Business

Individual chapter 11 cases pose a number of thorny legal and practical problems for the bankruptcy practitioner. While individual chapter 11 cases contain many elements of corporate chapter 11 and chapter 13 cases, they do not fit comfortably in either chapter. Following the enactment of BAPCPA, courts have struggled to strike the appropriate balance between the provisions of the Bankruptcy Code intended for corporations and those intended for human beings. The result is substantial uncertainty for debtors and creditors alike. This session will explore: Does the absolute priority rule apply to individual chapter 11 debtors? May creditors commence an involuntary chapter 11 case against an individual? May individual chapter 11 debtors pay their living expenses in the ordinary course of business, or is notice and a hearing required? What are the advantages and disadvantages for debtors and creditors in an individual chapter 11 case as compared to a corporate chapter 11 case or a chapter 13 case?

This panel will discuss the obstacles that debtors and creditors face when attempting to effectuate a sale of a debtor’s assets through a fast-track § 363 sale motion at the outset of a case. The discussion will include (a) the advantages and disadvantages, from both the debtor and creditor perspective, of selling a debtor’s assets through a motion as opposed to a plan, (b) limitations of “free and clear” relief, (c) valuation and marketing on a short timeframe, and (d) insider transactions.

As if the Bankruptcy Code doesn’t give us enough to ponder, bankruptcy practitioners must consider the impact of the U.S. Tax Code on the decision-making process. This session will address the Internal Revenue Code “section 1398 short year” election and separate entity rules, discharge of tax claims, cancellation of debt (COD) income, and tax issues arising from mortgage modification, foreclosure, and transfer or abandonment of property.

The Power to Veto Bankruptcy Sales: Sports Leagues and Other Franchisors

Is chapter 11 the optimal way to liquidate law firms? Jewel v. Boxer claims, drafting suggestions for releases of partners. Non CLE.