Restructuring, Insolvency, & Special Situations (“RISS”)

SFGH Partners Mark Melickian and Michael Brandess served as co-Editor in Chief and Contributing Editor for ABI book, “Chapter 12 from A to Z: A Guide to Bankruptcies of Family Farmers and Family Fishermen.”

Mark Melickian served as co-Editor in Chief and Michael Brandess served as Contributing Editor for the ABI’s first full-length treatise on Chapter 12 of the Bankruptcy Code.  The book offers a comprehensive look at an important but often overlooked chapter of the Bankruptcy Code that is available only to family-run farms and fishing operations.  The book was published in hard cover and electronic format in December 2021.  

The March edition of the TMA Newsletter celebrates 30 years of the existence of the Chicago/Midwest Chapter of the TMA.

The March edition of the TMA Newsletter celebrates 30 years of the existence of the Chicago/Midwest Chapter of the TMA. Past and current Chapter Presidents are featured on the cover, including SFGH's Chris Horvay and Norm Newman. 

Norm Newman served as President in 2008. Norm said of his time as president: “The most memorable aspect of my involvement with TMA has been the close professional and personal relationships I have developed over the years with people who are extremely passionate and dedicated to the TMA and to the industry in which we practice.”

Chris Horvay served as President from 1997 to 1998. Chris commented that the "growth [of TMA] has been enormous and constant and has gone through several different phases . . . I have really gotten to know a bunch of people really well and have been lucky enough to have become friends with them."

Mark Melickian and Hajar Jouglaf publish “The ABCs of Assignments for the Benefit of Creditors (ABCs)” in The Bankruptcy Strategist and Law.com

Mark Melickian and Hajar Jouglaf publish “The ABCs of Assignments for the Benefit of Creditors (ABCs)” in The Bankruptcy Strategist and Law.com.

Lisa Vandesteeg and Katie Nadro publish article entitled “Information Security and Privacy Best Practices in the Age of Pandemic” in the Journal of Corporate Renewal, the official publication of the Turnaround Management Association (TMA)

Lisa Vandesteeg and Katie Nadro publish article entitled “Information Security and Privacy Best Practices in the Age of Pandemic” in the Journal of Corporate Renewal, the official publication of the Turnaround Management Association (TMA). 

Jonathan Friedland and Hajar Jouglaf’s article entitled “Small Business Reorganization Act of 2019” published in BankruptcyData's 2020 Bankruptcy Yearbook, Almanac & Directory

Jonathan Friedland and Hajar Jouglaf’s article entitled “Small Business Reorganization Act of 2019” published in BankruptcyData's 2020 Bankruptcy Yearbook, Almanac & Directory. 

Family Business Magazine publishes article co-authored by Michael Brandess entitled, “Practical Steps You Can Take to Help Your Business Survive COVID-19”

Family Business Magazine publishes article co-authored by Michael Brandess entitled, “Practical Steps You Can Take to Help Your Business Survive COVID-19”

UPDATE – SFGH Client Alert – Illinois Secretary of State Extends Deadlines for UCC Filings and Annual Reports for Corporations, LLCs, and Other Business Entities in Response to COVID-19

UPDATE – SFGH Client Alert – Illinois Secretary of State Extends Deadlines for UCC Filings and Annual Reports for Corporations, LLCs, and Other Business Entities in Response to COVID-19. 

Sugar Felsenthal Grais & Helsinger partner Jonathan Friedland published in Private Directors Association May Newsletter

Sugar Felsenthal Grais & Helsinger partner Jonathan Friedland wrote an article for the Private Directors Association entitled “Don't Shoot the Messenger, But Your Company May Be Insolvent. What Do You Do Now?”

“You Will Survive! How Your Business Will Survive Coronavirus – a Crisis Management Plan”

Can your business survive? In a word – yes. While most businesses will suffer, and many will fail, yours can survive. SFGH partner Jonathan Friedland and law clerk Kyle Fleck authored “You Will Survive! How Your Business Will Survive Coronavirus – a Crisis Management Plan” to give business owners insight on what they can do, what they should do, today, tomorrow, and next week to best position their businesses to survive during the COVID-19 crisis, and to ultimately thrive when the economy begins to recover.

Mark Melickian guides COVID-19 impacted businesses on how to access emergency cash in “Protect Your Business from Coronavirus with a Disaster Assistance Loan”

Has Coronavirus (COVID-19) made it challenging for your business to make payroll, maintain inventory, or pay your creditors? The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) will offer low-interest loans to businesses impacted by COVID-19 to help overcome the temporary loss of revenue businesses are facing. SFGH’s Restructuring, Insolvency, and Special Situations (“RISS”) head Mark Melickian advises businesses to jump on these opportunities now in his article “Protect Your Business from Coronavirus with a Disaster Assistance Loan.” 

SFGH Partner Lisa Vandesteeg authors cover article for the American Bankruptcy Institute Journal entitled, “Technology and Legal Ethics: A User’s Manual (Part I)"

The cover of the February 2020 issue of the American Bankruptcy Institute Journal features an article authored by Lisa Vandesteeg entitled “Technology and Legal Ethics: A User’s Manual (Part I)” –  the first in a two-part series discussing the fundamentals of the intersection of cybersecurity and ethics for bankruptcy attorneys. The article in ABI’s February issue discusses the key ethical rules in the realm of technology and data security. The second article, appearing in a later issue, will provide guidance as to the best practices with respect to securing and transferring client data and the necessary steps law firms must take to notify clients in the event of a data breach or loss of client information.  

SFGH Partner Jack O'Connor named Vice Chair of 2020 TMA NextGen Global Committee

SFGH is proud to announce that Jack O’Connor, a partner in the firm’s Restructuring, Insolvency, Special Situations, & Corporate Distress Group has been named Vice Chair for the Turnaround Management Association’s Global NextGen Committee for 2020.

Brewbound Voices: Understanding Your Options in a Distressed Market — Alternatives to Filing for Bankruptcy

SFGH attorney Jack O’Connor recently authored an article for Brewbound, a leading beer industry trade publication, regarding alternatives to bankruptcy filings in a mature beer marketplace. The article, published in the “Brewbound Voices” column on the site, discusses specific strategies and alternatives for breweries in distress, citing recent examples of breweries opting not to file bankruptcy, and work to wind down their operations or otherwise continue their businesses by alternative means. The article provides an overview of asset sales, assignments for the benefit of creditors, receiverships, as well as other bankruptcy alternatives.

Jonathan Friedland and Hajar Jouglaf author article entitled “Bankruptcy Code Revised – A Review of the SBRA and Other Reforms”

Jonathan Friedland and Hajar Jouglaf authored an article reviewing the most recent changes made to the Bankruptcy Code. The article, entitled “Bankruptcy Code Revised – A Review of the SBRA and Other Reforms,” provides insight into key provisions of the Small Business Reorganization Act of 2019 (“SBRA”) and high-level overview of The Family Farmer Relief Act of 2019 (“FFRA”) and The Honoring American Veterans in Extreme Need Act of 2019 (the “HAVEN Act”). 

Sugar Felsenthal Grais & Helsinger partner Jonathan Friedland quoted in article titled “How to Choose the Best Professional Associations to Join”

With many career benefits to joining a professional association and a nearly unlimited network of professionals to tap into, how do you choose which organization is the best fit for you? SFGH partner Jonathan Friedland was recently quoted in the article “How to Choose the Best Professional Associations to Join,” published in Point Road Group Insider. 

SFGH partner Elizabeth “Lisa” Vandesteeg quoted in article titled “Litigation Funders Become the Litigants as Industry Grows”

Sugar Felsenthal Grais & Helsinger partner Lisa Vandesteeg was recently quoted in the American Lawyer Magazine for the article "Litigation Funders Become the Litigants as Industry Grows." In this article, Lisa Vandesteeg provided commentary on recent litigation over its permitted use. 

Jonathan Friedland’s article entitled "Rise of the Alternatives" published in BankruptcyData's 2019 Bankruptcy Yearbook, Almanac & Directory

Sugar Felsenthal Grais & Helsinger partner Jonathan Friedland recently authored the article "Rise of the Alternatives" in BankruptcyData's 2019 Bankruptcy Yearbook, Almanac & Directory. 

SFGH partners Henry C. Krasnow and Michael A. Brandess publish article in Family Business Magazine entitled “Helping Your Family and Business Through Challenging Economic Times”

The May/June 2019 issue of Family Business Magazine featured an article written by SFGH partners Henry C. Krasnow and Michael A. Brandess entitled “Helping Your Family and Business Through Challenging Economic Times.” The article provides advice for family business owners in times of financial distress. 

Sugar Felsenthal Grais & Helsinger partner Jonathan Friedland published in Private Directors Association May Newsletter – “What to Do When You're a Corporate Director of a Private Company Facing a Financial Crisis”

Sugar Felsenthal Grais & Helsinger partner Jonathan Friedland wrote an article for the Private Directors Association entitled “What to Do When You're a Corporate Director of a Private Company Facing a Financial Crisis.” In this article, Jonathan discusses the actions you should consider when a company whose board you sit on is facing an existential threat. 

SFGH partner Michael A. Brandess published in Northern District of Illinois Bankruptcy Liaison Committee Newsletter

SFGH partner Michael A. Brandess was published in the Northern District of Illinois Bankruptcy Liaison Committee Newsletter for his article entitled "Bankruptcy Liaison Questionnaire." 

SFGH Partner Henry Krasnow recently authored two articles: “The Family Business Consultant and the Family Enterprise Lawyer: Some Thoughts on a More Productive Collaboration” and “Five Ways to Get More From Lawyers”

SFGH Partner Henry Krasnow recently authored an article for the Wednesday, March 20, 2019, weekly edition of the FFI | Practitioner entitled “The Family Business Consultant and the Family Enterprise Lawyer: Some Thoughts on a More Productive Collaboration.” He also wrote an article for the March 2019 monthly newsletter for the Chicago Private Directors Association entitled “Five Ways to Get More from Lawyers.” 

Congratulations to SFGH partners Jonathan P. Friedland and Elizabeth B. Vandesteeg on their recent publication in Thomson Reuters' 2018 edition of the treatise Strategic Alternatives For and Against Distressed Businesses, 2018 ed.

Congratulations to SFGH partners Jonathan P. Friedland and Elizabeth B. Vandesteeg on their recent publication in Thomson Reuters' 2018 edition of the treatise Strategic Alternatives For and Against Distressed Businesses, 2018 ed. 

SFGH congratulates partners Jonathan Friedland and Lisa Vandesteeg on Thomson Reuters publication of the 2018 edition Commercial Bankruptcy Litigation, 2d.

SFGH congratulates partners Jonathan Friedland and Lisa Vandesteeg on Thomson Reuters publication of the 2018 edition Commercial Bankruptcy Litigation, 2d.

On January 18, 2018, SFGH associate Jack O’Connor was quoted in an article published by Brewbound.

On January 18, 2018, SFGH associate Jack O’Connor was quoted in an article published by Brewbound, a beer industry publication, regarding the bank auction of Smuttynose Brewery, scheduled to take place in March 2018. Jack was cited for his experience as a corporate restructuring professional with a specific interest in, and knowledge of, the craft beverage industry.

Aaron Hammer and Jeffrey Goldberg author article entitled “Chapter 15 Bankruptcy – A Powerful Tool for Cross-Border Distressed Entities” published by The Decalogue Society of Lawyers bi-annual magazine Tablets

The Decalogue Society of Lawyers Fall 2017 edition of its Tablets print publication includes an article authored by Aaron Hammer and Jeffrey Goldberg.  The article, entitled, “Chapter 15 Bankruptcy – A Powerful Tool for Cross-Border Distressed Entities” discussing Chapter 15 of the Bankruptcy Code as an option for distressed international businesses.

American Bar Association publishes third revised version of Reorganizing Failing Businesses treatise featuring chapters co-authored by five Sugar Felsenthal Grais & Hammer LLP partners.

The American Bar Association published its Reorganizing Failing Businesses treatise, which included chapters entitled, “United States Securities Laws Implications of Corporate Restructurings” co-authored by Aaron L. Hammer, Mark S. Melickian and Etahn M. Cohen and “Financing a Chapter 11 Case: Debtor-in-Possession Financing” co-authored by Jonathan P. Friedland and Elizabeth B. Vandesteeg.

Michael Brandess and Jonathan Friedland author cover article in the Law Journal Equipment Leasing Newsletter entitled, “Equipment Lessors and Bankruptcy”

The cover of the July 2017 issue of the Law Journal Equipment Leasing Newsletter includes an article written by Michael Brandess and Jonathan Friedland entitled, “Equipment Lessors and Bankruptcy.”  The article discusses key bankruptcy provisions and strategy concerns for equipment lessors once a lessee has filed for bankruptcy.

Michael Brandess co-authors an article entitled "Dealing with Distress for Fun & Profit - How to Protect your Claim" on DailyDAC's website.

Michael Brandess co-authors an article published on DailyDAC’s commercial bankruptcy litigation website entitled “Dealing with Distress for Fun & Profit – How to Protect Your Claim.”  The article reviews how creditors can protect and prosecute their claims during bankruptcy.

Preference Update – New Take on Key Provision of Preference Statute May Provide Additional Defense to Trade Creditors by S. Jason Teele, Esq. and Nicole Stefanelli, Esq.

Bankruptcy trustees have the power to avoid and recover certain payments to creditors that were made in the 90 days (12 months for insiders) prior to the filing of a bankruptcy petition. In a majority of cases, demands and lawsuits to recover allegedly preferential transfers are a thorn in the side of trade creditors, who in good faith supply goods and services on credit to companies that are or may be in financial distress. In order to avoid a preferential transfer, the bankruptcy trustee must prove that the payment: (1) was to or for the benefit of a creditor; (2) was for or on account of an antecedent debt owed by the debtor before such transfer was made; (3) was made while the debtor was insolvent; (4) was made on or within 90 days before the petition date; and (5) enabled the recipient to receive more than the recipient would have received if case were a case under chapter 7, the transfer had not been made, and the creditor received payment of such debt to the extent provided under the Bankruptcy Code.

Michael Brandess co-authors article published on DailyDAC entitled “An introduction to chapter 11 for unsecured creditors: What every unsecured creditor should know”

Michael Brandess recently co-authored an article published on DailyDAC’s commercial bankruptcy litigation website entitled “An introduction to chapter 11 for unsecured creditors: What every unsecured creditor should know.”  The article discusses tips and tricks of the trade for creditors to employ during the initial stages of a bankruptcy filing in order to protect its claim.

Jonathan Friedland and Lisa Vandesteeg author 2017 edition of "Commercial Bankruptcy Litigation, 2d".

Sugar Felsenthal Grais & Hammer LLP is pleased to congratulate Jonathan Friedland and Elizabeth Vandesteeg on the publication of the 2017 edition of "Commercial Bankruptcy Litigation, 2d".  Friedland is the book’s creator and editor in chief and Vandesteeg, is one if its managing editors. 

One of West Publishing’s best-selling titles since 2009, and weighing in at more than 1,600 pages, Commercial Bankruptcy Litigation is the result of an effort of more than 50 restructuring professionals, including partners from more than 20 distinguished firms.

Jonathan Friedland and Lisa Vandesteeg author 2017 edition of "Strategic Alternatives for and Against Distressed Businesses".

Sugar Felsenthal Grais & Hammer LLP is pleased to congratulate Jonathan Friedland and Elizabeth Vandesteeg on the publication of the 2017 edition of "Strategic Alternatives for and Against Distressed Businesses".  Friedland is the book’s creator and editor in chief and Vandesteeg is one if its managing editors.  SFGH attorneys who authored chapters include Aaron Hammer, Christopher Horvay, S. Jason Teele, and Nicole Stefanelli.

Mark Melickian authors “Mission Impossible? Addressing WARN Act Liability in Liquidating Mid-Market Cases” in the Bankruptcy Strategist

The January 2017 issue of the Bankruptcy Strategist published an article by Mark Melickian entitled, “Mission Impossible?  Addressing WARN Act Liability in Liquidating Mid-Market Cases.” 

S. Jason Teele, Jack O'Connor and Michael Brandess publish article entitled, "The Effectiveness of Creditors’ Committees in Chapter 11 May Be Under Attack" in DailyDAC

The Delaware Bankruptcy Court has ruled that Committee professional fees are not limited to the amount of the “carve-out” approved as part of a postpetition financing order.

David Madden publishes article on Commercial Bankruptcy Alternatives entitled, “Corporate Debtors’ Attorney Client Privilege in the Hands of the Bankruptcy Trustee”

SFGH attorney David Madden’s article, “Corporate Debtors’ Attorney Client Privilege in the Hands of the Bankruptcy Trustee”, was recently published by Commercial Bankruptcy Alternatives.

Tricia Schwallier and Michael Brandess author article entitled “Ponzi Scheme Lender May Be On The Hook, After All!” on Commercial Bankruptcy Investor website

On November 21, 2016, Commercial Bankruptcy Investor, a DailyDAC website, published an article written by Tricia Schwallier and Michael Brandess entitled “Ponzi Scheme Lender May Be On The Hook, After All!” 

Jack O'Connor publishes "Using Bankruptcy to Kill the Narrative of the 'Craft Beer Bubble'" in October 2016 issue of Mash Tun

SFGH congratulates its own Jack O'Connor on the publication of "Using Bankruptcy to Kill the Narrative of the 'Craft Beer Bubble'" in Mash Tun, an independent publication focused on addressing business issues in the craft beer industry. Jack's article discusses the maturation of the craft beer industry in the U.S., and how chapter 11 bankruptcy filings can be viewed as an indicator of a mature or maturing industry.

Elizabeth (Lisa) Vandesteeg and Tricia Schwallier author article entitled “Supplier! Can Your Unpaid Administrative Claim Be Setoff Against Your Preference Liability?” on Commercial Bankruptcy Litigation, a DailyDac website.

On November 14, 2016, Commercial Bankruptcy Litigation, a DailyDac website, published an article written by Elizabeth (Lisa) Vandesteeg and Tricia Schwallier entitled “Supplier! Can Your Unpaid Administrative Claim Be Setoff Against Your Preference Liability?”

Mark Melickian authors article published in The Bankruptcy Strategist entitled, "The Troubled Energy and Production (Oil and Gas) Sector"

The September 2016 issue of The Bankruptcy Strategist includes an article authored by Mark Melickian entitled, "The Troubled Energy and Production (Oil and Gas) Sector."

Elizabeth (Lisa) Vandesteeg and Tricia Schwallier author article on the DailyDac's Commercial Bankruptcy Alternatives website entitled, “Optimizing Corporate Workouts with Independent Directors and Special Committees.”

The Commercial Bankruptcy Alternatives website features an article authored by Elizabeth (Lisa) Vandesteeg and Tricia Schwallier entitled, “Optimizing Corporate Workouts with Independent Directors and Special Committees.”

Jonathan Friedland co-authors article titled, “Dealing with Distress for Fun & Profit – Stay Relief Strategy?”

Daily Dac’s Commercial Bankruptcy Litigation website features an article co-authored by Jonathan Friedland titled, “Dealing with Distress for Fun & Profit – Stay Relief Strategy?”

Lisa Vandesteeg Elected to Bankruptcy Court Liaison Committee for Northern District of Illinois

Sugar Felsenthal Grais & Hammer LLP (SFGH) partner, Lisa Vandesteeg, has been elected to the Bankruptcy Court Liaison Committee for the Northern District of Illinois.

Transparency Is Key – Firms targeting fellow restructuring professionals’ disinterestedness to gain leverage

Tricia Schwallier authored article “Transparency Is Key – Firms targeting fellow restructuring professionals’ disinterestedness to gain leverage” on the Commercial Bankruptcy Litigation website.

Jonathan Friedland co-authors article titled, “Dealing with Distress for Fun & Profit – Is Stay Relief Necessary?”

Daily Dac’s Commercial Bankruptcy Litigation website features an article co-authored by Jonathan Friedland titled, “Dealing with Distress for Fun & Profit – Is Stay Relief Necessary?”

Sugar Felsenthal Grais & Hammer LLP opens NYC office

On June 1, 2016 Sugar Felsenthal Grais & Hammer LLP (SFGH) announced the opening of its New York office

Sugar Felsenthal Grais & Hammer LLP is pleased to announce Commercial Bankruptcy Litigation (West, 2016) was recently released. Partners Jonathan Friedland and Elizabeth Vandesteeg serve as its lead authors.

Sugar Felsenthal Grais & Hammer LLP is pleased to announce Commercial Bankruptcy Litigation (West, 2016) was recently released.  Partners Jonathan Friedland and Elizabeth Vandesteeg serve as its lead authors. Commercial Bankruptcy Litigation, 2016 edition, is a comprehensive guide for non-bankruptcy experts to understand the ins and outs of Chapter 11. 

Mark Melickian publishes article in the February 2016 edition of The Bankruptcy Strategist, a Law Journal Newsletter, entitled, “A Cure By Any Other Name.”

The February 2016 issue of The Bankruptcy Strategist, a Law Journal Newsletter, features an article by Mark Melickian entitled, “A Cure By Any Other Name.”

ABF Journal highlights Sugar Felsenthal Grais & Hammer LLP in article entitled, “Inside the Award-Winning AgFeed Industries Turnaround”

The October 2015 issue of the ABF Journal highlights Sugar Felsenthal Grais & Hammer LLP's role as co-counsel to the Official Committee of Equity Security Holders in In re AgFeed USA, LLC, et al. (Bankr. D. Del.).

Mark S. Melickian authors opening chapters of A Guide for Nonprofit Organizations: Bankruptcy Issues (2014) published by The Law Project

Mark S. Melickian authored the opening chapters of The Nonprofit Bankruptcy Guide published by The Law Project.

Sugar Felsenthal Grais & Hammer LLP highlighted by Law 360 for successful confirmation of plan of liquidation in AgFeed USA, LLC (Bankr. D. Del.)

On November 4, 2014, Sugar Felsenthal Grais & Hammer LLP, as co-counsel to the Official Committee of Equity Security Holders, assisted the Debtors in confirming a plan of liquidation in AgFeed USA, LLC, et al. (Bankr. D. Del.).

ABI Journal features article by Etahn M. Cohen and Myles R. MacDonald entitled “Rights of First Refusal: Contending with Rejection”

The October 2014 edition of the ABI Journal includes a feature article entitled, "Rights of First Refusal: Contending with Rejection," authored by Etahn M. Cohen and Myles R. MacDonald.

M&A Advisor Awards "Consumer and Retail Products Deal of the Year" to Sugar Felsenthal Grais & Hammer LLP

On January 22, 2014, the M&A Advisor announced that Sugar Felsenthal Grais & Hammer LLP would receive the 8th Annual M&A Advisor Turnaround Award for "Consumer Product of the Year" for the firm's services during the successful sale of certain assets out of the bankruptcy of Natural Pork Production II, LLP to AMVC and the Handlos family.

Sugar Felsenthal Grais & Hammer LLP Among 2014's Top Ranked Law Firms by LexisNexis Martindale-Hubbell

Sugar Felsenthal Grais & Hammer LLP has been named one of 2014's Top Ranked Law Firms across the United States by LexisNexis^® Martindale-Hubbell^®  .

Sugar Felsenthal Grais & Hammer LLP recognized by Law 360 for its role as co-counsel to the Official Committee of Equity Holders of AgFeed USA, LLC (Bankr. D. Del.)

On September 12, 2013, September 25, 2013 and September 30, 2013, Law 360 published articles on the position of the Official Committee of Equity Security Holders of AgFeed USA, LLC, et al. concerning issues material to the Debtors' bankruptcy cases.  Sugar Felsenthal Grais & Hammer LLP serves as co-counsel to the Official Committee of Equity Security Holders.

Jonathan Friedland authors article titled “Buying Operating Assets from an Insolvent Seller” published in TRANSACTION ADVISORS.

Jonathan Friedland authors article titled “Will the JOBS Act Lead to More Equity Committees” published in DAILY BANKRUPTCY REVIEW.

Sugar Felsenthal Grais & Hammer LLP Named Among 2013's Top Ranked Law Firms by LexisNexis^® Martindale-Hubbell^®

Sugar Felsenthal Grais & Hammer LLP has been named one of 2013's Top Ranked Law Firms across the United States by LexisNexis^® Martindale-Hubbell^®. 

Christopher J. Horvay joins Sugar Felsenthal Grais & Hammer LLP's bankruptcy and creditors' rights practice

On November 15, 2012, Christopher J. Horvay joined Sugar Felsenthal Grais & Hammer LLP's bankruptcy and creditors' rights practice.  Chris is recognized throughout the Midwest as a senior leader in the turnaround profession.

Jonathan Friedland authors article titled “Seventh Circuit: Bankruptcy Code’s Definition of ‘Intellectual Property’ Does Not Include Trademarks” published in THE BANKRUPTCY STRATEGIST.

Lenders Given Cause to ReLAX: U.S. Supreme Court Unanimously Upholds Credit-Bidding Rights for Chapter 11 Sales in RadLAX

A discussion from Mark S. Melickian and Jack R. O'Connor in The American Bankruptcy Institute Journal on the implications of the U.S. Supreme Court's recent decision in the RadLAX bankruptcy case on credit bidding.

Jonathan Friedland authors article titled “An Alternative To A Chapter 11 Purchase” published in BUYOUTS MAGAZINE.

Enron and the Bravado Sheriff of Claims Trading

A substantive overview from Aaron L. Hammer and Michael A. Brandess in The American Bankruptcy Institute Journal on the reaction of the U.S. Bankruptcy Court for the Southern District of New York to bankruptcy claims trading during the Enron bankruptcy.

Universal Building Products: Has the Pendulum Swung Too Far?

This article by Michael A. Brandess, that first appeared inThe American Bankruptcy Institute Journal, discusses the implications of a recent decision by the U.S. Bankruptcy Court for the District of Delaware in In re Universal Building Products, Inc. in relation to the pre-bankruptcy solicitation of unsecured creditors' committees.

Jonathan Friedland authors article titled “Creditors Wouldn’t Dare. Would They?” published in BUYOUTS MAGAZINE.

Residential Real Estate in Bankruptcy

An overview over residential real estate bankruptcy including a discussion of relevant bankruptcy principles and an analysis of recent pertinent case law.

Velocity Investments: A Game-Changer for Debt Collection Litigation?

David Madden discusses the impact of an Illinois appellate court decision on credit card collection litigation. 

Claims Trading: The Wild West of Chapter 11s

In this cover article for The American Bankruptcy Institute Journal for July/August 2010, Aaron L. Hammer and Michael A. Brandess provide a substantive overview of recent issues pertaining to bankruptcy claims trading. 

Jonathan Friedland authors article titled “Buying Distressed Assets Outside of Bankruptcy - Finding Gold in the Wild West” published in BUYOUTS MAGAZINE.

Dissecting Chapter 7 Bankruptcy for Businesses

David Madden discusses what chapter 7 bankruptcy means for businesses.

Jonathan Friedland authors article titled “Alternatives to Bankruptcy” published in Smart Business Magazine, March 2009.

Jonathan Friedland authors article titled “Bankruptcy Rule Overturned” published in Inside Counsel, November 2008.

Jonathan Friedland authors article titled “Chapter 11 Filings Soar In August Amid Credit Crisis,” published in LAW360, September 10, 2008.

Jonathan Friedland authors article titled “In Bankruptcies, Private Equity Becomes the Target,” published in LAW360, August 6, 2008.

Jonathan Friedland authors article titled “Exide: A Case Study on the Paramount Role of Valuation in Corporate Restructurings” published in THE VALUE EXAMINER.

Jonathan Friedland authors article titled “To Hedge or Not to Hedge? A Good Question in Today’s Economic Times” published in DAILY BANKRUPTCY REVIEW.

Jonathan Friedland authors article titled “When Builders Go Broke” published in BusinessWeek.com, June 18, 2008.

Jonathan Friedland authors article titled “All in the Family--A Lesson in Proper Tailoring from Teleglobe” published in NORTON BANKRUPTCY LAW ADVISOR.

Jonathan Friedland authors article titled “The Paramount Role of Valuation in Corporate Restructurings” published in THE VALUE EXAMINER.

Jonathan Friedland authors article titled “The Dealmakers Guide to Buying Distressed Assets – Section 363 Sales and the Alternatives” published in NORTON ANNUAL SURVEY OF BANKRUPTCY LAW 2008.

Jonathan Friedland authors article titled “Home Builder Bankruptcies - - Some Views from the Trenches” published in DAILY BANKRUPTCY REVIEW SMALL-CAP.

Jonathan Friedland authors article titled “The Impact of New Entrants on Chapter 11 – Bankruptcy Processes Continue to Evolve” published in THE JOURNAL OF CORPORATE RENEWAL.

Jonathan Friedland authors article titled “Why Out-of-Court Restructurings Are On the Rise” published in , DAILY BANKRUPTCY REVIEW.

Jonathan Friedland authors article titled “Dealing With a Trouble Loan In Today’s Environment: Strategies and Tactics For the Traditional Lender” published in THE SECURED LENDER.

Jonathan Friedland authors article titled “Characterizing the Current State of Recharacterization: Radnor is Not All You Need to Know” published in 6 NORTON BANKR. LAW ADVISOR 2.

Jonathan Friedland authors article titled “Hedge Funds Try A New Trick: Running A Troubled Business” published in Dow Jones Daily Bankruptcy Review, April 19, 2007.

Jonathan Friedland profiled in “The Bankruptcy Strategist”, April 2007.

Jonathan Friedland authors article titled “Postconfirmation Liquidation Vehicles; (Including Liquidating Trusts and Postconfirmation Estates): An Overview” published in NORTON JOURNAL OF BANKRUPTCY LAW AND PRACTICE, Vol. 16 No. 2.

Jonathan Friedland authors article titled “Paddling Down Esopus Creek: Using Bankruptcy as a Corporate Governance Tool” published in THE CORPORATE COUNSELOR, April 2007, at 9 (Reprinted in the March, 2007 edition of THE BANKRUPTCY STRATEGIES).

Jonathan Friedland authors article titled “The Non-Uniform Reality of ‘Uniform’ Bankruptcy Laws” published in DAILY BANKRUPTCY REVIEW.

Jonathan Friedland authors article titled “Chapter 11 - “201” The Intersection of Chapter 11 and Securities Law” published in AMERICAN BANKRUPTCY INSTITUTE JOURNAL.

Jonathan Friedland authors article titled “Shades of Gray: Recent Developments That Impact Advising Directors and Officers in the Twilight Zone of Insolvency” published in NORTON ANNUAL SURVEY OF BANKRUPTCY LAW 2007 Edition.

Jonathan Friedland authors article titled “Chapter 11 - “201” The Intersection of Chapter 11 and Real Estate” published in AMERICAN BANKRUPTCY INSTITUTE JOURNAL.

Jonathan Friedland authors article titled “Chapter 11 - “201” The Intersection of Chapter 11 and Antitrust” published in AMERICAN BANKRUPTCY INSTITUTE JOURNAL.

Jonathan Friedland authors article titled “Mega-Cases Versus Mid-Market Restructurings” published in DAILY BANKRUPTCY REVIEW SMALL-CAP.

Jonathan Friedland authors article titled “A Look Back and Look Ahead: Keep Relaxing and Resting” published in DAILY BANKRUPTCY REVIEW.

Jonathan Friedland authors article titled “The Sum and Substance of Substantive Consolidation” published in NORTON ANNUAL SURVEY OF BANKRUPTCY LAW, 2006 Edition.

Jonathan Friedland authors article titled “The Middle Kingdom’s Chapter 11? China’s New Bankruptcy Law Comes into Sight” published in AMERICAN BANKRUPTCY INSTITUTE JOURNAL.

Jonathan Friedland authors article titled “Chapter 11 - “101” - Confirming a Plan” published in AMERICAN BANKRUPTCY INSTITUTE JOURNAL.

Jonathan Friedland authors article titled “Security and Priorities,” published in PLC RESTRUCTURING AND INSOLVENCY 2005/06 (COUNTRY Q&A UNITED STATES).

Jonathan Friedland authors article titled “‘Deal Doing’ for Restructuring Professionals” published in THE BANKRUPTCY STRATEGIST.

Jonathan Friedland authors article titled “Chapter 11: Not Perfect, but Better than the Alternative” published in AMERICAN BANKRUPTCY INSTITUTE JOURNAL.

Jonathan Friedland authors article titled “Chapter 11 - “101” - Bankruptcy Appeals” published in AMERICAN BANKRUPTCY INSTITUTE JOURNAL.

Jonathan Friedland authors article titled “Chapter 11 - “101” - Confirmation Is Not the End of the Case” published in AMERICAN BANKRUPTCY INSTITUTE JOURNAL.

Jonathan Friedland authors article titled “Bankruptcy Law Reform - New KERP Payment Restrictions Show Democrats’ Influence” published in DAILY BANKRUPTCY REVIEW.

Jonathan Friedland authors article titled “Bankruptcy Law Reform - Amended Code Demands More Cash From Debtors In Ch. 11” published in DAILY BANKRUPTCY REVIEW.

Jonathan Friedland authors article titled “Bankruptcy Law Reform - Congress Tells Bankruptcy Participants: ‘We Don’t Trust You,’” published in DAILY BANKRUPTCY REVIEW.

Jonathan Friedland authors article titled “Bankruptcy Law Reform - Code Revisions Of ‘Special’ Interest To Businesses” published in DAILY BANKRUPTCY REVIEW.

Jonathan Friedland authors article titled “Bankruptcy Law Reform - The New Bankruptcy Code - A Solution In Search Of A Problem?” published in DAILY BANKRUPTCY REVIEW.

Jonathan Friedland authors article titled “Out-of-Court Workouts, Prepacks an Pre-arranged Cases: A Primer” published in AMERICAN BANKRUPTCY INSTITUTE JOURNAL.

Jonathan Friedland authors article titled “Chapter 11 - “101” - Bad Words to a Debtor’s Ear” published in AMERICAN BANKRUPTCY INSTITUTE JOURNAL.

Jonathan Friedland authors article titled “Chapter 11 - “101” - Basics of Professional Retention and Compensation” published in AMERICAN BANKRUPTCY INSTITUTE JOURNAL.

Jonathan Friedland authors article titled “Chapter 11: Not Perfect, But Better Than The Alternatives” published in JOURNAL OF BANKRUPTCY LAW AND PRACTICE, Vol. 14, No. 6.

Jonathan Friedland authors article titled “A Look Back And A Look Ahead: Relax, Rest And Get Ready” published in DAILY BANKRUPTCY REVIEW.

Jonathan Friedland authors article titled “Security and Priorities” published in PLC RESTRUCTURING AND INSOLVENCY 2004/05 (COUNTRY Q&A UNITED STATES).

Jonathan Friedland authors article titled “Investment Opportunities in China’s Out-of-Court Restructurings” published in ASIA PACIFIC RESTRUCTURING & INSOLVENCY REVIEW, 2004, at 12.

Jonathan Friedland authors article titled “Chapter 11 - “101” - Executory Contracts under § 365” published in AMERICAN BANKRUPTCY INSTITUTE JOURNAL, November, 2004 at 20. (Reprinted in ICFAI JOURNAL OF INTERNATIONAL BUSINESS LAW, April 2005 at 80).

Jonathan Friedland authors article titled “Chapter 11 - “101” - Bankruptcy Issues for Landlords and Tenants” published in AMERICAN BANKRUPTCY INSTITUTE JOURNAL, October 2004 at 16, 54-55.

Jonathan Friedland authors article titled “Turning Off The Lights: Safely Shutting Down An Insolvent Subsidiary” published in THE CORPORATE COUNSELOR, September/October 2004 at 1.

Jonathan Friedland authors article titled “Chapter 11 - “101” - Obtaining DIP Financing and Using Cash Collateral” published in AMERICAN BANKRUPTCY INSTITUTE JOURNAL, September 2004 at 16, 68.

Jonathan Friedland authors article titled “Chapter 11 - “101” - Priorities” published in AMERICAN BANKRUPTCY INSTITUTE JOURNAL, July/August 2004 at 18.

Jonathan Friedland authors article titled “Chapter 11 - “101” - What Every Unsecured Creditor Should Know About Chapter 11” published in AMERICAN BANKRUPTCY INSTITUTE JOURNAL, June 2004 at 16.

Jonathan Friedland authors article titled “Chapter 11 - “101” - The Trustee’s Power to Avoid Fraudulent Transfers” published in AMERICAN BANKRUPTCY INSTITUTE JOURNAL, May 2004 at 26.

Jonathan Friedland authors article titled “Five Rules For The (Restructuring) Road” published in DAILY BANKRUPTCY REVIEW.

Jonathan Friedland authors article titled “Chapter 11 - “101” - Preference Avoidance” published in AMERICAN BANKRUPTCY INSTITUTE JOURNAL, April 2004 at 20.

Jonathan Friedland authors article titled “Chapter 11 - “101” - Overview of Avoidance Actions” published in AMERICAN BANKRUPTCY INSTITUTE JOURNAL, March 2004 at 26.

Jonathan Friedland authors article titled “Chapter 11 - “101” - An Overview of Bankruptcy Litigation” published in AMERICAN BANKRUPTCY INSTITUTE JOURNAL, February 2004 at 16.

Jonathan Friedland authors article titled “Looking Forward to 2004 and Beyond” published in DAILY BANKRUPTCY REVIEW.

Jonathan Friedland authors article titled “Chapter 11 - “101” - An Overview of the Automatic Stay” published in AMERICAN BANKRUPTCY INSTITUTE JOURNAL, December/January 2004 at 16.

Jonathan Friedland authors article titled “Recharacterization of Debt to Equity: An Overview, Update, and Practical Guide to an Evolving Doctrine” published in ANNUAL SURVEY OF BANKRUPTCY LAW.

Jonathan Friedland authors article titled “Recharacterization from Debt to Equity: Lenders Beware” published in AMERICAN BANKRUPTCY INSTITUTE JOURNAL, Vol. XXII, No. 9, November, 2003 at 30.

Jonathan Friedland authors article titled “Chapter 11 - “101” - What Every Secured Creditor (and Its Lawyer) Should Know About Chapter 11” published in AMERICAN BANKRUPTCY INSTITUTE JOURNAL, November 1, 2003 at 22-23, 56-58.

Jonathan Friedland authors article titled “Chapter 11 - “101” - The Life Cycle of a Chapter 11 Debtor Through the Debtor’s Eyes Part II” published in AMERICAN BANKRUPTCY INSTITUTE JOURNAL, October 1, 2003 at 32-33, 44-45.

An Overview of Commercial Law and Practice

Mark S. Melickian served as a panelist of "An Overview of Commercial Bankruptcy Law and Practice" for corporate law students at Chicago-Kent School of Law.

Jonathan Friedland authors article titled “Chapter 11 - “101” - The Life Cycle of a Chapter 11 Debtor Through the Debtor’s Eyes, Part I” published in AMERICAN BANKRUPTCY INSTITUTE JOURNAL, September, 2003 at 20.

Jonathan Friedland authors article titled “Chapter 11 - “101” - Welcome to the Jungle” published in AMERICAN BANKRUPTCY INSTITUTE JOURNAL, July/August 2003, at 24.

Jonathan Friedland authors article titled “Standing on the Edge: Strategies for Confirming Insolvent and Marginally Solvent Liquidating Chapter 11 Cases” published in THE BANKRUPTCY STRATEGIST, April 2003 at 1.

Jonathan Friedland authors article titled “The Failure of Corporate Stewardship and the Rise of the Statutory Fiduciary: Examiners and Trustees in Chapter 11” published in THE ANNUAL SURVEY OF BANKRUPTCY LAW, 2003 at 277.

Jonathan Friedland authors article titled “Doubledowning: Avoid Double Trouble - Structuring Alternatives for Additional Rounds in Troubled Portfolio Companies” published in THE JOURNAL OF PRIVATE EQUITY, Fall 2002, at 45.

Jonathan Friedland authors article titled “First Things First A Primer on How to Obtain Appropriate “First Day” Relief in Chapter 11 Cases” published in JOURNAL OF BANKRUPTCY LAW AND PRACTICE, Vol. 11, No. 4, 2002, Fall, 2002.

Jonathan Friedland authors article titled “What standard should be used to determine compensation?” published in BANKRUPTCY COURT DECISIONS, Vol. 39, Issue 11, May 14, 2002 at 1.

Jonathan Friedland authors article titled “Recharacterization From Debt to Equity: Do Bankruptcy Courts Have the Power” published in THE BANKRUPTCY STRATEGIST, Vol. XIX, Number 5, March 2002 at 1.

Jonathan Friedland authors article titled “Proper Accounts Receivable and Retainer Management: Lessons from Pillowtex” published in AMERICAN BANKRUPTCY INSTITUTE JOURNAL, Vol. XXI, No. 10, December/January, 2002 at 16.

Jonathan Friedland authors article titled “The Legal Considerations of Acquiring Distressed Businesses: A Primer” published in JOURNAL OF BANKRUPTCY LAW AND PRACTICE, Vol. 11, Number 1, November-December, 2001 at 3.

Jonathan Friedland authors article titled “3rd Circuit ruling may (further) influence venue selection” published in BANKRUPTCY COURT DECISIONS, November 27, 2001, at 1.

Jonathan Friedland authors article titled “Use of Legal Auditing Firms in Bankruptcy” published in THE BANKRUPTCY STRATEGIST, May 2001, at 7.

Jonathan Friedland authors article titled “Pay Attention - a revised Article 9 is coming soon to a bankruptcy court near you” published in CALIFORNIA BANKRUPTCY COURT REPORTER, February 2000. (Reprinted in COLORADO BANKRUPTCY COURT REPORTER, April 2000.)

Wiley Bankruptcy Law Update (2000 to 2002 editions)

Mark S. Melickian provided significant contributions on key areas of bankruptcy law to Wiley's annual publication.

Jonathan Friedland authors article titled “Nuts and Bolts of Revised Article 9: Resolving Many of the Current Ambiguities” published in LEADER’S EQUIPMENT LEASING NEWSLETTER and THE BANKRUPTCY STRATEGIST, December 1999 through May 1999 editions.

Trustee's Fiduciary Duties in a Potentially Solvent Estate

In this article, drafted for the US Trustee's Conference, Seventh Circuit, Mark S. Melickian, provides an overview of a bankruptcy trustee's duties when it appears an estate may be solvent.

Health Care Industry Finance and Default - Workout/Mergers & Acquisition Strategies: A Lender/Bondholder Perspective

In this article drafted for The Heath Care Industry: Bankruptcy and Workouts Forum, Mark S. Melickian, discusses health care finance and default issues in commercial bankruptcy cases.

Professional Employment, Retention & Compensation Issues: Creditors’ Committee, Debtor, & Other Professional Retainers, Carve-outs, & Other Points of Interest

In this article, Mark S. Melickian discusses professional retention and compensation issues in commercial bankruptcy cases.

Jonathan Friedland authors article titled “Is it Bad Faith to File Chap. 11 to Avoid an Appeal Bond” published in THE BANKRUPTCY STRATEGIST, May 1999, at 2.

Jonathan Friedland authors article titled “"Defalcation” and “Fiduciary” under Section 523(a)(4)” published in The S.D.N.Y. Joins the Debate, BANKRUPTCY COURT DECISIONS, April 6, 1999, at A3.

Jonathan Friedland authors article titled “‘Ragsdale’ and its Progeny: A History of Uncertainty and A Way to Predict Decisions Under 11 U.S.C. Section 523(a)(4)” published in CA BANKRUPTCY CT. REPT., Dec. 1998, at 12.

Jonathan Friedland authors article titled “Attention to Details: Security Interests in Credit Card Receivables, Or How to Avoid Angering Your Lender-Clients” published in THE BANKRUPTCY STRATEGIST, October 1998, at 6.

Jonathan Friedland authors article titled “Tax Reform Act of 1997: Roth IRAs and Bankruptcy” published in CALIFORNIA BANKRUPTCY COURT REPORTER, April 1998, at 14.

Jonathan Friedland authors article titled “Moving Money Between Pockets: Fallout From In re Bernard” published in THE BANKRUPTCY STRATEGIST, December 1997, at 5. (Reprinted in STATE BAR OF ARIZONA BANKRUPTCY JOURNAL, Winter 1998, at 1).

Illinois Legal Ethics section of the American Legal Ethics Library

Mark S. Melickian contributed original material on aspects of Illinois Supreme Court rules and case law governing legal ethics and the practice of law.

Jonathan Friedland authors article titled “A Trustee’s Standing To Bring Claims” published in BANKRUPTCY COURT DECISIONS, August 5, 1997, at A3.

Jonathan Friedland authors article titled “Is There Bankruptcy Protection In An Asset Protection Trust” published in THE BANKRUPTCY STRATEGIST, July 1997, at 1. (Reprinted in STATE BAR OF ARIZONA BANKRUPTCY JOURNAL, Fall 1997, at 12).

Jonathan Friedland authors article titled “How A Bad Name Can Yield A Bad Result - Section 365(d)(3)” published in BANKRUPTCY COURT DECISIONS, May 13, 1997, at A3.

Jonathan Friedland authors article titled “BAPs v. District Courts: Who Really Is The Boss” published in THE BANKRUPTCY STRATEGIST, March 1997, at 5. (Reprinted in STATE BAR OF ARIZONA BANKRUPTCY JOURNAL, Spring 1997, at 6).

Book Review - Privacy and its Invasion by Declan McLean

Mark S. Melickian reviews Declan McLean's book on the evolution of privacy law in industrial societies including the United States.

Jonathan Friedland authors article titled “Defending Against Involuntary Bankruptcy Petitions” published in THE BANKRUPTCY STRATEGIST, November 1996, at 3.

Ginsberg & Martin on Bankruptcy

Mark S. Melickian served as a contributing editor of this treatise which discusses all aspects of bankruptcy practice and procedure by two highly-respected bankruptcy judges.

Jonathan Friedland authors article titled “The Continuing Concealment Doctrine In The Ninth Circuit” published in STATE BAR OF ARIZONA BANKRUPTCY JOURNAL, September 1996, at 30.

Book Review - Law v. Life: What Lawyers are Afraid to Say About the Legal Profession by Walter Backman

Mark S. Melickian provides his review of a "behind the scenes" tell-all book about the legal profession.

Seventh Circuit Review, Norton Bankruptcy Law Adviser (March 1996)

Mark S. Melickian provided an overview of significant Seventh Circuit bankruptcy decisions during the 1995 calendar year for the Norton Bankruptcy Law Adviser.

Student Lawyer Magazine - Featured Columnist (1993 to 1998)

Mark S. Melickian wrote the monthly legal affairs editorial column for Student Lawyer, an American Bar Association publication, from 2003 to 2008.  The pieces ranged from technical discussions about ethical rules to the meaning of paperweights used by the senior partner of a major law firm. 

SFGH's Christopher Horvay participates in webinar "Single Asset Real Estate Cases"

SFGH's Christopher Horvay participated as a panelist in a Financial Poise webinar titled "Single Asset Real Estate Cases" on March 22nd.  The moderator and three panelists discussed the unique aspects of SARE (single asset real estate) cases from multiple standpoints of the Lender, Debtor and the Court, and how the ABA Model Rules and State Ethical Rules may impact such cases.  An emphasis was placed, through the case studies, on whether such cases may or should be the subject of motions to dismiss on bad faith grounds.

SFGH Partner Mark Melickian moderates the second episode of a three-part webinar entitled Bankruptcy Transactions 301 - Advice for the Advanced Practitioner.

Bankruptcy 301 is a three-part series co-produced by Financial Poise Webinars and West LegalEd.  On March 8, 2022, Mark will moderate the second episode of the series – Bankruptcy Claims Trading – joined by panelists Bob Richards, of Dentons US, and Tim Bennett of Fulcrum Capital.  Claims trading in bankruptcy cases has advanced and grown in sophistication swiftly in recent history. Companies and their advisors should be prepared before wading into these waters.   Questions to be discussed include:  How will a claim be treated once transferred? What steps should a company acquiring a claim take to ensure the claim is paid? How should a claim be valued? What kind of documentation will be needed to properly transfer the claim? If a dispute arises regarding the claim, how should the acquiring company defend itself?

SFGH Partner Mark Melickian moderates a three-part webinar entitled Bankruptcy Transactions 301 - Advice for the Advanced Practitioner

Bankruptcy 301 is a three-part series co-produced by Financial Poise Webinars and West LegalEd.  Mark will moderate all three webinars, paneled by attorneys, financial advisors, bankers, and others with expertise in these advanced bankruptcy and reorganization subjects.  Part 1 of the series – Representing Asset Purchasers in Bankruptcy – airs February 8, 2022.  Part 2 of the series – Bankruptcy Claims Trading – airs March 8, 2022 and Part 3 – Negotiating and Drafting DIP Financing and Cash Collateral Orders – airs April 5, 2022.

Michael Brandess to speak at Columbus Bar Association’s Bankruptcy Law Institute 2021

On November 11, 2021, Michael Brandess will speak on a panel at the Columbus Bar Association’s Bankruptcy Law Institute 2021.  The panel, entitled, “Barfly Case Study: Optimism Like that is a Revolutionary Act,” includes professionals who participated in the Barfly bankruptcy case in the Western District of Michigan.  In re Barfly Ventures involved the sale of a restaurant chain through bankruptcy, legal issues concerning use of PPP funds, and disputes between the Committee and the companies’ senior secured creditor.  Michael served as co-counsel to the Official Committee of Unsecured Creditors in Barfly.

Jonathan Friedland to lead discussion about chapter 11 in bankruptcy seminar

On June 1, 2021, SFGH partner Jonathan Friedland will present on traditional chapter 11 at North Dakota’s State Bar Association’s “Bankruptcy Law Update: Virtual Seminar.” The presentation entitled, “Dealing with Corporate Stress: The Life Cycle of a Ch. 11 Case,” will take the audience through a guided tour of the fundamental stages of a chapter 11 bankruptcy case, and provide a framework for understanding the chapter 11 process.

SFGH Partner Christopher Horvay participates in Financial Poise webinar "Defending Against Bankruptcy Avoidance Actions"

SFGH Partner Christopher Horvay will participate in the Financial Poise webinar entitled “Defending Against Bankruptcy Avoidance Actions” on May 19th at 1:00 PM CST.  This webinar is part of the “Complex Financial Litigation” series, and the panelists will discuss avoidance actions, which occur when the debtor or trustee takes legal action in order to recover money or property that was transferred by the debtor prior to going bankrupt.

Now available on demand, SFGH Partner Jonathan Friedland participated in Financial Poise webinar "The Nuts & Bolts of a Chapter 11 Plan 2021"

Now available on demand, SFGH Partner Jonathan Friedland participated in the Financial Poise webinar "The Nuts & Bolts of a Chapter 11  Plan 2021." 

A Chapter 11 plan, if you believe what law schools teach and what most written literature states, is the ultimate goal of every Chapter 11 case. While this is not necessarily true anymore, as many Chapter 11 cases achieve important results without a plan ever being confirmed (or even being proposed), confirming a Chapter 11 plan (whether a plan of reorganization or a plan of liquidation) does remain a goal that nearly every Chapter 11 debtor (and many other parties in interest in a case) wants to achieve it possible under the circumstances.

Understanding the nuts and bolts of a Chapter 11 plan is essential to understanding Chapter 11 as a whole. Concepts that permeate any Chapter 11 bankruptcy case (to name just a few: the Bankruptcy Code’s priority scheme, proofs of claim, the concepts of claim allowance and claim reconciliation) cannot be fully understood without reference to the crucible that is a Chapter 11 plan. This webinar takes the audience through the basic elements of a Chapter 11 plan, how a plan proponent (usually but not always the debtor) seeks to confirm a plan, and how objectors can try to defeat confirmation.

SFGH Partner Christopher Horvay participates in Financial Poise webinar "Single Asset Real Estate Cases"

Financial Poise Webinars™ announces “Single Asset Real Estate (SARE) Cases,” a live webinar premiering March 23rd at 11:00 AM CST. This webinar is co-produced by West LegalEdCenter™ and part of the “Fairness Issues in Real Estate-Based Bankruptcies” series. It will feature David Levy (Keen-Summit Capital Partners and Summit Investment Management); Matthew Christensen (Angstman Johnson); Robert Richards (Dentons); and Christopher Horvay (Sugar Felsenthal Grais & Helsinger LLP).

Anyone involved in the field of creditors rights on a matter involving an LLC that exists solely to hold the principal asset has surely seen the play where, the night before property is scheduled to be sold at a foreclosure auction, the debtor files bankruptcy. For those not familiar with the process, doing so invokes the “Automatic Stay”, which prohibits the secured lender from foreclosing on the property. The debtor then attempts to make their case to the court for reorganization.

But is failing to pay your mortgage really something bankruptcy was meant to solve? If the bank was going to agree to a loan modification, wouldn’t the parties have worked something out by the time the sheriff sale was set? The bankruptcy code recognizes this and therefore has a section devoted to dealing with this specific kind of bankruptcy—the Single Asset Real Estate (“SARE”) case. The goal of this episode is to look into ethical issues surrounding these matters.

Jonathan Friedland to moderate “How to Read a Balance Sheet – And Why You Care!" as part of West LegalEdcenter’s 2021 webinar series “MBA BOOT CAMP”

Jonathan Friedland to moderate “How to Read a Balance Sheet – And Why You Care!" as part of West LegalEdcenter’s 2021 webinar series “MBA BOOT CAMP."

SFGH partner Jonathan Friedland features on webinar entitled “Post-Closing Issues: Integration & Potential Buyer/Seller Disputes”

On November 5, 2020, SFGH partner Jonathan Friedland featured on a West LegalEdcenter webinar entitled “Post-Closing Issues: Integration & Potential Buyer/Seller Disputes.” 

Financial Poise/West LegalEdcenter webinar "Dealing with Defaults” features SFGH partner Christopher Horvay and associate Hajar Jouglaf

Financial Poise/West LegalEdcenter webinar "Dealing with Defaults” features SFGH partner Christopher Horvay and associate Hajar Jouglaf.

Jonathan Friedland to speak at NYIC & IFA Northeast/Southeast Joint Program

Jonathan Friedland to speak at NYIC & IFA Northeast/Southeast Joint Program. 

Michael Brandess to speak on TMA NextGen Leadership panel entitled, “Standing Out and Making Moves in a Remote Environment”

Michael Brandess to speak on TMA NextGen Leadership panel entitled, “Standing Out and Making Moves in a Remote Environment."

SFGH partner Jonathan Friedland to feature on "Restructuring, Insolvency, & Troubled Companies 2020: Bad Debtor Owes Me Money!”

SFGH partner Jonathan Friedland to feature on "Restructuring, Insolvency, & Troubled Companies 2020: Bad Debtor Owes Me Money!”

Jonathan P. Friedland to feature on West LegalEdcenter/Financial Poise webinar entitled "Opportunity Amidst Crisis – Buying Distressed Assets, Claims, and Securities for Fun & Profit”

Jonathan P. Friedland to feature on West LegalEdcenter/Financial Poise webinar entitled "Opportunity Amidst Crisis – Buying Distressed Assets, Claims, and Securities for Fun & Profit.”

SFGH Partner Jonathan Friedland and Associate Hajar Jouglaf Featured on NACM Webinar “The SBRA and Its Impact on Trade Creditors”

On August 5, 2020, SFGH partner Jonathan Friedland and associate Hajar Jouglaf spoke on a webinar hosted by the National Association of Credit Management (NACM) entitled “The SBRA and Its Impact on Trade Creditors.” The webinar focused on the consequence of the SBRA on creditors under the newly added Subchapter V of the Bankruptcy Code, including the elimination of the creditors committee. The panel examined, among others, provisions of the SBRA that provide creditors in all bankruptcy cases with major benefits through changes in preference laws, and tactics creditors could employ to manage receivables in these cases, and generally protect their rights in Subchapter V bankruptcy proceedings. 

SFGH Partner Jonathan P. Friedland to Speak at an Upcoming West LegalEdcenter/Financial Poise webinar entitled "Help, My Business is In Trouble!"

On August 19, 2020, SFGH partner Jonathan P. Friedland will speak at a West LegalEdcenter/Financial Poise webinar titled "Help, My Business is In Trouble!" 

Jonathan Friedland and Michael Brandess to speak on NACM webinar entitled “Another Look: Serving on a Creditors’ Committee”

Jonathan Friedland and Michael Brandess to speak on NACM webinar entitled “Another Look: Serving on a Creditors’ Committee”

Jonathan Friedland and Michael Brandess to speak at June 23rd virtual symposium entitled “Opportunity Amidst Crisis”

On June 23, 2020, Sugar Felsenthal Grais & Helsinger LLP partners Jonathan Friedland and Michael Brandess will speak at a virtual symposium co-produced by Financial Poise, the Private Directors Association, the New York Institute of Credit, the Association of Insolvency and Restructuring Advisors, amongst others. 

Michael Brandess to speak on NACM webinar entitled “Putting Yourself in a Defensive Posture When the Bankruptcy Notice Comes”

Michael Brandess to speak on NACM webinar entitled “Putting Yourself in a Defensive Posture When the Bankruptcy Notice Comes”

Jonathan Friedland offers insight on best practices for private equity investors looking to invest in distressed assets in “How to Buy Distressed Assets in Financial Restructurings”

On May 21, 2020, renowned corporate restructuring attorney, Jonathan Friedland, will join a panel of seasoned experts in a webinar discussion designed to teach the latest strategies for acquiring distressed assets, financing their purchase, and getting them on the road to recovery. 

Lisa Vandesteeg to speak on TMA Panel on Market Impacts of COVID-19

On April 6, 2020, Lisa Vandesteeg will serve on a panel of industry experts who will discuss their observations regarding the market impacts of COVID-19.  Lisa will provide insight into what further developments might come to fruition over the next few quarters.

SFGH Partner Mark Melickian moderates Financial Poise / West LegalEd Center webinar "Bankruptcy Claims Trading"

On Tuesday March 3, 2020 at 1:00 PM CST SFGH Partner Mark Melickian will moderate the Financial Poise / West LegalEd Center webinar titled "Bankruptcy Claims Trading." Claims trading in bankruptcy cases has grown in sophistication in recent years, and companies and their advisors should be prepared before wading into the claims trading waters.  This webinar covers the nuts and bolts of claims trading, claims trading agreements, business and legal strategies for buying and selling claims, and what happens if a dispute arises over a purchased claim.  This webinar is part 2 of a 3-part series entitled Bankruptcy Transactions:  Advice for the Advanced Practitioner 2020.   Part 1 addressed purchasing assets in bankruptcy cases, and part 3 (premiering in April 2020) will cover cash collateral and debtor financing in bankruptcy cases.   

Financial Poise webinar “Representing Asset Purchasers in Bankruptcy” on February 4, 2020 featured SFGH Partner Mark Melickian as moderator and SFGH Partner Christopher Horvay as a panelist

Financial Poise webinar series Bankruptcy Transaction: Advice for the Advanced Practitioner premiered on Tuesday, February 4, 2020 with “Representing Asset Purchasers in Bankruptcy” moderated by SFGH Partner Mark Melickian and featuring as a panelist SFGH Partner Christopher Horvay. Last Tuesday’s webinar focused on the unique benefits and challenges for a professional business adviser when representing an asset purchaser in a bankruptcy. 

Lisa Vandesteeg to speak on panel “Ethical Traps for the Unwary Bankruptcy Lawyer” as part of the Hon. Robert E. Ginsberg Annual Program on Commercial Bankruptcy

SFGH partner Elizabeth “Lisa” Vandesteeg will speak on a panel for the Bankruptcy and Reorganization Committee of the Chicago Bar Association. The panel, “Ethical Traps for the Unwary Bankruptcy Lawyer,” will discuss some of the common ethical traps that bankruptcy lawyers may face in their practices, and it will offer techniques and solutions to avoid those traps.

Mark Melickian to speak on webinar “The Effective Director”

All of us have had experiences of meetings that were painful to participate in. Lack of preparation or inability to move decisions forward can all lead to an ineffective board. In this discussion, SFGH partner Mark Melickian and a panel of professionals will share practices that happen in real boardrooms that help equip directors to lead an energized and productive debate.

SFGH partner Elizabeth “Lisa” Vandesteeg to moderate panel “Risk: It’s a Board’s Game – Anticipating, Avoiding, Abating Risk for Private Company Directors” in New York, NY

SFGH partner Elizabeth “Lisa” Vandesteeg will moderate a panel in New York, NY on November 6, 2019. The panel, “Anticipating, Avoiding, Abating Risk for Private Company Directors,” will cover how a board can help to foster a risk-focused corporate culture, what the risk oversight function of the board is and what steps a board should take when it becomes aware of such a situation.  

Elizabeth “Lisa” Vandesteeg to speak on “Privacy Regulations and the Role of the Board”

Join Lisa Vandesteeg on October 22, 2019, as she and a panel of experts address the basic requirements of recent privacy regulation and enforcement actions. In this panel, Lisa will also discuss how boards can help their organizations assess and manage privacy risks. Case studies will be offered to describe the experiences of organizations implementing new privacy controls as well as current and planned compliance activities of companies. 

Elizabeth “Lisa” Vandesteeg to moderate webinar “Introduction to EU General Data Protection Regulation: Planning, Implementation, and Compliance”

On October 22, 2019, in this second part of the Cybersecurity & Data Privacy series, Lisa Vandesteeg will discuss the GDPR requirements and how your organization may meet those standards. 

SFGH partner Mark Melickian to speak on webinar “The Effective Director”

While we think of a board as a functioning entity, much of the success of the board relies on the individual behavior of its directors. SFGH partner Mark Melickian and a panel of experts will discuss some of the productive and problematic behavior that can show up in the boardroom, and the effect that it can have on board effectiveness. The webinar will take place on October 10, 2019, at 1 PM CT.

Elizabeth “Lisa” Vandesteeg to moderate webinar “Introduction to US Privacy and Data Security: Regulations and Requirements”

Join Lisa Vandesteeg for an overview of the many US privacy and data security laws and regulations which may impact your business. This webinar is part one of the “Cybersecurity and Data Privacy" series and will take place on September 24, 2019. 

SFGH attorney Jack O’Connor to speak on webinar “Making Cash With Cannabis”

Today, SFGH attorney Jack O’Connor will be speaking on a live webinar titled “Making Cash With Cannabis” as part of the Financial Poise "Hot Topics 2019" series. In this webinar, Jack will discuss legal and regulatory issues with running a successful cannabis business. 

Sugar Felsenthal Grais & Helsinger partner Jonathan Friedland to moderate West LegalEdcenter’s webinar titled “More About Stocks” as part of its 2019 series “Personal Finance & Investing Fundamentals 2.0”

In this final episode of West LegalEdcenter’s 2019 series “Personal Finance & Investing Fundamentals 2.0,” Sugar Felsenthal Grais & Helsinger partner Jonathan Friedland provides a broad introduction into the basics of investing in the stock market. 

Sugar Felsenthal Grais & Helsinger partner Jonathan Friedland to moderate webinar titled “All About Asset Allocation” as part of its 2019 series “Personal Finance & Investing Fundamentals 2.0”

In this third episode of West LegalEdcenter’s 2019 series “Personal Finance & Investing Fundamentals 2.0," Sugar Felsenthal Grais & Helsinger partner Jonathan Friedland discusses asset allocation and the benefits when investing in more than one asset category. 

SFGH partner Elizabeth Vandesteeg to speak on webinar titled “Data Privacy & Security 101” as part of its 2019 series “One Hour Law School”

Businesses must understand and protect against the legal, business and reputational risks from actual or perceived misuse of data. Experts further warn (and sometimes daily news seems to suggest) that data breaches are inevitable, and businesses must plan for the operational, legal and reputational fallout of such events. Lisa Vandesteeg will be speaking on this topic that will continue to grow in importance in today’s data-driven marketplace. The webinar will take place on June 18, 2019. 

Jonathan Friedland to moderate webinar “Where Did All My Profits Go? Mastering the Concept of Working Capital" as part of West LegalEdcenter’s 2019 series “MBA Shortcut”

On June 6, 2019, at 3 PM CT, join Sugar Felsenthal Grais & Helsinger partner Jonathan Friedland as he leads a panel of seasoned experts in discussing the assorted parts of a balance sheet that make up working capital, what actions cause the most problems with cash flow, and the best practices for managing working capital. 

SFGH attorney Jack O’Connor to speak on panel “Lust for Life: Cannabis, Casinos, and Technology” at this year’s TMA Mid-Atlantic Regional Symposium in Atlantic City, New Jersey

SFGH attorney Jack O’Connor will be speaking on a panel at this year’s TMA Mid-Atlantic Regional Symposium in Atlantic City, New Jersey. The panel, “Lust for Life: Cannabis, Casinos, and Technology,” will cover current trends and hot topics in the Cannabis and Gaming industries for attendees of this annual symposium. Mr. O’Connor will discuss legal and regulatory compliance issues for operators in the Cannabis space alongside fellow panelists Jonathan Havens of Saul Ewing Arnstein & Lehr, and Joseph Lubertazzi, Jr. of McCarter & English LLP. The panel will be moderated by Stephen Gerald of Whiteford Taylor Preston LLP.

Sugar Felsenthal Grais & Helsinger partner Jonathan Friedland to moderate webinar titled “How to Read Financial Statements and Financial Journalism” as part of West LegalEdcenter’s 2019 series “Personal Finance & Investing Fundamentals 2.0”

In this second episode of West LegalEdcenter’s 2019 series “Personal Finance & Investing Fundamentals 2.0,” Sugar Felsenthal Grais & Helsinger partner Jonathan Friedland discusses why and how to approach financial journalism with a skeptical eye. 

Mark Melickian to moderate “Bankruptcy Battle Royale 2019: Common Committee Controversies – Contesting Confirmation” webinar

On May 21, 2019, at 1 pm CT, SFGH partner Mark Melickian will moderate a Financial Poise/West LegalEdcenter webinar entitled “Bankruptcy Battle Royale 2019: Common Committee Controversies – Contesting Confirmation.” This is the final episode in a 4-part series that is focusing on the fundamentals of certain common elements of commercial bankruptcy cases in which official committees of unsecured creditors typically play a significant role. This webinar focuses on the requirements for confirmation of a chapter 11 plan and the nuts and bolts of fraudulent transfer claims and litigation in commercial bankruptcy cases. 

Mark Melickian featured on webinar titled “Chapter 11 Special Issues 2019 – Focus on Single Asset Real Estate”

SFGH partner Mark Melickian was a panelist on a webinar produced by Financial Poise for West LegalEdcenter entitled “Chapter 11 Special Issues 2019 – Focus on Single Asset Real Estate.” This was the second episode in a 3-part series that discusses business sectors that are anticipated to be busy areas for commercial bankruptcy practitioners and their clients in the next year or two. This episode focused on single asset real estate cases, where special rules in chapter 11 apply.   

SFGH partner Christopher Horvay to speak on a West LegalEdcenter webinar series titled "Restructuring, Insolvency & Troubled Companies 2019 - Bad Debtor Owes Me Money!"

Join Christopher Horvay on Tuesday, May 14, 2019, as he discusses the pros and cons of putting a counterparty into involuntary bankruptcy; when and how you may be able to pursue third parties for the amount owed; risks related to preference attack; pros and cons of sitting on a “creditors’ committee” in a Chapter 11; how to negotiate for “critical vendor” protection in Chapter 11 and practical guidance for continuing to provide goods or services to an insolvent counterparty. 

Corporate cybersecurity strategist Elizabeth Vandesteeg among panelists at the Spring 2019 Private Director Symposium in New York

On May 15, SFGH partner Elizabeth Vandesteeg will be discussing cybersecurity & data privacy for the private company director at the Spring 2019 Private Director Symposium. 

Jonathan Friedland to moderate “MBI Shortcut 2019: The KPI – Cash Flow Modeling and Projections”

Join SFGH partner Jonathan Friedland as he discusses with a panel of experts the basic components of a cash flow model, the best practices for reporting, and pitfalls associated with modeling and balancing roll-forwards. 

Jonathan Friedland to speak on webinar – “PE, VC and Hedge Funds De-Mystified 2019 - Due Diligence Before Investing"

Jonathan Friedland and a panel of seasoned experts will discuss performing due diligence from the perspective of private equity, venture capital, and hedge fund professionals.

SFGH partner Jonathan Friedland will moderate West LegalEdcenter/Financial Poise’s webinar “Alpha, Beta & Other Key Concepts” as part of its 2019 series “Personal Finance & Investing Fundamentals 2.0”

In this first episode of the 2019 series “Personal Finance & Investing Fundamentals 2.0,”  SFGH partner Jonathan Friedland discusses the concepts of alpha and beta and other basic questions about stock market investing and related topics. 

SFGH partner Mark Melickian to be featured on "Bankruptcy Battle Royale 2019: Common Committee Controversies – Anatomy of a Fraudulent Transfer" webinar

SFGH partner Mark Melickian to be featured on "Bankruptcy Battle Royale 2019: Common Committee Controversies – Anatomy of a Fraudulent Transfer" Webinar. The webinar will take place on April 23, 2019. 

SFGH partners Henry Krasnow and Michael Brandess to give presentation to Chicago Bar Association entitled “Risks, Challenges and Opportunities: Family Businesses and Financial Distress”

SFGH partners Henry Krasnow and Michael Brandess to give presentation to Chicago Bar Association entitled “Risks, Challenges and Opportunities: Family Businesses and Financial Distress.” The presentation will take place on April 17, 2019. 

SFGH partner Jonathan Friedland to speak on a West LegalEdcenter webinar series titled "Restructuring, Insolvency & Troubled Companies 2019: Opportunity Amidst Crisis - Buying Distressed Assets, Claims, and Securities for Fun & Profit"

SFGH partner Jonathan Friedland to speak on a West LegalEdcenter webinar series titled "Restructuring, Insolvency & Troubled Companies 2019: Opportunity Amidst Crisis - Buying Distressed Assets, Claims, and Securities for Fun & Profit." The webinar will take place on April 16, 2019. 

SFGH Associate Jack O’Connor will moderate West LegalEdcenter/Financial Poise’s Webinar “Environmental Law in an Hour” as part of its 2019 series “One Hour Law School”

Join SFGH associate Jack O’Connor on April 16, 2019 as he moderates West LegalEdcenter/Financial Poise’s Webinar “Environmental Law in an Hour” as part of its 2019 series “One Hour Law School.” 

Sugar Felsenthal Grais & Helsinger LLP is pleased to announce that Jonathan Friedland will speak at a West LegalEdcenter webinar entitled “PE, VC, AND HEDGE FUNDS DE-MYSTIFIED 2019 - Basics of Fund Formation"

Sugar Felsenthal Grais & Helsinger LLP is pleased to announce that Jonathan Friedland will speak at a West LegalEdcenter webinar entitled “PE, VC, AND HEDGE FUNDS DE-MYSTIFIED 2019 - Basics of Fund Formation"

SFGH is pleased to announce partner Jonathan P. Friedland will speak at a West LegalEd Center/Financial Poise webinar titled "What to Expect and Do When Your Customer becomes Insolvent."

On August 9, 2018, SFGH partner Jonathan P. Friedland will speak at a West LegalEd Center/Financial Poise webinar titled "What to Expect and Do When Your Customer becomes Insolvent."

SFGH partner Michael A. Brandess to speak at an upcoming West LegalEd Center/Financial Poise webinar titled "Estate Planning & Asset Protection - 101."

SFGH is pleased to announce that on June 19, 2018, Michael A. Brandess will speak at a West LegalEd Center/Financial Poise webinar titled "Estate Planning & Asset Protection - 101." 

SFGH is pleased to announce that partner Jonathan P. Friedland will speak at an upcoming West LegalEd Center/Financial Poise webinar titled "Help, My Business is In Trouble!"

On June 14, 2018, SFGH partner Jonathan P. Friedland will speak at a West LegalEd Center/Financial Poise webinar titled "Help, My Business is In Trouble!" 

SFGH partner Jonathan Friedland speaks on a panel titled “Litigation Funding in the Bankruptcy Space” at the 12th Annual Credit & Bankruptcy Symposium.

SFGH partner Jonathan Friedland speaks on a panel titled “Litigation Funding in the Bankruptcy Space” at the 12^th Annual Credit & Bankruptcy Symposium.

SFGH partner Jonathan Friedland was a member of a panel titled “Alternatives to Bankruptcy,” at the TMA MidAmerica Regional Conference.

On April 17, 2018, SFGH partner Jonathan Friedland was a member of the “Alternatives to Bankruptcy” panel at the TMA MidAmerica Regional Conference.

SFGH congratulates Lisa Vandesteeg on being selected to join the advisory board for the American Bankruptcy Institute’s Central States Conference.

SFGH partner Lisa Vandesteeg has been selected to join the advisory board for the American Bankruptcy Institute’s Central States conference. In this role, Lisa will help to set the educational content provided at this well-attended annual conference.

SFGH associate Jack O’Connor presented “Section 363 Sales: A Beginner’s Guide,” to the YLS Bankruptcy Committee of the Chicago Bar Association.

On April 3, 2018, SFGH associate Jack O’Connor presented “Section 363 Sales: A Beginner’s Guide,” to the YLS Bankruptcy Committee of the Chicago Bar Association.

Sugar Felsenthal Grais & Helsinger LLP is pleased to announce that partner Jonathan Friedland will speak at a West LegalEd Center webinar titled “The Intersection of Bankruptcy and … Tax Law.”

On April 9, 2018, Sugar Felsenthal Grais & Helsinger LLP partner Jonathan Friedland will speak at a West LegalEd Center webinar titled “The Intersection of Bankruptcy and … Tax Law.” 

SFGH partner Jonathan Friedland speaks at West LegalEd Center webinar titled “The Intersection of Bankruptcy and … Labor / Employment Law.”

Sugar Felsenthal Grais & Helsinger LLP is pleased to announce that on March 5th, partner Jonathan Friedland spoke at a West LegalEd Center webinar titled “The Intersection of Bankruptcy and … Labor / Employment Law.”

SFGH Associate Jack O’Connor named Co-Chair of 2018 Leadership Conference for Turnaround Management Association’s Global NextGen Committee

Congratulations to SFGH Associate Jack O’Connor for being named a Co-Chair of the 2018 NextGen Leadership Conference for the Turnaround Management Association’s Global NextGen Committee!

SFGH partner Jonathan Friedland speaks at Chicago Mortgage Attorneys Association 

SFGH partner Jonathan Friedland presented about the basics of Chapter 11 bankruptcy to the Chicago Morgage Attoneys Association.

Lisa Vandesteeg named "40 Under 40" by American Bankruptcy Institute

Elizabeth “Lisa” Vandesteeg has been named to the American Bankruptcy Institute’s 2017 “40 under 40” class.

Lisa Vandesteeg moderates the third episode in a series of webinars entitled Bankruptcy Battle Royale – Common Litigation Scenario: Lift Stay Battles for Financial Poise.

On April 4, 2017 at 11:00 a.m., Sugar Felsenthal Grais & Hammer LLP partner Elizabeth (Lisa) Vandesteeg will moderate the third episode in a series of webinars for Financial Poise titled Bankruptcy Battle Royale – Common Litigation Scenarios. The episode will explore the scope of the automatic stay and the procedure and grounds for seeking relief.

Sugar Felsenthal Grais & Hammer LLP recognized by M&A Advisor as borrowers' counsel for Refinancing Deal of the Year Award

On January 27, 2017, The M&A Advisor announced the Refinancing of Chicago American Manufacturing & its Affiliated Companies as its “Refinancing Deal of the Year (Under $250MM)” for its 11th Annual Turnaround Awards Program.  As counsel to the Borrowers in the refinancing transaction, The M&A Advisor has recognized Sugar Felsenthal Grais & Hammer LLP for its role as counsel to CAM in its refinancing transaction.

S. Jason Teele joins Sugar Felsenthal Grais & Hammer LLP's Corporate Restructuring and Creditors' Rights Practice as a partner in firm's New York office

Sugar Felsenthal Grais & Hammer LLP (“SFGH”) announced Tuesday that S. Jason Teele has joined the firm as a partner.

Sugar Felsenthal Grais & Hammer LLP retained as special healthcare reorganization counsel to Central Iowa Healthcare

Central Iowa Healthcare has retained Sugar Felsenthal Grais & Hammer LLP as its special healthcare reorganization counsel in its chapter 11 bankruptcy proceeding pending before the United States Bankruptcy Court for the Southern District of Iowa.

U.S. News & World Report and Best Lawyers® names Sugar Felsenthal Grais & Hammer LLP a 2017 “Best Law Firm”

On November 1, 2016, U.S. News and World Report and Best Lawyers® announced that Sugar Felsenthal Grais & Hammer LLP had been ranked as a “Best Law Firm” for 2017.

Christopher J. Horvay honored with TMA’s Turnaround Legend Award at 2016 Executive Speaker Forum

On November 21, 2016, Christopher J. Horvay was honored with Turnaround Management Association’s (“TMA”) Legend Award at the 2016 Executive Speaker Forum. 

Aaron L. Hammer and Elizabeth B. Vandesteeg discuss Information Security at Federation of Credit & Financial Professional’s Credit & Accounts Receivable Professional Retreat Day

On November 17, 2016, Aaron L. Hammer and Elizabeth B. Vandesteeg, partners in the law firm of Sugar Felsenthal Grais & Hammer LLP, spoke at the Federation of Credit & Financial Professional’s (FCFP) Credit & Accounts Receivable Professional Retreat Day.

Jonathan Friedland represents litigation funding firm in acquiring interest in litigation in Magnesium Corporation of America and Renco Metals bankruptcy cases

Jonathan Friedland recently represented a litigation funding firm in purchasing an interest in litigation from the Chapter 7 Trustee of the estates of Magnesium Corporation of America and Renco Metals (Case No. 01-14312 pending in the United States Bankruptcy Court for the Southern District of New York).

Jonathan Friedland oversees acquisition of commercial bakery assets out of assignment for benefit of creditors

Jonathan Friedland represented the successful purchaser of the assets of Z Bakery, a commercial bakery, out of an assignment for the benefit of creditors in Illinois. 

Jonathan Friedland moderated a webinar on "Federal Equity Receiverships - 101"

On June 3, 2016, Jonathan Friedland moderated a webinar on "Federal Equity Receiverships - 101."  Jonathan joined panelists from Vedder Price, Wiand Guerra King and Shaw Fishman Glantz & Towbin to discuss both state court and regulatory receiverships. 

Sugar Felsenthal Grais & Hammer LLP Grows Restructuring Practice with Addition of Michael Traison

On December 10, 2015, Sugar Felsenthal Grais & Hammer LLP announced that Michael Traison has joined its corporate restructuring and creditor’s rights practice as a partner. 

Sugar Felsenthal Grais & Hammer LLP Grows Restructuring Practice with Additions of Jonathan Friedland and Lisa Vandesteeg

On October 4, 2015, Sugar Felsenthal Grais & Hammer LLP announced that Jonathan Friedland and Lisa Vandesteeg have joined its corporate restructuring and creditor’s rights practice as partners. 

Sugar Felsenthal Grais & Hammer LLP engaged as counsel to Official Committee of Unsecured Creditors of Newton Manufacturing Company (Bankr. S.D. Iowa)

On June 9, 2015, the Official Committee of Unsecured Creditors of Newton Manufacturing Company (Bankr. S.D. Iowa) engaged Sugar Felsenthal Grais & Hammer LLP as its legal counsel. 

Acquisition International names Sugar Felsenthal Grais & Hammer LLP "Most Trusted Insolvency Practice in Illinois"

On June 1, 2015, Acquisition International named Sugar Felsenthal Grais & Hammer LLP "Most Trusted Insolvency Practice in Illinois."

Sugar Felsenthal Grais & Hammer LLP receives TMA Global’s prestigious Large Transaction of the Year

For its ground breaking work as lead counsel to the equity committee in In re AgFeed USA, LLC, et al. (Bankr. D. Del.), Sugar Felsenthal Grais & Hammer LLP received the TMA Global's prestigious Large Transaction of the Year.

Mark S. Melickian speaks at Iowa Federal Bar Association's 32nd Annual Bankruptcy Conference

On October 25, 2013, Mark S. Melickian will serve as a panelist at the Iowa Federal Bar Association's 32nd Annual Bankruptcy Conference in Des Moines, Iowa.

Sugar Felsenthal Grais & Hammer LLP engaged as co-counsel to Official Committee of Equity Security Holders of AgFeed USA, LLC, et al. (Bankr. D. Del.)

On August 23, 2013, the Official Committee of Equity Security Holders of AgFeed USA, LLC, et al. (Bankr. D. Del.) engaged Sugar Felsenthal Grais & Hammer LLP of Chicago, Illinois and Elliott Greenleaf of Wilmington, Delaware as its legal counsel. 

A Discussion with Professor Douglas Baird

On June 13, 2012, Sugar Felsenthal Grais & Hammer LLP hosted Professor Douglas Baird of the University of Chicago for the monthly luncheon meeting of the Turnaround Management Association Chicago/Midwest Chapter's Certified Turnaround Professionals.

Options for Business Facing Financial Pressure

Mark S. Melickian presented a talk and materials to attorneys and accountants on restructuring and dissolution options for struggling businesses under state and federal law, including bankruptcy, assigment for the benefit of creditors, and state law dissolution.

Roles and Responsibilities of Non-Profit Boards

Mark S. Melickian served as panel moderator and author for Roles and Responsibilities of Non-Profit Boards, sponsored by the City of Chicago and the Community Economic Development Law Project.

Board Meetings and Committees: How to Plan and Execute for Effective Board Meetings and Committee Formation

Mark S. Melickian moderated a panel sponsored by The City of Chicago and The Community Economic Law Development Project to Board leaders of Chicago-area not-for-profit organizations on planning and executing effective Board meetings and forming effective Board committees. 

Current Events: Utility Bankruptcies

Mark S. Melickian served as a panelist for "Current Events: Utility Bankruptcies" at the Corporate Restructuring Conference, sponsored by Renaissance International and Beard Group in San Francisco, California.

Equitable Subordination and Lender Liability Issues

Mark S. Melickian, discusses equitable subordination and the treatment of lender liability claims in bankruptcy in an article drafted for the 24th Annual Southeaster Bankruptcy Law Institute Conference.

Overview of Successor Liability

In these ABI Winter Leadership Conference materials, Mark S. Melickian discusses the treatment of successor liability claims in bankruptcy with a focus on manufacturing and environmental issues.

SFGH partner Jonathan P. Friedland quoted in BloombergQuint

SFGH partner Jonathan P. Friedland quoted in BloombergQuint. 

Sugar Felsenthal Grais & Helsinger LLP retained as lead counsel to Official Committee of Unsecured Creditors of Barfly Ventures, LLC, et al.

Sugar Felsenthal Grais & Helsinger LLP retained as lead counsel to Official Committee of Unsecured Creditors of Barfly Ventures, LLC, et al.

SFGH Represents Morgan Administration Inc. et al. in Confirming Chapter 11 Liquidating Plan

SFGH congratulates its Bankruptcy, Reorganization & Creditors' Rights Group on its recent representation of Morgan Administration, Inc. and its affiliated debtor entities, better known as “Home Owners Bargain Outlet,” or “HOBO,” in confirming their joint chapter 11 liquidating plan before the U.S. Bankruptcy Court for the Northern District of Illinois. 

SFGH Partners Provide Pro Bono Assistance to Illinois Disability Rights Group

SFGH partners recently provided pro bono legal services to ADA 25 Advancing Leadership, previously a project of the Chicago Community Trust, to help it become an independent section 501(c)(3) tax-exempt not-for-profit corporation. Advancing Leadership seeks to foster civic and professional leadership by individuals with disabilities.

SFGH Associate Shows Commitment to Service through Pro Bono Work

Joelle Shabat, Vice President of the Center for Disability and Elder Law's Young Professionals Board (CDEL YPB), continues to show commitment to pro bono work and service to the Chicagoland community. The YPB hosted its annual trivia night earlier this week at Revolution Brewing. All proceeds fund programs that provide legal services to low-income residents of Cook County who are elderly or have permanent disabilities.

Sugar Felsenthal Grais & Helsinger LLP Continues to Expand Practice Groups with Joelle M. Shabat

Sugar Felsenthal Grais & Helsinger LLP is pleased to announce that Joelle M. Shabat has joined the Chicago office as an associate in its robust Litigation & Dispute Resolution Group and Bankruptcy, Reorganization & Creditors' Rights Group.

Etahn Cohen recognized as top 10% of America's Most Honored Professionals

Congratulations to partner Etahn Cohen for being recognized by the American Registry as top 10% of America's Most Honored Professionals.

Norman B. Newman Joins Sugar Felsenthal Grais & Helsinger LLP

Sugar Felsenthal Grais & Helsinger LLP announced today that leading bankruptcy attorney Norman B. Newman has joined its Chicago office as Senior Counsel in its Corporate Restructuring, Insolvency & Special Situations Group. Norm joins the Firm from Much Shelist, P.C., where he served as Practice Group Leader of its Creditor Rights, Insolvency & Business Bankruptcy Group for many years.   

Etahn Cohen selected as an Avvo Top-Rated Lawyer 2019

Sugar Felsenthal Grais & Helsinger congratulates partner Etahn Cohen on being selected as an Avvo Top-Rated Lawyer 2019. 

SFGH Partners Provide Pro Bono Assistance for Illinois Low Income Housing

In 2018, Sugar Felsenthal Grais & Helsinger LLP (SFGH) represented pro bono Community Partners for Affordable Housing (CPAH). CPAH is a provider of community land trust financed low-income housing. CPAH was joining with Lake County Residential Development Corporation (LCRDC) and Affordable Housing Corporation of Lake County (AHC) to strengthen the community resources that supported low-income housing in Lake County and northern Cook County. SFGH partners were instrumental in organizing and directing the combination to close it by the end of the year.

Sugar Felsenthal Grais & Helsinger seeks to hire seasoned paralegal with significant general litigation and commercial bankruptcy experience

Paralegal Needed!  Due to its exploding growth, Sugar Felsenthal Grais & Helsinger has a pressing need to hire a seasoned paralegal with significant general litigation and commercial bankruptcy experience. Competitive salary and benefits. For more information contact recruiting@sfgh.com. Please, no phone calls.

SFGH Confirms Chapter 11 Plan in Regional Hospital Bankruptcy

On February 9, 2018, the United States Bankruptcy Court for the Southern District of Iowa confirmed the chapter 11 liquidation plan of Central Iowa Healthcare, a mid-sized hospital and clinic system based in Marshalltown, Iowa with a reach through three central Iowa counties.  Sugar Felsenthal Grais & Helsinger LLP, led by partner Mark S. Melickian, served as Special Healthcare Reorganization Counsel and led the engagement from filing through plan confirmation.  Mark was assisted in the engagement by SFGH partners Michael Brandess and Matthew Schiff, and litigation associate Kathryn Nadro.  In May 2017, SFGH took the Debtor through the sale of substantially all of its assets to Allen Health Systems, Inc., d/b/a UnityPoint Health – Waterloo, a transaction that allowed the hospital and clinics to remain open, saved hundreds of regional jobs, and won M&A Advisor’s 363 Sale of the Year award ($10 million - $25 million) for 2017.