Arizona State Approved Sessions

How Clear is “Free and Clear” under § 363? You’re a Real Character: When Can Debt Be Recharacterized as Equity? How Can I Get a One of Those: A Third Party Release? A panel discussion of lawyers with more than 100 years of bankruptcy experience, moderated by a bankruptcy judge who used to be a corporate lawyer. The panel will discuss recent court decisions and focus on unique issues that can arise when a debtor seeks to sell estate property “free and clear,” including whether § 363 can be used to sell real property free of an otherwise valid lease, the debate over whether and under what circumstances a bankruptcy court may rule that a facially valid loan is really subordinated equity, and whether post-Stern bankruptcy courts have the authority to grant releases to non-debtors and, if so, under what conditions.

This panel will explore recent bankruptcy filings and out-of-court restructurings, as well as what is on the horizon in the maritime industry, particularly regarding shipping conglomerates, terminal owners, service providers and E&P explorers.

What issues are likely to be raised by tough clients, and how do you best address them? Join the panelists as they help you weave your way through this and other ethical minefields.