An assignment for benefit of creditors (an “ABC”) under the common law is an out-of-court tool for liquidating a business debtor’s assets in an efficient and credible manner.

Such a common law tool has been used, effectively and frequently, for many years in such states as Illinois and California.

Despite the out-of-court nature of an ABC under the common law, courts can still be enlisted to resolve discrete issues that may arise. Here is an example of a court’s involvement, within an ABC under the common law, to resolve an issue of compensation for the ABC assignee:

On December 1, 2025, the United States District Court for the Southern District of New York (Honorable Denise Cote) entered an opinion and order that struck third-party releases and a related injunction in a confirmed Chapter 11 Plan (the “Plan”) for the In re

Red Lobster Seafood Co., the beloved full-service dining seafood specialty restaurant operator, is staging a comeback just one year after emerging from Chapter 11 bankruptcy. The company has taken steps to restructure its operations and improve its financial performance. With new leadership and a bold turnaround plan, the company’s future looks promising again.

Headquartered in Orlando, Florida, Red Lobster has over 500 locations in the United States and Canada. The brand has become associated with fresh seafood, welcoming guest service, and affordable prices.

Here’s a curious thing:

• an advisory opinion from a U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals on an issue for which there is no controversy and that is mostly academic.

That’s exactly what we have in In re Whittaker Clark & Daniels, Inc., Case Nos. 24-2210 & 24-2211 (3rd Cir., decided September 10, 2025)(see first concurring opinion).##

No Controversy

Bankruptcy and IRS tax debts are deeply misunderstood topics, often surrounded by confusion and anxiety.

For individuals and businesses who know very little about these issues, it’s important to start with the basics – not all tax debts are wiped out by bankruptcy, and the rules for clearing IRS debts are complex. However, bankruptcy can provide relief, or at least breathing room, for those facing insurmountable tax bills.

Here’s what you need to know, presented in practical terms for the average taxpayer.

What Is Bankruptcy?

Written by- Thomas H. Curran, Thomas H. Curran Associates

When WeWork faced turmoil globally, leading its U.S. parent company to file for bankruptcy protection in 2023, few expected its Indian affiliate to become a case study in strength and discipline. Once seen as a symbol of the “new economy,” WeWork’s downfall illustrated the dangers of excessive growth, inflated valuations, and weak governance where the promise of change often exceeded execution. In this context, WeWork India operated under a brand license and was supported by the Embassy Group, taking a different route.

In Yeo (liquidator), in the matter of Tuftex Carpets Pty Ltd (in liquidation) [2025] FCA 1200 the liquidators sought approval from the court to enter into a settlement agreement. The claims underlying the settlement agreement were against the former director and parent company for insolvent trading and the resulting loss.

Key Takeaways

In Re Resource Development Group Limited (Administrators Appointed) [2025] WASC 408, the Court granted relief to the voluntary administrators of Resource Development Group Ltd (RDG) from personal liability under a loan arrangement and extended time for the registration of a related security interest.  

Key Takeaway

In Re Bayview Health – Matilda Bay Pharmacy Pty Ltd; ex parte Smith & Jacobs [No 2] [2025] WASC 405, the Court held that a failure to provide the 14 days’ notice of a board meeting, required by a shareholder agreement, to appoint a voluntary administrator, was a procedural irregularity that could be cured.

Key Takeaway