Introduction

In this first instalment of our insights series on construction insolvency, Ironbridge Legal outlines key red flags to look for and practical steps to manage counterparty risk.

An Industry at Risk - With Contagion Potential

Subchapter V of chapter 11 of the U.S. Bankruptcy Code provides a streamlined reorganization process for small business debtors. Similar to a normal chapter 11 case, subchapter V allows a debtor to cramdown a plan without the approval of the unsecured class as long as certain requirements are satisfied.

Introduction

In December 2024, Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) released an updated version of Regulatory Guide RG 217. The guidance is designed to assist directors in complying with their duty to prevent insolvent trading. It sets out four key principles for directors to avoid insolvent trading, explains the safe harbour defence (which offers protection from personal liability), and clarifies ASIC’s approach to assessing breaches of duty and the application of the safe harbour defence.

• The Fifth Circuit's December 2024 decision in Serta Simmons Bedding invalidated an uptier transaction in which certain lenders provided new money financing and exchanged existing debt for new super-priority debt.
• The Fifth Circuit criticized the doctrine of equitable mootness, rejecting the argument that the doctrine barred the court's review of the bankruptcy court's plan confirmation order because the plan had already been substantially consummated and relied upon by third parties.
• The Fifth Circuit's refusal to apply the doctrine of equitable mootness is not

On the heels of financial distress, Consolidated Burger Holdings LLC, along with two affiliates, has filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection. This Burger King franchisee operates 57 restaurant locations across Florida and Georgia, including standalone stores and Walmart-based outlets. At its peak, the company managed 75 locations with 1,500 employees. Today, it employs 773 individuals, including 697 hourly and 76 salaried workers, with most positions at the restaurant level.

Chapter 15 of the Bankruptcy Code is a mechanism for debtors to have foreign insolvency proceedings recognized in the U.S. and to have the orders entered by a foreign court in those insolvency proceedings abroad given effect in the U.S.

Key Issues

RECOGNITION OF A FOREIGN MAIN PROCEEDING

“[T]his Court finds that the exceptions to discharge under §523(a) only apply to individuals in Subchapter V.”

• Spring, et al. v. Davidson and Blok Industries, Inc. (In re Davidson; In re Blok Industries, Inc.; Jointly Administered), Adv. No. 23-3005, Doc. 87, at 15 (Bankr., N.D. Fla., decided February 14, 2025).

Facts

• “While the pre-petition Debtor may have consented to waiver of the automatic stay in favor of [secured creditor], . . . other creditors did not”; and
• “The automatic stay is designed to protect both debtors and creditors alike.”

In re DJK Enterprises, LLC, Case No. 24-60126, Doc. 196, at 13 (Bankr., S.D. Ill., February 13, 2025).

In re DJK Enterprises

The case of SBP 2 S.À.R.L v 2 Southbank Tenant Limited [2025] EWHC 16 (Ch) highlights the importance of careful drafting and robust legal advice when looking to forfeit a lease.

Background

In the March 2025 edition of the Restructuring Department Bulletin, we highlight recent decisions and developments impacting the restructuring arena and share the latest news on the Paul, Weiss Restructuring Department.