Richard W. Farrell is an American attorney primarily known for his extensive career in bankruptcy law and his leadership role within the United States Department of Justice's U.S. Trustee Program. He served as the Director of the Executive Office for U.S. Trustees (EOUST) from 1999 to 2005, overseeing the federal bankruptcy watchdog program nationwide.
Biography and Career
Born in 1958, Richard W. Farrell embarked on a career dedicated to the integrity and efficiency of the U.S. bankruptcy system. After earning his law degree, he initially practiced law in the private sector, specializing in bankruptcy cases.
Farrell's distinguished career with the U.S. Trustee Program, an agency of the Department of Justice responsible for overseeing the administration of bankruptcy cases, began in 1987. His roles within the program included:
- Trial Attorney, District of Delaware (1987-1990): His early years involved direct involvement in bankruptcy proceedings, representing the U.S. Trustee's interests.
- Assistant U.S. Trustee, District of Delaware (1990-1994): He took on more managerial responsibilities within one of the nation's key bankruptcy jurisdictions.
- U.S. Trustee for Region 3 (Pennsylvania, Delaware, and New Jersey) (1994-1995): He was promoted to lead the program's oversight in a multi-state region.
- Associate Director for Operations, EOUST (1995-1998): This role placed him at the national level, contributing to the strategic and operational management of the entire U.S. Trustee Program.
- Acting Director, EOUST (1998-1999): He stepped into the leadership position temporarily before his official appointment.
- Director, EOUST (1999-2005): Appointed by Attorney General Janet Reno, Farrell led the U.S. Trustee Program for six years. During his tenure, he was a key figure in the national discussions and implementation efforts surrounding significant bankruptcy reform, including the Bankruptcy Abuse Prevention and Consumer Protection Act of 2005 (BAPCPA). He focused on strengthening the program's oversight of bankruptcy professionals and ensuring fair and impartial administration of bankruptcy cases.
After concluding his service as Director, Farrell continued to contribute to the legal field, often consulting and speaking on bankruptcy-related issues.
Education
- B.A. (1980): Lafayette College
- J.D. (1983): Vermont Law School