Physicist Stephen Hawking once noted that "intelligence is the ability to adapt to change."

Entrepreneurs, lawyers, investors and bankruptcy professionals ride the waves of interest rates, credit markets and other changing market factors. We have the tools to navigate all kinds of issues. But take stock: Examine what’s in your toolbox and be prepared for your next job. (There is no MacGyver in bankruptcy.)

That is why we come together each year.

Duane Morris partner James J. Holman moderated our panel discussion, which featured Peter Chadwick of Berkeley Research Group and Jonathan Schultz of Onyx Equities, LLC, along with Duane Morris alum Lauren Lonergan Taylor of TD Bank and senior associate Kate Heitzenrater of Duane Morris.

The takeaway? On the legislative front, it’s all talk but no action (yet). In the courts, circuits are split. Professionals in this field are left to innovate and build new structures to achieve their goals.

In this issue of Optimize, you’ll find our perspective on market forces, industry trends, workarounds and remedies, as well as our predictions for the upcoming year. You’ll also learn more about what’s working and what’s not in the courts and in business—along with which tools work, and which don’t. (Even office supplies are questioned. Put down that paperclip! See this article for details.)

What’s in your toolbox?