Increase in IVAs and personal insolvencies

Personal insolvencies increased dramatically in the first quarter of 2022, according to the latest Government figures. Between January and March, the Insolvency Service reported 32,305 personal insolvencies, 14% more than during the first quarter of 2021. Clearly, the effects of the Covid-19 lockdowns are in full swing. Serious financial downfalls are to be expected as…

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Solutions for profitable but insolvent companies

If you’re the director of an insolvent but profitable company, now is the perfect time to consider your options. Why? Because the Government recently lifted restrictions placed on the insolvency regime to combat the economic fallout from Covid-19. Over the past two years, a lot of companies used these restrictions to stay profitable by avoiding…

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How to challenge a statutory demand

Company directors, business owners, and individuals can expect to receive more statutory demands in 2022 compared to previous years. Why? Covid-19 has forced many people and companies to give more credit than usual, and making a statutory demand is the first thing they’ll do when attempting to recover overdue debts. A statutory demand is a…

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Laws for winding up orders need more clarity

Entrepreneurial small business owners should be overjoyed with Government plans to increase the debt threshold for winding-up petitions to £10,000. The move is in harmony with new protections and laws designed to support businesses. Temporary measures introduced last year under CIGA 2020 will be replaced from 1 October to 31 March 2022. Subsequently, more debtor-friendly…

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Avoiding misfeasance claims in 2021

As the UK struggles to revive its debilitated economy, some directors of insolvent companies will find it difficult to avoid misfeasance claims in 2021 and beyond. According to section 212 of the Insolvency Act 1986, misfeasance occurs when a director or ex-director retains, misappropriates, misapplies, or becomes accountable for any of the company’s property or…

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Understanding your insolvency practitioner (IP) Part 2

It’s fair to say the laws surrounding the insolvency regime were written largely by and for insolvency practitioners (IPs). The legislation governing insolvencies throughout England and Wales came into force with the passing of the Insolvency Act 1986. These laws were updated 30 years later with the enactment of the Insolvency Rules 2016. The 2016…

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Benefits of a CVA for directors and business owners

A company voluntary arrangement (CVA) offers many benefits if you have a profitable company that’s been devastated by the Covid-19 pandemic. A CVA is a contract that allows an insolvent company to continue trading while repaying creditors over time. The procedure is great for a company that requires substantial debt to be excused so trade and cash…

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Benefits of a pre pack administration

Expect an increase in pre-pack administrations over the next 6 months as panic-stricken company directors consider their restructuring options post lockdown. Depending on the circumstances, a pre-pack administration can offer huge benefits to the director of a profitable, but insolvent company. The procedure is a useful restructuring mechanism that helps business owners place insolvent companies…

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Understanding your insolvency practitioner (IP)

When attempting to restructure or liquidate a company you will need a strategy designed for your specific requirements and circumstance. Lawyers are expensive and a licensed insolvency practitioner (IP) may not be able to provide you with impartial advice. In these situations, it’s always best to seek the support and guidance of an independent professional…

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Restructuring with a CVA or administration

Post lockdown, many directors will restructure their companies using insolvency procedures, most likely administration or a company voluntary arrangement (CVA). The Government recently introduced a moratorium facility, which offers 20 to 40 days of protection from creditors. But a director who opts for this will undoubtedly find themselves considering a CVA or administration once the…

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