Debtor (Company-Side)

“You Will Survive! How Your Business Will Survive Coronavirus – a Crisis Management Plan”

Can your business survive? In a word – yes. While most businesses will suffer, and many will fail, yours can survive. SFGH partner Jonathan Friedland and law clerk Kyle Fleck authored “You Will Survive! How Your Business Will Survive Coronavirus – a Crisis Management Plan” to give business owners insight on what they can do, what they should do, today, tomorrow, and next week to best position their businesses to survive during the COVID-19 crisis, and to ultimately thrive when the economy begins to recover.

Mark Melickian guides COVID-19 impacted businesses on how to access emergency cash in “Protect Your Business from Coronavirus with a Disaster Assistance Loan”

Has Coronavirus (COVID-19) made it challenging for your business to make payroll, maintain inventory, or pay your creditors? The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) will offer low-interest loans to businesses impacted by COVID-19 to help overcome the temporary loss of revenue businesses are facing. SFGH’s Restructuring, Insolvency, and Special Situations (“RISS”) head Mark Melickian advises businesses to jump on these opportunities now in his article “Protect Your Business from Coronavirus with a Disaster Assistance Loan.” 

SFGH Partner Lisa Vandesteeg authors cover article for the American Bankruptcy Institute Journal entitled, “Technology and Legal Ethics: A User’s Manual (Part I)"

The cover of the February 2020 issue of the American Bankruptcy Institute Journal features an article authored by Lisa Vandesteeg entitled “Technology and Legal Ethics: A User’s Manual (Part I)” –  the first in a two-part series discussing the fundamentals of the intersection of cybersecurity and ethics for bankruptcy attorneys. The article in ABI’s February issue discusses the key ethical rules in the realm of technology and data security. The second article, appearing in a later issue, will provide guidance as to the best practices with respect to securing and transferring client data and the necessary steps law firms must take to notify clients in the event of a data breach or loss of client information.  

SFGH Partner Jack O'Connor named Vice Chair of 2020 TMA NextGen Global Committee

SFGH is proud to announce that Jack O’Connor, a partner in the firm’s Restructuring, Insolvency, Special Situations, & Corporate Distress Group has been named Vice Chair for the Turnaround Management Association’s Global NextGen Committee for 2020.

Brewbound Voices: Understanding Your Options in a Distressed Market — Alternatives to Filing for Bankruptcy

SFGH attorney Jack O’Connor recently authored an article for Brewbound, a leading beer industry trade publication, regarding alternatives to bankruptcy filings in a mature beer marketplace. The article, published in the “Brewbound Voices” column on the site, discusses specific strategies and alternatives for breweries in distress, citing recent examples of breweries opting not to file bankruptcy, and work to wind down their operations or otherwise continue their businesses by alternative means. The article provides an overview of asset sales, assignments for the benefit of creditors, receiverships, as well as other bankruptcy alternatives.

Jonathan Friedland and Hajar Jouglaf author article entitled “Bankruptcy Code Revised – A Review of the SBRA and Other Reforms”

Jonathan Friedland and Hajar Jouglaf authored an article reviewing the most recent changes made to the Bankruptcy Code. The article, entitled “Bankruptcy Code Revised – A Review of the SBRA and Other Reforms,” provides insight into key provisions of the Small Business Reorganization Act of 2019 (“SBRA”) and high-level overview of The Family Farmer Relief Act of 2019 (“FFRA”) and The Honoring American Veterans in Extreme Need Act of 2019 (the “HAVEN Act”). 

Sugar Felsenthal Grais & Helsinger partner Jonathan Friedland quoted in article titled “How to Choose the Best Professional Associations to Join”

With many career benefits to joining a professional association and a nearly unlimited network of professionals to tap into, how do you choose which organization is the best fit for you? SFGH partner Jonathan Friedland was recently quoted in the article “How to Choose the Best Professional Associations to Join,” published in Point Road Group Insider. 

SFGH partner Elizabeth “Lisa” Vandesteeg quoted in article titled “Litigation Funders Become the Litigants as Industry Grows”

Sugar Felsenthal Grais & Helsinger partner Lisa Vandesteeg was recently quoted in the American Lawyer Magazine for the article "Litigation Funders Become the Litigants as Industry Grows." In this article, Lisa Vandesteeg provided commentary on recent litigation over its permitted use. 

Jonathan Friedland’s article entitled "Rise of the Alternatives" published in BankruptcyData's 2019 Bankruptcy Yearbook, Almanac & Directory

Sugar Felsenthal Grais & Helsinger partner Jonathan Friedland recently authored the article "Rise of the Alternatives" in BankruptcyData's 2019 Bankruptcy Yearbook, Almanac & Directory. 

Sugar Felsenthal Grais & Helsinger partner Jonathan Friedland published in Private Directors Association May Newsletter – “What to Do When You're a Corporate Director of a Private Company Facing a Financial Crisis”

Sugar Felsenthal Grais & Helsinger partner Jonathan Friedland wrote an article for the Private Directors Association entitled “What to Do When You're a Corporate Director of a Private Company Facing a Financial Crisis.” In this article, Jonathan discusses the actions you should consider when a company whose board you sit on is facing an existential threat. 

SFGH partner Michael A. Brandess published in Northern District of Illinois Bankruptcy Liaison Committee Newsletter

SFGH partner Michael A. Brandess was published in the Northern District of Illinois Bankruptcy Liaison Committee Newsletter for his article entitled "Bankruptcy Liaison Questionnaire." 

On January 18, 2018, SFGH associate Jack O’Connor was quoted in an article published by Brewbound.

On January 18, 2018, SFGH associate Jack O’Connor was quoted in an article published by Brewbound, a beer industry publication, regarding the bank auction of Smuttynose Brewery, scheduled to take place in March 2018. Jack was cited for his experience as a corporate restructuring professional with a specific interest in, and knowledge of, the craft beverage industry.

Michael Brandess and Jonathan Friedland author cover article in the Law Journal Equipment Leasing Newsletter entitled, “Equipment Lessors and Bankruptcy”

The cover of the July 2017 issue of the Law Journal Equipment Leasing Newsletter includes an article written by Michael Brandess and Jonathan Friedland entitled, “Equipment Lessors and Bankruptcy.”  The article discusses key bankruptcy provisions and strategy concerns for equipment lessors once a lessee has filed for bankruptcy.

Jonathan Friedland and Lisa Vandesteeg author 2017 edition of "Commercial Bankruptcy Litigation, 2d".

Sugar Felsenthal Grais & Hammer LLP is pleased to congratulate Jonathan Friedland and Elizabeth Vandesteeg on the publication of the 2017 edition of "Commercial Bankruptcy Litigation, 2d".  Friedland is the book’s creator and editor in chief and Vandesteeg, is one if its managing editors. 

One of West Publishing’s best-selling titles since 2009, and weighing in at more than 1,600 pages, Commercial Bankruptcy Litigation is the result of an effort of more than 50 restructuring professionals, including partners from more than 20 distinguished firms.

Jonathan Friedland and Lisa Vandesteeg author 2017 edition of "Strategic Alternatives for and Against Distressed Businesses".

Sugar Felsenthal Grais & Hammer LLP is pleased to congratulate Jonathan Friedland and Elizabeth Vandesteeg on the publication of the 2017 edition of "Strategic Alternatives for and Against Distressed Businesses".  Friedland is the book’s creator and editor in chief and Vandesteeg is one if its managing editors.  SFGH attorneys who authored chapters include Aaron Hammer, Christopher Horvay, S. Jason Teele, and Nicole Stefanelli.

Sugar Felsenthal Grais & Hammer LLP opens NYC office

On June 1, 2016 Sugar Felsenthal Grais & Hammer LLP (SFGH) announced the opening of its New York office

Mark S. Melickian authors opening chapters of A Guide for Nonprofit Organizations: Bankruptcy Issues (2014) published by The Law Project

Mark S. Melickian authored the opening chapters of The Nonprofit Bankruptcy Guide published by The Law Project.

M&A Advisor Awards "Consumer and Retail Products Deal of the Year" to Sugar Felsenthal Grais & Hammer LLP

On January 22, 2014, the M&A Advisor announced that Sugar Felsenthal Grais & Hammer LLP would receive the 8th Annual M&A Advisor Turnaround Award for "Consumer Product of the Year" for the firm's services during the successful sale of certain assets out of the bankruptcy of Natural Pork Production II, LLP to AMVC and the Handlos family.

Lenders Given Cause to ReLAX: U.S. Supreme Court Unanimously Upholds Credit-Bidding Rights for Chapter 11 Sales in RadLAX

A discussion from Mark S. Melickian and Jack R. O'Connor in The American Bankruptcy Institute Journal on the implications of the U.S. Supreme Court's recent decision in the RadLAX bankruptcy case on credit bidding.

Jonathan Friedland authors article titled “An Alternative To A Chapter 11 Purchase” published in BUYOUTS MAGAZINE.

Enron and the Bravado Sheriff of Claims Trading

A substantive overview from Aaron L. Hammer and Michael A. Brandess in The American Bankruptcy Institute Journal on the reaction of the U.S. Bankruptcy Court for the Southern District of New York to bankruptcy claims trading during the Enron bankruptcy.

Universal Building Products: Has the Pendulum Swung Too Far?

This article by Michael A. Brandess, that first appeared inThe American Bankruptcy Institute Journal, discusses the implications of a recent decision by the U.S. Bankruptcy Court for the District of Delaware in In re Universal Building Products, Inc. in relation to the pre-bankruptcy solicitation of unsecured creditors' committees.

Jonathan Friedland authors article titled “Creditors Wouldn’t Dare. Would They?” published in BUYOUTS MAGAZINE.

Residential Real Estate in Bankruptcy

An overview over residential real estate bankruptcy including a discussion of relevant bankruptcy principles and an analysis of recent pertinent case law.

Claims Trading: The Wild West of Chapter 11s

In this cover article for The American Bankruptcy Institute Journal for July/August 2010, Aaron L. Hammer and Michael A. Brandess provide a substantive overview of recent issues pertaining to bankruptcy claims trading. 

Dissecting Chapter 7 Bankruptcy for Businesses

David Madden discusses what chapter 7 bankruptcy means for businesses.

Jonathan Friedland authors article titled “Chapter 11 Filings Soar In August Amid Credit Crisis,” published in LAW360, September 10, 2008.

Jonathan Friedland authors article titled “The Dealmakers Guide to Buying Distressed Assets – Section 363 Sales and the Alternatives” published in NORTON ANNUAL SURVEY OF BANKRUPTCY LAW 2008.

Jonathan Friedland authors article titled “Characterizing the Current State of Recharacterization: Radnor is Not All You Need to Know” published in 6 NORTON BANKR. LAW ADVISOR 2.

Jonathan Friedland authors article titled “Postconfirmation Liquidation Vehicles; (Including Liquidating Trusts and Postconfirmation Estates): An Overview” published in NORTON JOURNAL OF BANKRUPTCY LAW AND PRACTICE, Vol. 16 No. 2.

Jonathan Friedland authors article titled “Chapter 11 - “201” The Intersection of Chapter 11 and Securities Law” published in AMERICAN BANKRUPTCY INSTITUTE JOURNAL.

Jonathan Friedland authors article titled “The Middle Kingdom’s Chapter 11? China’s New Bankruptcy Law Comes into Sight” published in AMERICAN BANKRUPTCY INSTITUTE JOURNAL.

SFGH partner Jonathan Friedland to feature on "Restructuring, Insolvency, & Troubled Companies 2020: Bad Debtor Owes Me Money!”

SFGH partner Jonathan Friedland to feature on "Restructuring, Insolvency, & Troubled Companies 2020: Bad Debtor Owes Me Money!”

Jonathan Friedland and Michael Brandess to speak at June 23rd virtual symposium entitled “Opportunity Amidst Crisis”

On June 23, 2020, Sugar Felsenthal Grais & Helsinger LLP partners Jonathan Friedland and Michael Brandess will speak at a virtual symposium co-produced by Financial Poise, the Private Directors Association, the New York Institute of Credit, the Association of Insolvency and Restructuring Advisors, amongst others. 

Michael Brandess to speak on NACM webinar entitled “Putting Yourself in a Defensive Posture When the Bankruptcy Notice Comes”

Michael Brandess to speak on NACM webinar entitled “Putting Yourself in a Defensive Posture When the Bankruptcy Notice Comes”

Jonathan Friedland offers insight on best practices for private equity investors looking to invest in distressed assets in “How to Buy Distressed Assets in Financial Restructurings”

On May 21, 2020, renowned corporate restructuring attorney, Jonathan Friedland, will join a panel of seasoned experts in a webinar discussion designed to teach the latest strategies for acquiring distressed assets, financing their purchase, and getting them on the road to recovery. 

Lisa Vandesteeg to speak on TMA Panel on Market Impacts of COVID-19

On April 6, 2020, Lisa Vandesteeg will serve on a panel of industry experts who will discuss their observations regarding the market impacts of COVID-19.  Lisa will provide insight into what further developments might come to fruition over the next few quarters.

A Discussion with Professor Douglas Baird

On June 13, 2012, Sugar Felsenthal Grais & Hammer LLP hosted Professor Douglas Baird of the University of Chicago for the monthly luncheon meeting of the Turnaround Management Association Chicago/Midwest Chapter's Certified Turnaround Professionals.

Foreclosure 201: Challenges and Opportunities

Christopher J. Horvay served as a panelist devoted to real estate insolvencies and workouts.  Specifically, this panel addressed issues arising in pre-bankruptcy negotiations, including practical solutions required to avert a bankruptcy filing.

Current Issues Raised by the Bankruptcy Abuse, Prevention and Consumer Protection Act of 2005

Christopher J. Horvay served as a panelist during an event for the Business Valuation Assocation of Chicago where he discussed amendments and revisions to the Bankruptcy Code enacted in 2005, including the impact of the legislative changes on retail chapter 11 cases. 

The Troubled Loan Workout Process: The Late Stages

Christopher J. Horvay developed and led a case study workshop devoted to negotiation skills and understanding the strategic considerations in retail chapter 11 cases.

Real Estate in Bankruptcy

Christopher J. Horvay served as a guest commentator during a panel at John Marshall Law School entitled "Real Estate in Bankruptcy," where he delivered commentary in response to comments by Professor Douglas Baird of the University of Chicago Law School with regard to the original expectations for the new Bankruptcy Code when enacted in 1978.

The Troubled Loan Workout Process: The Early Stages

Christopher J. Horvay moderated a panel pertaining to restructuring negotiations and co-led a workshop that incorporated the lessons gleaned from the panel into practical strategies for the participants.

Bankruptcy: A Creditor's Perspective in Illinois

Christopher J. Horvay planned and led a panel of distinguished Chicago-area bankruptcy practitioners and delivered remarks pertaining to the typical chapter 11 case in Illinois. 

Show Me the Money: Funding Turnarounds

Christopher J. Horvay moderated a panel at the Tenth Annual TMA Conference held at the Westin Chicago where panelists discussed alternative funding sources for reorganization scenarios in chapter 11 cases.

Recent Developments in Finance that Every Lender Needs to Know/Recent Developments in Bankruptcy Law

Christopher J. Horvay spoke to an audience comprised mainly of senior lenders with regards to recent Supreme Court cases and Seventh Circuit case law, including recent developments pertaining to letters of credit, fraudulent conveyance, single asset real estate cases and legislative changes.