RI's Bankruptcy Judge Honored

Yesterday, the longest-sitting Bankruptcy Judge in the United States retired.  I had the honor and privilege of attending a ceremony in honor of United States Bankruptcy Judge Arthur N. Votolato who has presided over the Bankruptcy Court in the District of Rhode Island since 1968.  When I say this man is beloved, it is an understatement.  It is also no surprise.  He has been an outstanding role model for Judges and practicing attorneys representing debtors and creditors alike.

The reason for this is very basic and it lies in the humble and respectful manner in which he conducts himself and his courtroom.  He did not wear a robe and he requested that all in his courtroom remain seated when he took the bench.  If you’ve ever been in a courtroom for any reason you know that is not how it works.  Regardless of whether you came before him as a debtor, or an attorney representing that debtor or a big bank, everyone was treated with the same dignity and respect. 

One of his most recent achievements on the bench was establishing the Loss Mitigation Program within the United States Bankruptcy Court for the District of Rhode Island.  This program, which we have guided clients through successfully, stops the mortgage modification merry-go-round and has allowed distressed homeowners to modify their mortgages so that they can keep their homes and resume affordable monthly payments.

The Loss Mitigation Program is just one of Judge Votolato's very practical legacies that demonstrates the respect and humility with which he treated debtors and practitioners alike.  He wanted to see people get the fresh start the Bankruptcy Code offers which is particularly needed now in this economy.