ARTICLE
15 December 2014

Relation Between Section 291 Receiver Proceedings And Involuntary Bankruptcy Actions

PF
Pierson Ferdinand LLP

Contributor

Pierson Ferdinand strives to provide excellent legal counsel and representation to clients worldwide from 20+ key markets in the US and UK. We specialize in handling complex legal matters and providing solutions to our clients' most pressing needs. Our lawyers come from top global law firms, including Am Law-ranked, regional and boutique law firms, federal and state government careers, and senior in-house counsel roles.
In prior posts we have discussed receivership actions commenced under Section 291 of the Delaware General Corporation Law ("DGCL").
United States Litigation, Mediation & Arbitration

In prior posts we have discussed receivership actions commenced under Section 291 of the Delaware General Corporation Law ("DGCL"). As a recap, under Section 291, a creditor may petition the Court of Chancery to place a receiver over an insolvent Delaware corporation. What is noteworthy about a Section 291 action is that a sole creditor may petition the Court for the appointment of a receiver, regardless of the size of the corporation.

By contrast, under the United States Bankruptcy Code, when filing an involuntary bankruptcy action against a company, if the involuntary debtor has 12 or more creditors, then at least three creditors would be required to file an involuntary bankruptcy petition. 11 U.S.C.§ 303(b)(1).

Why this is significant is that in response to the filing of a Section 291 receivership action, a defending corporation may opt to file for bankruptcy to say the action receivership action. Thus, the filing of a Section 291 action may indirectly lead to what may be an otherwise intended result of placing a company into bankruptcy.

Below are links to prior posts concerning the appointment of a receiver to an insolvent corporation under Section 291 of the DGCL:

Establishing Insolvency Under Section 291

Appointing Receiver to an Insolvent Corporation Under Section 291 of the DGCL: Who has Standing to Seek Appointment?

Appointment of a Receiver to an Insolvent Delaware Corporation

The content of this article is intended to provide a general guide to the subject matter. Specialist advice should be sought about your specific circumstances.

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