Best Restructuring & Insolvency Lawyers in Antigua and Barbuda

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Marshall & Co.
St John's, Antigua and Barbuda

Founded in 1991
50 people in their team
English
The Firm is located with in a 5 minute walk to the Court House. We consist of 4 in house Attorneys and consultant attorneys. Our Attorneys were trained in the United Kingdom with the Bar Vocational course taken in the Caribbean countries of Jamaica and Trinidad and Tobago. The firm has a wide...
Cort & Cort Attorneys at Law
St John's, Antigua and Barbuda

Founded in 1991
50 people in their team
English
Cort & Cort is a leading law firm in Antigua & Barbuda which prides itself on its professionalism. The firm was established in 1991 by Dr L. Errol Cort.​Cort & Cort provides a full range of civil and commercial legal services including but not limited to mergers and acquisitions,...
Richards & Company
St John's, Antigua and Barbuda

Founded in 2000
50 people in their team
English
Richards & Company is a legal services firm based in Antigua and Barbuda featuring multijurisdictional attorneys and regional and global partners. The firm has distinguished itself as a leading commercial law firm in Antigua and Barbuda providing a full spectrum of services to include banking...
Hill & Hill Attorneys at Law
St John's, Antigua and Barbuda

Founded in 1984
50 people in their team
English
Hill and Hill is a partnership between husband and wife, Radford Hill and Cecile Hill which was established in 1984.  It has built up a reputation for providing efficient and professional services to its clients.  Its Attorneys have extensive practical experience in most areas of...
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About Restructuring & Insolvency Law in Antigua and Barbuda

Restructuring and insolvency law in Antigua and Barbuda deals with the legal processes and regulations that apply when individuals or companies are unable to pay their debts as they become due. The goal of these laws is to provide a framework for the fair and orderly resolution of financial distress, whether that means reorganizing a business to return it to profitability or distributing its assets among creditors in the event of a bankruptcy. Antigua and Barbuda has its own legal procedures, guided by local statutes and influenced by English common law principles, which outline how insolvency matters are handled for both individuals and corporations.

Why You May Need a Lawyer

Legal guidance is crucial in restructuring and insolvency matters because these situations often involve complex financial arrangements, multiple parties, and strict deadlines. You may need a lawyer if:

  • You are a business owner facing financial difficulties and need advice about possible restructuring or rescue options.
  • You are an individual unable to meet your debt obligations and wish to understand your rights and the best course of action.
  • You are a creditor seeking to recover debts from an insolvent person or entity.
  • You have received notice of bankruptcy or winding-up proceedings and need to know how to respond.
  • You want help navigating negotiations with creditors or formal court processes.
  • You need assistance with preparing the necessary documentation for court filings or insolvency applications.

An experienced lawyer can help protect your interests, ensure compliance with local laws, and provide sound advice tailored to your circumstances.

Local Laws Overview

Antigua and Barbuda’s restructuring and insolvency framework consists of several key statutes and procedures:

  • Bankruptcy and Insolvency: The Bankruptcy Act outlines the procedures for both voluntary and involuntary bankruptcies, providing mechanisms for individuals and entities to resolve unmanageable debts.
  • Companies (Winding Up) Act: This statute governs the winding-up (liquidation) of companies that cannot pay their debts. The act sets out when and how a company can be wound up by the court or voluntarily by its members or creditors.
  • Receivership and Administration: Local laws allow for the appointment of receivers or administrators to manage a distressed company’s assets on behalf of creditors, sometimes as an alternative to outright liquidation.
  • Cross-Border Insolvency: Antigua and Barbuda recognizes certain principles of international insolvency, allowing cooperation with foreign courts in some cases.

The local courts play an active role in insolvency proceedings, ensuring that all parties’ interests are respected and that the process is fair. Strict timelines and reporting requirements often apply, making early legal intervention essential.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is insolvency?

Insolvency means that a person or company cannot pay their debts as they become due. In legal terms, it can be defined based on cash-flow (inability to pay debts when due) or balance sheet (liabilities exceeding assets).

How does the bankruptcy process start in Antigua and Barbuda?

The bankruptcy process can start either by a debtor voluntarily filing for bankruptcy with the court or by a creditor filing a petition if the debtor has failed to pay their debts.

What happens to my assets if I am declared bankrupt?

When you are declared bankrupt, your assets are transferred to a trustee who manages and liquidates them, using the proceeds to pay your creditors according to a court-approved order of priority.

Can a company avoid liquidation through restructuring?

Yes, under certain circumstances, a company may negotiate with its creditors to restructure its debts. This can involve new repayment terms, debt write-offs, or other arrangements to help the business recover and avoid liquidation.

Are there alternatives to bankruptcy for individuals?

Yes, alternatives may include informal negotiations with creditors or formal arrangements such as debt repayment plans approved by the court.

What is the role of a liquidator?

A liquidator is appointed to wind up the affairs of an insolvent company. Their duties include realizing the company’s assets, paying off creditors as far as possible, and then dissolving the company.

What if I am owed money by an insolvent business?

As a creditor, you can file a claim in the insolvency proceedings. Depending on the available assets and the priority of claims, you may receive a proportionate share of any funds recovered.

How long do insolvency proceedings take?

The duration of proceedings varies depending on the complexity of the case, the number of creditors, and the assets involved. Some cases resolve in monthswhile others can take several years.

Is cross-border insolvency recognized in Antigua and Barbuda?

Yes, the courts can cooperate with foreign insolvency proceedings and recognize certain orders to facilitate the efficient administration of cross-border cases.

Can I keep operating my business during insolvency proceedings?

In some cases, you may be able to continue operating under supervision or with a court-approved arrangement, especially if business continuity benefits creditors. However, this depends on the specific circumstances and court orders.

Additional Resources

If you need more information or support, the following resources may be helpful:

  • Office of the Official Receiver - Responsible for overseeing insolvency and bankruptcy processes.
  • High Court of Antigua and Barbuda - Handles insolvency and bankruptcy matters for individuals and companies.
  • Financial Services Regulatory Commission (FSRC) - Oversees non-bank financial institutions and may provide guidance relating to insolvency.
  • Local business chambers and legal aid organizations - Sometimes offer guidance or referrals for individuals and businesses in distress.
  • Professional accounting and insolvency practitioner firms - Qualified professionals who manage insolvency proceedings in accordance with local laws.

Next Steps

If you believe that you or your business may be facing insolvency or could benefit from restructuring, it is important to act promptly. Here are steps you can take:

  • Gather all relevant financial information, including debts, assets, and recent correspondence with creditors.
  • Reach out to a qualified lawyer who specializes in restructuring and insolvency law in Antigua and Barbuda. Early legal advice can help identify your options and responsibilities.
  • Discuss your situation openly with your legal advisor and provide them with complete and accurate information.
  • Follow your lawyer’s recommendations regarding negotiations, court filings, or other formal processes.
  • Continue to communicate with your creditors and stakeholders, ideally with your lawyer’s guidance, to manage expectations and uphold legal requirements.

Seeking professional legal assistance early can make a significant difference in protecting your interests and achieving the best possible outcome during financial distress.

Lawzana helps you find the best lawyers and law firms in Antigua and Barbuda through a curated and pre-screened list of qualified legal professionals. Our platform offers rankings and detailed profiles of attorneys and law firms, allowing you to compare based on practice areas, including Restructuring & Insolvency, experience, and client feedback. Each profile includes a description of the firm's areas of practice, client reviews, team members and partners, year of establishment, spoken languages, office locations, contact information, social media presence, and any published articles or resources. Most firms on our platform speak English and are experienced in both local and international legal matters. Get a quote from top-rated law firms in Antigua and Barbuda - quickly, securely, and without unnecessary hassle.

Disclaimer:
The information provided on this page is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. While we strive to ensure the accuracy and relevance of the content, legal information may change over time, and interpretations of the law can vary. You should always consult with a qualified legal professional for advice specific to your situation. We disclaim all liability for actions taken or not taken based on the content of this page. If you believe any information is incorrect or outdated, please contact us, and we will review and update it where appropriate.