Best Restructuring & Insolvency Lawyers in Sao Paulo

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English
Rodrigues Pereira Advogados Associados, established in São Paulo in 2017 by attorney Marcos Rodrigues Pereira, has garnered recognition for its specialized expertise in criminal, military, labor, corporate, and real estate law. The firm is particularly noted for its adept defense of public...
Nery Contabilidade
Sao Paulo, Brazil

English
Nery Contabilidade is a distinguished firm in Brazil, known for delivering comprehensive solutions across multiple professional sectors. The firm leverages deep industry knowledge to support law firms, architects, associations and organizations, as well as a wide range of healthcare providers...
Caique Silva Advogado
Sao Paulo, Brazil

English
Caique Silva Advogado is a distinguished law firm based in São Paulo, Brazil, offering comprehensive legal services across multiple practice areas. The firm specializes in family law, addressing matters such as alimony requests, contentious and consensual divorces, child custody and visitation...
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About Restructuring & Insolvency Law in Sao Paulo, Brazil

Restructuring and insolvency law in Sao Paulo, Brazil is a complex area that deals with the financial distress of companies and individuals who are unable to meet their debt obligations. The state of Sao Paulo houses Brazil's main financial and business centers, making it a key jurisdiction for insolvency cases. Laws in this field aim to balance creditor rights, the interests of distressed companies, and broader economic stability. Procedures cover both judicial and extrajudicial recovery, judicial bankruptcy, and the liquidation of assets.

Why You May Need a Lawyer

Legal advice is crucial when dealing with restructuring and insolvency matters, especially in Sao Paulo where businesses often interact with creditors, employees, and regulatory agencies. You might require a lawyer if you:

  • Own or manage a company facing financial difficulties or cash flow problems
  • Are a creditor seeking to recover debts from an insolvent entity
  • Need to understand your rights and obligations during a judicial recovery or bankruptcy process
  • Are involved in negotiating with creditors to avoid formal insolvency proceedings
  • Are exposed to potential asset seizure or enforcement actions
  • Suspect fraudulent activity or irregularities in insolvency proceedings
  • Need to protect employment rights during company restructuring
  • Represent foreign creditors or have cross-border interests affected by insolvency

Each of these situations raises intricate legal questions best addressed with professional guidance to ensure compliance with the law and maximize your interests.

Local Laws Overview

Brazil’s primary statutes governing restructuring and insolvency are Law No. 11,101/2005 (the Bankruptcy and Corporate Recovery Law) and relevant provisions in the Brazilian Civil Code and Commercial Code. Sao Paulo courts frequently handle some of the country's most significant and complex insolvency cases, often setting precedent for the rest of Brazil.

  • Judicial Reorganization (Recuperação Judicial): A court-supervised process allowing a financially distressed company to negotiate and restructure its debts, aiming to preserve the business and protect jobs.
  • Extrajudicial Reorganization (Recuperação Extrajudicial): An out-of-court process for restructuring with creditor agreement, which can be made judicially enforceable if approved.
  • Bankruptcy (Falência): Initiated when a company is unable to recover, leading to the sale of assets to pay creditors in a specific order defined by law.
  • Creditor Rights: Creditors can participate in meetings, propose plans, and influence the course of insolvency proceedings.
  • Labor and Tax Claims: Employees and tax authorities enjoy a privileged position in the bankruptcy estate, with their rights protected by labor and tax laws.

Recent amendments occurring in 2020 have introduced modernizations, expanded restructuring options, and clarified cross-border insolvency procedures. All these requirements are administered by specialized business courts in Sao Paulo.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between judicial and extrajudicial recovery?

Judicial recovery occurs under court supervision and involves all creditors, while extrajudicial recovery is negotiated with creditors outside court and later ratified by a judge if necessary.

When can a company file for judicial reorganization in Sao Paulo?

A company can seek judicial reorganization if it has operated for at least two years and faces genuine financial distress but still has a feasible recovery plan to preserve business activities.

How does the bankruptcy process start in Brazil?

Bankruptcy is usually initiated by creditors or the debtor, upon proof of insolvency, by filing a petition with the business courts, which may grant an order for asset liquidation.

What happens to employees during company insolvency proceedings?

Employee rights are protected by law, often enjoying priority in payments. Salaries, severance, and related benefits are usually paid first from the liquidation of assets.

How are creditors ranked in insolvency proceedings?

Creditors are ranked in a statutory order: labor creditors first, then secured creditors, tax authorities, unsecured creditors, and finally shareholders.

Can individuals declare bankruptcy in Sao Paulo?

Brazilian law currently provides for corporate bankruptcy and reorganization but does not have provisions for personal bankruptcy of individuals not engaged in business.

Are foreign creditors protected in Sao Paulo insolvency cases?

Yes. Foreign creditors and contracts are recognized in São Paulo proceedings. Recent legal reforms provide mechanisms for cross-border cooperation and recognition.

What is the role of the judicial administrator?

The judicial administrator assists the court by overseeing the collection and sale of assets, administering the bankruptcy estate, and ensuring compliance with procedures.

How long do insolvency proceedings typically last?

The duration varies, but judicial recovery can last several years depending on the complexity, while bankruptcy procedures may take even longer due to the need to liquidate assets and resolve disputes.

Can companies continue to operate during judicial recovery?

Yes. The main purpose of judicial recovery is to preserve jobs and business operations while the company restructures its debts under court supervision.

Additional Resources

If you need further information or assistance regarding restructuring and insolvency in Sao Paulo, consider the following resources:

  • Commercial Courts of Sao Paulo (Tribunal de Justiça de São Paulo - Varas Empresariais)
  • Brazilian Bar Association - Sao Paulo Section (OAB/SP)
  • Instituto Brasileiro de Estudos de Recuperação de Empresas (IBR)
  • Ministry of Economy - Department of Registry and Business Integration (DREI)
  • Local chambers of commerce and trade associations
  • Legal aid organizations offering guidance to small businesses and entrepreneurs

Next Steps

If you or your business is encountering financial challenges or you are a creditor in an insolvency proceeding, it is important to consult with a qualified restructuring and insolvency lawyer in Sao Paulo. A lawyer with experience in this sector can:

  • Assess your financial and legal situation
  • Explain your rights, risks, and options under local law
  • Help you prepare the necessary documentation
  • Represent you in negotiations or court proceedings
  • Advise on cross-border or complex multi-party scenarios

Start by gathering all relevant financial records and correspondence with creditors or debtors. Schedule a consultation with a reputable law firm or legal professional specialized in restructuring and insolvency in Sao Paulo to develop a plan of action that suits your needs.

Lawzana helps you find the best lawyers and law firms in Sao Paulo 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 Sao Paulo, Brazil - 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.