So much already has been written about the challenges we faced in 2020. Instead, we want to take a moment to reflect on some of the highlights in our practice from last year. It has been more than five years since we took the reins of Pryor Cashman's corporate trust practice, and 2020 proved busier than any other. Aside from the below cases and names that have shaped our year, there are at least three other highlights worth mentioning. But before doing so, we would be remiss if we did not thank our clients for the continued trust and faith that you have put in us. Quite simply, our practice would not be what it is without your support.

As for those highlights, our firm recognized our colleague, David Smith, by elevating him to partner. When we recruited David to Pryor three years ago, we envisioned a one-stop-shop for corporate trust. He has helped transform our aspirations into reality, and we are thrilled to see the firm recognize his contribution, commitment, and importance to our practice. In addition, Debtwire continued to recognize the default side of our corporate trust practice, as we showed up month after month on their restructuring mandate leaderboard. We found ourselves mentioned with the very same AmLaw 50 firms that often represent our clients' bondholders, which is especially humbling for a small group of attorneys that dedicate their livelihood and practice to corporate trust. And finally, December 2020 marked our success in the courtroom, which you can read more about here. We successfully argued on behalf of two of our indenture trustee clients for the payment of their fees in a Chapter 11 plan. This victory actually transpired in two different bankruptcy courts over the course of three business days! Of course, we were thrilled not only to claim victory for our clients in the face of continued objections from the Office of the United States Trustee but also to receive two decisions from the St. Louis and Delaware bankruptcy courts regarding the payment of indenture trustee fees and expenses that will have a positive impact on our industry.

As for the upcoming year, unlike many others in the industry, we do not claim to know what is in store for 2021. Certainly, no one a year ago could have foreseen what 2020 would be like. So instead of prognosticating, we will instead continue to work hard, identify opportunities for our clients, and remain grateful for our work with each of you.

The content of this article is intended to provide a general guide to the subject matter. Specialist advice should be sought about your specific circumstances.