Chapter 10 - Insolvency law Flashcards
What is the role of administration?
Rescue company as a going concern
If that fails, achieve better return for creditors than winding up
If neither, realise a company’s assets to make a distribution to 1+ preferential/secured creditors
How is an administrator appointed?
Director’s majority decision
How can the court appoint an administrator?
Must show company is unable to pay debts
How much notice needs to be given to a qualifying floating charge holder?
5 days
Can creditors apply to the court to appoint an administrator?
Yes
What are the duties of an administrator?
Must take control of company’s property and use powers to manage company in accordance with any proposals approved by creditors/court
What must an administrator do within 7 days of taking office?
File notice of appointment with registrar
How long do company officers and employees have to provide a statement of affairs?
11 days after request from administrator
What must an administrator do within 8 weeks of appointment?
Submit proposals for aim of achieving administration to registrar, creditors and members
Which party should administrators seek approval from regarding their proposals?
Creditors
Required to invite creditors to form a committee and ask for nominations
What powers does an administrator have?
Powers previously enjoyed by director
Can do anything necessary
Remove/appoint director
Call meetings of members/creditors
Apply to court for directions
Make payments to secured/unsecured creditors
Present/defend petition for company wind up
What can creditors/members do if they feel an administrator has acted in a way that has/will harmed them?
Apply to the court
When does a moratorium apply?
No resolution or court order to wind up company
No enforcement of fixed charges
No other legal proceedings
Can an administrator sell property subject to a floating charge?
Yes and without obtaining chargee’s consent
Can an administrator sell assets on hire purchase or subject to a fixed charge?
Yes with approval of court
What happens to a director’s powers during administration?
Powers suspended but remains in office
What happens to employees during administration?
Not automatically dismissed but can have contract terminated
What are the advantages of administration for the company?
Doesn’t necessarily cease to exist
Temporary relief from creditors
Breathing space to formulate rescue plan
What are the advantages of administration for members?
Continue to have shares
Business regenerated, enhancing value and restoring income
What are the advantages of administration for creditors?
Should obtain returns
Can apply to court for administration order
What are the 2 types of receiver?
Administrative
Fixed Charge
What is an administrative receiver?
Appointed by floating chargeholder
Power to:
- borrow
- take legal proceedings
- appoint pro advisers
- pay off creditors
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Can holders of floating charges made after 15th September 2003 appoint administrative receivers?
No