The judges and staff of the Bankruptcy Court would like to recognize the staff and members of the Office of the United States Trustee (UST), who, on August 10th, will celebrate the 25th anniversary of the opening of their offices in Columbia, South Carolina.

As their mission statement indicates, the UST Program is a component of the Department of Justice that seeks to promote the efficiency and protect the integrity of the Federal bankruptcy system.  To further the public interest in the just, speedy and economical resolution of cases filed under the Bankruptcy Code, the Program monitors the conduct of bankruptcy parties and private estate trustees, oversees related administrative functions, and acts to ensure compliance with applicable laws and procedures.  The UST also identifies and helps investigate bankruptcy fraud and abuse in coordination with United States Attorneys, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and other law enforcement agencies.  

The Columbia office of the UST has seven employees, including the Assistant U. S. Trustee and two trial attorneys.  The office of the UST for Region 4 is also located in Columbia.  Region 4 encompasses Virginia, West Virginia, Maryland and Washington, D.C.  The Regional office has a staff of five, including the U. S. Trustee.

We hope the members of the Bankruptcy bar will join us in acknowledging the important role and great efforts of the UST program in the administration of bankruptcy cases in this District and in expressing our appreciation and congratulations.