Best Restructuring & Insolvency Lawyers in Higashihiroshima

Share your needs with us, get contacted by law firms.

Free. Takes 2 min.

Matsura Law Office
Higashihiroshima, Japan

Founded in 2023
2 people in their team
English
Matsura Law Office, located in East Hiroshima, is a two attorney practice focusing on personal and corporate matters across civil law, family matters, and business disputes. The firm provides practical legal counsel and hands on representation for individuals and organizations in the region,...
AS SEEN ON

About Restructuring & Insolvency Law in Higashihiroshima, Japan

In Higashihiroshima, as throughout Japan, insolvency matters are governed by national laws rather than local ordinances. Local courts in Hiroshima Prefecture handle the proceedings, with the Hiroshima District Court playing a central role for most cases. Debtors, creditors and their counsel work within established judicial procedures to resolve debt disputes while aiming to preserve business viability where possible.

The core tools used in restructuring and insolvency are three principal statutes: the Bankruptcy Act, Civil Rehabilitation Act, and Corporate Reorganization Act. Each serves different aims-liquidation, reorganization, or an orderly rescue of a company or individual debtor-and is applied by the courts through formal procedures or, in some cases, out-of-court workouts guided by judges and trustees.

Key terms you may encounter in Higashihiroshima include 破産 (hasan) for bankruptcy, 民事再生 (minji saisei) for civil rehabilitation, and 会社更生法 (kaisha kosei-ho) for corporate reorganization. The process often involves hearings, creditor meetings, and, depending on the route chosen, a court-appointed trustee or supervisor to oversee the plan and asset disposition.

Practical note for residents: If a local business or individual anticipates difficulty meeting debts, engaging a restructuring and insolvency attorney early can clarify options, estimate timelines, and help coordinate with local court requirements. Local support programs and government guidance can also inform strategy for small and medium enterprises in the Higashi-Hiroshima area.

In Japan, insolvency proceedings are primarily governed by the Bankruptcy Act, Civil Rehabilitation Act, and Corporate Reorganization Act. Ministry of Justice

Why You May Need a Lawyer

Here are concrete, real-world scenarios in Higashihiroshima where legal counsel specialized in restructuring and insolvency can make a difference.

  • Small manufacturing firm faces mounting debt after a downturn - A Higashihiroshima textile component supplier misses multiple bank covenants and owes money to several creditors. A lawyer can assess whether Civil Rehabilitation or Corporate Reorganization offers a viable path to repayment while preserving operations.
  • Local retailer with supplier disputes seeks a rescue plan - A shop owner has disputes with multiple creditors after a failed inventory cycle. Counsel can help prepare a rehabilitation plan and represent the business at creditor meetings under Civil Rehabilitation.
  • Family-owned restaurant wants to continue operating post-crisis - The business faces liquidity issues but contains valuable goodwill and staff. A restructuring attorney can draft a feasible plan and coordinate with creditors to avoid liquidation.
  • Resident debtor seeks personal debt relief while protecting essential assets - Individuals in Higashihiroshima may pursue bankruptcy or personal rehabilitation strategies to discharge unsecured debts while retaining necessary assets.
  • Company contemplates cross-border creditor arrangements - If creditors located outside Japan hold claims, a lawyer can advise on how Japanese Bankruptcy or Civil Rehabilitation procedures interact with international creditors and cross-border cooperation.

Local Laws Overview

Japan’s restructuring and insolvency framework operates at the national level, but local practice in Higashihiroshima aligns with the Hiroshima District Court and regional business environment. The core statutory framework consists of three main laws, each with its own procedures and potential outcomes.

Bankruptcy Act (破産法) governs orderly liquidation when a debtor cannot meet obligations and offers a streamlined route to discharge for individuals and orderly asset realization for businesses. It typically involves a court-supervised process and may appoint a trustee to liquidate assets and repay creditors.

Civil Rehabilitation Act (民事再生法) provides a mechanism to restructure debts while allowing the debtor to continue operations. It often requires a reorganization plan approved by creditors and the court, with a supervising authority guiding the process.

Corporate Reorganization Act (会社更生法) targets larger corporate failures where the goal is to rehabilitate the company with court supervision and a plan that reorganizes assets and liabilities under creditor oversight.

In Hiroshima Prefecture, insolvency matters typically proceed through the Hiroshima District Court, which coordinates with the parties, appoints trustees or supervisors as needed, and conducts creditor meetings. Updates to procedures and practice guidelines are published by national authorities and reflected in local filings.

In Japan, insolvency proceedings are primarily governed by the Bankruptcy Act, Civil Rehabilitation Act, and Corporate Reorganization Act. Ministry of Justice

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between bankruptcy and civil rehabilitation in Japan?

Bankruptcy focuses on liquidating assets and discharging debts when there is no viable path to repayment. Civil Rehabilitation aims to restructure debt and allow the debtor to continue a business or repay debts over time with court oversight.

How do I start insolvency proceedings in Higashihiroshima?

Typically you file a petition with the Hiroshima District Court or the appropriate local court, supported by financial statements and creditor details. A lawyer can prepare the petition and help coordinate with creditors.

What is the typical timeline for a civil rehabilitation case in Hiroshima?

Timelines vary by case complexity, but initial filing, creditor meetings, and the drafting of a rehabilitation plan can take several months. A lawyer can provide a case-specific timeline after review of finances.

Do I need a lawyer to file for insolvency in Higashihiroshima?

While not always mandatory, having an insolvency attorney significantly improves petition accuracy, strategy, and negotiation with creditors. They also assist with plan drafting and court communications.

How much does it cost to hire a restructuring lawyer in Higashihiroshima?

Costs depend on case complexity and the lawyer�s fee structure. Typical engagements include a retainer, hourly fees, and potential success-based elements for plan approvals.

Can a company continue operating during insolvency proceedings?

Yes, under Civil Rehabilitation or Corporate Reorganization, a company can continue operations if a feasible plan is approved by the court and creditors. Ongoing operations are monitored to protect creditor interests.

Which court handles insolvency cases in Higashihiroshima?

Insolvency matters for the region are typically handled by the Hiroshima District Court, with coordination from the Hiroshima High Court for appellate matters.

What documents are required to begin insolvency proceedings?

Common documents include balance sheets, cash flow projections, list of debts, creditor contact information, and asset inventory. A lawyer can tailor the list to your case.

Is there a difference between personal and corporate bankruptcy?

Personal bankruptcy addresses individual debts with possible asset exemptions; corporate bankruptcy handles company liabilities and asset liquidation or restructuring under corporate statutes.

What is an automatic stay and when does it apply?

An automatic stay halts most collection actions once a petition is filed, providing breathing space to assess options. The stay ends when the court issues orders or the case terminates.

How long does a rehabilitation plan approval typically take?

The plan approval depends on creditor consensus and court schedules, often taking several months after initial filing. Counsel can negotiate timelines with the court.

Do I qualify for Civil Rehabilitation as a small business owner in Higashihiroshima?

Qualification depends on debt levels, assets, and the ability to present a feasible repayment plan acceptable to creditors and the court. A qualified insolvency attorney can assess eligibility.

Additional Resources

  • Ministry of Justice (MOJ) - Official government guidance on insolvency law, procedures, and reforms. https://www.moj.go.jp/
  • Courts of Japan - Information about court procedures including insolvency filings and creditor meetings. https://www.courts.go.jp/
  • Japan Federation of Bar Associations - Lawyer directories, consumer guidance, and professional resources related to insolvency cases. https://www.nichibenren.or.jp/

Next Steps

  1. Clarify your goals and gather financial documents - Inventory all debts, assets, contracts, and creditor contact information. Time estimate: 1-2 weeks.
  2. Identify local insolvency counsel with Higashihiroshima experience - Seek recommendations from the Bar Association and business networks in Hiroshima. Time estimate: 1-3 weeks.
  3. Schedule an initial consultation - Prepare questions about strategy, timelines, and costs. Time estimate: 1 week after choosing a lawyer.
  4. Obtain a qualified opinion on available routes - Assess options for Bankruptcy, Civil Rehabilitation, or Corporate Reorganization. Time estimate: 1-2 weeks.
  5. Decide on a course of action and retain counsel - Sign a retainer and provide all financial documents to the attorney. Time estimate: 1-2 weeks.
  6. File the petition and begin proceedings - Your lawyer will file with the Hiroshima District Court and coordinate with creditors. Time estimate: 2-6 weeks after retention.
  7. Attend creditor meetings and court hearings - Participate as required, respond to requests, and review plans or orders. Time estimate: ongoing through the case.

Lawzana helps you find the best lawyers and law firms in Higashihiroshima 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 Higashihiroshima, Japan — 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.