Published On: March 8, 2015
I lost my business when I filed bankruptcy – why? There are very strict rules dictating how the process of bankruptcy works.
The bankruptcy trustee must take specific actions in order to protect the bankruptcy estate and deal with (administrate) any non-exempt property; this includes taking your non-exempt business.
Many people assume that their business will not be affected when they file bankruptcy. They may be very wrong in that assumption. Why? The answer is “it depends on the type of bankruptcy filed”. Most individuals file a chapter 7 bankruptcy.
In a chapter 7 the individual cannot keep their business, assuming it has any value. Instead, it will be sold by the bankruptcy trustee and the funds paid to the creditors. Even if the business is valueless the creditors still have a potential claim. Also, the individual needs to consider how to protect future profits before continuing to operate the business.
IMPORTANT TO KNOW: You cannot operate your business when in a chapter 7 without permisson from the trustee and only after approval by the bankruptcy court.
For example: In re NAKHUDA, ) Bk. No. 14-41156 , BAP No. NC-14-1235-TaPaJu (9th Cir, 3/2/15). In this case the Debtor disputed that a chapter 7 debtor, as matter of law, must shut down a business and turn it over to the trustee upon filing for bankruptcy. The Debtor asserted that the Code is not so “black or white”. Unfortunately the 9th Circuit Court of Appeals disagreed with the Debtor.
You may lose your business if you filed a chapter 7
“A chapter 7 debtor is required by statute to cease operation of a business upon filing for bankruptcy. First, as discussed in more detail below, a debtor has the affirmative duty to surrender all estate property and records to the chapter 7 trustee. See 11 U.S.C. § 521(a)(4). Unauthorized continuing operation of a chapter 7 debtor-owned business and retention of control over its assets is absolutely inconsistent with this statutory mandate. Further, the Code also makes clear that continued operation, if allowed at all, can only occur by (or in cooperation with) the chapter 7 trustee and only after approval by the bankruptcy court. See 11 U.S.C. § 721 (“The court may authorize the trustee to operate the business of the debtor for a limited period, if such operation is in the best interest of the estate and consistent with the orderly liquidation of the estate.”) (emphasis added). Thus, “[u]nlike in a chapter 11 case, where the Code expressly authorizes the debtor to continue to operate its business, in a chapter 7 case, the bankruptcy court can authorize only the trustee, and not the debtor, to operate the debtor’s business pursuant to section 721.” 6 Collier on Bankruptcy ¶ 721.01 (Alan N. Resnick & Henry J. Sommer eds., 16th ed. 2012) (emphasis added). ”
THE MORAL: never file for bankruptcy without first talking to a very experienced bankruptcy attorney.
Also, do not use any company, lawyer or document preparer who advertises their fees in an attempt to offer the “lowest price possible“. Document preparers are not allowed to give you any legal advice, that includes correcting your misconceptions about how the bankruptcy may affect you or your property. Also, law firms who advertise on TV, billboard or the Internet must pay for that advertising. Most of them do this by treating their clients like cattle – mass producing milk at the lowest rate possible. They also do this by not providing quality legal advice tailored to the specifics of the individual. Be very careful or you may have a very nasty surprise waiting.
MUSINGS BY DIANE:
Below are some videos that might answer some questions, including “Why Do I Offer Free Legal Advice”. My hope is that you actively seek expert bankruptcy counsel before jumping off the cliff into the bankruptcy. You cannot stop half-way through the plunge and reverse your momentum (unless you are in the movies).
About the Author: Diane Drain
Diane is a well respected Arizona bankruptcy and foreclosure attorney. As a retired law professor, she believes in offering everyone, not just her clients, advice about bankruptcy and Arizona foreclosure laws. Diane is also a mentor to hundreds of Arizona attorneys.
*Important Note from Diane: Everything on this web site is offered for educational purposes only and not intended to provide legal advice, nor create an attorney client relationship between you, me, or the author of any article. Information in this web site should not be used as a substitute for competent legal advice from an attorney familiar with your personal circumstances and licensed to practice law in your state. Make sure to check out their reviews.*
“You folks are the BEST OF THE BEST in Arizona.” M.H.
You and Jay are the best attorneys I have ever had or needed and thank God for the Honorable Robert Gottsfield in recommending you folks – I would have never made it through the entire process without you and Jay and God Bless you both always and stay in touch as well. You folks are the BEST OF THE BEST in Arizona.
“My only regret is that I didn’t find Diane sooner.” K.H.
I can’t say enough good things about Diane. The way she handled my not typical circumstances was amazing. I was very nervous to start the bankruptcy process but Diane just has a very comforting way of explaining the whole process. My only regret is that I didn’t find Diane sooner. If you find yourself in a financial situation that you can’t correct on your own, please Call Diane Drain as soon as possible.
“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 get their life back on track. I would highly recommend them if you need a bankruptcy attorney.
Related Posts
Published On: May 24, 2023
“Best Experience Ever!” C.G. Answered all my questions and very knowledgeable team! Thank you C.G.
Published On: May 23, 2023
“Give her a call if you don't know where to turn.... ” B.G. Diane was an exceptionally nice lady and very courteous to my wife and I as we requested help. She [...]
Published On: March 28, 2023
DOD Announces Six New Measures to Enhance Well-Being of Military Force and Their Families Posting from the Secretary of Defense Release from US Department of Defense, March 22, 2023 [...]
Published On: March 20, 2023
“You were very nice and caring. ” R.G. I cannot thank you enough Diane for taking the time to speak with me. Your website has so much information and very helpful. You [...]
My intention is to put you back in control of your life
Start with $0 down*. We provide affordable payment plans.