Bankruptcy’s Most Wanted: Fraud and Bankruptcy
Thursday, October 8th, 2026 – 3:00 PM – 4:00 PM
Marriott Grand Ballroom – 8 – 13
Joint Program with Federal Bar Association
Moderator:
Hon. Craig Gargotta
Speakers:
Tara McGrath
Peter S. Davis
Marti P. Murray
Description:
This session explores fraud in bankruptcy from all angles. Panelists will discuss challenges in representing parties suspected of fraud, as well as provide perspectives from the viewpoint of creditors, trustees, and examiners. Panelists will draw on their breadth of experience, including as a forensic accountant, former US attorney, and court-appointed receiver to examine the ways in which fraud is uncovered and reported.
Bios:
Judge Gargotta was appointed to the bench on October 1, 2007. He was then appointed Chief Judge Bankruptcy Judge for the Western District of Texas on November 2, 2021. He retired from the bench in April 2026. Judge Gargotta has a B.A. and M.A. from Texas A&M University and his J.D. from St. Mary’s School of Law in San Antonio, Texas. After law school he clerked for the Honorable Ronald B. King, United States Bankruptcy Judge for the Western District of Texas. He then served as an Asst. U.S. Attorney for 17 years prior to taking the bench.
Tara K. McGrath is a partner in Morrison Foerster’s Investigations + White Collar Defense practice group. A tactical litigator and decisive leader, she is known for her strategic insight, dedication to justice, and innovative approach to complex legal challenges.
Peter S. Davis is a Senior Managing Director in the Strategic Advisory practice at J.S. Held with over 30 years of experience in financial analysis and litigation support across the US, Mexico, Germany, and Japan. He has served as Receiver or Distribution Agent in regulatory matters brought by the US Securities and Exchange Commission, Federal Trade Commission, Arizona Corporation Commission, and the Arizona State Board of Education, as well as for lenders and equity holders. Peter has provided expert testimony focusing on asset recovery and investigating the root cause of insolvency in numerous Federal, Bankruptcy, and State court matters, as well as State legislatures and board matters.
Marti P. Murray is a senior finance consultant with 40+ years in investment management. She serves as a consulting and testifying expert in high-stakes matters, including valuation, bankruptcy, fraud, and damages. A former hedge fund founder, she has held board, court-appointed, and advisory roles. She also taught at NYU Stern and holds CFA and CFE credentials.