PARLGL 140 - Bankruptcy Law - Tracey N. Perkins, MBA

Introduction

Hello and welcome!

My name is Tracey N. Perkins, MBA, and I am excited to be your Instructor for Bankruptcy Law this summer. I am a legal educator, legal strategist, and practicing professional with experience across litigation, legal operations, recruiting, and paralegal education. Throughout my career, I have been passionate about helping students bridge the gap between legal theory and real-world practice.

The first thing I want prospective students to know about this course is that bankruptcy law impacts real people, real businesses, and real lives. Whether you're interested in consumer bankruptcy, business restructuring, litigation, or simply expanding your legal knowledge, this course will provide a practical understanding of one of the most important areas of law.

My teaching style is interactive, supportive, and focused on application. I believe students learn best when they understand not only what the law says, but why it matters and how it works in practice. Throughout the course, we'll explore key concepts, analyze real-world scenarios, and develop the critical thinking skills that legal professionals use every day.

Whether you are new to the legal field or building on existing experience, I look forward to helping you strengthen your knowledge, confidence, and professional skills this summer.

Welcome to Bankruptcy Law. Let's get started!

Course Description

Bankruptcy Law provides an introduction to the legal principles, procedures, and practical applications of bankruptcy in the United States. Students will examine the purpose and structure of the federal bankruptcy system, the rights and obligations of debtors and creditors, and the role bankruptcy plays in both consumer and business financial recovery.

Topics covered include the history and goals of bankruptcy law, bankruptcy courts and jurisdiction, Chapters 7, 11, and 13 proceedings, exemptions, automatic stays, discharge of debts, creditor claims, bankruptcy estates, and ethical considerations in bankruptcy practice. Students will also explore the practical aspects of preparing bankruptcy petitions, schedules, and supporting documentation, while analyzing real-world case scenarios and current issues affecting bankruptcy practice.

By the end of the course, students will have a foundational understanding of bankruptcy law and procedure, as well as the critical thinking and analytical skills necessary to navigate bankruptcy matters in a legal support or professional setting.

What to Expect in this Course

This summer course is designed to be engaging, practical, and manageable within an accelerated format. Students should expect to spend approximately 6 to 9 hours per week reviewing course materials, completing readings, participating in discussions, and working on assignments.

Students will need reliable internet access and regular access to Canvas. A computer or laptop is strongly recommended for completing assignments and accessing course materials. Students should also have access to a webcam and microphone for any virtual meetings, presentations, or course activities that may require participation. The most current versions of Chrome, Firefox, or Microsoft Edge are recommended for optimal Canvas functionality.

Throughout the course, students can expect a combination of reading assignments, discussion board participation, case analysis exercises, and practical assignments designed to reinforce key bankruptcy concepts and procedures. Rather than focusing solely on memorization, assignments will emphasize critical thinking and the application of legal principles to real-world scenarios.

Students will complete quizzes, written assignments, and a mid term and final exam that assesses their understanding of bankruptcy law and procedure. Success in this course will come from consistent participation, staying current with weekly assignments, and actively engaging with the course materials.

My goal is to create a supportive learning environment that challenges students to think like legal professionals while building confidence in their legal knowledge and skills.

Textbook Information

This course uses the Basic Bankruptcy Law for Paralegals textbook (12th Edition) by D.L. Buchbinder and R.J. Cooper

Additional Resources

Canvas

This course can be accessed on the first day of class via Canvas at https://coc.instructure.com. Log into Canvas using your CanyonsID single sign-on:

• CanyonsID Username is your COC student email address (Ex: username@my.canyons.edu)
• CanyonsID Password is your COC student email password

Please visit the Get to Know Your Online Classroom page for help logging into Canvas and for tips on using Canvas and Zoom. Canvas Chat Support is also available 24/7 for any Canvas related issues.

Online Education

Check out the Online Education website for more information on a variety of topics that can help you be a successful online student such as: exam proctoring, learning styles, computer skills, and tips for student success. If this is your first online course, feel free to take our online learning readiness assessment to assess your skills.

The Learning Center (TLC)

The TLC provides FREE online tutoring resources to COC students!

Academic Accommodation Center (AAC)

College of the Canyons AAC provides educational services and access for eligible students with documented disabilities who intend to pursue coursework at COC. A variety of programs and services are available which afford eligible students with disabilities the opportunity to participate fully in all aspects of the college programs and activities through appropriate and reasonable accommodations. For more information on their services visit the Academic Accomodation Center website.

Online Counseling

The Counseling Department offers appointments online. You can schedule an appointment by visiting the Online Counseling website. Counselors can help you map out a plan to reach your educational goals as well as advise you on course selection and registration.

Management of Stress and Mental Health

Often the pressure on our students is very strong, involving academic commitments, relationships, outside jobs and family pressure to name a few. The staff and faculty of College of the Canyons are here to see you succeed academically and care about your emotional and physical health. You can learn more about the broad range of confidential student services, including counseling and mental health services available on campus by visiting the Student Health & Wellness Center in the Student Services Building (across from the bookstore). The phone number is 661-362-3259 that you can call 24/7. You can also e mail for an appointment at StudentHealthCenter@canyons.edu. At the Canyon Country Campus the Health Center will be in the new Student Services Building.

Also, the National Suicide & Crisis Lifeline number is now 988. All students at COC are encouraged to enter that phone number in their cells. You can call it when you, or someone you know, is having thoughts of suicide or is in severe distress.

You can also now use the Crisis Text Line: Just text "Courage" to 741741. Someone will get back to you immediately. Its free, 24/7, and confidential.

Veterans Resource Center

The College of the Canyons Veterans Resource Center is a department within the Student Services Division at the college, created to help veterans and veteran dependents with applying to College of the Canyons, enrolling in classes, and requesting VA Education or Vocational Benefits. For more information please visit the Veterans Resource Center website, email veterans@canyons.edu or phone (661) 362-3469.

Library

The Library provides live online and in-person research help, access to a full range of e-resources and physical materials that support the curriculum, individual and group study areas, and much more!

Last updated: 06/10/2026 Sub#: 2054 Sub ID: 216419