California Lawyers Guiding Businesses Through Chapter 7 & 11 Bankruptcy
As a small business owner, the recent economic downturn has most likely been a tough storm to weather. The business you've worked so hard to build may be at risk of going under, taking your future dreams and personal finances with it. Although you may be eligible to file for Chapter 7 bankruptcy, Chapter 11 bankruptcy could allow you to restructure your debt and keep your business afloat.
At The Epstein Group, we guide San Francisco area clients through the process of small business bankruptcy. Whether you are ready to close your doors and eliminate debt through Chapter 7 bankruptcy or prefer to explore options of debt reorganization through Chapter 11, our experienced small business bankruptcy attorneys are prepared to aid you in meeting your outcome goals.
Contact us to arrange a no-cost, no-obligation consultation to discuss your options regarding small business bankruptcy and other debt relief options.
Chapter 7 — Business Liquidation
In a Chapter 7 small business bankruptcy, all business assets are liquidated and the business must cease operations. When a formal petition is filed, the Court will appoint a bankruptcy trustee to collect and sell assets not secured by a lien. Proceeds will be used to repay unsecured creditors. Remaining dischargeable debt will be eliminated.
Chapter 11 — Business Reorganization
Chapter 11 small business bankruptcy is a matter of debt reorganization. A business is able to reorganize — restructuring debt and renegotiating leases and contracts. During reorganization, the business remains in operation, most often under the control of the owner/manager.
Chapter 11 can also serve as a method for a small business owner to voluntarily liquidate business assets to pay creditors. This option is chosen if a business owner wants to wind down operations and potentially obtain a higher return on liquidated assets than he or she may achieve during Chapter 7 bankruptcy.
Chapter 13 — Debt Reorganization
Chapter 13 bankruptcy may be available to individuals that own their businesses as sole proprietorships and have debts within certain limits.
For more information about small business bankruptcy and rebuilding your credit, visit our Frequently Asked Questions section.
Free Attorney Consultation
To talk to a lawyer at The Epstein Group about your options for debt relief, call 415-863-5718 or complete the contact form on this website. There is no charge for your initial consultation.
We are a debt relief agency. We help people file for bankruptcy relief under the Bankruptcy Code.
