Best Restructuring & Insolvency Lawyers in Herzogenburg

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Rechtsanwalt Mag. Hans-Peter Pflügl
Herzogenburg, Austria

Founded in 1995
9 people in their team
English
Mag. Hans-Peter Pflügl operates a client oriented law practice in Herzogenburg, Austria. Since 1995 he has run his own firm, initially in Horn and since 2001 in Herzogenburg, earning a reputation for practical and precise legal guidance. The firm serves individuals and businesses with expertise...
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About Restructuring & Insolvency Law in Herzogenburg, Austria

Restructuring and insolvency law in Austria is governed by the Insolvency Order (Insolvenzordnung, IO) and related statutes. In Herzogenburg, as in all of Niederösterreich, insolvency matters follow the same national framework administered through district and regional courts. Local practitioners in Herzogenburg work within this system to help businesses and individuals with financial distress navigate options and obligations.

There are two principal pathways: Konkurs (bankruptcy) and Sanierungsverfahren (restructuring). A restructuring track aims to preserve value, protect jobs, and balance creditor interests through plans that restructure debts while the business continues operating. If restructuring fails, an insolvency procedure may proceed to liquidation or orderly wind-down. The choice depends on cash flow, creditor cooperation, and the viability of a business model.

For residents and business owners in Herzogenburg, the key takeaway is that timely advice matters. Early engagement with a qualified legal counsel can clarify whether a restructuring plan is feasible, or whether a court supervised process is necessary. The court and creditors both play active roles in determining outcomes, so expert guidance helps secure the best possible result.

Insolvency matters in Austria are codified in the Insolvency Order (Insolvenzordnung, IO) and published in the Rechtsinformationssystem RIS. This official text defines procedures, creditor rights, and debtor obligations.

RIS - Rechtsinformationssystem des Bundeskanzleramtes

Cross-border insolvency procedures within Austria follow EU rules to coordinate parallel proceedings in different member states, ensuring consistent treatment of assets and liabilities across borders.

EU Regulation 848/2015 on Insolvency Proceedings

Why You May Need a Lawyer

  • Small business in Herzogenburg facing mounting supplier defaults - A local manufacturer experiences delayed payments from customers and rising outstanding bills. A restructuring attorney can assess whether a Sanierungsverfahren is viable and negotiate with creditors to avoid immediate liquidation.
  • Family-run inn with liquidity crunch and lease obligations - The owner seeks to protect employees and the business while negotiating debt relief. A lawyer can draft a Sanierungsplan and coordinate with banks and landlords to minimize disruption.
  • Construction contractor with a looming insolvency filing - A contractor cannot meet payment deadlines to subcontractors. Legal counsel can prepare an orderly filing strategy, preserve critical assets, and prevent preferential treatment of certain creditors.
  • Creditor considering filing a petition against an insolvent debtor - A local supplier wants to lodge a Konkursantrag and recover funds. A restructuring lawyer can evaluate the debtor’s assets and options for proving grounds and timing.
  • Corporate group facing cross-border debts - Multinational creditors and Niederösterreich affiliates require a coordinated approach under EU rules. A lawyer coordinates domestic and cross-border proceedings to maximize recovery.
  • Individual with over-indebtedness seeking discharge - An individual in Herzogenburg confronts excessive debt and may pursue consumer insolvency options. A lawyer explains eligibility, timelines, and discharge effects.

Local Laws Overview

The Austrian framework for restructuring and insolvency balances debtor relief with creditor protection. The Insolvency Order (IO) is the core statute used to commence and manage both bankruptcy and restructuring procedures. In Herzogenburg, district court procedures and trustee appointments follow IO provisions, with creditor meetings and plans subject to court approval.

Two other statutes frequently intersect with insolvency matters: the Austrian Companies Code (Unternehmensgesetzbuch, UGB) which governs corporate form and governance, and EU Regulation 848/2015 on cross-border insolvency coordination. Businesses should consider how these laws affect asset transfers, creditor rights, and cross-jurisdictional proceedings.

Recent reforms over the past decade have aimed to broaden pre-insolvency restructuring options and improve creditor participation. For exact text and amendment dates, consult the official legal repository RIS and the Justiz portal for administrative guidance.

The Insolvency Order (IO) sets out the procedural framework for both restructuring and liquidation, and is maintained in the RIS system for transparency and updates.

RIS - Insolvencyordnung (Insolvenzordnung) information

EU Regulation 848/2015 coordinates insolvency proceedings across member states, enabling efficient handling of cross-border assets and creditor claims in Austria and beyond.

European Union Regulation on Insolvency Proceedings

Frequently Asked Questions

What is insolvency law in Austria and how does it affect a Herzogenburg business?

Insolvency law covers bankruptcy and restructuring pathways. For a Herzogenburg business, it determines when you file, how creditors are treated, and whether a restructuring plan can save the company. The goal is to maximize value while meeting legal duties to creditors and employees.

How do I start insolvency proceedings in Herzogenburg, Austria?

You typically file a petition with the competent Bezirksgericht (district court) or regional court, often with the assistance of a licensed attorney. The court appoints a trustee or administrator to manage assets, liabilities, and any restructuring process.

When should I hire a restructuring lawyer in Herzogenburg?

Engage a lawyer as soon as you sense a cash-flow problem or potential default. Early advice helps assess options, prepare a Sanierungsplan, and interact with creditors to avoid abrupt bankruptcy.

Where can I find funding or credit during a restructuring in Niederösterreich?

Local banks and the Austrian banks federation may offer restructuring credit under supervised procedures. A lawyer can help structure the financing plan to satisfy creditor requirements and court conditions.

Why is a restructuring plan important for my business?

A Sanierungsplan outlines how debts will be repaid, preserves parts of the business, and improves chances of creditor consent. Without a solid plan, the business risks liquidation or extended litigation.

Can a creditor petition a bankruptcy against a debtor in Herzogenburg?

Yes. A creditor can file a Konkursantrag if insolvency criteria are met. The court will assess assets, liabilities, and the viability of continuing obligations before deciding on bankruptcy or restructuring.

Do I need to be represented by a lawyer in an insolvency case?

While not always legally required, having a lawyer in Austria is highly recommended. A lawyer can prepare filings, negotiate with creditors, and explain procedural timelines clearly.

How long does an insolvency procedure typically take in Austria?

Duration varies by complexity. Simple cases may conclude within 6-12 months; more complex restructurings can extend beyond a year. Timelines depend on creditor cooperation and court scheduling.

What is the difference between Konkurs and Sanierungsverfahren?

Konkurs focuses on liquidation and creditor repayment from available assets. Sanierungsverfahren aims to restructure the business, preserve enterprise value, and often involve a Sanierungsplan approved by creditors and the court.

How much does a restructuring lawyer cost in Austria?

Costs depend on case complexity and the lawyer's fee structure. Expect a mix of hourly fees and potential flat-rate components for specific tasks, plus court-related charges and disbursements.

Do private individuals qualify for consumer insolvency in Austria?

Individuals with over-indebtedness may pursue consumer insolvency options under Austrian law. An attorney can evaluate eligibility, expected discharge timelines, and implications for assets and ongoing obligations.

Is cross-border insolvency handled in Austria?

Yes. Cross-border matters use EU rules to coordinate proceedings with other jurisdictions, ensuring consistent treatment of assets and creditor rights. A Austrian attorney can manage multi-jurisdictional filings.

Additional Resources

  • Justizministerium - Austrian Ministry of Justice - Official authority overseeing insolvency procedures, court administration, and debtor protection in Austria. Justiz.gv.at
  • RIS - Rechtsinformationssystem des Bundeskanzleramtes - Official repository for Austrian laws including the Insolvenzordnung (IO). RIS.bka.gv.at
  • Wirtschaftskammer Österreich (WKO) Niederösterreich - Practical guidance for businesses on restructuring, debt counseling, and creditor relations. WKO.at

Next Steps

  1. Clarify your situation and gather all financial documents, contracts, and creditor notices related to the distress in Herzogenburg.
  2. Identify a local restructuring and insolvency lawyer with Niederösterreich experience and schedule an initial consultation.
  3. Provide your documents to the lawyer and obtain a written plan of action with expected timelines and costs.
  4. Decide between Sanierungsverfahren and, if necessary, Konkurs proceedings, based on the viability of continuing operations.
  5. Submit any required petitions to the appropriate Bezirksgericht and notify creditors as advised by your counsel.
  6. Implement the agreed restructuring plan or court approved measures; monitor cash flow and creditor approvals with your lawyer.
  7. Review ongoing compliance, potential export or cross-border considerations, and prepare for potential discharge or exit options.

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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.

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