Best Restructuring & Insolvency Lawyers in Chennai

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Samvad Partners
Chennai, India

Founded in 2013
150 people in their team
English
Samvād: Partners is a full-service Indian law firm with offices in Bengaluru, Chennai, Hyderabad, Mumbai and New Delhi.  We strive to maintain lasting relationships with our clients by understanding their business needs and offering simple and effective solutions to complex legal and...
Chennai, India

English
Absolute Legal is a distinguished multi-specialty law firm in India, boasting over 25 years of experience in handling a diverse array of legal matters. The firm is renowned for delivering effective and affordable legal solutions to both individuals and businesses, consistently demonstrating a...

Founded in 1964
English
A K Mylsamy Associates LLP is a distinguished law firm in India, renowned for its comprehensive legal services across various practice areas. With a team of seasoned attorneys, the firm offers expert counsel in corporate law, intellectual property rights, litigation, and arbitration. Their in-depth...
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About Restructuring & Insolvency Law in Chennai, India

Restructuring and insolvency law in Chennai, India, deals with the processes and regulations governing financially distressed businesses and individuals. The legal framework enables companies or individuals unable to pay their debts to resolve financial difficulties, either through reorganization or liquidation. In recent years, the implementation of the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code, 2016 (IBC) has brought significant changes, providing a time-bound and structured mechanism for resolving insolvency issues. Chennai, being a major commercial hub in South India, sees frequent restructuring and insolvency cases involving businesses and individuals alike.

Why You May Need a Lawyer

There are several situations in which consulting a restructuring and insolvency lawyer in Chennai could be essential:

  • You are facing legal notices from creditors or banks for non-payment of debts.
  • Your business is unable to meet its financial obligations, and you are considering restructuring options.
  • You are a creditor seeking to recover debts from an insolvent company or individual.
  • Your company is entering insolvency proceedings and you need guidance on compliance and next steps.
  • You want to explore alternative debt resolution mechanisms or settlements.
  • You are navigating issues related to personal insolvency or bankruptcy.
  • Your business seeks to acquire stressed assets or participate in insolvency resolution processes.

Having professional legal advice helps you understand your rights and obligations, avoid pitfalls, and ensure compliance with Indian law.

Local Laws Overview

Restructuring and insolvency law in Chennai is primarily governed by the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code, 2016. The IBC provides uniform rules for insolvency resolution for companies, partnerships, and individuals. Key aspects include:

  • Corporate Insolvency Resolution Process (CIRP): This is a mechanism under which creditors can initiate proceedings against companies unable to pay their debts. The National Company Law Tribunal (NCLT) in Chennai is the adjudicating authority for such matters.
  • Liquidation: If resolution is not possible, the company may go into liquidation and its assets are sold to pay creditors.
  • Individual and Partnership Insolvency: Similar structured processes apply to individuals and partnership firms, although these are less commonly invoked so far.
  • Role of Insolvency Professionals: Registered insolvency professionals manage the resolution and liquidation processes.
  • Moratorium: Once the process begins, certain legal actions against the debtor are stayed, providing breathing space to resolve issues.
  • Priority of Claims: The law specifies the order in which creditors are paid, with secured creditors often having priority.

In addition, specific laws such as the Companies Act, the Securitisation and Reconstruction of Financial Assets and Enforcement of Security Interest (SARFAESI) Act, and local rules adopted by Tamil Nadu also influence how restructuring and insolvency cases proceed in Chennai.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is insolvency under Indian law?

Insolvency means being unable to pay debts when they become due. Under Indian law, insolvency leads to legal processes through which individuals or entities can either restructure debts or be liquidated.

What is the role of the NCLT in Chennai?

The National Company Law Tribunal (NCLT) in Chennai is the primary forum for hearing and resolving cases related to company insolvency and restructuring under the IBC.

Can creditors directly initiate insolvency proceedings against a company in Chennai?

Yes, financial or operational creditors can file an application with the Chennai NCLT to initiate insolvency proceedings if a company defaults on its dues.

How long do insolvency resolution proceedings take?

The Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code aims to complete the Corporate Insolvency Resolution Process within 180 days, which can be extended to a maximum of 330 days in certain circumstances.

What happens to employees if a company goes insolvent?

Employees’ claims such as unpaid salaries are treated as operational debts and are part of the creditor claims considered during the insolvency process. They may also receive compensation from the proceeds of asset sales.

Can individuals declare bankruptcy under the IBC in Chennai?

Yes, individuals can declare bankruptcy under the IBC. The process for individuals differs from that for companies, but it provides for either resolution (through repayment plans) or liquidation of assets.

Is out-of-court restructuring possible?

Yes, parties may negotiate restructuring arrangements outside of formal insolvency proceedings, often with the help of lawyers, financial advisors, or mediators.

What is the moratorium period in insolvency proceedings?

A moratorium is a legally mandated pause on all legal proceedings, recovery, or enforcement actions against the debtor, effective from the date insolvency proceedings are admitted.

Who are insolvency professionals and what do they do?

Insolvency professionals are licensed individuals who manage the insolvency or liquidation process. They take control of the debtor’s assets, manage day-to-day business, and run the process in accordance with legal guidelines.

What options does a debtor have if they anticipate financial distress?

Debtors can seek legal advice, initiate discussions with creditors for restructuring, explore settlement options, or voluntarily initiate insolvency proceedings to seek structured resolution.

Additional Resources

If you are seeking help or information regarding restructuring and insolvency in Chennai, you may find these resources and organizations useful:

  • National Company Law Tribunal (NCLT) - Chennai Bench
  • Insolvency and Bankruptcy Board of India (IBBI)
  • Institute of Chartered Accountants of India (ICAI) - Chennai Chapter
  • Indian Banks’ Association
  • Chennai District Legal Services Authority
  • Local Bar Associations and law firms specializing in insolvency law

Next Steps

If you believe you require legal assistance with restructuring or insolvency matters in Chennai, consider these steps:

  • Gather all relevant documents, such as financial statements, loan agreements, and correspondence from creditors.
  • Consult with a qualified restructuring and insolvency lawyer or firm in Chennai, ideally with experience before the NCLT and local courts.
  • Be ready to discuss your financial situation in detail and clarify your objectives, whether resolution, protection, or recovery.
  • Understand all your available options, including informal negotiations, restructuring, and formal legal proceedings.
  • Act promptly, as insolvency and restructuring laws in India impose strict timelines and compliance requirements.

Having an experienced legal advisor can help you avoid missteps, maximize your assets or recovery, and navigate the complex legal landscape of restructuring and insolvency in Chennai.

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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.