Category Archives: Chapter 11
Understanding the Absolute Priority Rule and Its Exceptions
The absolute priority rule, as set forth in Section 1129(b)(2) of the U.S. Bankruptcy Code,., is integral to a Chapter 11 reorganization plan getting confirmed by the court. The plan must adhere strictly to a hierarchical system of claim priority, which dictates the sequence in which creditors are paid. The rule is meant ensure fairness […]
Deciding Whether Chapter 11 Is Right for Your Business
In the face of financial distress, businesses can find themselves weighing the options available to address their operational challenges. Among these options, Chapter 11 bankruptcy stands out as a potential avenue for businesses to restructure their debts and reorganize their operations. This form of relief offers advantages but also involves complexities that necessitate careful consideration. […]
How Leases and Executory Contracts Are Handled in Chapter 11
For a business in Chapter 11 bankruptcy, leases and executory contracts can represent valuable assets or burdensome obligations. An executory contract is one where both parties have unperformed obligations. Leases, where rent payments remain outstanding and the landlord has obligations to maintain the property, fall under this category. Here are some key points a Chapter […]
How Chapter 11 Restructures Business Debt
When a business finds itself drowning in debt, Chapter 11 bankruptcy can offer a lifeline. Unlike Chapter 7, which liquidates assets to repay creditors, Chapter 11 allows for debt reorganization. This means the business gets a chance to develop a plan to reorganize its debts and return to solvency. Here’s how Chapter 11 tackles these […]
The Basics of DIP Financing During a Chapter 11
In a Chapter 11 bankruptcy, the person or corporation under bankruptcy protection is usually designated a debtor-in-possession (DIP), which means they can continue to manage the business freely though subject to obtaining court approval for major decisions. But a successful reorganization of the business requires infusion of additional capital. DIP financing is a remedy for […]
When Can a Chapter 11 Be Converted to a Chapter 7?
Businesses under financial distress can pursue a Chapter 11 bankruptcy if they believe they can reorganize and return to profitability. However, as the reorganization proceeds, there may be obstacles that cannot be overcome. In certain circumstances, a conversion to a Chapter 7 liquidation plan may be necessary. A Chapter 11 debtor usually has the right […]
Your Responsibilities as a Debtor in Possession During Chapter 11
The role of the debtor in possession (DIP) is essential to the success of a Chapter 11 bankruptcy. In most cases, the debtor’s business continues to be operated by its owner, who acts as the proxy of the bankruptcy trustee. However, the DIP also takes on a fiduciary duty to act in the best interests […]
Obtaining Debtor-in-Possession (DIP) Financing During Chapter 11
For companies bordering on financial collapse, Chapter 11 bankruptcy can offer relief through protection from creditors and a debt restructuring plan that provides a way to return to solvency. But the reorganization process requires access to capital. This is why debtor-in-possession (DIP) financing is critical. It allows the debtor, who remains in possession of the […]
How Different Types of Debt Are Reorganized in Chapter 11
Chapter 11 offers financially troubled companies relief from unsustainable levels of debt and a path for returning to profitability. In this type of bankruptcy, the debtor — or in rare cases, a creditor — proposes a plan outlining how debts will be partially repaid over a set period of time. A plan will be confirmed […]
Assumption or Assignment of Executory Contracts and Unexpired Leases in Chapter 11
An important aspect of Chapter 11 bankruptcy for debtors and creditors is the treatment of executory contracts and unexpired leases. Chapter 11 gives the debtor in possession, or in some cases the bankruptcy trustee, significant power to decide the fate of such agreements, in which both parties still have unfulfilled obligations. The debtor might assume […]
