Judge Nancy V. Alquist Shares Career Insights in Fireside Chat
Judge Nancy V. Alquist was the featured guest in a recent fireside-style event hosted by the Maryland Chapter of the Federal Bar Association in collaboration with the Maryland Bankruptcy Bar Association. Held on April 16, 2025, this unique conversation gave attendees an inside look at the judicial philosophy, career path, and international service of one of the most experienced bankruptcy judges in the state. Irving E. Walker of Cole Schotz P.C., a seasoned litigator and frequent advocate in the Maryland Bankruptcy Court, moderated the program.
Judge Alquist, who has served on the bench since 2004, began by reflecting on her formative legal years and the two mentors who shaped her trajectory. Her candid remarks offered both personal anecdotes and advice to attorneys early in their careers. By walking through the evolution of her legal practice—from business bankruptcy litigation to her federal appointment—she illustrated the blend of skill, guidance, and opportunity that led her to the judiciary.
The fireside chat format made for an engaging and personal evening, drawing bankruptcy practitioners and trial lawyers alike. The discussion revealed the judge’s deep commitment to education, diversity in legal experience, and international collaboration, setting the tone for a memorable evening of professional development and community building.
Judge Nancy V. Alquist Encourages Broader Bankruptcy Practice Engagement
One of the most valuable aspects of the event was Judge Alquist’s encouragement for litigators from outside the bankruptcy bar to participate more fully in her courtroom. She noted that bankruptcy proceedings—governed by the Federal Rules of Civil Procedure and Evidence, with some adaptations—present meaningful opportunities for younger lawyers to gain courtroom experience. In particular, she emphasized the potential for trial attorneys to argue evidentiary issues and conduct hearings in a federal forum that is often more accessible than the district court.
Judge Alquist highlighted the importance of mastering not only the Federal Bankruptcy Rules but also the local rules and individual judge protocols. Her advice was especially relevant to attorneys seeking to grow their litigation experience and diversify their practice areas. She suggested that familiarity with these frameworks allows lawyers to navigate cases more confidently, contribute to efficient administration, and earn credibility with the court.
By framing the Bankruptcy Court as a welcoming and educational space, Judge Alquist opened the door for a broader range of attorneys to consider federal bankruptcy work. Her remarks inspired many in the audience to view bankruptcy litigation not just as a specialty area but as a vibrant part of the federal legal system where new practitioners can thrive.
Addressing Pro Se Filings and Systemic Challenges in Maryland
During the discussion, Judge Alquist also raised one of the most persistent challenges her court faces: the high rate of pro se bankruptcy filings in Maryland. She noted that, in many years, Maryland ranks second only to Washington, D.C., in the percentage of debtors filing without legal representation. This phenomenon presents difficulties not only for the court’s administration but also for the individuals navigating the process, especially in complex Chapter 13 filings.
Judge Alquist encouraged attendees to reflect on the broader causes behind this trend. She posed thoughtful questions about access to legal representation and the barriers that prevent debtors from securing counsel. Her remarks served as a call to action for the bankruptcy bar to explore outreach initiatives and pro bono support aimed at reducing the number of unrepresented litigants.
This section of the fireside chat added depth and urgency to the evening’s themes. By connecting systemic access-to-justice issues with the day-to-day realities of her docket, Judge Alquist highlighted how legal professionals at every level can help shape a more equitable process. The discussion sparked ideas among attendees about how legal organizations and practitioners might improve support for vulnerable debtors.
Judge Nancy V. Alquist’s Global Impact and Service Beyond the Bench
In a powerful closing segment, Judge Alquist discussed her extensive international work in promoting the rule of law and establishing commercial legal systems in developing nations. Through partnerships with the U.S. Department of Commerce, she has delivered workshops and judicial trainings in countries such as Afghanistan, Iraq, Ukraine, Chile, and India. Her work focuses on developing frameworks for bankruptcy, commercial law, and insurance systems that support economic development and international investment.
Judge Alquist shared stories from these travels, underscoring the universal importance of transparent legal institutions and the challenges many nations face in building them. Her service has often included working with judges, government leaders, and bar associations to introduce best practices and help foster independent judiciary systems.
In addition to her global work, Judge Alquist serves on the Bankruptcy Committee of the Judicial Conference of the United States, further solidifying her leadership within the federal judiciary. Her career illustrates how the influence of a federal judge can extend far beyond the courtroom, impacting the legal profession at both the local and international levels.
Her remarks left the audience with a deeper appreciation of the bench’s role not only in adjudicating disputes but also in advancing legal infrastructure worldwide.
For more engaging programming with members of the federal judiciary, legal practitioners, and thought leaders, explore the Federal Bar Association Maryland Chapter’s upcoming events.
