, assess risks, and develop more effective litigation strategies.
- Ethical and Regulatory Considerations: Discuss the ethical implications and regulatory challenges of integrating AI into legal practice, ensuring compliance and maintaining professional standards.
Join us to gain valuable insights into the current and future applications of AI in the legal field, and learn how to leverage these technologies to enhance your practice and stay ahead in a rapidly evolving industry.
Moderator:
- Randy Miller, Esq., President, Randall S. Miller & Associates
Speakers:
- Adam Friedman, Esq., Managing Partner, Friedman Vartolo
- Eyal Leeder, Co-Founder & Chief Revenue Officer, AskTuring.ai
BREAKOUT SESSION 4
11:30 AM - 12:30 PM
Grand Sierra Ballroom AB
Compliance Change Management
Join us for a comprehensive discussion on the creation and implementation of servicer directives. Our expert panel will explore how servicer directives are formulated and the avenues available for firms to submit suggestions for improving process flow. We will cover best practices for law firms in implementing and training on new procedures, including software process revisions and integrations, and the implications for compliance and scorecards. Additionally, we will touch on the potential role of AI in facilitating more effective management of client directives. Gain valuable insights into optimizing servicer directives and enhancing operational efficiency in your practice.
Moderator:
Speakers:
11:30 AM - 12:30 PM
Grand Sierra Ballroom AB
Compliance Change Management
Join us for a comprehensive discussion on the creation and implementation of servicer directives. Our expert panel will explore how servicer directives are formulated and the avenues available for firms to submit suggestions for improving process flow. We will cover best practices for law firms in implementing and training on new procedures, including software process revisions and integrations, and the implications for compliance and scorecards. Additionally, we will touch on the potential role of AI in facilitating more effective management of client directives. Gain valuable insights into optimizing servicer directives and enhancing operational efficiency in your practice.
Moderator:
- Michael Rak, Esq., Partner, Lender Legal PLLC
Speakers:
- Beth Northrop-Day, Esq., Vice President | Assistant General Counsel, U.S. Bank
- Laura Noyes, Esq., Shareholder, Kass Shuler, P.A.
- Michael Chisholm, Director of Client Relations, Friedman Vartolo
- Michael Messick, Director of Strategic Operations, O.L.A.F. Companies
- Tricia Osgood, New Development Project Manager, CaseMax
BREAKOUT SESSION 5
11:30 AM - 12:30 PM
Grand Sierra Ballroom CD
Navigating the Insurance Crisis: The Impact of Rising Premiums, Cancellations, and Mortgage Payment Strain
In recent years, homeowners nationwide have faced the alarming trend of homeowner’s insurance policy cancellations and sharp premium increases, driven by rising natural disasters, higher claim rates, and evolving regulations. This session will delve into the key drivers behind these changes and their wide-reaching effects, including the financial pressures on homeowners that threaten their ability to keep up with mortgage payments and the potential for increased mortgage defaults. Featuring industry experts, the panel will analyze data on insurance cancellations and premium hikes, explore the growing financial burden on homeowners, and discuss strategies to mitigate these challenges, offering practical solutions to secure competitive rates and reduce risk exposure. Attendees will gain a deeper understanding of the current state of the homeowner’s insurance market, its effects on mortgage payments, and actionable strategies for navigating these changes.
Moderator:
Speakers
11:30 AM - 12:30 PM
Grand Sierra Ballroom CD
Navigating the Insurance Crisis: The Impact of Rising Premiums, Cancellations, and Mortgage Payment Strain
In recent years, homeowners nationwide have faced the alarming trend of homeowner’s insurance policy cancellations and sharp premium increases, driven by rising natural disasters, higher claim rates, and evolving regulations. This session will delve into the key drivers behind these changes and their wide-reaching effects, including the financial pressures on homeowners that threaten their ability to keep up with mortgage payments and the potential for increased mortgage defaults. Featuring industry experts, the panel will analyze data on insurance cancellations and premium hikes, explore the growing financial burden on homeowners, and discuss strategies to mitigate these challenges, offering practical solutions to secure competitive rates and reduce risk exposure. Attendees will gain a deeper understanding of the current state of the homeowner’s insurance market, its effects on mortgage payments, and actionable strategies for navigating these changes.
Moderator:
- Cathe Cole-Sherburn, Sr. Vice President, Trustee Corps
Speakers
- Kris Anderson, Partner/Owner, Trinity River Financial Insurance
- Ned Gaines, CIE, AIC, AINS, AIRC, MCM, Acting Commissioner, Nevada Division of Insurance
- Richard Lubliner, Esq., Managing Member, Lubliner Law, PLLC
- Richard Strayer, EVP, Servicing Operations, PennyMac Loan Services
- Steven Higgins-Prelle, Vice President, Slaterock Asset Management, LLC
BREAKOUT SESSION 6
11:30 AM - 12:30 PM
Alpine Ballroom B
Bankruptcy Insights & Developments
Join us for an in-depth panel session that covers the latest developments and future trends in bankruptcy. We will begin with a case update, followed by an overview of the impending bankruptcy rule changes set for late 2025. The session will also include a brief update on the Partial Claim / Payment Supplement and a discussion on the ramifications of In re Klemkowski for servicers.
Our panel will then explore the current status of bankruptcy mediation programs across the United States, examining what states are currently doing and whether these programs continue to receive funding. We will discuss the shift of many courts to online platforms for document exchange and mediation processes.
To conclude, the panel will analyze emerging trends and provide insights into what the future may hold for consumer bankruptcy. This session promises to offer valuable perspectives and practical strategies for navigating the evolving bankruptcy landscape.
Moderator:
Speakers:
11:30 AM - 12:30 PM
Alpine Ballroom B
Bankruptcy Insights & Developments
Join us for an in-depth panel session that covers the latest developments and future trends in bankruptcy. We will begin with a case update, followed by an overview of the impending bankruptcy rule changes set for late 2025. The session will also include a brief update on the Partial Claim / Payment Supplement and a discussion on the ramifications of In re Klemkowski for servicers.
Our panel will then explore the current status of bankruptcy mediation programs across the United States, examining what states are currently doing and whether these programs continue to receive funding. We will discuss the shift of many courts to online platforms for document exchange and mediation processes.
To conclude, the panel will analyze emerging trends and provide insights into what the future may hold for consumer bankruptcy. This session promises to offer valuable perspectives and practical strategies for navigating the evolving bankruptcy landscape.
Moderator:
- Christopher DeNardo, Esq., Vice Chair Bankruptcy Practice Group, LOGS Legal Group LLP
Speakers:
- Keri Ebeck, Esq., Partner, Bernstein Burkley
- LeAnn Covey, Esq., Shareholder/Senior Vice President, Client Relations, Compliance & Bankruptcy, Clunk Hoose Co., LPA
- Mike McCormick, Esq., Senior Partner, Bankruptcy, McCalla Raymer Leibert Pierce, LLP
- Natalie Womack, SVP, Director of Consumer Lending & Default Servicing, Simmons Bank
BREAKOUT SESSION 7
2:00 PM - 3:00 PM
Grand Sierra Ballroom AB
Legal Ethics
Join us for a comprehensive presentation on legal ethics, covering critical topics that impact today's legal practice. Our expert panel will delve into:
This session will provide valuable insights and practical strategies for navigating these ethical challenges, ensuring you uphold the highest standards in your legal practice.
Moderator:
Speakers:
2:00 PM - 3:00 PM
Grand Sierra Ballroom AB
Legal Ethics
Join us for a comprehensive presentation on legal ethics, covering critical topics that impact today's legal practice. Our expert panel will delve into:
- Conflicts of Interest: Explore the nuances of priority issues with different clients, distinguishing between waivable and nonwaivable conflicts. Understand your duties and obligations in loss mitigation, including responsibilities to clients, opposition counsel, and the duty of candor to the court.
- Use of AI: Discuss the ethical implications of integrating AI into legal practice, focusing on required disclosures to clients and maintaining transparency.
- Data Breaches: Learn about the reporting requirements when firm data is breached, including who must be notified and the steps to ensure compliance.
This session will provide valuable insights and practical strategies for navigating these ethical challenges, ensuring you uphold the highest standards in your legal practice.
Moderator:
- Chris Picard, Esq., Principal, Neubert, Pepe & Monteith, PC
Speakers:
- Jill Jenkins, Esq., Managing Shareholder – PA Operations, KML Law Group, PC
- Mark Cronenwett, Esq., Partner, Lewis Brisbois Bisgaard & Smith, LP
- Michelle Gilbert, Esq., Managing Partner, Florida, Rubin Lublin
- Stephen Hladik, Esq., Partner, Hladik, Onorato & Federman, LLP
- Vin Averaimo, Esq., Partner, Barton Gilman
BREAKOUT SESSION 8
2:00 PM - 3:00 PM
Grand Sierra Ballroom CD
In-House vs. Outsourcing: What’s the Right Move?
The decision to keep operations in-house versus outsourcing is a critical and ongoing debate in mortgage servicing and legal operations. This session will dive into the strategic decision-making process behind outsourcing, discussing the benefits, risks, and long-term impact on efficiency, cost, and compliance. While offshore and nearshore support are widely discussed, this panel will take a broader approach—examining outsourcing in technology, legal processes, consulting, and operational support within mortgage servicing.
Topics we’ll explore include:
Moderator:
Speakers:
2:00 PM - 3:00 PM
Grand Sierra Ballroom CD
In-House vs. Outsourcing: What’s the Right Move?
The decision to keep operations in-house versus outsourcing is a critical and ongoing debate in mortgage servicing and legal operations. This session will dive into the strategic decision-making process behind outsourcing, discussing the benefits, risks, and long-term impact on efficiency, cost, and compliance. While offshore and nearshore support are widely discussed, this panel will take a broader approach—examining outsourcing in technology, legal processes, consulting, and operational support within mortgage servicing.
Topics we’ll explore include:
- Technology Solutions: Should servicers build proprietary systems or outsource to third-party vendors? What factors influence the decision?
- Consulting & Advisory Services: When should servicers and law firms engage external consultants? What drives these choices—expertise gaps, scalability, cost-efficiency?
- Process Outsourcing: Should key processes such as process serving, claims management, loss mitigation, and compliance audits be handled internally or delegated to external providers?
- Industry Best Practices: What functions should remain in-house to protect operational integrity, risk management, and compliance?
- Lessons from the Field: Case studies from servicers and law firms that have successfully balanced in-house teams with outsourced solutions.
Moderator:
- Michael Zevitz, Esq., Shareholder & Managing Attorney, Southlaw, PC
Speakers:
- Jenny Lee, Senior Consultant, LegalFee Consultants
- Meredith McCrory-Laws, Enterprise Alliance Executive, a360inc
- Neeraj Mendiratta, President, KnovaOne
- Rudy Casanova, President & CRO, Global Strategic
BREAKOUT SESSION 9
2:00 PM - 3:00 PM
Alpine Ballroom B
Mastering Leadership: Daily Routines and Productivity Strategies
Discover the secrets behind effective leadership through the lens of daily routines and productivity strategies. This session will delve into how successful leaders organize their day, schedule tasks, and handle emails to maximize efficiency and achieve their goals. Learn practical tips for personal productivity, including time management techniques, prioritization methods, and tools for staying on top of your responsibilities. Gain insights into the habits and practices that enable leaders to navigate their busy schedules with ease and maintain a high level of performance. Join us to enhance your own leadership skills and optimize your daily workflow.
Moderator:
Speakers:
2:00 PM - 3:00 PM
Alpine Ballroom B
Mastering Leadership: Daily Routines and Productivity Strategies
Discover the secrets behind effective leadership through the lens of daily routines and productivity strategies. This session will delve into how successful leaders organize their day, schedule tasks, and handle emails to maximize efficiency and achieve their goals. Learn practical tips for personal productivity, including time management techniques, prioritization methods, and tools for staying on top of your responsibilities. Gain insights into the habits and practices that enable leaders to navigate their busy schedules with ease and maintain a high level of performance. Join us to enhance your own leadership skills and optimize your daily workflow.
Moderator:
- Erica Fujimoto, Director of Enterprise Consulting, Affinity Consulting
Speakers:
- Marco Brenes, Executive Vice President, Sales Manager of Default Services, ServiceLink
- Marni Sachs, Esq., Managing Attorney, Partner, Robertson, Anschutz, Schneid, Crane & Partners, PLLC
- Michael Merritt, SVP, Head of Default & Customer Care, BOK Financial
- Sally Garrison, Esq., CEO, The Mortgage Law Firm
- Ted Manley, Esq., Principal, MDK
Annual awards luncheon
TUESDAY, JULY 22 | 12:30 PM - 1:45 PM | GRAND SIERRA BALLROOM
Thank You Awards Luncheon Sponsor - a360inc & ProVest
Thank You Awards Luncheon Sponsor - a360inc & ProVest
ALFN will be presenting several awards, including the ALFN Industry Achievement Award and the ALFN JPEG Picture the Future Award. We will also be presenting the ALFN Member Service Award to the 2 Attorney-Trustee Member Companies and the 2 Associate Member Companies who have had the highest level of support and volunteerism in the ALFN over the past year.
general session 4
The Housing Economy, Foreclosure Market Updates & Trends to Watch
TUESDAY, JULY 22 | 3:15 PM - 4:30 PM | GRAND SIERRA BALLROOM
A panel of high-profile economists and industry executives will offer insights on the state of the U.S. economy and trends to watch in the housing market. The panel will especially focus on the default servicing market, with information on mortgage delinquencies; how housing market dynamics will impact the distressed housing market; what to expect in terms of defaults and foreclosures; and disposition strategies for properties in the foreclosure process.
Moderator:
Speakers:
Moderator:
- Rick Sharga, President & CEO, CJ Patrick Company
Speakers:
- Daren Blomquist, Vice President of Market Economics, Auction.com
- Joel Kan, Vice President, Deputy Chief Economist, Mortgage Bankers Association (MBA)
- Nolan Turner, Managing Director, Carrington Holding Company, LLC
- Selma Hepp, PhD, Chief Economist & SVP, Cotality
CLE Credit for this Event Provided By:
