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Bankruptcy for small business

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Business BankruptcySite Producer2025-10-12T12:19:08-07:00

FREE Bankruptcy Advice

The following section will cover small business bankruptcy. However, if you want details regarding personal bankruptcy, please see “bankruptcy for an individual”.

I understand your apprehension, anger, and worry about what lies ahead. Even though you spent years building your company, everything is now in turmoil. You are concerned that your creditors will seize control of your company and that you won’t be able to pay your taxes or your employees. If you watch the videos and complete the questionnaire, I will try my hardest to provide you the information you need in order to make informed decisions on your company’s specific situation, and your goals for the company.

If bankruptcy is not the best option, we will discuss other options.

– Diane L. Drain

Small Business FAQs

Corporations and partnerships are legal entities separate from their shareholders or partners. They can file Chapter 7 or Chapter 11 bankruptcy.

Proprietorship are just an extension of the owner: they can’t file bankruptcy alone.  Instead the proprietor must file bankruptcy, since the assets and the liabilities of the business are really just one form of assets of the proprietor. The individual owner may file Chapter 7, Chapter 11 or Chapter 13 (if the debt limits are met).

In a partnership’s Chapter 7 case, the trustee can sue the general partners of the partnership if the partnership’s assets are insufficient to pay all claims for the amount by which the partnership assets fall short of partnership debts. 11 U.S.C. 723. As a result, partners may be facing a suit by a trustee suing for the benefit of all creditors of the partnership.

To answer this question, you have to know what has caused the problems the business now faces and what are the prospects for change:

  • Reorganization can’t create a market; increase gross revenue, or make up for a poor fit between the skills available and the skills required to run the business.
  • Reorganization could free up cash from servicing the old debt to permit current operations; permit rejection of leases or contracts that are no longer advantageous (an expensive facility lease or improvident equipment purchase); or prevent the loss of vital assets or cash to creditor collection actions.

In between Chapter 7 liquidation and reorganization, a Chapter 13 (available to only people, not entities) or Chapter 11 (available to both entities and people) could provide a breathing space for the owners to sell the business as a going concern or or its assets in something other than a fire sale. The resulting proceeds could pay taxes or unpaid salaries; sale of the business could provide ongoing jobs for the work force under new ownership. The bankruptcy could then be converted to Chapter 7 or dismissed if bankruptcy protection is no longer needed. The court will probably condition dismissal of the case on payment to creditors of the sale proceeds.

The company’s owners and officers need to know when business isn’t going well. When management is evaluating survival strategies and contingencies for closing, consider the following:

  • How much of the business debt is secured? The division of debt between secured and unsecured guides what reorganization can do for the business.
  • Is this debt secured? Hidden traps in proceeds from collateral Misuse of the the proceeds of a secured creditor’s collateral can create a non dischargeable debt for the individuals involved.
  • Trust fund taxes are not dischargeable: When an employer deducts taxes and social security contributions from employee wages, the employer becomes a fiduciary for that money which belongs to the employee. “Loaning” the business the money due Uncle Sam from employees’ paychecks makes the responsible corporate officers personally liable for the trust fund taxes not paid to the taxing authority. Sales taxes are trust fund taxes in some jurisdictions, as well.
  • Payments to insiders on old debts may be recoverable as preferential payments once the bankruptcy is filed. Repayments to relatives and business decision makers on their claims against the debtor can be recovered by the bankruptcy trustee under certain circumstances.

Bankruptcy reorganization in Chapter 11 requires significant time on the part of the owners and managers to comply with the requirements of the bankruptcy system. This option is far from inexpensive.

The business must have a very viable future in order to seek this remedy. Most reorganizations fail, usually for lack of the ability to stick to a budget, or to control the events and costs that forced the company into a bankruptcy. Many times the Debtor’s owner has no real idea how much time and effort goes into a successful chapter 11.

The value of the bankruptcy for the company and its owners/shareholders is that, in exchange for the protection of the automatic stay and other bankruptcy protections, the debtor provides full disclosure of its financial condition to creditors and the court, both at the beginning of the case and on a monthly basis in a form of a income and expense statement, and operates as a fiduciary for its creditors while the bankruptcy is ongoing. Meaning that the owner of the company must make decisions for the benefit of the creditors, not for his own benefit.

It might not be worthwhile to reorganize businesses that have little capital requirements, minimal assets, or are essentially just extensions of the owner’s abilities and personality. In either case, the proprietors could be better suited liquidating the company and starting again with a new company.

To begin with, our clients will tell you that my fees are very reasonable, often lower than those of “mass production” firms. Our initial consultation is completely free of charge (you can afford that).

Every circumstance is different. If we applied the same fee to everyone, some people would pay too much while others would pay too little. Any law firm that provides a fee estimate without first learning the specifics of your case has made the decision to limit services to complex cases (and not tell the client) while overcharging those with straightforward cases (again, not tell the client). I’ll let you know if I can help you and how much it will cost after our free consultation.

A business can file for bankruptcy in two ways. A chapter 7 liquidation or a chapter 11 reorganization

I specialize in the liquidation of small businesses. But don’t worry, that doesn’t mean you can’t start a new business (there are rules). If you want to keep operating the company, and have the ability to do so, I will refer you to some great chapter 11 attorneys.

But lawyers are so expensive!!

We are all concerned about the cost of hiring a professional. I understand that price is important, but receiving competent advice is even more important. Otherwise, you will have a bad experience and waste a lot of money trying to fix mistakes caused by bad advice or poor planning. “It costs more to fix a problem than it does to do it right the first time,” as the saying goes. I recommend reading “Hiring a cheap lawyer is very expensive,” .

Before I can give you an accurate cost for our help and support, I need to learn more about your specific situation.

The information you provide will assist me in identifying any problems and explaining how to best resolve those problems (some that you never realized would be problems). It is possible that bankruptcy is not an option, or that it is only one of several options. This type of assessment and planning, like good medical treatment, takes time and experience.

Why choose our firm – because we have never been, and will never be, a bankruptcy “mill” comprised of untrained or uninterested attorneys. YOU DESERVE OF BETTER!!

I’ve been practicing law since 1985, and the most damaging misconception I’ve encountered is that bankruptcy is a “one size fits all” scenario. The truth is that one person’s financial and living circumstances are exceedingly unlikely to be identical to another. My goal is to provide legal advice that is tailored to your specific situation, requirements, and desires, all at a reasonable cost.

See what our fantastic clients had to say about how we helped them get a fresh start.

There are 12 steps to filing a business Chapter 7 Bankruptcy. To see all the steps involved in this process, click here.

The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) is a great place to go for help with starting, running, and developing a small business. With expert marketing and management advice, you’ll be able to sell and manage your company like a pro.

Helping out with bankruptcy

FREE Consultation Process

Please complete the following prior to our FREE Bankruptcy consultation in order for me to really help you:

Step 1.

Watch 9 short videos from the “Bankruptcy Court”  These are generic videos.

Step 2.

General Business Questionnaire Form

Step 3.

Did you guarantee any company debts?  If so, please complete the questionnaire an individual, in addition to the business questionnaire.

If you are responsible for any of the company debts (co-signed a lease, credit card or other obligation)?  If so, you should fill out the personal bankruptcy questionnaire (click here or the button to the right).  That way you and I can have a broader discussion about the interaction of your personal obligations to pay company debts.

Step 4.

Review flow chart of Chapter 7 business process

Step 5.

Schedule a FREE 30 to 40 minute phone call with Diane 602-246-7106

Post-consultation Step

Next steps AFTER our phone consultation. Moving toward filing your bankruptcy.

Clients from all across Arizona have put their trust in us

I feel better mentally and physically, just like you said I would

"I feel better mentally and physically, just like you said I would!" M. Thank you once again for your incredible knowledge and persistence with these people. Ever since we have done the filing, I feel better mentally and physically, just like you said I would. [...]

I Made the Right Decision in Choosing Diane

“I'm 100% convinced I made the right decision in choosing Diane. ” P.K. I have just received my discharge from the court. It's been a long journey and I can't emphasize how instrumental a role that Diane and Jay played in helping me navigate this journey. In [...]

Rate Ms. Drain’s services: 5.0 out of 5.0

"Rate Ms. Drain’s services: 5.0 out of 5.0" Anonymous When I was looking for a bankruptcy attorney, the U.S. Courts’ website had some Phoenix attorney’s listed. I visited one in person and the then read Ms. Drain’s site. The in-person attorney gave me a 2 inch stack of papers [...]

You allowed me to be human and treated me with dignity

"You allowed me to be human and treated me with dignity." K.M. I know that you are acutely aware of how deeply emotional and draining financial problems are. You took the time to talk with me about our foreclosure and 2nd mortgage. You allowed me to be human [...]

Diane and Jay were wonderful to work with.

“Diane and Jay were wonderful to work with.” P. Diane and Jay were wonderful to work with. They helped us navigate the bankruptcy process. They were informative and answered all our questions. We highly recommend them! P.

I give her Five Stars for the work she does

"I give her Five Stars for the work she does!" Anonymous As a single mother of two college sons, one can imagine, how difficult it was to explain to my sons that my finances between home, college and building past debt had me making the heartbreaking choice of filing [...]

She knows the ins and outs

"She knows the ins and outs" M.D. I’ve been in the legal field for over 25 years (as a legal secretary and paralegal) and Diane is a top notch attorney. She knows the ins and outs of this area of law and does a really great job of explaining [...]

She was honest and upfront with us and really knows her subject matter

"She was honest and upfront with us and really knows her subject matter" H.P. My wife and I had several questions and concerns regarding our home and a second mortgage which the lender is unwilling to work with us. After jumping through numerous hoops and an endless [...]

Diane has a wealth of knowledge

“Diane has a wealth of knowledge.” S.B. Sharing knowledge "Diane Drain is a wealth of knowledge. She is a great attorney."  S.B.    

I took your advice and have that old monkey off my back now!

"I took your advice and have that old monkey off my back now!" L.M. I had an old debt surprise me the other day by way of a Summons and Diane was kind enough to give me some solid advice. She is very knowledgeable and I highly [...]

Diane is very concerned for your well-being

“My anxiety faded away with each conversation we had ” R.L. If you are considering a bankruptcy, there is no other person in the state of Arizona to talk with other than Diane Drain. She is very concerned for your well-being. Her knowledge and expertise allowed me [...]

It felt like we had some friends who cared about us

It felt like we had some friends who cared about us. S.D. My husband and I wanted to begin the process of starting our bankruptcy, but it’s really scary not knowing who you can trust and who would step up to bat for you. Diane and Jay [...]

Thanks for all of your help that you provide

“Thanks for all of your help that you provide” D.H. I read all of Diane’s messages and she seems to be a very bright and informed woman. Thanks for all of your help that you provide to people that need your help by your messages. [...]

You gave us great guidance

“You gave us great guidance.” J.B. Thank you !!! Diane and Jay for all your help. I would highly recommend your services. You were very caring and helpful during the whole process. You gave us great guidance through a very stressful time. We appreciate it. [...]

Diane guided us every step of the way.

“Her assurance that there was nothing to be ashamed of, gave us the incentive to proceed.” D. Diane was fabulous during our bankruptcy, guiding us every step of the way. After medical bills got us behind, we didn’t know where to turn and felt uncomfortable filing. Her assurance [...]

I do not know what I would have done if I had not found you

"I do not know what I would have done if I had not found you." S. Diane – thank you very much for all of your help. I do not know what I would have done if I had not found you. Every other attorney I talked to [...]

Her knowledge and patience are a model that every attorney should follow

“Her knowledge and patience are a model that every attorney should follow” S.H. Diane Drain is one of the most incredible attorneys I’ve ever had the pleasure of knowing. She takes the time necessary with each client to provide expert advice. Her knowledge and patience are a [...]

Filing for bankruptcy can be a stressful life event

“Filing for bankruptcy can be a stressful life event” R.A. Filing for bankruptcy can be a stressful life event, and selecting the right attorney can add to this stress. Diane and Jay were a pleasure to work with, and it is obvious that they are passionate about helping people [...]

Business bankruptcy

More Information on Business Bankruptcy

When is Chapter 7 bankruptcy for a business the best choice?

A Chapter 7 bankruptcy, whether for an individual or a corporation, may be the best option when:

  • The company has no future,
  • no significant assets or qualities that cannot be replicated, or
  • the debts are so large that restructuring is impossible.

Individuals can receive a discharge of their dischargeable debts, and a fresh start. In a chapter 7 a business does receive a discharge, but the goal is to provide an orderly liquidation under the bankruptcy trustee’s control. Creditors are guaranteed payment to the extent of the available assets and the priority of their claim. Former management should confirm that the available assets will be used to pay taxes for which the individuals may be liable (after Chapter 7 expenses).

FREE bankruptcy advice

When faced with a financial problem, everyone has a lot of questions. I’d like to respond to your questions, but you must first complete two tasks.

  1. You must understand what creditors can do to your business and you, as well as your rights, including a basic understanding of the bankruptcy process, and
  2. I must understand your company’s specific circumstances, as well as the owners’ personal obligations for the company’s debts.

Anxiety stems from financial difficulties.

There is no obligation to file bankruptcy simply because you fill out this form and we talk about it. In reality, declaring bankruptcy might not be the best option for your business. I am glad to answer to your questions, but this does not imply that we are working together as attorneys. Unless you hire my firm and sign a fee agreement, I am not your attorney.

I understand that this is a difficult time, and I don’t want to make gathering information any more difficult, but I truly want to provide you and your company with the best legal advice I can.  To do that I need your assistance.

This is similar to your doctor requesting blood tests and x-rays in order to properly diagnose a medical problem. Rushing the procedure is not a good idea!!

♥ This quote from one of our fantastic clients may help you better grasp our approach to client work.

Diane and Jay are attentive, knowledgeable, efficient, dependable, good communicators, detail-oriented, well-connected, sympathetic, and caring. They supplied a balance of intellect and heart, as well as experience and proper action, in order to complete the task. We received good suggestions from a well-known lawyer when situations arose that were not directly in her area of expertise. The procedure went smoothly and without a hitch. There was not a single issue with our visit. Everything went great.

(see more of our client reviews)

Are you financially stressed right now? What to know about options, from debt negotiation to bankruptcy

Are you financially stressed right now? What to know about options, from debt negotiation to bankruptcy Russ Wiles, Arizona Republic, [...]

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