Best Restructuring & Insolvency Lawyers in Tokyo

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Founded in 1959
English
Abe, Ikubo & Katayama Law Firm is a Tokyo-based leader in intellectual property law, handling patent infringement litigation, portfolio management and IP strategy across a wide range of sectors. The firm has strong technical knowledge in pharmaceuticals, chemicals, biotechnology, electronics and...

Founded in 2021
50 people in their team
Japanese
English
Tokyo Kokusai Partners Law Office (TKP Law) was established in January 2021 by attorneys and paralegals who have been specialising in foreign and international matters.TKP Law aims to create a tolerant and symbiotic society that is suitable for today’s global society by gathering the wisdom of...
Saitotomoka Law Office
Tokyo, Japan

Founded in 2009
1 person in their team
English
Saito Tomoka Law Office is a Tokyo-based practice established in April 2009 and led by a single attorney, Tomoka Saito. The firm handles a broad range of civil, criminal, family and debt matters, rather than pursuing a single specialization.Established to address diverse legal needs, the firm...

7 people in their team
English
HIFUMI Law is a Tokyo based law firm that provides expertise across regulatory affairs, corporate crisis management, and dispute resolution. The firm counsels financial institutions and fintech entities on compliance with financial regulations, governance, and risk management while advising on debt...
Kuretake Law Office
Tokyo, Japan

Founded in 1998
5 people in their team
English
Kuretake Law Office, established in April 1998 in Tokyo, provides comprehensive legal services across family, corporate, and dispute resolution matters. The firm has earned a reputation for practical, client focused advocacy and for delivering reliable guidance through complex legal issues in Japan...
Tozai Sogo Law Office
Tokyo, Japan

Founded in 1994
10 people in their team
English
Tozai Sogo Law Office is a Tokyo-based law firm that delivers cost-effective, high-quality legal services for business clients. Its practice encompasses general corporate matters, international corporate transactions, outsourced in-house legal department services, and employment law, with bilingual...

4 people in their team
English
Meguro International Law Office offers cross border family law representation with a focus on international divorce and Hague Convention matters. The firm draws on deep experience handling cases with international elements, including jurisdiction and choice of law issues, to secure practical and...

Founded in 2019
40 people in their team
English
TKI is a Tokyo based law firm with a growing global footprint that concentrates on cross-border corporate matters and international disputes. Founded in 2019 with five lawyers, the firm operates from Tokyo and Singapore to serve clients across Asia and beyond, delivering coordinated advice for...

Founded in 1967
2,300 people in their team
Japanese
English
Five decades ago, while at lunch in a South Florida deli, attorneys Larry J. Hoffman, Mel Greenberg, and Robert Traurig saw an opportunity to establish a new breed of law firm for South Florida; a firm that mirrored a New York style firm. In 1967, they founded the law firm Greenberg Traurig...

Founded in 2000
English
Founded in 2000, Nakashima Law Office is a Tokyo based, international maritime and corporate law practice led by Katsumi Nakashima. Drawing on experience from Nishimura & Sanada and a long standing association with the Law Office of T. Mark Halpern, the firm provides expertise across corporate...
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About Restructuring & Insolvency Law in Tokyo, Japan

Restructuring and insolvency law in Tokyo, Japan involves the legal processes and frameworks that help businesses and individuals address financial difficulties. This area of law is designed to provide fair solutions for debtors who cannot meet their financial obligations and to protect the rights of creditors. Japan's restructuring and insolvency system emphasizes corporate rehabilitation, legal reorganization, debt restructuring, and in severe cases, liquidation. Whether preventing bankruptcy or dealing with insolvency proceedings, understanding your rights and obligations under Japanese law is essential for making informed decisions.

Why You May Need a Lawyer

Seeking the assistance of a lawyer in restructuring and insolvency matters is crucial for various reasons. Common situations where legal help is needed include:

  • You or your company are facing severe financial distress and are unable to pay debts when due
  • You need guidance on voluntary or court-ordered restructuring options like corporate rehabilitation or civil rehabilitation proceedings
  • Creditors are taking legal action or threatening foreclosure
  • You want to negotiate with creditors for debt restructuring, moratoriums, or settlements
  • There is a risk of personal liability as a director or key stakeholder in a company
  • Legal advice is needed regarding bankruptcy filing, liquidation, or asset protection
  • You are a creditor seeking to recover debts from insolvent companies or individuals
  • Complex cross-border debts or international insolvency issues arise

A lawyer can help you navigate complex legal requirements, protect your interests, and increase the likelihood of a favorable outcome during financial distress or insolvency.

Local Laws Overview

Key aspects of restructuring and insolvency law in Tokyo, Japan include several statutes and processes:

  • Corporate Reorganization Act (Kaisha Kousei Hou): Focuses on large corporation rehabilitation through court-supervised restructuring plans.
  • Civil Rehabilitation Act (Minji Saisei Hou): Allows companies of all sizes as well as individuals to reorganize under court protection and reschedule debts.
  • Bankruptcy Act (Hasan Hou): Deals with the liquidation of insolvent individuals or companies under court oversight.
  • Special Liquidation: Provides for the efficient liquidation of companies outside of full bankruptcy proceedings, often chosen for less complex cases.
  • Out-of-court Workouts: Privately mediated agreements with creditors, often with the help of intermediaries like the Small and Medium Enterprise Agency (SMEA).

Japanese law requires the involvement of courts for formal insolvency proceedings, but also encourages voluntary or mediated settlements before formal insolvency is declared. Local regulations in Tokyo may add specific requirements when real estate or special local assets are involved. The Japanese legal system places a strong emphasis on protecting viable businesses and maximizing asset distribution to creditors in an orderly manner.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between bankruptcy and rehabilitation in Japan?

Bankruptcy in Japan usually refers to liquidation, where a debtor's assets are sold to pay off creditors. Rehabilitation, on the other hand, seeks to reorganize the debtor's finances and allow business to continue, often under a court-approved plan.

Can personal debts be restructured in Japan?

Yes, individuals can file for civil rehabilitation to reorganize their debts, or use personal bankruptcy proceedings if repayment is impossible.

What protection does court-supervised restructuring provide?

Court-supervised restructuring freezes creditor actions during the process, providing relief to the debtor and an opportunity to propose a repayment plan.

How long do insolvency proceedings usually take in Tokyo?

The timeline varies depending on the case complexity. Corporate restructuring may take from several months to more than a year. Liquidation and bankruptcy can also take months or longer, depending on asset and debt complexity.

Are business owners personally liable for business debts?

Generally, company owners (such as shareholders of a kabushiki kaisha) are not personally liable. However, personal guarantees, mismanagement, or certain statutory liabilities may make owners personally responsible.

Can creditors pursue legal action during restructuring?

Once court proceedings for rehabilitation or reorganization begin, creditors cannot independently collect debts or seize assets, unless permitted by the court.

What are the costs involved in filing for insolvency or restructuring?

Costs include court fees, legal and advisory fees, and administrator expenses. The specific amount depends on the type and complexity of the case.

Can foreign creditors participate in Japanese insolvency proceedings?

Yes, foreign creditors can participate but must follow local legal procedures. Representation through lawyers is often advisable.

Is out-of-court settlement an option in Japan?

Yes, out-of-court workouts are encouraged for simpler or less severe financial situations, often facilitated by local agencies or private mediation.

What happens to employees during corporate insolvency?

Employees' rights are generally protected, and unpaid wages have priority in asset distribution. Specific measures depend on the type of legal proceeding.

Additional Resources

If you need more information or direct support regarding restructuring and insolvency in Tokyo, consider the following resources:

  • Tokyo District Court - Insolvency Division
  • Japan Federation of Bar Associations (Nichibenren)
  • Small and Medium Enterprise Agency (SMEA) - Guidance for business restructuring
  • Japanese Association of Turnaround Professionals
  • Local legal aid centers (Houterasu)
  • Japan Legal Support Center (for individuals and small businesses)

Next Steps

If you find yourself or your company facing financial difficulties, early action is critical. Consider the following steps:

  • Gather all relevant financial documents, including debt statements and asset lists
  • Assess the severity and cause of your financial problems
  • Consult with an experienced restructuring and insolvency lawyer in Tokyo
  • Discuss available legal options, including out-of-court vs. court-supervised solutions
  • Follow your lawyer's guidance regarding creditor negotiations, asset management, and legal filings
  • If necessary, enroll in local support or mediation services for additional guidance

The sooner you seek legal advice, the more options are likely to be available to you. A local lawyer with expertise in restructuring and insolvency can help navigate complex legal requirements, reduce risks, and protect your interests during challenging times.

Lawzana helps you find the best lawyers and law firms in Tokyo 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.

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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.