NextLevelStuff Flashcards

(258 cards)

1
Q

Garage Keepers’ Lien

A

Statutory lien that protects a person or business that repaired, stored, or worked on a vehicle

Grants a repair person / mechanic a lien over the motor vehicle

Requires a written acknowledgment from the person who requested the repairs

To enforce the lien (e.g., seize and sell), the lienholder must register a financing statement in the PPR (Personal Property Registry)

Registration deadline: within 21 days of:

completion of the work, or

release of the vehicle

Priority: receives super-priority, generally ranking ahead of PPSA security interests

After registration, the garage keeper may commence legal enforcement, including using a civil enforcement agency to seize and sell the vehicle to satisfy the debt

Once registered, the lien appears in the registry and can prevent sale or transfer of the vehicle until the debt is resolved

Nature of lien:

Possessory if the vehicle is retained, or

Non-possessory if registered after release

Duration: valid for 6 months, with possible extension by court order

In insolvency: bankruptcy or receivership must respect a valid garage keeper’s lien

Trustee or receiver will usually be required to pay the lien to obtain possession of the vehicle

Failure point: if there is no possession and no registration, the lien will generally fail

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2
Q

Definition of a Receiver s.243

A

Appointed by:

-a secured creditor (private receiver), or

-the court (court-appointed receiver under s. 243)

Purpose: -Enforce security & Realize on collateral

Scope: -Usually all or substantially all of the property of an INSOLVENT person or bankrupt

❌ No OSB levy

the court may not appoint a receiver under subsection (1) before the expiry of 10 days after the day on which the secured creditor sends the s244 notice

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3
Q

Other ways to repossess trucks without appointing a Receiver

A

-take legal action through a lawyer and bailiff, in which case BIA will not apply
-they’ll need to verify the validity and enforceability of the security agreement; check if there’s a repossession clause
-Receiver takes possession of all or substantially all property of an insolvent person; two trucks likely not all property so can’t appoint Receiver
-company may not even be insolvent so no need for a Receiver

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4
Q

Application of a Bankruptcy Order

A

-an application can be made for a bankruptcy order by one or more creditors of a debtor if:
1. debt of applicant creditor is over $1K
2. debtor has committed an act of bankruptcy within last 6 months
-distributions would be subject to OSB levy

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5
Q

Common Acts of Bankruptcy

A

-absconding Canada
-CEASED making payments on debts
-given notice of SUSPENSION of payments
-has admitted in WRITING
-TUV, preference

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6
Q
  1. You are being taxed in front of the registrar for a file that was administered by other trustees (X & Y) who have left the firm. Receipts of $17,000 are from cash on hand 5 years ago. No interest is showing in the receipts. Bankrupt received automatic discharge. Fees and Disbursements are as follows:
    - $2,500 in disbursements including 2* $85 for counselling;
    - $9,000 in fees for trustee X including time dockets which show $900 charged for counselling;
    - $5,500 in fees for Trustee Y, no supporting time dockets;
    - SOB has issued an automatic positive letter of comment;
    - Sole inspector resigned 3 yr ago; and
    - Hourly rate for your firm is $450/ but the local trustee community normally charges $300/hr
    The OSB is present in the court as a friend of the court.
    How would you proceed?
A
  • Seek an adjournment to obtain more facts regarding time dockets
  • If taxation proceeds bring to the attention of the registrar the missing
    time dockets;
  • Seek a brief adjournment to consult the OSB for advice on the issues;
  • The positive letter of comment is computer generated and the OSB
    reserves the right to comment further and the OSB is present in court;
  • Offer to eliminate fee request for trustee Y which can accommodate
    the higher hourly rate charged and the absence of interest;
  • Offer to reduce $9,000 fee request by 10% to offset time inadvertently
    charged to counselling and recognizing the simplicity of estate. The OSB sets a standard allowable fee per counselling session that trustees may charge the estate
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7
Q
  1. The day after a bankrupt receives the discharge from her third bankruptcy, she becomes entitled to receive a large sum of money.
    As trustee what would you do?
A
  • Investigate whether the bankrupt was aware of this prior to
    her discharge and neglected to inform you;
  • If she was aware, apply to the court to annul the discharge;
  • If the bankrupt does not cooperate, consider S.163 examination;
  • Is she was unaware, discuss with her the benefits of a proposal
    or annulling her bankruptcy from a credit rating perspective. When bankruptcy is annulled, credit bureau will remove bankruptcy entry and it’ll be replaced by the less severe r7 rating of a CP which is far less damaging than r9 and it’s there for 6 years (shorter time period than bankruptcy)
  • Review case law on point;
  • Discuss options with OSB, seek directions from the court
  • money from pain and suffering is exempt, it does not vest with the Trustee.
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8
Q
  1. You get a call from a local truck repair shop. They claim that they are owed over $50,000 for repair work done to 5 trucks owned by 123 Delivery Company. They want you to help them put 123 into bankruptcy.

How do you respond?

A
  • Application for Bankruptcy Order
    o Was an act of bankruptcy committed in last 6 months; owed over 1K
    o Are there any other major creditors that want to get involved;
    o Are there any unencumbered assets;
    o Legal costs and trustee costs; OSB levy
    o Debtor may defend petition, risk of law suit if order denied;
    o Are there prior claims, secured creditors & government debts;
    o Receipts shared with all unsecured creditors;
    o May not be best option for repair shop to recover debt.
  • Garage Keeper’s Lien Act
    o Company could have a non-possessory lien
    o Need signed acknowledgement of debt.
    o Must register under PPSA.
    o Get super priority.
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9
Q
  1. A financing company comes to see you for advice. They recently financed the purchase of 2 delivery trucks, worth approximately 50,000, for a local retail store o/a XYZ Inc. It’s been six months and XYZ has not made any payments for the trucks. They want to appoint you as receiver under the Bankruptcy and Insolvency Act, to repossess their trucks.

How do you respond?

A
  • Definition of receiver under BIA; “all or substantially all assets of insolvent person”
  • Person appointed to take possession of all or substantially all of
    inventory, accounts receivable or other property of an insolvent person;
  • 2 delivery trucks not likely all property of XYZ;
  • XYZ may not be insolvent;
  • No need for receiver.
  • Repossession of trucks:
  • Company can take legal actions to repossess truck without
    receiver by using lawyer and bailiff. BIA will not apply;
  • Verify the security agreement is valid and enforceable with
    proper clauses for repossession.
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10
Q

The x-wife calls you to say she is aware that the Bankrupt had a boat worth approximately $20,000 and gave it to his brother 4 months ago. The boat is at his brother’s place in Edmonton. She knows where the boat is and she wants you to take possession of it.

How do you respond?

A
  • Taking possession
    o Get proof of transfer/ownership papers
    o If still under bankrupt’s name, trustee cannot enter brother’s premises to repossess without warrant.
    o Trustee could send letter to bankrupt and brother advising it is an estate asset and must be turned over to trustee.
  • Transfer of Boat
    o BIA, Transfer at under value. Trustee can attack transfer because:
    o Brother not dealing at ams’ length
    o Transfer made 4 months ago, within 12 months.
    o Trustee does not need to prove insolvency and intent to defraud because non arms’ length.
    o Trustee to get judgment against brother or void transfer and get boat.
  • Discharge
    o Offense under the BIA.
    o Grounds for opposition. Not disclosed.
    o Trustee could also seek conditional discharge to recover funds.
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11
Q

Court approval for sale

A

-to related party (ordinary administration)
-outside ordinary course of business (proposal)
-controversy

We do not need court approval for sale to related in summary admin. Per s.155 part k:
(k) the court’s authorization referred to in subsection 30(4) for a sale or disposal of any of the bankrupt’s property to a person who is related to the bankrupt is required only if the creditors decide that the authorization is required.

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12
Q

Q4. Small Mall Co. owns some land with a building, it’s used as a low end strip mall. Having major financial difficulties. They decide to talk to you, a Trustee. Small Mall owes significant GST, some unpaid source deductions, some suppliers and utilities. The property has a mortgage.

-They have a potential purchaser of land and building.
-Potential purchaser has made reasonable offer.
-Not interested in tenant leases as they would like to renovate.

Part a) what are the issues you need to discuss with them?

A

-need to perform required conflict checks.
-review reasons of their financial difficulties: e.g lease revenues insufficient to service mortgage or operating costs (think about their source of revenue)
-ask them to provide financial statements to assess insolvency of company
-Are there employees (potential for WEPPA)
-Unremitted source and GST are director’s liabilities
-Get property appraisal, compare with mortgage owing, figure out equity

-What does the debtor want to do: restructure? sell the business as a going concern?
-where did they get this buyer from? Did they fully canvas the market (if yes, then makes it easier for court to approve sale in a formal insolvency)

-Trustee is an officer of the court and has duty to all creditors

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13
Q

Q4. Small Mall Co. owns some land with a building, it’s used as a low end strip mall. Having major financial difficulties. They decide to talk to you, a Trustee. Small Mall owes significant GST, some unpaid source deductions, some suppliers and utilities. The property has a mortgage.

-They have a potential purchaser of land and building.
-Potential purchaser has made reasonable offer.

Part b) The CFO of Small Mall Co. asks how soon could tenants be out to close the sale to pay TRUSTEE FEES and to pay any DIRECTOR’S LIABILITIES. What do you tell him?

A

-cannot disclaim lease when you are the landlord, can only be done by lessee under insolvency regime

-options: wait till leases are over to sell, property sold with leases which may lower price paid, buyer can wait till leases are over to renovate, terminate leases but provide compensation for early termination of lease

-Trustee fees can be paid from any equity realized on the sale of the property (after RP which is deemed trust and other secured claims)
-If there is insufficient equity then Trustee must get a retainer
-GST is not a priority in a proposal or bankruptcy, it’s unsecured as the priority is inverted.

-If the director pays the GST first, it’ll be considered a preference, and is subject to a reversal. There are valid defences for preference; such as ‘it was paid in the normal course of business”

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14
Q

Q4. Small Mall Co. owns some land with a building, it’s used as a low end strip mall. Having major financial difficulties. They decide to talk to you, a Trustee. Small Mall owes significant GST, some unpaid source deductions, some suppliers and utilities. The property has a mortgage.

-They have a potential purchaser of land and building.
-Potential purchaser has made reasonable offer.

Part c) what alternatives can you provide the CEO and CFO prior to them deciding if they should file an assignment in bankruptcy?

A

-tell Small Co. to sell property themselves if there is sufficient equity to pay all creditors; they can carry out a going-concern sale (which is not likely given major financial difficulties)

-Allow mortgage provider to foreclose; any net proceeds above the mortgage balance would come to Small co. which can be used to pay creditors or if there isn’t then just file a bankruptcy (DL still exists)

*formal-File for bankruptcy, have Trustee sell property assuming there’s equity

*formal -File a liquidating proposal whereby the company sells property on an orderly basis (with court approval) and Trustee distributes net proceeds to creditors. Preserves tax losses, better recovery, more likely to collect AR, less Trustee fees.

*formal-File a proposal to restructure debts

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15
Q

Q8 from bank:

You did two dangerous things in this order:

You elected to retain the lease
→ that makes you (the Trustee) personally liable for ongoing lease obligations.

You relied on the purchaser to complete later, but:
→ they walked away
→ they were a shell with no assets
→ the landlord never released you

What should you have done?

A

The Trustee should have first obtained a release from landlord for any future liability under the lease, or obtain a Court Order providing such relief, before completing the transaction.

The Trustee could then have completed the transaction in escrow with all funds paid pending the Trustee retaining and then assigning the lease

Escrow would have ensured the lease was only retained and assigned if the deal actually closed — otherwise, nothing moves and no personal liability arises.

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16
Q

Q9. Partnerships

Mr. White and Mr. Black were equal shareholders in a small but successful partnership that operated a manufacturing company.

A shareholder agreement between Mr. White and Mr. Black indicated that in the event of the insolvency of one of the partners, the other partner could buy the insolvent partner’s share for $50,000.

Unfortunately, due to guarantees given for his wife’s failed business, Mr. Black comes to you to file a personal assignment in bankruptcy. Mr. White comes to the First Meeting of Creditors with a cheque for $50,000 and an assignment of the share certificate to be signed by the trustee.
1. What is your response?

A

If a partnership has two (or more) partners and only one partner goes bankrupt, the partnership does not disappear — and the Trustee does not take over the whole business. The bankrupt partner’s share of the partnership assets passes to the Trustee
The non-bankrupt (solvent) partner keeps their share
—–answer:——
Under the Alberta Partnership Act, a partnership normally ends when one partner becomes bankrupt, unless the partners have an agreement that says otherwise.

In this case, there is an agreement that allows the remaining partner to buy the bankrupt partner’s interest, so the partnership does not automatically dissolve.

However, even though that agreement is valid between the partners, it is not binding on the Trustee in bankruptcy. When a partner becomes bankrupt, their partnership interest vests in the Trustee, and the Trustee can choose whether to follow the agreement or reject it. This prevents partners from using agreements to avoid bankruptcy rules.

As a result, the Trustee must determine the fair value of the bankrupt partner’s interest. The Trustee would likely sell that interest to the remaining partner, but the price would be based on its actual value, which may be higher or lower than the amount set out in the agreement.

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17
Q

Partnership notes from manifesto

A

Who is responsible for debts in a limited partnership
In a limited partnership, the general partners are fully responsible for all the business’s debts. Limited partners only risk the money they invested and are not responsible beyond that amount.

Limited partners and management
Limited partners are not allowed to manage or control the business. If they do, they risk losing their limited liability protection.

What happens if a limited partner becomes insolvent
If a limited partner becomes insolvent, the partnership does not automatically end.

Trustee’s power to sue
If a partner becomes bankrupt, the court may allow the Trustee to start or continue legal actions on behalf of the bankrupt partner.

What happens if the general partner goes bankrupt
If the general partner of a limited partnership becomes bankrupt, the partnership’s property vests in the Trustee.

Which laws apply to limited partners
The rights and obligations of limited partners are governed by the laws of the province where the partnership operates.

Effect of a partner’s bankruptcy on the partnership
When a partner becomes bankrupt, the partnership is generally dissolved. Any property earned afterward by the former partners belongs to them personally and is used to pay their own debts, not partnership debts.

If the partnership was already dissolved
If the partnership was properly dissolved before the bankruptcy, the partners are no longer jointly liable. Creditors must pursue each partner separately.

Dissolving a partnership while insolvent
Partners cannot dissolve a partnership if they know it is insolvent, as this would unfairly prejudice creditors.

Only one partner goes bankrupt
If only one partner becomes bankrupt, the Trustee takes over that partner’s interest and becomes a tenant in common with the remaining partner in the partnership assets.

Automatic transfer clauses are invalid
Any partnership agreement that states a bankrupt partner’s interest automatically transfers to the other partner is not valid.

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18
Q

Q8.
-corporate bankruptcy
-there’s three supermarkets: A, B and C
-all inventory and equipment from A and B, is moved to C
-assignment filed next day
-all three locations owned by different landlords and have 9 years to run still
-rental arrears for all locations
-location C has 20K rental arrears

What are your considerations on taking possession or occupancy of these locations?:

A

LOCATION A and B
-do not take possession of location A and B as there are no assets and the estate would incur occupancy costs with no benefits.
-correspond right away with the landlords of locations A & B that while you have not taken possession, you still maintain the right to elect (keep/disclaim) and retain the lease and that the landlord should not attempt to re-rent without advising the Trustee.
-Review lease A and B, to see if these are favorable leases (Compare that rent to current market rent) and if they may have value
-If location A and B leases have value then Trustee may want to assign the lease
————
LOCATION C
-take possession immediately
-change locks
-post notice on door
-question the principal of the bankrupt corporation or his solicitor to see whether or not landlord had taken any prior action with regard to termination or distrain

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19
Q

Q8 part 2. What is the extent of your liability as Trustee for occupancy and arrears for location “A”,
“B”, and “C”?

A

There is no occupancy liability nor liability for arrears on location “A” or “B”. . There is a Trustee liability for OCCUPANCY, but not for arrears on location “C”.

In Alberta, Trustee’s can occupy up to 90 days in a bankruptcy.

Arrears for location C: s.136 preferred claim – 3 months rental arrears and 3 months accelerated rent if lease provides for it; up to the NRV of the assets on the premises.

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20
Q

Q8 part 3:

You take possession and there’s:
- $40,000 in perishable goods
-a further $20,000 in non-perishables in which the ‘best before date’ will expire in approximately two to three weeks.
-electricity is turned-off due to non-payment and the perishables, (e.g. meat, ice cream, etc.) are deteriorating rapidly.

What do you do to deal with this problem and how do you deal with these assets?

A

-immediately contact Hydro Utility company
-advise them of bankruptcy
-provide them copy of you appointment
-request them to open new account for Trustee
-remind them that there’s a stay so they cannot take actions to recover arrears
-Trustee can take conservative measures to sell perishable assets prior to FMOC

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21
Q

Q8 part 3
It was 4:00 pm on Friday afternoon when you took possession of location “C”. When you contacted the local Hydro utility, you were advised that the person who normally handles these issues was away on holidays and their only other superior was out-of-the-office.

The person you speak to states that as far they are concerned, they do not have to turn the hydro back on unless the hydro arrears of approximately $7,000 are paid immediately.

After a quick discussion with your lawyer, you realize that you will be unable to obtain a Court Order to reconnect the hydro service until Monday.

What might you consider as your course of action at this point, if any?

A

-do cost-benefit analysis to see if it’s economical to transfer assets to another location to preserve them

-see if you can purchase a generator to maintain the business until electricity can be restored. Is it cost effective?

-pay the arrears, accompanied by a letter acknowledging the circumstances under which arrears have been paid, and the Trustee’s position that these funds are “not payable” and that it is the intention of the Trustee to make a subsequent application to Court for an Order requiring the return of the funds paid under duress, and a further request for costs and possible damages.

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22
Q

Q8 part 5
In reviewing the leases, you have established that the lease for location “B” is a very favorable one and you eventually obtain an offer to purchase the lease for $150,000. With the approval of the Inspectors, you accept the offer with a $10,000 deposit. The offer is of course conditional on your successfully being able to elect to retain and transfer the lease.

What are your considerations in such a transaction?

A
  1. Arrears must be paid in order to assign the lease
  2. New lessee must covenant that its business conducted on the premises will not be reasonably more objectionable or hazardous than the business conducted by the bankrupt.
  3. assignee must have ability to honour it’s financial obligations under the lease/ must agree to and have ability to observe terms of lease
  4. Since Trustee has to retain the lease in order to assign it, the Trustee must obtain release from landlord for any future liability under the lease OR obtain a Court Order providing such relief, before completing the transaction, otherwise Trustee could be held personally liable for ongoing lease obligations.
  5. when assignee pays money, have it held in escrow pending the Trustee retains and assigns the lease, and gets landlord release. Once the Trustee has protection lined up (release or court order), the deal can move forward safely, but still carefully instead of fully closing the deal right away
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23
Q

Q8 part 6 Having elected to retain and transfer the lease, you discover that the purchaser of the lease has chosen not to complete the contract. A legal opinion from your counsel advises that you may keep the $10,000 deposit for damages.

However, any action against the purchaser for completion or for further damages would be futile as it is a shell corporation with no assets.

You contact the landlord and he is not sympathetic. He states that you are personally liable now for the lease over the balance of the nine-year period and will only let you off the lease if you pay him $200,000.

  1. In the normal course are you liable?
A

As the Trustee, two dangerous things were done by you in this order, you elected to retain the lease making you personally liable and relied on purchaser to close the deal but they walked away, they were a shell with no assets and landlord never released you.

The estate is now liable under the lease and, possibly, the Trustee personally liable for occupational rent.

Jurisprudence has gone both ways.

Presumably, there is still value in the lease, so the Trustee can mitigate damages by finding an alternative purchaser to assign it to.

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24
Q

Q9
Mr. White and Mr. Black are equal Shareholders in a small but successful PARTNERSHIP.

A shareholder agreement between Mr. White and Mr. Black indicates that in the event of INSOLVENCY OF ONE OF THE PARTNERS, the other partner could buy the insolvent partner’s share for $50,000.

Mr. Black comes to you to file a personal assignment in bankruptcy.

Mr. White comes to the FMOC with a $50K cheque and an assignment of the share certificate to be signed by the Trustee.

What is your response?

A

A general partnership is dissolved immediately upon the insolvency of any one of it’s partners.

That is different from a limited partnership. Insolvency of a limited part does not affect a dissolution of the partnership.

A shareholder agreement, although valid between the parties, is not enforceable against a Trustee.

The trustee has the right to adopt the agreement or reject it in whole. This is to prevent partners from evading bankruptcy rules by avoiding having property vest in the trustee. This is also so that the Trustee is not forced into a bad deal. Trustee chooses what maximizes value for the estate

A provision in a partnership agreement that on the bankruptcy of a partner, his shares vest with the other partners is void and not enforceable against the Trustee.

Trustee must value the shares to determine their value. The Trustee would likely sell to the other partner (Mr. White), but the price may be more or less than $50,000 (depending on share value).

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25
Q10 Consumer question Mr. Man has a house he bought for $15K 15 years ago, it's worth 110K and he owes $15K. For options, what are your recommendations? He hasn't filed anything yet. Tell me the informal options. CRA is the deciding creditor.
-Re-mortgage the house -sell the house to pay off the debts or fund a CP to pay off creditors. -we would need to offer them a better distribution than a bankruptcy or at least same amount as bankruptcy but faster. -if net proceeds from house sale are sufficient to pay off creditors then CP wouldn't be needed. -CRA (deciding creditor) does not compromise its debt easily.
26
Q10 part 2 He makes child support payments of $450 and he's been falling behind because of slow season (seasonal earning). He wants to make sure his debt will be dealt with if he files for bankruptcy. What do you tell him?
-child support is non-dischargeable -arrears for last 12m are preferred claim in the bankruptcy, & any court ordered lump sum or agreement made before DOB. -no stay for ongoing obligations, his wages could still be garnished if there's a MEP order (hard to do if he's self-employed)
27
Q10 part 3 He says he earns a little extra cash playing in a band and that he has a very expensive audio system and several guitars. He thinks they're worth $11K and wants to keep all his equipment to continue to play in the band.
-we could consider audio systems and guitars as part of "tools of trade" -> if he's using them to earn income -they get a 10K exemption per AB Civil Enforcement Act -we need to have equipment appraised to determine if value is correct. -assets in excess of 10K are not exempt (redeem or Trustee can realize on them)
28
Q10 Part 3 He says his grandmother is very sick. She's going to leave him a sizeable amount of money when she dies because he's her favourite grandson. What do you tell him?
-inheritance will be considered an after-acquired property if she dies while he is in bankruptcy. -disclose expectation of inheritance on SOA -Trustee must exercise its right to possession of the inheritance (take active steps to claim it (for example, notify the executor, demand payment, or apply to court), until it does so the bankrupt may dispose of it (Doing so would likely be a breach of the bankrupt’s duties)
29
Reviewable transactions
S.101 of BIA * Reviewable transactions now include a wide range of payments made within *1* year of the initial bankruptcy event or insolvency filing. * This includes dividends, severance pay, termination pay, and other payments made to directors, officers, and certain managers of the debtor. * Trustee applies to court and court grants judgement against director * court factors: * 1. if transaction occured at a time when corporation was insolvent or whether tranasction rendered the corporation insolvent. * *2. court can also give judgement against SH related to director
30
Statute of Elizabeth
If tuv for non arms length lets you attack upto 5 years then you can use this to attack upto 6 years. Also known as Fraudulent conveyancing act.
31
Mr. Former’s assistant is chairing the fmoc for an OA
-Violation of directive 4 -report matter to OR; Trustee has violated directive 4 by delegating the task of chairing the fmoc to his assistant -ONLY OR or OR'S NOMINEE CAN CHAIR FMOC -Nominee can be Trustee -Nominee can be delegate of Trustee for CP
32
Mr. Former’s assistant notifies you that since their firm is not longer the trustee (substituted), their boardroom is no longer available to hold the meeting so vacate
Remind her of CAIRP RPC, Trustees are expected to provide professional courtesy to other professionals (both inside and outside the profession) Report them to Cairp as they’ve violated the Cairp RPC. Offer to pay reasonable rent Adjourn meeting with creditor agreement for 10-15 mins to try to find alternative boardroom
33
Juicing the trades
“Juicing the trades” = squeezing suppliers for inventory on credit when the debtor knows insolvency is imminent and payment isn’t coming. Repercussions for debtor: -misrepresentation/fraud (report on 170) -supplier opposing discharge -director liability: authorizing purchases knowing insolvency was imminent/fiduciary duty breach -supplier could sue director personally
34
Gambling
There would be a recommendation for specific gambling counselling. Should gambling have been a contributing factor for his bankruptcy, he may have committed an offence (s.173). Trustee will disclose this on s170 report and oppose to discharge. It may be that he is submitted for examination under oath.
35
BAP Bankruptcy assistance program
He will need to make a voluntary fee arrangement but fees are usually less than minimum payments he now makes on his credit cards. Should have surplus income over the course of the bankruptcy, the BAP agreement would be void and he will have to pay in accordance with “surplus income guidelines” and his bankruptcy term may be extended.
36
When your administration is complete, how will you deal with books and records of bankrupt company that you took into your possession, and those on your administration of the file?
-Return books and records to directors or other interested parties -if you have a waiver from the directors, destroy the books and records -send out 30 day notice advising director of corp or bankrupt to take back any books and records or trustee will dispose of them -Trustee to retain records for at least 4 years per Cairp standards of practice. -trustee to retain records for 6 years from date of last fiscal year end to comply with ITA requirements -retention period should be extended where investigation or litigation. BIA does not provide guidance to Receivers on this matter. Receiver is not obligated to store records unless indemnified for storage costs and retrieval costs (get a retainer). Usually secured creditor pays but if they indicate they don’t want to then Receiver also isn’t required to. But remember 4 years for Cairp standards of practice and 6 years from last year end for ITA.
37
Flip NOI into CCAA provided that:
-debts exceed $5M -proposal has not been filed -period in which to file proposal has not been terminated (30 days; extensions of 45 days not exceeding 6m)
38
Regulatory body. Minister is investigating and threatens charges under securities law.
Investigative arms of a regulatory body can’t be stayed. Enforcement of fines can be stayed. Apply to court to stay any charges - demonstrate that a viable proposal is not possible without a stay. Contact the minister and let them know the company is insolvent and may be restructuring. Should it file a bankruptcy, the company will cease operations which will render the issue dead. Stayed but non dischargeable, interest continues to accrue. *
39
Debtor has a life insurance policy, she's come to you to know what her options are. She wants to convert her life insurance policy to a life annuity. She's adamant that she needs time for the conversion to be done before anything is filed.
If she converts the policy while insolvent or in contemplation of bankruptcy, that can be seen as: -Defeating or delaying creditors -A reviewable transaction or even an offence under the BIA Especially if: -The policy already has a large CSV -The conversion happens right before filing CSV is exempt if beneficiary is parent, spouse, child or grandchild (lineal family class even though spouse isn't lineal). If the beneficiary is not a protected class, then the CSV is non-exempt and realizable by the Trustee. Once converted, the CSV disappears and it becomes an income stream Converting to annuity can trigger: -Attack s.95 (transfers at undervalue) -Offence allegation if intent is clear enough; report on s170 report -Opposition of discharge I would also assess whether an alternative insolvency proceeding, such as a consumer proposal, may allow for retention of the policy while still treating creditors fairly.
40
Your neighbor owns a company which is experiencing financial difficulties. The neighbors company has a significant amount of secured debt. Your neighbor is a director and has provided PG’s. He would like to hire you, an LIT, as an advisor to the directors to protect themselves against any potential liabilities. Can he hire you:
-per BIA definition of related, he’s not a related party to me so no true conflict -there would be a perceived conflict of interest -my independence could be questioned by stakeholders -should I accept this as a formal engagement, I’d need to disclose the conflict at the time of filing (EIS) and at the FMOC -I would disclose the conflict in the interest of transparency and to uphold public confidence in the system -I would let my neighbor know about my role in a formal engagement; court officer: working for the general benefit of the creditors; not working for him.
41
Your neighbor owns a company which is experiencing financial difficulties. The neighbors company has a significant amount of secured debt. Your neighbor is a director and has provided PG’s. He would like to hire you, an LIT, as an advisor to the directors to protect themselves against any potential liabilities. He wants to hire me as an advisor to the directors to protect themselves against any potential liabilities:
-I cannot advise how to structure the transaction that would prefer him and the other directors over the interests of the creditors as this is the specific function of a lawyer -However, I can provide information about the consequences of any action that he might take in an attempt to reduce his liability like paying off the director’s liability which would constitute to a preference under s.95 of the BIA. -I could also assist in the filing of a proposal or a CCAA plan that attempts to carve out his personal liabilities and limit directors exposure – clause for the compromise of personal liabilities; directors’ charge.
42
Mr. Scott is meeting with you to discuss his real estate portfolio, 6 buildings that are commercial builds and shopping centers. He’s lost several tenants. Liabilities amounts to $32M including GST, Source Deductions and Income Tax. Can he seek an initial order?
-Individuals cannot seek initial orders for a CCAA, it can only be for corporations -debt load has to be atleast $5M -we need director’s resolution authorizing the filing of the application and admission of insolvency -Trustee consent to Act -weekly cash flow stmt (13 weeks) needs to be submitted -initial order will only provide 10 day stay -generally a comeback hearing schedule at the end of 10 days where further relief measures can be sought -stay is not automatic like in a NOI -initial stay is subject to court approval -if he’s doesn’t have a corporation then he’s not eligible for an initial order under the CCAA, but he can file an NOI to a Div I under the BIA or a bankruptcy if his business is no longer viable
43
Mr. Scott is meeting with you to discuss his real estate portfolio, 6 buildings that are commercial builds and shopping centers. He’s lost several tenants. Liabilities amounts to $32M including GST, Source Deductions and Income Tax. Why should he seek a NOI under BIA or an Initial Order under CCAA?
-to prevent CRA enforcement or to stay the CRA -they could RTP the receivables or put a lien on the buildings -pre-filing wages need to be paid immediately upon court approval -post-filing wages need to be current as at court approval -source deductions (DT) to be paid within 6 months of court approval unless CRA consents to an extension
44
Mr. Scott is meeting with you to discuss his real estate portfolio, 6 buildings that are commercial builds and shopping centers. He’s lost several tenants. Liabilities amounts to $32M including GST, Source Deductions and Income Tax. One of his tenants has filed an NOI. Mr. Scott (landlord) asks you if he can object to the Notice of Disclaimer of the lease he just received and on which grounds as this lease cancellation threatens his financial situation.
-Mr. Scott should retain legal counsel to assist him -Within 15 days of Notice of Disclaimer, he can appeal to court to dispute it -if Mr. Scott does not contest then lease is considered disclaimed -court consideration 1: whether significant hardship is being faced by the lessor -court consideration 2: debtor must prove that this increases likelihood of a viable proposal -the leasee’s prospective proposal must explain how the landlord’s unsecured claim will be handled [preferred claims are only for assets realized on premises/ for a proposal, usually no assets realized on premises therefore just a unsecured claim] -whether it’ll be for actual losses OR lesser of: -1 year rent after lease ends + 15% of remaining rent -3 years rent (notwithstanding lease ending) -no accelerated rent in a proposal -If proposal is rejected, then landlord can file a preferred claim for 3 months rent arrears (upto NRV of assets on the premises) and 3 months accelerated rent (if lease provides for it) -basically, landlord to file a preferred claim if proposal rejected. Otherwise, the proposal will state how landlord's unsecured claim will be handled, i.e actual losses or 1st year rent+15% or 3 years rent.
45
Mr. Scott is meeting with you to discuss his real estate portfolio, 6 buildings that are commercial builds and shopping centers. He’s lost several tenants. Liabilities amounts to $32M including GST, Source Deductions and Income Tax. Mr. Scott tells you that he is afraid of the status of his business, he wants to transfer his house and RRSP’s to his wife. What would you tell Scott in that respect?
-If Mr. Scott files a personal insolvency, then this would be a TUV to a non-arms length party. -TUV is disposition of property for no consideration or consideration conspicuously less than FMV -If the transfer occurs within 12 months prior to his personal insolvency, then no intent (to defeat, defraud, delay) nor insolvency test would need to be met. -Trustee could apply to court for a judgement against the wife, or could apply to court to reverse the transfer or s.38 action to creditors -he must disclose this on his SOA -an offense would have been committed; report on s170 and oppose discharge. CRA could use ITA 160 as GST and source deductions is a Director’s Liability: -when a person transfers an asset to a non-arms length party at a time when they owe tax debt -CRA can raise an assessment against the wife for the lesser of tax debt or FMV of house and RRSPs. -Trustee should alert Mr. Scott of an assessment under ITA 160 -this provision is mostly for shareholders, but CRA can go after directors if they’re also shareholders. -ITA 160 not subject to a time limit.
46
Mr. Scott is meeting with you to discuss his real estate portfolio, 6 buildings that are commercial builds and shopping centers. He’s lost several tenants. Liabilities amounts to $32M including GST, Source Deductions and Income Tax. He wants to transfer assets to his wife (like his house); you tell him it’ll be attacked as a tuv and he says he’ll just go to another trustee and not tell them. Mr. Scott is not happy with your advice. He tells you that your services are no longer required. He said he will go with another Trustee. Next day you learn he filed an NOI with your competitor. What will you do?
-duty to report supersedes duty to confidentiality -report to OSB and Court that debtor intends to transfer assets and not let new Trustee know -the bankruptcy analyst at the OSB could follow up with the actual trustee to follow up to ensure debtor made full disclosure -deal with competitor Trustee with professional courtesy and advise him of the issue and that you’ve let OSB+court know. -review SOA later on when proposal is filed and let them know if transactions was not disclosed -if not, an offense (a. material omission and b. TUV) would have been committed; actual Trustee to report on s170 and oppose discharge. -if this is not a personal insolvency, then no offense has been committed but then let Scott know that CRA could use ITA 160.
47
Receivership or Bankruptcy Taking possession
Lazy People Love Emails Ignoring Instructions (from) Clueless PC Users Mainly. -change the LOCKS and notify the alarm/security company; have them list you as primary contact; maintain control of keys; only issue keys to authorized personnel. Post a notice of the appointment. -Identify PROPERTY goods (inform third party of appointment), 30 day supplier goods and segregate them from rest. -Notify LANDLORD of appointment, make arrangement for payment of occupation rent. *(extra)- meet with Management: announce appointment, explain impact, advise management of their duties, responsibilities and roles; discuss retention of employees; generally take control of operations. -Advise store's EMPLOYEES that bankruptcy has terminated their employment, make arrangements to retain any employees necessary to assist in Trustee's administration with a new contract. Need to file WEPPA; must register. In bky, employees auto terminated but in Receivership you have to terminate them. -Take detailed INVENTORY of store's assets, books and records. Whoever is in control of accounting, have them provide usernames and passwords. Export data if subscriptions will expire. * Obtain list and take possession of portable electronic devices -Determine if insurance is adequate (what does it cover and what are the deductible limits). Arrange continuation of INSURANCE coverage in Trustee's name, name Trustee as loss payee, or arrange new insurance. Determine if premiums are up to date. -Secure all CASH on premises, including customer cheques not yet deposited and deposit into separate estate trust account; Determine where company's bank accounts are; send notice of your appt, requesting them to wire funds to Trustee and for accounts to be closed. -Sell or dispose of PERISHABLE property (conservative measures before FMOC). -Ensure UTILITIES are not cut off if possible; contact by telephone, advise of appt, provide current meter reading, establish new account, follow up in writing to confirm all details. -Determine about incoming MAIL and consider redirection of mail. *(extra)-Notify customers with outstanding A/R via letter.
48
Main differences between Receivership and Bankruptcy
RECEIVERSHIP: -initiated by secured creditor -realize on secured assets for secured creditors -mgmt loses control only over secured assets -Receiver can decide if they want to continue to operate or shut down the business (see terms of court order to see if we have authority to operate, or apply to court if there’s a benefit in operating in order to get authority to operate) -no OSB levy -GST is DT BANKRUPTCY: -initiated by debtor -realize on all assets for all creditors -mgmt loses overall control of company -GST priority inverted -OSB levy
49
Receiver's certificate Receiver's borrowing charge
A Receiver’s Certificate secures the receiver’s costs (fees). Paid after from realizations. Certificate = “Cover my Costs” A Receiver’s Borrowing Charge secures new money advanced to fund the receivership. Lent by the bank usually. Priority. Used to run the business. Borrowing = “Bank Bucks to keep lights on”
50
GST Refunds
GST refund cheques belong to the bankrupt, not the trustee by default. Rule 59. The trustee cannot automatically use GST refunds to pay costs or apply them against conditional orders. The only time the trustee can ask to use GST refunds is after: -all estate assets have been realized, and -all costs of administration have already been paid. -Even then, the trustee must ask the bankrupt for permission to use any remaining GST refund money for another purpose. -Until that permission is given, the bankrupt has the right to keep any remaining GST refund funds. Having the bankrupt sign an assignment of the GST refund is not in accordance with BIA general rules. *The GST refunds can only be used to pay the cost of estate administration, including the trustee’s fees, after the proceeds from all other estate assets have been applied first. *taking an exempt asset away from the bankrupt, whereas the trustee should know and make it clear to bankrupts that the funds are theirs to deal with is an ethical issue. Trustee has an obligation to obligations to fully inform debtors of their rights and responsibilities. **debtors should be advised, during the assessment stage, of their rights to the GST refunds, subject only to that portion of the refunds required to pay the cost of administration, which would include our fees, and that any other amount received over that will be returned to them
51
You have been approached by a bank as their potential consultant on an operating 50 room Hotel that is having some financial trouble due to Covid closures. The owners of the Hotel have been periodically skipping their Mortgage payments. They have personal guarantees to the bank and are asking the bank to consider a one time cash offer (to be funded by relatives of the directors) in order to settle the security interest. What are the preliminary considerations? Talk about the one-time settlement offered by relatives.
First of all, do a CONFLICT check. SIRRCL. Do I have the SKILLSET, resources to take on this engagement? Bank should provide INDEMNIFICATION for fees. Role is consultant (working for the bank) but we still need permissions from Hotel so that we may enter their premises and review their books and records to perform the engagement. Get an acknowledgement from the hotel in the engagement letter. This is to ensure access and limit liability (trespass). Engagement letter: SIFRT SOURCE AND SCOPE -identify who engagement is from (bank) -scope of services (reporting to bank) INVOLVEMENT -not managing or interfering with mgmt -indemnity from bank for acts properly undertaken within the engagement (e.g you suffer loss/costs then bank will cover) FEES -basis of calculation of remuneration -responsibility for fees RESPONSIBILITIES AND REPORTING -reporting expection, timeframe, frequency TERMINATION and ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS -acknowledgement from hotel to minimize trespass risk -provisions regarding termination/notice period by either party Hotel/debtor gets redacted report, certain info is intentionally blacked out due to confidentiality. Get an independent legal opinion on the validity and enforceability of the bank's security. Review financial statements of the Hotel, CF, historicals - determine if the business is viable. Are they in breach of any covenants with the bank? Review the personal guarantees, to what extent and are they enforceable/properly executed? A one-time settlement funded by relatives of the directors is acceptable where it represents new third-party funds, does not impair the bank’s priority (relatives don't issue it as a secured debt; offered more like a gift), and provides certainty of recovery compared to enforcement.
52
Mr. Garret Jackson approaches you for advice regarding his financial situation. Mr. Jackson’s wages have been subject to a Garnishee Order, initiated by a trade creditor, for his past 3 payrolls. The status of the past 3 payrolls are as follows: ● 1st payroll - paid out of Court to the garnishing creditor’s solicitor. Solicitor has forwarded proceeds to the creditor ● 2nd payroll - paid out of Court to the garnishing creditor’s solicitor. Solicitor is still in possession of the funds. ● 3rd payroll - funds remain in Court To clarify, these were garnished before the date of bankruptcy. His next payroll is in 2 days. He states that he can’t support his wife and seven children with the garnishee order in place and his income is below poverty guidelines, even without the Garnishee Order. -Mr Jackson also asks you what will happen to all of the proceeds deducted from his previous pay cheques in the event of his declaring personal bankruptcy.
-Payment remaining in court will vest with the Trustee -Amount with creditor's solicitor is recoverable if solicitor acting independently. If they're an agent of the creditor then we can contest matter with court, court can determine. -Amount with creditor is not recoverable since execution is complete.
53
● 1st payroll - paid out of Court to the garnishing creditor’s solicitor. Solicitor has forwarded proceeds to the creditor ● 2nd payroll - paid out of Court to the garnishing creditor’s solicitor. Solicitor is still in possession of the funds. After bankruptcy, what steps would you take regarding the Garnishee Order?
1. inform employer of the filing and Stay of proceedings 2. inform court, solicitor and creditor of stay of proceedings 3. take necessary steps to recover funds remaining in court 4. issue letter to creditor's solicitor demanding the return of funds
54
You are a Trustee in bankruptcy. The bankrupt person’s only asset is: a share in a partnership, and that partnership is involved in a lawsuit. If the lawsuit wins, the bankrupt estate might get $6 million. Very early in the bankruptcy (day 2), a creditor says: “I’ll buy that lawsuit from the estate for $1 million, but you have to decide in 10 days.” The question is asking: 👉 What should you do with that offer?
This is very early in the bankruptcy, and the only asset is a lawsuit. At this stage, I do not yet know whether the lawsuit has merit or what it is truly worth. As Trustee, I cannot sell assets before the First Meeting of Creditors unless the asset is perishable or rapidly depreciating, which a lawsuit is not. What I would do about the offer: Pause and gather information Ask the purchaser who they are and why they want to buy the lawsuit. Determine whether they are connected to the lawsuit (for example, the defendant trying to eliminate the claim). Ask how they arrived at the $1 million offer. Explain my legal constraints Advise the purchaser that I cannot accept the offer immediately due to the requirements of the BIA. Explain that any sale must be approved by the creditors (and inspectors, if any). Address the 10-day deadline Request an extension of the offer deadline. Explain that I need time to: hold the First Meeting of Creditors, and obtain direction on whether to sell. Move up the First Meeting of Creditors Schedule the FMOC as soon as possible. Present the offer to the creditors. Seek direction on: whether to sell the litigation, and whether to obtain a legal opinion on the strength and value of the claim. Proceed based on creditor direction If creditors support the sale, proceed with approvals (including inspectors and possibly court approval). If creditors prefer to pursue the claim, retain counsel and continue the litigation. Key Principle Throughout, I would act transparently and in the best interests of the creditors, ensuring confidence in the insolvency process. $1M offers certainty and avoids litigation risk, while pursuing the claim offers upside ($6M) but exposes the estate to delay, cost, and the risk of no recovery.
55
You are a LIT and your good friend is a LIT – after lock down you finally get together and meet for a drink. Your buddy has perhaps a few too many and starts complaining about his firm and the problems with how the files are administered. Everything from ethical issues to angry clients and severe delays on realizing assets. Your buddy sobers up at the end of the night and asks you to keep what he said confidential as he realizes he shouldn’t have said anything and doesn’t want to get in trouble. The next day – terribly hung over, you attend your monthly partnership call and learn that your firm is looking to purchase his firm. What do you do?
While the comments were made informally, they raise serious professional and ethical concerns. Once I learn my firm is considering acquiring his firm, I have a conflict of interest and material information relevant to the transaction. I would remove myself from the acquisition process, disclose the conflict internally to firm leadership, and ensure the information is handled through appropriate governance channels. Friendship and informal confidentiality cannot override my professional obligations or the integrity of the insolvency system. Consider each stakeholder: 1. OSB: -report to them -duty to report supersedes confidentiality -need to uphold good reputation of the association and serve public interest -uphold public confidence in the system 2. Firm Partners: -there's a conflict of interest -refrain from gossiping; disclose conflict through proper channel (governance) -disclose only conflict, not details -conflict: “I received informal information from a friend at the target firm that could create a conflict of interest. I should be excluded from all acquisition-related discussions.” -governance team can do further investigations and legal team to determine next steps on the transaction -remove yourself from acquisition discussions -talk to safety net like your lawyer on what to do -ask your lawyer if you'll be sued if the acquisition falls through because you told info gathered 'not in professional capacity' -the other firm could claim your disclosure caused financial loss; and that you provided unverified/defamatory remarks 3. Friend -don't tell him about potential acquisition -ask him what he's doing to fix the problems -is he part of the problem? -these facts will change how you ultimately act
56
Receiver’s position for rent
The Receiver has no right to occupy the premises. Upon bankruptcy occurring (provided the lease has not been previously terminated), the Trustee is given the right pursuant to the AB Civil Enforcement Act to occupy the premises for up to 3 months/90 days. The Trustee may decide to enter into an arrangement whereby he allows the Receiver to occupy the premises pending a sale of the assets. The Trustee would be the party primarily liable for occupation rent and damage to the premises. Consequently, the Trustee must ensure that be is appropriately indemnified for occupancy charges and damages to the premises. A private receiver will have to pay ongoing rent while in occupation of the premises and will probably have to pay rent arrears unless he/she can negotiate another arrangement with the landlord.
57
-Bank manager (whom you were for previously as a Private Receiver) -calls your office -concerned that Corp X may be defaulting as there’s a rumour that leadership team may resign -you realized a great return as a Private Receiver last time -they want to appoint you again to protect the bank’s security -they said if you don’t agree immediately then they’ll call your competitor and use the in future engagements How do you respond?
I’ll need to conduct a conflict check to verify my independence with the Bank and with Corp. X. Let the Bank know that there’s a criteria to meet in order to appoint a Receiver: -Has an actual default occurred -Has the NOITES been issued and have the 10 days lapsed or did court waive timing requirement -Is security valid and enforceable – we need an independent legal opinion -Is a private appt appropriate for this kind of company? i.e is Corp X in my locality or is it international I would inquire if the bank provided the company with an appropriate opportunity to remedy any potential defaults before considering the Appointment i.e i) forbearance or ii) giving them a chance to find an alternate lender. Advise the bank that a better first step would be to engage us for a LOOK SEE and appt as Monitor. We would need an engagement letter that outlines scope, source, indemnity, reporting requirements, fees, termination/acknowledgments (SIFRT). If there’s a rumour that the company is insolvent then there’s a risk that they will file an NOI or proposal or CCAA (if debts exceed $5M) or assign themselves into Bankruptcy. If there is a concern that the company will dispose of assets, then consider an Interim Receiver Appt. In a court appt Receiver, I wouldn’t be working for the bank (like in a Private Receivership), it’d be for all secured creditors. The bank is pressuring me, but I will still need to take my time to evaluate the potential engagement. My role as a trustee is to maintain the integrity of the insolvency system; to be free of any influence that will impact my judgement and objectivity.
58
-OSB has selected one of your debtors for examination under Oath -you receive the report and it indicates that in last 12m, prior to filing bky, debtor used c/c to renovate house which belongs to wife and has for last 20 years -total amount spent on renovations is $45K -debtor’s total liabilities are $150K -notes taken at initial interview are sparse you notice -administrator is usually very detailed so you’re surprised -you inquire with the administrator and she says the debtor is her parents’ neighbor What do you do with respect to the administrator?
-I have an Associate Responsibility to my staff; I need to ensure they’re following the RPC Rules. Our employees are held to the same standard and code of ethics as we are. -Parents’ neighbors not related but there’s a perceived conflict -Look at internal training so my staff knows that we need to be independent; review ethics with staff; update procedure manual -administrator should’ve let me know about the family connection at the initial file review -administrator should have excused herself from the engagement and should’ve handed it to another administrator -I have a duty to uphold public confidence in the insolvency system -I have a duty to maintain integrity of the insolvency system; I cannot let any influence impair my professional judgement and objectivity -I would take the administrator off this file due to the conflict; implement safeguards so she doesn’t have access to file
59
-OSB has selected one of your debtors for examination under Oath -you receive the report and it indicates that in last 12m, prior to filing bky, debtor used c/c to renovate house which belongs to wife and has for last 20 years -total amount spent on renovations is $45K -debtor’s total liabilities are $150K -notes taken at initial interview are sparse you notice -administrator is usually very detailed so you’re surprised -you inquire with the administrator and she says the debtor is her parents’ neighbor What do you do with respect to the examination?
This could be a TUV. Gave money to wife to renovate her house for no consideration. If within 12 months of filing then no need to prove insolvency nor intent. Wife is a related party per BIA. If within 5 years of filing then prove intent or insolvency. -see if wife will repay the amount back to the estate -or get a judgement against the wife for $45K -or section 38 the action to creditors -I would note s.173 fact (s.158 TUV) on s.170 report -I would oppose discharge -And recommend conditional discharge (for debtor to pay $45K)
60
-You’re a Trustee in a small firm -There’s a banking issue -14 months ago, he accidentally deposited a dividend cheque into the General Account -He says he usually deposits fees from files in the General Account -He tells you he just reversed the cheque and reissued the dividend to the creditor -he added $50 out of his own generosity
-there’s an error in delaying the dividend to the creditor but we need to treat all creditors equally and can’t add a $50 bonus for our mistake -contact the creditor and explain that we must cancel the cheque and reissue the dividend without the extra $50 -we may need to file an amended dividend report -Review internal controls as 14 months is a long time -why wasn’t this caught on the bank reconciliations -bank reconciliation must be completed within 45 days of bank statement date -Trustee must advise OSB in writing of any outstanding errors that have not been corrected within 75 days of statement date -General account needs to reimburse the estate account and then the dividend can be reissued -The $50 is not estate funds and should not be added to the dividend so funds came out of estate account into general account and then he reversed it (after 14 months) so funds went back to estate account and out of general account plus extra $50 bonus? What should have happened for a correct reversal? -estate account was deprived of funds for 14 months, that's a compliance issue -the reversal must be clearly documented, attach bank records -reissue dividend from ESTATE account, not extra $50 -amend dividend report
61
funds came out of estate account into general account and then he reversed it (after 14 months) so funds went back to estate account and out of general account plus extra $50 bonus? What should have happened for a correct reversal?
-estate account was deprived of funds for 14 months, that's a compliance issue -the reversal must be clearly documented, attach bank records -reissue dividend from ESTATE account, not extra $50 -amend dividend report
62
Your mom calls you asking for you to talk to your aunt Your aunt owns a restaurant and has financial troubles Your mom wants you to take her file and give her special treatment and attention Your mom had lent money to your aunt and asks you to provide her insider info She also asks best way to recover funds
*Aunt is not related per BIA definition But there’s a perceived conflict of interest *Even if I take on the engagement, I need to disclose perceived conflict at time of filing and at FMOC *I can be substituted out at the FMOC If aunt files proposal, mom is related party so she can’t vote FOR proposal, only against or abstain *Tell mom that you’d be an officer of the court, looking after interests of all creditors not just her *She would not get any info that hasn’t been provided to the other creditors as that would violate code of ethics *I have a duty to confidentiality unless required by law *Tell mom that you must be free of any influence, interest or relationship that impairs your professional judgement and objectivity *I would not take on the file as my independence would be questioned
63
Only 3K in debt, young person, only $833 social assistance and subsidized housing credit paid directly to housing program of $800. What do you advise?
-Discuss all available options per Assessment Directive. -do nothing; interest accrues and creditors can take action like seize bank account if they get a judgement; unlikely to garnish social assistance -negotiate directly with creditors as debt is minimal and small # of creditors; interest freeze or settle for a lesser amount -file bankruptcy through BAP; there’s a fee agreement, generally less than LIT office; they may use GST refunds to pay fees -9 months discharge in bankruptcy given no priors -proposal; if third party like family can assist -OPD (money mentors) -Young person, low debt load and is creditor proof so informal options may work better.
64
-you review monthly bank rec’s for a small operating receivership -$750 cleared the trust account but you don’t recognize what its for -you erroneously signed the cheque but didn’t approve the invoice -you trust administrator, CQP candidate, says they cashed the cheque -they refer you to subsequent entry where they repaid $750 -they want leniency since funds were for sick mother
-this is misappropriation of trust funds -repayment does not negate the breach -take immediate protective actions: remove them from trust role secure trust account and review signing and cheque controls do a full review to check for any other irregularities -you cannot grant leniency for trust account violation -report to CAIRP since he's a CQP candidate -report matter to OSB and what is being done to resolve it -strengthen internal controls around cheque approval process -you have associative responsibility (CAIRP RPC) to your staff; a member who is associated with non-members in a professional practice shall be resposible to the Association for any failures of such associates to abide by the RPC.
65
Receivership. 100 employees are unionized. Union rep has been calling you:
-one of the possession taking initiatives of Receivership is to let employees know of appt, issue terminations, and retain the ones necessary to complete the Receivership (new employment contract) -CBA will cease to exist if the business is no longer a going concern -hold meeting with union, let them know about your appt and that you’re still contemplating running the business or shutting it down; give them timelines as to when decision will be made -If they have a CBA in place then you can apply to court to bargain if you’re operating the business -review CBA to determine how its terms will impact the Receivership -if you’re not operating the business then just let union know that soon the business will no longer be operational; employees will be terminated and CBA will cease to exist.
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-Ms. Davis – president, D&O and SH of ABC company. -ABC is an electrical contracting company; head office in Calgary but offices in Edmonton and Vancouver. -Ms. Davis approached you to see your advice as a LIT. -company has grown from 2 employees to 200 employees, some sub-contract workers including Ms. Davis. -Ms. Davis says she’s in the middle of some fairly large projects (commercial and residential) but admits she’s “in over her head” -4 major projects Ms. Davis is involved in; project 1 and 2 have been underbid; she expects cost will be $200K over the contract value on these two projects. -for project 3, she expects to realize a profit of $300K in 2 weeks. -for project 4, ‘profit on the books’ is $550K; but that owner has repute for not paying contractors the full amount. -there’s some litigation involved for deficiency disputes with project 4; the lawyer said she can expect to spend 100K in legal fees to dispute and won’t see any monies for 6-12 months. -ABC has $6M LOC with Friendly Bank – bank manager has concerns about ABC’s ability to service it’s debts; security over all assets of ABC -$1.2M in general accounts payable including $120K in GST remittances, source deductions $240K -payroll is in 1 week; she doesn’t think she can pay $250K in one week. -Bank has frozen ABC account and is demanding payments -Assets; some AR and equipment worth 40K -Ms. Davis has given personal guarantee to Friendly Bank Options for Ms. Davis and considerations for each:
-conflict check; verify independence -review financial statements to see if company is viable -there’s been growth so that indicates viability -If bank issues NOITES, enforces on security or appoints Receiver then company will no longer be a going concern -Does Ms. Davis want to operate? If she does then she can file an NOI for the time being to stay the bank; -Project 1 and 2 can be disclaimed; send 30 day notice via registered mail; 15 days for other party to appeal to court; court factors: does disclaimer increase likelihood of a successful restructuring. -GST is only DT in a Receivership; bankruptcy inverts priority to unsecured. Unsecured in a proposal. -Source Deductions DT, rank ahead of bank. -going concern company worth more than idle company; would be good to finish project 3. -do cost benefit analysis to see if it’s worth it to dispute the project 4 deficiency claims. See if you can register a Builders’ Lien. Check with legal counsel. -Check how much of the AR is collectable, appraisal on equipment/tools. -put a clause in the proposal to compromise the PG; if bank accepts and proposal is court approved then bank is bound. -Div I cheaper than CCAA Director’s Liability: GST and source are DL; gst can be compromised in a proposal; RP cannot. Unpaid wages is also a DL. Informal -could also do a forbearance agreement with bank; to preserve relationship.
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Ms. Davis decides to file an NOI. Bank approaches you for advice. Bank says they intend to oppose any proposal brought forward by ABC. Bank would like a greater presence in the company’s affairs.
During NOI bank is stayed. Bank can apply to court to lift the stay. Once proposal is filed, and bank rejects it then they’re not bound by it and then they can enforce, no requirement for s.244 NOITES. source deductions would rank ahead of bank as they're deemed trust. Wages are super priority upto $2K (accrued in last 6 months) and they'd also rank ahead of bank. Bank can request updates/information from LIT
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Part 4. ABC received proceeds of $1M from insurance company for an insurance claim filed prior to NOI filing. How do you respond to this information?
-ask for details of insurance policy and claim -there is an ability to offer lump sum payments to creditors to have them onside of the proposal
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You’re a trustee at Bosslady Inc. You meet Mrs. Sylvester who wants to know her options. She had a business, she used personal credit to keep it afloat. She did not file her tax returns last year and now 2020 tax returns will soon be due for filing. She doesn’t think she owes personal taxes but unsure. Ceased operations more than one year ago. She tried to reimburse her creditors but unable to do so. Creditors calling. Equity in home $50K. RRSP’s. Life insurance policy that she’s trying to convert into a life annuity but adamant she needs time for that conversion before she files anything. What do you say about her company?
* Company appears to not be viable as she ceased operations over a year ago so no div I or CCAA discussion. * I would inquire about any assets the company owns; to determine if estate can fund the bankrutpcy * Costs minimum of $15K to put a company into bankruptcy; does the business have that to fund the bankruptcy? Perhaps in assets? * What did she do with the assets? Who, when, what and for how much was sold? to assess improper transactions like TUV and Preference * Ask for most recent financial statements * CRA has 2 year limitation period from resigning as director to assess director personally for GST or source deductions debt. * Can’t dissolve a company that has outstanding debts.
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Mr. Scott is meeting with you to discuss his real estate portfolio, 6 buildings that are commercial builds and shopping centers. He’s lost several tenants. Liabilities amounts to $32M including GST, Source Deductions and Income Tax. Can he seek an initial order?
-Individuals cannot seek initial orders for a CCAA, it can only be for corporations -debt load has to be atleast $5M -we need director’s resolution authorizing the filing of the application and admission of insolvency -Trustee consent to Act -weekly cash flow stmt (13 weeks) needs to be submitted -initial order will only provide 10 day stay -generally a comeback hearing schedule at the end of 10 days where further relief measures can be sought -stay is not automatic like in a NOI -initial stay is subject to court approval -if he’s doesn’t have a corporation then he’s not eligible for an initial order under the CCAA, but he can file an NOI to a Div I under the BIA or a bankruptcy if his business is no longer viable
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Why should he seek a NOI under BIA or an Initial Order under CCAA?
-to prevent CRA enforcement or to stay the CRA -they could RTP the receivables or put a lien on the buildings -pre-filing wages need to be paid immediately upon court approval -post-filing wages need to be current as at court approval -source deductions (DT) to be paid within 6 months of court approval unless CRA consents to an extension
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One of his tenants has filed an NOI. Mr. Scott (landlord) asks you if he can object to the Notice of Disclaimer of the lease he just received and on which grounds as this lease cancellation threatens his financial situation. talk about landlord claim what happens if proposal is rejected
-Mr. Scott should retain legal counsel to assist him -Within 15 days of Notice of Disclaimer, he can appeal to court to dispute it -if Mr. Scott does not contest then lease is considered disclaimed -court consideration 1: whether significant hardship is being faced by the lessor -court consideration 2: debtor must prove that this increases likelihood of a viable proposal -the leasee’s prospective proposal must explain how the landlord’s unsecured claim will be handled -whether it’ll be for actual losses OR lesser of: -1 year rent after lease ends + 15% of remaining rent -3 years rent (notwithstanding lease ending) -no accelerated rent in a proposal -If proposal is rejected, then landlord can file a preferred claim for 3 months rent arrears (upto NRV of assets on the premises) and 3 months accelerated rent (if lease provides for it) -basically, landlord to file a preferred claim if proposal rejected. Otherwise, the proposal will state how landlord's unsecured claim will be handled, i.e actual losses or 1st year rent+15% or 3 years rent.
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Mr. Scott tells you that he is afraid of the status of his business, he wants to transfer his house and RRSP’s to his wife. What would you tell Scott in that respect?
-If Mr. Scott files a personal insolvency, then this would be a TUV to a non-arms length party. -TUV is disposition of property for no consideration or consideration conspicuously less than FMV -If the transfer occurs within 12 months prior to his personal insolvency, then no intent (to defeat, defraud, delay) nor insolvency test would need to be met. -Trustee could apply to court for a judgement against the wife, or could apply to court to reverse the transfer or s.38 action to creditors -he must disclose this on his SOA -an offense would have been committed; report on s170 and oppose discharge. CRA could use ITA 160 as GST and source deductions is a Director’s Liability: -when a person transfers an asset to a non-arms length party at a time when they owe tax debt -CRA can raise an assessment against the wife for the lesser of tax debt or FMV of house and RRSPs. -Trustee should alert Mr. Scott of an assessment under ITA 160 -this provision is mostly for shareholders, but CRA can go after directors if they’re also shareholders. -ITA 160 not subject to a time limit.
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Mr. Scott is not happy with your advice. He tells you that your services are no longer required. He said he will go with another Trustee. Next day you learn he filed an NOI with your competitor. What will you do?
-duty to report supersedes duty to confidentiality -report to OSB and Court that debtor intends to transfer assets and not let new Trustee know -the bankruptcy analyst at the OSB could follow up with the actual trustee to follow up to ensure debtor made full disclosure -deal with competitor Trustee with professional courtesy and advise him of the issue and that you’ve let OSB+court know. -review SOA later on when proposal is filed and let them know if transactions was not disclosed -if not, an offense (a. material omission and b. TUV) would have been committed; actual Trustee to report on s170 and oppose discharge. -if this is not a personal insolvency, then no offense has been committed but then let Scott know that CRA could use ITA 160.
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Your neighbor owns a company which is experiencing financial difficulties. The neighbors company has a significant amount of secured debt. Your neighbor is a director and has provided PG’s. He would like to hire you, an LIT, as an advisor to the directors to protect themselves against any potential liabilities. Can he hire you:
-per BIA definition of related, he’s not a related party to me so no true conflict -there would be a perceived conflict of interest -my independence could be questioned by stakeholders -should I accept this as a formal engagement, I’d need to disclose the conflict at the time of filing (EIS) and at the FMOC -I would disclose the conflict in the interest of transparency and to uphold public confidence in the system -I would let my neighbor know about my role in a formal engagement; court officer: working for the general benefit of the creditors; not working for him.
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He wants to hire me as an advisor to the directors to protect themselves against any potential liabilities: 3 things to say in the answer
-I cannot advise how to structure the transaction that would prefer him and the other directors over the interests of the creditors as this is the specific function of a lawyer -However, I can provide information about the consequences of any action that he might take in an attempt to reduce his liability like paying off the director’s liability which would constitute to a preference under s.95 of the BIA. -I could also assist in the filing of a proposal or a CCAA plan that attempts to carve out his personal liabilities and limit directors exposure – clause for the compromise of personal liabilities; directors’ liabilities (GST can be but RP cannot be)
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Bank comes to see you about a client that is a winery. Winery has good history with bank. Last year’s financial statements show a loss. Principals of the winery are asking for a $250K increase on the LOC – they’re saying there’s a bit of a cash crunch to pay wages to existing employees. Trade creditors are becoming more aggressive. Bottle supplier is owed $30K for load of wine bottles just delivered. Company owes source deductions of 200K per CRA audit. Bank has a mortgage on the property (wines are located here), GSA and limited guarantee from principals. Main production facility is on the neighbor’s land; bank doesn’t know if there’s a written lease. A 3rd party said equipment is being moved to the neighbors land. Once harvest is complete, wine is made, this year’s crop is expected to generate $800K in receivables. Financial statements show $45K owing in rent. What do you advise the bank?
I would first do a conflict check on the bank. Ensure there’s no statutory prohibition (DERAT) from acting and to verify my independence. I would suggest to the bank to retain my firm as consultant so we can perform a look-see on the Winery company. Get permissions from Winery to review books and records, access to premises and being able to report back to Bank (engagement letter). Figure out reason for financial difficulties; competitor taken market share? Bad management? Unpredictable event like cold snap that destroyed the crop? Do owners want to operate or no? Is the company insolvent? Get legal opinion of validity and enforceability of bank’s security. Is there any equity in the property? If yes, then bank can extend that 250K as a secured loan. Assess the bank’s security position; environmental cleanup charge by crown rank ahead of all creditors; 30 goods supplier claims are super priority; source deductions (DT), wages (super priority). Review lease agreement to see if there’s an actual lease. See if the lease has any value. If bank is worried about dissipating assets, they can get a court order for an Interim Receiver. MOC – 3 capacities: monitoring; observational and conservatory capacity. Bank’s options: Informal: -advance the funds principals are requesting given past relationship (do a forbearance agreement and put a clause in there require company to report frequently) -issue NOITES, allow 10 day period before enforcing on security Company is insolvent: -court appointment Receivership; court order may provide stay against trade suppliers; costly; GST is DT so ranks ahead of bank; WEPP available for unpaid wages; need to issue NOITES and wait 10 days before court appt; no right to occupy landlord premises like in a bankruptcy (landlord can terminate Receiver) -private Receivership, fees (but less expensive that court-appointed Receiver); no stay -file application for bankruptcy order; delayed process, value of security could erode; OSB levy so less net realization to bank; WEPP available for unpaid wages; Trustee allowed to remain on premises for upto 90 days while paying occupancy rent. Business is viable and owners want to keep operating: -petition company into CCAA (if corp’s debts are atleast $5M) -ask the company to file an NOI and then a proposal or CCAA if company is viable; provide Interim financing or DIP lending secured by a charge from court; debtor driven so bank has less control; Consider environmental risks; get phase 1 (qualitative) to get information; inquire with management regarding environmental damage. Receiver not liable for pre and post appt environmental liabilities.
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Public confidence
13.5(1.1) A trustee shall act honestly and in good faith and shall exercise the care, diligence and skill of a reasonably prudent person in order to maintain the confidence of the public in the bankruptcy and insolvency system.
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An individual is in a Div I proposal; they didn’t attend both counselling sessions, do you issue certificate of full performance in the end?
-counselling sessions are not a requirement in a div I proposal -trustee has a duty to serve the public interest/confidence and reduce repeat filings so can let debtor know the sessions are free/informative and send him the OSB module content link -review proposal to see if there’s a clause to attend counselling sessions -if there is, then the debtor is in default; need to check if inspectors (if appointed) will waive the default
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A debtor files bankruptcy, the OSB examines the debtor and he reveals he’s accumulated $50K in a bank account. The auto discharge date is fast approaching, what do you do?
* The debtor has failed to provide complete information at the examination so that is a breach of his s.158 duty and an offence under s.173 so report on 170 report o Hold meeting with debtor; let debtor know he’s not eligible for an automatic discharge; attempt to get more info out of the debtor regarding the funds o Investigate nature of this $50K; is it an inheritance? Was he under reporting his income? Is it a lawsuit settlement for pain and suffering (exempt). There may be additional conduct issues to include in your 170 report o Inquire with the debtor which bank it is * We need to maximize the value for creditors/estate so need to collect on this $50K as it’s non-exempt. * Call the bank, follow up with appointment letter and demand letter for them to wire the funds to you * If no cooperation, then engage legal counsel to apply for court order but that’ll be delayed so the funds could dissipate * The funds don’t vest with the estate until the Trustee intervenes/acts. * If debtor doesn’t provide those funds right away, then that’ll constitute an offence which you’ll need to report on the s.170 report; the Trustee would need to oppose discharge and recommend a conditional discharge (the condition being the $50K be provided to the estate for the benefit of the creditors) * May need to convert the estate from summary to ordinary due to complexity/anticipated legal costs; let OSB know immediately if realizations exceed $15K
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ABC files an NOI and they want an extension to file a proposal; what do you have to do as Trustee.
* Within 10 days of NOI, ABC must file CF. If the CF has been filed and you’re asking for an extension then you need to resubmit an amended CF (prepared by debtor company). * CF must accompany debtor’s report; debtor co also needs to sign off on CF; * Trustee needs to review CF and assumptions; Trustee needs to file report on reasonable of CF * CF must be on monthly basis or at least up to court approval * It’s weekly in a CCAA * Request extensions to file proposal in 45 day increments up to 6 months (or initial 30 days plus 5 months is the max) * If debtor requires an extension to file a proposal, then Trustee must file a report with court, supporting an extension.
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Court considerations for granting an extension to file proposal:
1. if Trustee files a supportive report/affidavit 2. does granting the extension enhance viability of proposal 3. whether or not granting the extension would prejudice any party 4. is the debtor acting in good faith and due diligence 5. is it likely that a successful proposal will be filed
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You're trying to get an extension for ABC to file a proposal after they've just filed an NOI ABC has lied to you and they’re liquidating all their assets. Your positive report (in support of granting extension) has already been filed.
* The company is not allowed to sell assets outside the ordinary course of business without court approval * Call attorney and ask to briefly adjourn the hearing (even if for an hour or so) – provide them the professional courtesy that a issue has been raised. * The info has not been verified yet and we must use our professional judgement * We’re an officer of the court and our report is accepted as evidence unless other proved * The Trustee is going to have to amend their report (or deliver it verbally given the timing) and bring the matter to court attention o State that the company is selling assets outside ordinary course of business without court approval o The debtor is potentially not acting in good faith * Based on this info, the court may: o Grant the extension IF debtor can prove allegations are false o Not grant the extension and terminate the period in which to file the proposal – in this case company would be deemed bankrupt o Appoint an Interim Receiver to protect estate and ensure assets aren’t dissipated. Interim Receiver is limited to 3 capacities (MOC; monitoring, observational and conservatory)
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You work for an insolvency firm, use an accredited 3rd party counsellor. An employee of this 3rd party counsellor wants to use your firm to file a CP. What considerations would you have in taking this file?
* The primary consideration is whether there is a real or perceived conflict of interest. While the individual is not an employee of my firm, they are employed by a third-party counselling agency that my firm uses, which creates an associative relationship. This could give rise to a perception that the debtor is being favoured, particularly by creditors. * That said, this would not constitute a true conflict of interest, as there is no direct employment, ownership, or financial interest between my firm and the individual debtor. * To mitigate the perceived conflict, I would ensure: * Full disclosure on the EIS, at the time of filing, and again at the First Meeting of Creditors (FMOC) if one is held * Transparency so creditors are aware of the relationship * Recognition that creditors retain the right, by special resolution (¾ in value and a majority in number), to substitute the Trustee if they are uncomfortable with the appointment * Pursuant to section 13.3(1) of the Bankruptcy and Insolvency Act, a consumer proposal may only be filed by a Licensed Insolvency Trustee acting for the debtor, which remains satisfied in this case. Conclusion; would you take this file?: * I would be prepared to take the file, as there is no actual conflict, provided that proper disclosures are made and independence is preserved.
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He wants to offer you referrals to reduce his CP payments, can you make this arrangement?
* I would not enter into any arrangement where referrals are offered in exchange for reduced consumer proposal payments. * Such an arrangement would: * Violate the CAIRP Rules of Professional Conduct, including the duty to: o Uphold the reputation of the profession o Act with integrity, objectivity, and due care o don’t let any influence, interest or relationship compromise your judgement and objectivity. o don’t pay or receive commissions directly or indirectly for referrals o Trustee has an associative responsibility for those that work under us and are non-members. * Undermine Trustee independence, particularly where the individual is a referral source * Be unethical, as proposal terms must be based on the debtor’s financial circumstances, not external benefits * Additionally, consumer proposal terms are ultimately determined by creditors, requiring a majority in dollar value and a majority in number. A Trustee cannot manipulate payments to secure personal or firm benefit.
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You work for an insolvency firm, use an accredited 3rd party counsellor. An employee of this 3rd party counsellor wants to use your firm to file a CP. What if it’s a bankruptcy?
* The concerns are more significant in a bankruptcy context. In bankruptcy: o The debtor must submit monthly income and expense statements o Payments are determined by surplus income rules o If the individual receives commissions or bonuses based on referral volume, their income may fluctuate depending on file volume * This creates a serious independence concern, as the debtor could: o Delay or accelerate referrals to influence their income o Artificially suppress surplus income obligations * This would compromise my ability to administer the estate objectively and could reasonably be viewed as impairing my independence. Conclusion: * In the case of a bankruptcy, I would not accept the appointment, as the independence concerns rise to a level that cannot be adequately mitigated through disclosure alone.
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Div I fails what happens when an assignment is deemed to have been made?
If an insolvent person: * Fails to comply with the requirements after filing an NOI, or * Fails to file a proposal within 30 days of the NOI, or * Fails to file a proposal within an approved court extension then the following happens: 1. Automatic assignment o On the expiry of the 30-day period or any extension, the debtor is deemed to have made an assignment in bankruptcy. 2. Trustee’s obligation o The Trustee must immediately file a report of the deemed assignment with the Official Receiver, in the prescribed form. 3. Official Receiver’s role o The Official Receiver issues a Certificate of Assignment, which has the same legal effect as a voluntary assignment under s. 49. 4. Meeting of creditors o Within 5 days after the Certificate of Assignment is issued, the Trustee must:  Send notice of a meeting of creditors under s. 102, where creditors may, by ordinary resolution:  Confirm the Trustee’s appointment, or  Appoint another Licensed Insolvency Trustee in their place.
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Mr. Reed meets with you. He’s a SH and director of IDEAL SKI INC. There’s a competitor ski resort in the area which has caused the financial situation to deteriorate. Last year, Mr. Reed decided to improve the resort and it’s equipment. In 2018 and 2019, important renovations were done to the buildings including the main lodge. The cost was $8M. The $6.5M was financed by Big Bank – they obtained a first ranking Hypothec on the lodge and inn. The remaining $1.5M, Mr. Reed said he’d invest. The bank disbursed it’s loan but Mr. Reed failed to pay the $1.5M. Work has been completed but IDEAL SKI INC. has now received several notices of Legal Hypothecs of Builders. Part 1.Mr. Reed asks you what to do with those legal papers called legal hypothec of builders? How do you address his first query?
I would first do a conflict check to verify my independence. I would let Mr. Reed know that I can provide general information but if he’s looking for specific information then he’d have to engage me as a Consultant and they’d have to sign an engagement letter together. Here’s what I would tell Mr. Reed about the legal Hypothecs: -Yes, Builders’ are able to register liens if they’ve improved the property and they’re not compensated for the work done. -We need to examine the legal Hypothec documents and seek legal counsel to determine if they’re valid, properly registered. -If the charges are properly registered, then the Builders’ are considered a secured creditor. -The Builder Hypothecs may rank ahead of the bank’s hypothec, causing concern to the bank and then the bank may demand the entire loan at once or issue a NOITES. 1-He can enter into a forbearance agreement with the bank to satisfy them until busy season starts. 2-I would ask Mr. Reed why he didn’t pay the $1.5M. Determine if there was a deficiency in the work completed by the Builders or if they didn’t fulfill their contract fully. If he can pay the $1.5M then this would diffuse the situation and the builder’s would voluntarily discharge the Builders’ liens. 3-We could also look at negotiating with the Builder’s, providing them some sort of compensation to voluntarily discharge the Builders’ liens. 4-I would also determine value of lodge and inn (appraisal), and see if there’s any equity; if there is then I would contact an asset based lender to lend funds to pay off the Builders’. Renovations would have improved the value.
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Part 2.Mr. Reed tell you the bank is very unhappy, it intends to demand payments of the term loan as a result of the Builders’ liens (which constitutes a default). Bank has security over all assets, lodge and inn. Mr. Reed asks you what he can do.
Informal: Enter into a forbearance with the bank. This will help preserve the relationship. Formal: -First step would be to determine if the business is viable and whether Mr. Reed wants to run operations. 1-File an NOI to temporarily stay everyone (even the secured creditors), then file a subsequent Div I proposal or flip it into a CCAA (if proposal hasn’t been filed and CF statement period (10 days from NOI) hasn’t passed; and debts exceed $5M). Two types of proposals; liquidating or restructuring (if he intends to carry on business & business is viable). He should talk to the bank first and not surprise them with an insolvency because banks don’t like to be surprised; they’re his largest secured creditor and he’d need their support to keep operations going. 2-File an assignment into bankruptcy (Trustee is under no obligation to run the business) 3-Consent to a Receivership
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Part 3. It appears that Big Bank is the most important creditor of IDEAL SKI INC. and it’s also your firm’s largest client. Big Bank hasn’t reached out to you so far to discuss the situation regarding IDEAL SKI INC.
-There’s a perceived conflict of interest; Big Bank being your firm’s major client compromises your independence. -Let Mr. Reed know that Big Bank is your firm’s major client. Disclose the relationship to Mr. Reed. -this would allow him to decide -Reassure him that you would not share any confidential information with them. -Trustee has a duty to confidentiality, cannot give away information unless required to do so by law; or party to which info relates to has granted permission to disclose
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Part 4. Lets say Mr. Reed decides not to deal with you; can you later on advise the Bank (your client) re the situation with IDEAL SKI INC?
-No, at this point I wouldn’t speak to Big Bank re the situation with IDEAL SKI INC and my conversations with Mr. Reed -should Big Bank approach me to do a look-see or Receivership, I would disclose that I met with Mr. Reed but would not share specifics re my discussion with Mr. Reed as that is confidential information. -I would let them know that I have an ethical duty as a Trustee to confidentiality, and unless Mr. Reed had consented to a waiver, I cannot disclose it to the bank. -CAIRP RPC: “A member shall protect and not disclose any confidential information concerning any professional engagement, unless required to do so by law”
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Part 5. Mr. Reed has a brother-in-law, Victor, who’s saying that he absolutely needed to obtain an initial order immediately. What do you say to Mr. Reed and how do you deal with interventions of Victor (LIT)?
-I would lay out the options for Mr. Reed, including pros and cons for each option. -CAIRP RPC – “Members shall accord to any other member the courtesy and consideration due between professional colleagues.” -The brother is an LIT and you should treat each other with professional courtesy. -I would let Mr. Reed know that if he engages me as his Trustee, I will have a duty to look after interests of all parties involved including creditors, court and debtor; not jut look after the personal interest of Mr. Reed as his brother in law is doing which is why Victor’s recommendations are differing. -discuss requirements for court to grant an initial order: company debts at least $5M, it’s a corporation and not an individual, the stay would provide a greater likelihood of a successful restructuring, no party is being prejudiced by the Stay. 10 day stay initially and extension up to court discretion. Need BOD resolution.
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Part 6. Mr. Reed tells you he personally guaranteed every single construction contract. He doesn’t want the personal exposure. What recourses are available?
In the proposal, we could put a clause compromising Mr. Reed’s personal liability, if the secured creditor accepts it then they’re bound by the clause. Court approval of proposal is also required.
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A number of employees have been dissatisfied. They’re trying to make a CBA (collective bargaining agreement). Mr. Reed is asking how the filing will help with this.
-CBA can’t be terminated with a filing. -Currently, a CBA has not been reached. -Let the employees know that the company is insolvent and there isn’t any likelihood for them to meet the union’s demands -For now, let employees know of imminent insolvency and let them know how their claims rank and that in a proposal: pre-filing wages need to be paid immediately upon court approval, post-filing wages need to be current as at court approval, source deductions (DT) needs to be paid within 6 months of court approval unless court consents to extension. Make them feel respected as stakeholders. -if the CBA is already in affect, the Trustee can negotiate the bargaining agreement with the help of legal counsel. If court is satisfied, a notice to bargain can be issued but a proposal cannot force a change. -In a bankruptcy scenario, CBA seizes as the company is no longer a going-concern
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Minister of Finance is investigating the situation and wants to press charges.
Mr. Reed had given shares of the company to 62 employees, so the 62 employees collectively hold 10% of the shares of ideal. Minister of Financial markets says this is a public company so IDEAL must provide financial statements to the SH and file quarterly reports. Minister is investigating the situation and wants to press charges. -The filing can’t stay the investigative wing of a regulatory body. -It can stay them from enforcing fines. -We could apply to court to stay the charges. -Let the minister know of the imminent insolvency, so they don’t bother with pressing charges as in a bankruptcy, the company will cease operations rendering the issue dead. -we could also consider just filing the reports (cost benefit analysis)
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Difference between Builders’ hypothec and Builders’ lien:
A builders’ hypothec is a civil law security interest arising by operation of law in Québec, whereas a builders’ lien is a statutory right in common law provinces that only arises upon registration on title.
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12. Mr. Rider filed for bankruptcy, has only one racehorse. You have retained a stable to care for this horse so you can arrange for its sale. Mr. Rider comes to tell you that this horse has previously been entered in a large stakes race that will occur tomorrow; there’s a large prise and a win could increase horse’s value. He also says if you don’t send this horse to race, it could reduce its value. Do you race the horse?
* I would need to ensure the horse has adequate insurance that covers injuries for such races. * If there’s no inspectors and there’s no time to call a FMOC before the race, Trustee has the right to continue operations until FMOC * Professional horse racing could meet the definition of a business. * Since there’s no inspectors, I could get the opinion of the major creditors and/or another horse trader.
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13. The bank wants to realize its security interest in view of Widget’s many defaults; but wants to minimize fees associated with the realization strategy, minimize other stakeholder involvement and judicial interventions. Suppliers are threatening to stop shipments and Widget is already on COD. Bank understands additional loans necessary to continue operations/maintain assets in good condition. Directors will cooperate with the bank they said. Liabilities are $59M. Assets FMV is $20M Bank has heard that other secured creditors could contest any sale in order to protect their position, even though there is no equity available for them. Location of assets in numerous provinces.
Clearly insolvent, assets
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Security by possession
Security by possession under the PPSA does not override prior registered interests unless: • The statute explicitly gives super-priority (like repairer’s liens) Storage liens generally do not.
101
1. Ann Smith had an initial consultation at the beginning of last month, in which she paid $200. You are unable to locate where the funds were deposited. Peter states he does not know, nor does he understand why you are concerned over the $200 as you are going to lose money on the file anyways as it is a summary filing.
* If the consultation was done within 60 days of filing for a formal proceeding then the consultation fee needs to be deposited into the estate account per BIA. * The Trustee has a responsibility to safeguard trust funds and estate assets; even small amounts not accounted for can lead to liability. * Immediately transfer $200 from GENERAL ACCOUNT to ESTATE TRUST ACCOUNT. * Investigate: which day were funds paid; method of payment (cash or cheque or e transfer); do we have any supporting documents (photocopy of cheque, bank deposit record, receipt); look in the safe, review bank statements to see when it was deposited. * Update internal procedures/policies; segregation of duties; clear procedures for handling consultation funds; ideally deposit same day into bank * Self report the situation to the OSB and advise what is being done to resolve
102
What if these funds were received from a third party?
* report on preliminary report, EIS, on SRD as footnote; * ensure third party funds are not from debtor’s own resources; have a written third party agreement. * Deposit into separate trust account
103
2. While reviewing one of the Ordinary files, you note that the bank accidently cash out the bankrupt’s RRSP account and submitted the funds to you for $5,500. Peter said you should not worry about the amount as the Bankrupt owes the same amount in unpaid surplus payments. He also notes that you will make significant profit on the file so we should not worry about it.
RRSP’s are exempt per the AB Civil Enforcement Act; exempt property does not vest with the Trustee We can’t apply exempt property against surplus income owed (unless we get court approval) If surplus income owing is the only outstanding duty then we can apply for mediation; if there’s additional outstanding duties then report on 170 report, oppose discharge and apply to court for discharge hearing. (recommend conditional discharge: request that these funds be used to pay the outstanding surplus payments.) Investigate further; obtain RRSP statement; bank may have improperly liquidated an exempt RRSP and remitted the proceeds to the estate. As a result, the Trustee is holding funds to which the estate is not entitled. We need to comply with BIA; administration would be improper if we used the exempt asset to offset surplus income payment; We could also seek court direction on this matter. Trustee’s are officers of the court; duty to debtor and creditors; Per CAIRP RPC; must maintain the integrity of the insolvency system and uphold good reputation of the Association. Per BIA, we need to uphold public confidence in the system * Arrange for the immediate return of the $5,500 to the bankrupt (or directly to the RRSP issuer if appropriate). * Ensure the transaction is fully documented on the estate file, including: * the bank’s error, * the corrective action taken, and * confirmation of repayment.
104
consolidated trust account T5 shows interest of $16,750 for summary filings amount has not been allocated some of the affected estates are closed and others are still open
* Under OSB Banking Directive, Trustees must maintain complete and accurate trust records, including interest allocation. * Interest earned in a consolidated trust account must be allocated to the estates whose funds generated the interest * Credit the appropriate interest amounts to each estate ledger. * Update internal policies and procedures so interest is being allocated properly; monthly bank rec’s within 45 days of statement date; that would’ve prevented this issue * Advise OSB of situation and what actions are being taken to rectify * For the closed SA estates; see if the interest is material * Guidelines for materiality; o For 1 creditor - distribute if funds exceed $5 o For 2-5 creditors – distribute if funds exceed $50 o For 5+ - distribute if average dividend will exceed $10 * If funds are material; amend SRD and dividend sheet; issue dividend * If funds not material; then remit to OSB
105
4. You operate a transfer account in this office During your discussions with Peter he indicates that he only puts in cheques at the end of the month and the funds are transferred to the appropriate estate the next business day. He also indicates that any remaining funds in the account at the end of the month are general trust funds and that they remain in the account.
* Trust funds must be deposited immediately or no later than next business day; he shouldn’t wait till end of month. * Should not hold “general trust funds” in a transfer account; that would be commingling of trust funds. Transfer account shouldn’t have any money left in the end if all funds are properly transferred to the appropriate estate trust account. * Delaying deposits means interest is not being earned from the trust funds; the interest earned should be allocated to the individual estates * Transfer account shouldn’t have any money left in the end if all funds are properly transferred to the appropriate estate trust account. * Report this to the OSB and let them know what you’ll be doing to correct the issue * Handle trust funds in accordance with the BIA * Do a bank rec within 45 days of bank statement date for the transfer account Receipts: Client → satellite office → deposited in NWT local bank → transferred to main Bank A in Edmonton Disbursements Bank A in Edmonton → transfer account → NWT local bank
106
Bob Jones owns ABC Co.; he comes in and tells you that his business is failing and that he wants to file for bankruptcy. His bank is the only secured lender with a General Security Agreement over all of the assets. He has also personally guaranteed the loan. He has approximately $1,000,000 in other payables including suppliers. He is also being sued by personally for unrelated matters with the company. He will likely lose the suit which is for a $1 million. A. At the beginning of the month ABC Co., receives a large shipment of inventory from its suppliers. Bob tells you that a friend told him that he should wait 30 days before filing bankruptcy, as these assets would then be covered under the GSA and would reduce his personal guarantee to the bank. What do you tell him?
* Conduct a conflict check on ABC Co, D&O of ABC Co and Bank; to verify independence. * For the PG’s he would need to file a personal insolvency (bankruptcy or proposal) and to stop the legal action * Initial things to do: o Ask for financial statements to assess viability of company/is it solvent o Get legal opinion on validity and enforceability of security * That large shipment could qualify for a 30 day goods claim (super priority; paid ahead of secured creditors). Supplier needs to file a valid POC within 15 days of initial bankruptcy event; the goods were delivered within the 30 days preceding the bankruptcy or receivership * Right to repossess if: 1. In possession of Trustee or Receiver 2. Identifiable 3. Same state as delivery 4. Not fully paid for 5. Has not been party of an arm’s length sale * I’m an officer of the court; looking after debtor and creditors; I cannot advise him to delay filing to favor one creditor; I would refer him to talk to legal counsel regarding how to minimize personal exposure. * Obtaining inventory right before insolvency; could be a director’s liability; supplier could sue him personally for breach of fiduciary duty
107
B. Bob tells you the only asset that has any value is his home. His friend told him to transfer it to his wife to protect the assets. What do you tell him?
* Trustee could attack that as a TUV (transfer under value) per section 96 of the BIA; if no consideration or consideration conspicuously less than FMV. * Wife is a related party per BIA definition of related. * If transfer was within 12 months of initial bankruptcy event then no need to prove insolvency nor intent. * If transfer was within 5 years of initial bankruptcy event, then need to prove either insolvency or intent. * Trustee could ask court to reverse the transfer or obtain court order for judgement against wife. * If transfer outside of 5 year period then we could use statute of Elizabeth to attack it. * CRA could go after wife per ITA 160; If you transfer an asset at a time that you owe tax debt then the CRA can assess the beneficiary for the lesser of the FMV of the asset or tax debt owed. There’s no time limitation for CRA to do this. Just let debtor know of this.
108
Ted, potential bankrupt comes into your offices and discusses with you his situation. Ted indicates that he wants to file bankruptcy. During your conversation Ted indicates that he is just about to receive a large inheritance as his grandmother who recently passed away. The inheritance is not enough for him to repay all his debt but he does not want any of it going to his creditors. You tell him that the inheritance would be part of the assets of the estate. A week later you discover that he has file bankruptcy with another firm, and the inheritance is not included on the list of assets. What do you do?
Initially when he came in, you could have also suggested a proposal in which all or a portion of the inheritance could be used as a lump sum to entice creditors to accept proposal. Do a BIA search; see which Trustee he filed with; obtain SOA from OSB to review if transaction was reported; offer professional courtesy to the Trustee and let them know of concerns; also inform the OSB of the misconduct. New Trustee could have the bankrupt examined. The new Trustee would need to put executor on notice, obtain copy of will, demand funds from bankrupt; report facts (material omission) on s.170 report and oppose discharge; Trustee could recommend a conditional discharge (condition being he pays the entire inheritance into the estate);
109
You are appointed Trustee of a partnership, on June 26, 2013 whose only assets is a 25% shareholding in Cam Co. Cam Co had an appraisal done just prior to your appointment value the partnership holdings to be worth approximately $6.5 million. Cam Co is being sued by a number of individuals, which if they are successful will erode the value of the Cam Co. On June 28, 2013 you receive an offer of $1.1 million for you portion of the company. What do you do? What do you consider?
* Trustee has duty to maximize value for estate * Appraisal was done prior to appointment; if circumstances (lawsuits eroding value) have changed since then, then conduct new appraisal reflecting litigation risk * If FMOC hasn’t been held then there’s no inspectors appointed whom you can seek direction from; in this case you can reach out to major creditors to get their opinion; disclose offer and litigation risk * See if there’s a deadline to accept the offer * Consult legal counsel to check likelihood that the plaintiff’s will win the case/potential outcomes * Get court direction; It’s a OA so will need court approval * Canvass the market; see if there are other buyers * Use this $1.1 million as a baseline for a stalking horse bid
110
The party wishing to buy your portion of the partnership is another partner. What issues does this cause?
The partner is a non-arm’s length party Need court approval for sale. There’s enhanced scrutiny for sale to non-arm’s length party Court factors: whether sales process is reasonable, trustee’s opinion, trustee report, extend to which creditors were consulted, effect on stakeholders, if consideration is fair, whether good faith efforts were made to sell to unrelated (are these court factors for proposals)
111
A new trustee / A substituted trustee shall:
(b) if appointed by the creditors, file with the court a copy of the minutes of the meeting signed by the chair; (c) notify the Superintendent of his appointment; (d) if required by the inspectors, register a notice of the appointment in the land register of any land titles or registry office where the assignment or bankruptcy order has been registered; and (e) as soon as funds are available, pay to the former trustee his remuneration and disbursements as approved by the court.
112
You are appointed Trustee of a partnership, on June 26, 2013 whose only assets is a 25% shareholding in Cam Co. The party wishing to buy your portion of the partnership is another partner. What issues does this cause?
The partner is a non-arm’s length party Need inspector and court approval for sale. There’s enhanced scrutiny for sale to non-arm’s length party.
113
On May 15, 201X you send out the notice of final R&D for ABC Inc. and dividend sheet to creditor indicating that after a lapse of 15 days dividend will be distributed. A day before the dividends are to be issued you receive a new claim. What do you do?
* Do not proceed with the dividend simply because notice was already sent * You must first deal with the new claim in accordance with the BIA claims process. * Review claim; is it properly done; is it a provable claim * Amend R&D and dividend sheet; reissue to all creditors if claim is valid; Let creditors know of delay and why * If claim is not valid, issue Notice of Disallowance – The creditor retains the right to appeal the disallowance so wait 30 days before issuing dividend
114
On May 31, 201X you send out a revised notice of final R&D ABC Inc. and dividend sheet to creditors indicating that after a lapse of 15 days dividend will be distributed. A day before the dividends are to be issued you receive a dividend from WCB increasing receipts by $10,000. What do you do? Can you receive additional fees?
* Send an amended final R&D and dividend sheet with the proper notice and issue the funds to the various parties * Yes o Prepare amended R&D, final invoice, call inspector meeting and get approval, send amended R&D for comments, tax new account, send out revised notice, wait issue funds proceed to discharge
115
You were Court-appointed as a Receiver and Manager of the Chocolate Company, a corporation that acts as a producer and wholesaler of high quality chocolate confections. The Chocolate Company operates out of a leased property in the industrial area. You were appointed pursuant to an application by the Chocolate Company’s secured lender, who has a general security agreement over all of the present and after-acquired property. When you attend at the Chocolate Company’s premises to take possession, you are met there by the landlord who asks about the rent that is outstanding for the prior and current month. At the same time, a supplier stops by and tells you that he delivered an order of cocoa the day before and was told to return today to pick up a cheque. He tells you that he is not leaving without either the payment or the product. How do you respond to both of these creditors?
Authority * As a court-appointed Receiver and Manager, my authority comes from the court order and the BIA. Landlord * I would consider whether continued occupation is necessary. * When considering continued occupation, I would take into account whether management is on board, the instructing party’s wishes, my role as an officer of the court, and any Crown claims. * If management is not on board, this would likely leave me with very limited options. * Need to determine amount of unremitted source deductions to assess whether it’s worthwhile to occupy and realize on assets; RP comes before bank’s security as its DT. If there’s a large crown claim then receiver may cease operations and do a controlled liquidation. * I do not have the right to retain the lease as in a bankruptcy unless the court order specifically provides for it. * The landlord may terminate the lease, sue for arrears, exercise distraint, or negotiate occupational rent with me. * The Receiver is not responsible for pre-appointment rent, it’ll be a preferred claim (s.136) but if I want to occupy then I will probably need to pay arrears unless I can negotiate another arrangement with the landlord. * Occupational rent is charged to the receivership, not to the debtor. * Occupational rent is a personal liability of the Receiver. * Steps to take possession include: changing the locks, notifying the alarm company, negotiating occupational rent with the landlord, and posting a notice on the premises indicating the receivership. * I would advise the landlord that they may file a preferred claim for three months’ rent arrears and three months’ accelerated rent, if provided for in the lease, less any occupational rent received, payable up to the net realizable value of the assets on the premises. Supplier * A 30-day supplier claim also applies in a receivership, similar to a bankruptcy, and I would ask the supplier to complete a Proof of Claim. * A 30-day supplier has a right of repossession if: o the goods were delivered within the 30 days preceding bankruptcy, and o a Proof of Claim is filed within 15 days of bankruptcy. * If the test is met, I would release the goods to the supplier, provided that the goods are: 1. Identifiable 2. Not fully paid for 3. In the same state as when delivered 4. Not subject to an arm’s-length sale * I would advise the supplier that post-appointment deliveries, if approved by me, may be paid in the ordinary course as receivership expenses. Bankruptcy may be necessary to invert GST priority to unsecured.
116
Non dischargeable debts
1. Court imposed fines and penalties 2. Alimony and child support 3. Debts arising from fraud or misrepresentation or embezzlement 4. Student loans (within 7 years) 5. Intential bodily harm, sexual assault, wrongful death 6. Undisclosed debts
117
Benefits of Liquidating Proposal vs a Bankruptcy
Liquidating proposal: * Controlled winddown * Higher recovery for creditors * Lower Trustee fees * Preserve tax losses and director reputation * Can compromise DL in a proposal except unpaid source deductions * You can complete contracts; it avoids the automatic termination triggered by the bankruptcy * More likelihood of collecting Receivables * Sale of inventory overtime; bankruptcy can force rapid liquidation
118
there’s a criteria to meet in order to appoint a Receiver
1. -issue NOITES, wait 10 days before appointing Receiver (debtor or court can waive 10 day requirement) 2. -did the bank provide the company with appropriate opportunity to remedy the default i) forbearance ii) alternate lender 3. -legal opinion on validity and enforceability of the security 4. -is private Receivership appropriate? Is Corp X in my locality or international -I would advise the bank that a better first step would be to engage us in a LOOKSEE; we would need an engagement letter (SIFRT) -is there a risk that assets are being dissipating? Then interim Receivership is appropriate. -In a court appt Receiver, I wouldn’t be working for the bank; it’d be for all creditors.
119
when should you recommend look-see to bank
-when it's unclear, facts are missing -when bank is considering advancing new money (they need to know if it's safe) -when business might still be viable, like potential for a high Receivables balance to come in -before issuing NOITES -when bank has a good working relationship with borrow; no evidence of defaults -when bank wants to confirm it's security position without going full enforcement
120
Debtor fails to provide complete info at examination
-breach of s. 158 duty and s.173 offence -report on 170 -oppose discharge -let debtor know they’re not eligible for automatic discharge
121
After-acquired Assets
Trustee must intervene in order to acquire after-acquired assets. S.67(1)(c) and S.99
122
There’s a garnishee. What happens to: -payment remaining in Court -amount paid to creditor -amount with creditor’s solicitor
Garnishee proceeding would cease. -Payment remaining in Court will vest with the Trustee; execution not complete. -amount paid to creditor is non-recoverable as execution is complete. -amount with creditor’s solicitor depends; -if solicitor is agent of creditor then non-recoverable -but if agent is third-party then amount is recoverable Do funds go to Trustee or debtor? Debtor entitled to return of funds if he has no surplus income. *this answer is only applicable provided that Garnishee was not for child support or alimony
123
In a summary administration, when is a creditor’s meeting called? Will the debtor have to face her creditors?
In an SA, a creditor’s meeting will only be called if requested by OR, Trustee or 25% value of creditors. In an OA, there has to be an FMOC within 21 days of bankruptcy.
124
Children’s savings account – how to deal with it in a bankruptcy.
-see if there’s Intent, Subject, Object (ISO) to make case for a trust -if not, then Trustee will ask for funds and oppose discharge if she refuses to hand them over
125
Mary’s house is joint with her husband. She doesn’t want to tell him about her bankruptcy. Can she save him the ‘aggravation’?
-If he’s not a creditor, no reason for Trustee to send him notice of the bankruptcy. -If we choose to register on title of the house for the one-half interest, then he’ll learn of the bankruptcy. -Otherwise, practically, Mary doesn’t have to tell him.
126
What does an ‘order of discharge’ do for a bankrupt? What if someone was a guarantor on the bankrupt’s debt?
-Releases the bankrupt from all claims provable in bankruptcy. -A discharge only releases the bankrupt, not the guarantor. Bank can still demand loan from guarantor.
127
Bankrupt has to travel out of town for work. He has a personal Amex, no way to hold a hotel room without a c/c.
-return the card -obtain permission from Amex to use it -tell him to ask his employer to get a company card for him and their permission in writing for him to use it
128
What if bankrupt owes his parents’ $10,000 which they loaned to him when he bought his first house. Can he pay them back?
* Full disclose of all debts and assets. * They’ll need to share the dividend. * Paying them back can be attacked as a preference. Non-arm’s length party within 12 months of initial bankruptcy event.
129
Debtor has a $5,500 car with PPSA registration by bank. Trustee discovers registration is ‘missing middle initial’. What should Trustee do?
* Security not properly registered * Disallow secured claim
130
Debtor has a $5,500 car with PPSA registration by bank. Trustee discovers registration is ‘missing middle initial’. What should Trustee do? Follow up: what if bank appeals?
* Security not properly registered * Disallow secured claim If bank appeals then negotiate a 50/50 settlement.
131
Bankrupt is senior bureaucrat, needs car to get to work. Is the car exempt? Car worth $6K. Follow-up: What if he lives in rural area with no public transportation? Follow-up 2: What if he’s a travelling salesman? Follow-up 3: what if he loses sales job before FMOC and takes work in a factory?
No, car only exempt up to $5K. Get debtor to arrange for friends to provide $1K so he can redeem the non-exempt equity. Follow-up: What if he lives in rural area with no public transportation? -leave it so he can earn an income and contribute Follow-up 2: if he’s a travelling salesman then it’s exempt. Follow-up 3: still exempt because issue is decided at date of bankruptcy.
132
Definition of insolvent person
Definition of Insolvent Person: -not bankrupt and, 1 of 2 -resides or carries on business in Canada, or -liabilities amounts to atleast $1K AND 1 of 3 -unable to meet obligations as they come due OR -ceased paying for his current obligations in the ordinary course of business, OR -FMV of property not sufficient to pay all obligations
133
“locality of debtor”
-MEANS PRINCIPAL PLACE -where debtor has carried on business immediately preceding bankruptcy -where debtor has resided during the year immediately preceding bankruptcy -in cases not coming within the points above, where the greater portion of the property of the debtor is situated
134
Bankrupt comes to see you; you do a BIA search and notice there’s a conditional order. What do you advise the bankrupt?
He will need to comply with the conditions or if more than a year has passed then he can apply to court to have the conditional order varied.
135
Would the discharge always be automatic for a first timer? Can someone be discharged earlier than 9 months for a Summary Administration?
His discharge would only be automatic if no one – Trustee, creditor or Superintendent objects. He can apply for an earlier discharge before the expiration of the 9-month period. There must be a reason for the early discharge i.e bankruptcy is adversely affecting his ability to make a living.
136
You’re the Trustee of the estate of a woman who has a small portfolio of shares. The shares are of a public company that her mother had founded. She redeems the shares (pays Trustee market value) to keep them as they have sentimental value. Share increase in value after making of the assignment and before the discharge, what should you do?
* The increase in share value could be considered after acquired property; point in time for after-acquired is between date of assignment and date of discharge. * After acquired property is an asset of the estate. * After acquired assets only vest with the Trustee if the Trustee takes action/intervenes. * Confirm with debtor that they still own the shares and ask them to provide a further contribution to the estate for the increase in value.
137
If someone has a house in Calgary but they’re living in Toronto then can they claim an exemption on the Calgary house?
Yes, there is case law to support the ability to claim a house as exempt if you can show that you are living elsewhere temporarily for reasons of work or other extenuating circumstances.
138
You’re trustee for an Ordinary personal bankruptcy. Bankrupt sold her 51% interest in Clothes-R-Us to her sister who was her sole partner for the company. It seems shares were sold for less than what they were worth since that year company was highly profitable. Company went bankrupt with no distribution to the shareholders. What would you do/consider re: the sale of the shares?
* Shares were sold within one year of the bankruptcy. * * Therefore, this is a reviewable transaction. S101 says when a corporation redeems shares of the corporation to a director, an officer or any person who manages or supervises the management of the business within one year before initial bankruptcy even, then the court (on application of the Trustee) look into those payments to check if a) was company insolvent at time of transaction? b) did making those payments cause the company to become broke? * Profits in the year of the sale suggest that shares were sold at undervalue. * The trustee first checks whether it’s even worth pursuing. Trustee should try to ascertain whether the sister (former partner) has any assets/ net worth before expending money on getting a judgement against her. * After obtaining inspector approval to proceed, the trustee should obtain a valuation of the company ‘when shares were transferred’ to determine if consideration was adequate. * If consideration was not adequate, Trustee should first try to negotiate with the former partner; if unsuccessful then get court order for a judgement against former partner for difference between share value and consideration actually paid.
139
Can a media rep. be an inspector?
Yes, any interested party can act as inspector. Media Rep. must understand that the matters dealt within in the meeting are confidential.
140
Who’s not allowed to vote for appointment of the trustee or inspectors?
D&O, employees of the bankrupt company are not allowed to vote on the appointment of the trustee or inspectors (Section 113(3)).
141
Under what circumstances, would you, as trustee or receiver, consider a sale by tender as opposed to auctioning or seeking offers to purchase assets?
Most important consideration is the powers you have pursuant to your appointment -if Trustee, take directions from inspectors. -if receiver under a security agreement, you are an agent of the secured creditor. Should take instructions from them/and follow security agreement. -if you’re a court-appointed Receiver, review the court order -if you face deadlines, a tender may be preferred, it defines terms of sale and avoids possible delays in negotiation -tender is when multiple buyers submit bids, compare all offers and choose best one -consideration should be given to type of asset, seasonality of product
142
You’re a trustee in bankruptcy. You are let in premises and discover the assets have been seized by landlord and are in possession of bailiff. What remedies are available to you?
-it’s called distraint when landlord seizes assets or landlord could also be enforcing security -serve bailiff with copy of assignment or Receiving order -stay of proceedings stops the distraint but not the enforcement of security
143
You’re appointed Trustee in bankruptcy on January 3, 2000. No rent was paid on January 1, 2000. The landlord submits a preferred claim for accelerated rent for February, March & April. How do you treat the claim?
-accelerated rent is for period immediately following bankruptcy; Trustee must review lease to determine if landlord is entitled for accelerated rent -preferred claim for rent is paid up to NRV of assets on premises (s.136) -occupation rent reduces amount of preferred claim
144
While removing property from the premises, the forklift causes substantial damage to the foundation. How do you respond to any claim that may be made by the landlord?
-Trustee can be personally liable for damage to premises during its occupation. -I would check if trustee has insurance on the assets and its activities
145
Fruits and Vegetables Retailer. You are appointed Receiver. 3 locations. Landlord has seized assets for 6 months unpaid rent. Inventory is loaded on a truck.
Landlord has the right to distrain for unpaid rent. Review receivership court order to see if there’s a stay provision for landlords. If note, try to negotiate with the landlord – make a deal. Let him sell the fruits/vegetables but request accounting for proceeds. Figure out how much rent was owing and compare with proceeds from fruits/vegetables.
146
Follow up question…what if retailer doesn’t want seizure to happen?
Get retailer to file for bankruptcy. With a bankruptcy, the stay will apply and landlord will need to return goods unless distraint fully executed. OR Appy for Interim Receiver appointment with a stay. ---consider materiality/cost/benefit.
147
Company is in financial difficulty. Landlord has seized inventory. There’s GST and source deductions owing to CRA. There are outstanding wage arrears. Bank has security over AR and inventory. What is relative priority in bankruptcy vs receivership?
Bankruptcy: Landlord is stayed. DT: source deduction Wages upto 2K super priority if earned within preceding 6 months of DOB, secured against current assets. Secured Creditor. Wages: If assets insufficient then remainder of 2K is preferred (ranked above unsecured). Amount over the 2K would be unsecured. Landlord gets preferred claim as well; 3m arrears and 3m accelerated rent if lease provides for it, upto NRV of assets on premises. Unsecured: GST Receivership: Landlord not stayed unless court Receivership order says there’s a stay. GST is also DT.
148
Bank about to issue s.244 NOITES. Unsecured creditor files a petition for bankruptcy. Debtor decides to make a proposal. Debtor can file an NOI or proposal before the expiry of the 10 day notice for NOITES otherwise bank is not stayed. Unsecured creditor must be owed atleast 1K, use a lawyer to file a bankruptcy order application but the process is delayed so if NOI filed by debtor before bankruptcy order then unsecured creditor is stayed. Company pays $20K to a supplier of foam rubber 2 months before if files an assignment. At same time, company buys and pays for foam rubber from another supplier. What are the issues?
Preference, pmt within 3 months before initial bankruptcy event can be attacked by Trustee per section 95 of the BIA. Go to court to reverse. Criteria: 1. debtor/creditor relationship. 2. Transfer of property or pmt by insolvent debtor at expense of other creditors. Supplier can rebut: Rebuttals: I. -transaction was in the ordinary course of business II. -there was a binding agreement in place III. -it was to remedy a wrongful act IV. -with expectation that he could continue business
149
You’ve been appointed trustee of a company that has deposited funds of $100K from a cheque-kiting scheme in a neutral bank. “A cheque kiting scheme is a type of bank fraud. It involves writing cheques from one bank account with insufficient funds and depositing them into another bank account to create the illusion of available money. Essentially, it’s artificially inflating the bank balance using timing delays in cheque clearing.”
Trustee should freeze/seize the funds. Report to OSB immediately. Notify RCMP. Can’t distribute proceeds of crime to creditors. If money is unclaimed, trustee may apply to court for order to keep as property of the estate.
150
President of large retail operation in Toronto comes to you for advice. He’s planning to file an assignment, A large shipment of goods has just come in and has not been opened. Bank has charge on inventory. President has given personal guarantee. How can he minimize his losses?
Ethics issue: recognize the president is scheming. I would tell him to seek a lawyer regarding compromise of personal guarantee. My role as trustee is officer of court, I cannot be guiding the President on how to compromise his liability at the expense of creditors.
151
Insolvent company is planning to file a Div I proposal. Owes money for source deductions
-payment of o/s source deductions within 6 months of court approval of all amounts including penalties and interest. -current remittances to be kept up to date otherwise CRA has right to take action and garnish; stay lifted.
152
You’ve been appointed Trustee. You serve the order on the CEO late Friday afternoon. Government official shows up same time and presents order for clean up. Plant runs 24 hours a day, you notice green slime dripping down the window. CEO has disappeared.
Figure out where pollutant is coming from? Determine cause. Trustee can do a cost (cost of cleanup)/benefit analysis re decision to take possession. Take measures to ensure safety of all stakeholders. Take measures to contain the pollutant. Trustee liable where there is willful misconduct or gross negligence. Where an order is made that requires the Trustee to remedy any environmental condition, the trustee is not personally liable for failure to comply with order if within 10 days of appointment, the trustee: 1. Complies with the order 2. Abandons or disposes of the property 3. Contests the order 4. Releases interest in the property a. If crown cleans up damage and environmental issues after the Trustee abandons the property, the charge will rank ahead of any security.
153
Husband owns all voting shares and is director of company. Sells condo purchased by company to his wife for $10 and other valuable consideration.
-Can be attacked as a TUV (transfer under value) per section 96 of the BIA. No consideration or consideration conspicuously less than FMV -criteria: no need to prove intent nor insolvency if within last 12 months for non-arms length party. -if within last 5 years to non-arms length party, intent OR insolvency.
154
You’ve been appointed Trustee. Receiver approaches you and requests your assistance in realizing on secured asset.
I would determine if there’s a conflict of interest. I would review the validity and enforceability of their security. Trustee should request fee or payment in return.
155
Company sells building materials. In business 35 years. Assets: inventory, AR, customer list, goodwill and trade name. Bank has a GSA for amount less the collateral (so they can recover all their money). Trustee has not obtained legal opinion of GSA. Potential buyer of business makes good offer, expires in 5 days before FMOC. Bank has not appointed a Receiver. What are the issues? What do you do (as trustee)?
-get legal opinion on validity of GSA from legal counsel -5 days is a very short timeline, may not be sufficient for approvals (from inspectors not yet appointed or court) -segregate property that cannot be sold like 3rd party property or 30 days goods -hire a valuator to appraise the property -determine whether the proposed sale proceeds are enough to cover: secured creditor, priority claims, trustee fees -get approval from major unsecured creditors & secured creditor ahead of FMOC, then apply to court for approval -hold sales proceeds in trust until GSA validity, creditor, and court approval have been obtained.
156
You are a trustee in bankruptcy. You have taken possession of leased premises. What are your obligations?
-change locks, notify alarm company of appointment so your changed to the main contact. -put notices on the premises of the bankruptcy. -decide to retain, disclaim or assign. -90 days to occupy if you pay occupation rent.
157
….follow up: you determine value of assets on property is insufficient to pay occupation rent. What are your obligations?
-you review lease and see what the market value is in order to design if there’s value in assigning the lease -if not value, then you can disclaim the lease -Trustee is personally liable for occupation rent
158
…follow up: in which situation would you take possession?
-attractive site/ value in lease so you can assign it -estate property on premises
159
…follow up: you decide to assign the lease, landlord refuses. What can you do?
-go to court for an order. Court looks at 3 factors: 1. new business is not more hazardous then business than business previously conducted 2. Lease arrears have been paid 3. New leasee must be able to honour its financial obligations under the lease
160
….follow up. What do you need to do when assigning a lease?
-get release from landlord for any future liability under the lease -or obtain court order providing relief from any future liability under the lease before completing the transaction -new lessee must agree to terms of lease and must satisfy the 3 court criterias.
161
Trustee fees: You’re the Trustee. You made an arrangement with the bankrupt to pay you $250 after bankrupt has been discharged.
-once bankrupt is discharged, they don’t have to pay you anything Page 6; Kaplan doc
162
What information do we need to gather from consumer debtors?
-assets, liabilities -talk to them about provincial exemptions -income and expense information -transfers, disposals, preferences
163
What options does a consumer debtor have?
-bankruptcy -consumer proposal -refinance house or sell the house -monthly orderly payments of debt program
164
There’s a mortgage on the house. A finance company also has a chattel mortgage on the car and furniture. What are the implications for the trustee and secured creditor?
-house gets 40K exemption, car gets $5K. Any remaining equity the debtor can redeem or trustee can sell property for benefit of estate and give back exemption to debtor -keep mortgage, furniture and car payments up to date or else the secured creditor will be able to realize on their security. No stay on secured creditors. -verify validity and enforceability of security -need third party appraisals on file
165
tell me some non-discretionary expenses:
-child care, medical expense, family support (child or spousal), fines, expenses permitted by ITA
166
Debtor taking care of sick mother. Does her expense count as non-discretionary?
-check if mother is claimed as a dependent on the income taxes -if she’s a dependent then we’ll need to add her household income in -then her non-disc expenses can be subtracted if she’s included in the household size
167
Bankrupt had paid parents $5K in last 3 months. They had loaned him money for the house. Bankrupt wants to pay parents back as they are pensioners. What do you tell him?
Bankrupt had paid parents $5K in last 3 months. They had loaned him money for the house. Bankrupt wants to pay parents back as they are pensioners. What do you tell him? -bankrupt can’t pay parents while undischarged -trustee can attack payment as preference under section 95 of BIA 1. debtor creditor relationship and transfer of property or 2. pmt by insolvent person at expense of other creditors -look back period is 3 months for arm’s length creditor and 12 months for non-arms length creditor. -report on s170, file opposition to discharge, recommend conditional discharge on basis that the $5K paid is returned to estate or get court judgement of $5K to go after parents.
168
Two retirees return from wintering in Florida, they have left there car there. Car worth $5K. Who does car belong to?
-car exempt per AB civlil enforcement act but if car is not in AB then AB provincial exemption won’t apply. -Trustee may seize and sell car; do cost benefit analysis.
169
…follow up: what if car was in Vancouver
-find out exemption laws for province of BC
170
Trustee sent auto discharge certificate to SOB, didn’t give it to bankrupt yet as bankrupt didn’t come by to pick it up. Before bankrupt arrives, trustee receives T4A showing bankrupt collapsed $10 RRSP.
-find out where RRSP was helped, date if was collapsed. RRSP only exempt if held in a registered account. If collapsed then non-exempt. -Truste can apply to annul the discharge if collapsed before auto discharge date
171
Can someone outside Trustee’s office do counselling?
-Must be registered with Superintendent’s office -need to have taken counselling course and have hours to be a qualified counsellor Hiring a counsellor, considerations? -have an agreement/contract -time frame for providing counselling -debtor pays trustee, not counsellor; counselling fee is tariffed -confidentiality agreement -remuneration -certificate to be returned to trustee on timely basis -security of documents/records -indemnity for damages: giving false information -counsellor should not use relationship to benefit re: other business services he offers
172
Bankrupt wants to file proposal. Advantages?
-credit rating goes from r9 to r7 -unsecured creditors get more money -annuls the bankruptcy so the assets vest with the debtor -easier discharge from bankruptcy if shown that debtor tried to make a proposal
173
What if debtor purchased $3,500 computer system 1 week before DOB?
-s.173 reckless spending offence -report on 170 report -file opposition to discharge
174
…who has right to the computer?
-potential 10K tools of trade exemption if using to earn an income -if no exemption then trustee can sell for benefit of estate
175
Trustee’s internet ad says, “specialist in CP’s” and “75% of CP filed in town filed with us”
-Bia says, can’t refer to self as specialist -unprofessional to quote percentage even if true
176
5 credit danger signals associated with consumer insolvencies
1. Being turned down for credit 2. Receiving overdue notices 3. Bank balance decreases while debt balance increases 4. Converting assets to cash to pay for bills 5. Using credit as income 6. Paying one debt by taking out another debt
177
If inspectors (5) can’t be reached and you need to have the SRD reviewed (with just Trustee fees) then what do you do?
-just approving the SRD without trying to set up creditors meeting is in breach of the BIA I should be instructed to start the process of setting an inspector’s meeting to discuss & approve SRD -call a meeting of creditors and have creditors approve the SRD before submitting it for comment
178
Today is December 20th. The trustee has asked me to deal with the in-coming mail while she is away. I’ve never dealt with the banking before as trustee normally does this. When I opened a document from the Receiver General, it was an invoice from the O.S.B. for the renewal of our corporate & individual licenses. Perhaps we better send a cheque to deal with this. I don’t have signing authority for the “general” account, so I’ll write a cheque from the consolidated trust account (Summary Administrations), and use the trustee’s facsimile name stamp.
-if licenses are not renewed by Dec 31st as required then they will be invalid -failure to pay will cause the OSB to make the licenses inactive -as a consequence, firm will be unable to accept any new files until the matter is resolved -e-filing privileges will be impacted as we have no valid license -duties that require the action/signature of a licensed trustee cannot be completed -this matter is very serious as estates must always have a LIT appointed & responsible -Trustee must also pay penalties & provide written explanation of why the license should be reinstated before the SOB can make a decision on the reinstation -can’t take money out of the consolidated trust account as those are estate funds. OSB license fee is not a trust expense. Consolidated account to only be used for estate related disbursements. -If I have access to the general account then the cheque can be signed by me (Trustee) -also cannot use the facsimile name stamp, as no confirmation that stamp is authorized for this account -stamp should be secured/controlled; estate admin shouldn’t use it; it should be monitored What should I do? -I should notify the trustee immediately -confirm if I have signing authority for the general account -flag the issue as urgent -ensure license fee is paid before deadline
179
Bankrupt is individual wage earner. Examined by OR. Attends FMC Agrees to send monthly i&e Several weeks later, creditor phone trustee to inquire if monthly stmt received. No stmts were received. Creditor wants trustee to notify OR immediately. What is trustee’s response?
-Immediately contact the bankrupt to inquire about the failure to submit the agreed upon monthly -request that they be provided without delay -advise creditor that trustee hasn’t received them but is following up with debtor -report non-compliance on s170 (s.158 breach) -oppose discharge
180
How is Interim Receiver Application made?
Exparte, in order to prevent more assets from being dissipated.
181
What do you do if debtor refuses to allow interim receiver to carry out order?
-go to court, get order against debtor for Contempt of Court.
182
Can interim receiver stop payment to judement creditor?
-no IR has no higher rights than debtor (unless court order includes stay against any proceedings against debtor)
183
What’s a straw vote?
-show of hands to see which way vote would go -gives chance to amend proposal so that it will pass
184
Proposal amended downwards. (The debtor reduced the offer to creditors, so proposal less favourable than original) Trustees hold several voting letters but not enough to sway the vote. Some creditors sent their voting instructions to the trustee (instead of attending the meeting) Should trustee proceed with vote?
-trustee should adjourn the meeting -call new meeting of creditors -send out amended proposal with new voting letters -it’s not good to proceed with the vote because creditors could later complain that they could have swayed the vote if given a chance - Creditors could later argue they were not given a fair opportunity to vote on the revised terms
185
When does court refuse to approve proposal?
-not reasonable -not beneficial to general body of creditors -doesn’t meet BIA requirements: does not provide for payment priority to preferred creditors and payment of trustee fees/expenses.
186
President of bankrupt company wants advice. He believes Trustee is in conflict of interest as trustee is also a Receiver. What can he do?
-creditors holding 25% in number(headcount) or 25% in value of proven claims may request trustee to call meeting of creditors and have vote to replace trustee -or apply to court to have trustee replaced
187
Bankrupt has rented commercial space. Landlord has distrained and is currently holding proceeds. What can trustee do?
-if funds have been deposited to landlords account then distraint is complete and trustee cant do anything -if funds are still with bailiff then distraint isn’t complete and trustee can get those back
188
What if distraint is in progress in a bankruptcy?
-Trustee can stop landlord and request release of property -The costs already incurred by the landlord in carrying out the distraint are treated as a first charge (priority lien) against the assets distrained so the landlord gets paid those costs first, ahead of other claims, but only for the costs, not the rent itself.
189
Director of a company, large overdue source deductions. Is director liable?
-yes, but they can do the due diligence defence (exercised care and diligence of reasonable prudent person)
190
What if director with large source deduction debt files for personal bankruptcy?
-CRA can go after director for breach of Trust (fiduciary) and debt will survive discharge.
191
You’re chairing an FMC. A non-creditor advises at the meeting that he heard you accounting partner is a friend of the president of the bankrupt company. How do you respond? President advises partner made personal loan to him for 20K and loan was paid back 2 weeks ago.
-ask president if this is true -were there any business dealings between my firm’s accounting partner and president of bankrupt company. -fraudulent preference; Trustee may have to sue accounting partner for return of funds -Trustee should step down due to the perceived conflict
192
A creditor who is aggressive towards the trustee is nominated as inspector. What can the Trustee do?
-ask if creditor has a conflict of interest. Otherwise, can’t stop him from being nominated. -ask for more nominations and put selection to vote. -can make sure there are enough other inspectors so that majority resolutions can still be passed without his vote
193
How many days does 30 day goods supplier have to file claim?
the supplier presents a written demand within 15 days of the date of bankruptcy (can be extended by the court, trustee or receiver) ● goods were delivered in within 30 days before the date of bankruptcy/receivership/NOI/Proposal 30supplier15
194
Trustee accepts bid of sole bidder at sale. Bidder refuses to close. What do you do?
-tell bidder that deposit is forfeit -that you intend to sell by re-tender -sue for losses if deficiency in price and costs for retendering
195
Mr. Jones was negotiating with debtor, the debtor went bankrupt. Tender process to sell assets. Mr. Jones makes highest bid. Mr. Smith complains Jones had unfair advantage.
-Trustee has duty to integrity of process. -Advantage of Jones was not a result of trustee’s actions -dispute allegations of unfairness and accept highest bid
196
Bankrupt has RSP with life insurance. Equity 300K. Trustee told that RSP is exempt.
-get additional info -was plan established by transfer from non-exempt RSP? -were payments to establish RSP made when debtor was insolvent -consult with legal counsel if this can be attacked
197
Assignment March 1, 2002. Feb 1 2002 bankrupt got married. Changed beneficiary to wife on Feb 7. Value of RSP is $200K, debts are $250K.
-RSP exempt as preferred beneficiary. -you may try to attack as preference. -prove intent -show badges of fraud -otherwise, include in conduct of debtor on s.170 report
198
After proposal is filed, landlord distrains claiming a break of the lease based on the debtors insolvency. What advice do you give the debtor?
-filing the proposal stays proceedings against landlord. -recommend debtor seek legal advice re damage claim.
199
Bank approaches you to act as Receiver and Manager. Would you accept?
-conflict check to verify independence -legal opinion on validity and enforceability of security -inform creditors of: the appt, provide copy of legal opinion and basis of remuneration
200
You’re both Receiver and Trustee. Purchaser has offered to buy all assets including paying substantial lease premium (which is part of bank’s security). Because the lease is charged to the bank, any value arising from that lease belongs to the bank first, not the estate. The landlord objects, he wishes to enter into a new lease at a higher rate. What do you do?
-Bankruptcy Trustee has right to retain the lease and assign it -conflict: you want bank to get money from lease lumpsum as the Receiver -apply to court for advice 30 day goods claim scenarios: Santo Importers delivered 24 boxes of component parts eight days ago. 24 are still packed and in their original cartons: Yes, repossessable by supplier since: -identifiable -same state as delivery -haven’t been re-sold at arm’s length -not subject to a sale agreement at arm’s length -haven’t been fully paid for in full
201
One box is flagged with a red tag “hold for Steven Dow, who is a customer, to be picked up Friday”
-already subject to a sale agreement to presumable arms length party so not repossessable
202
ABC shipped 100 boxes 12 days ag. Computermark provided 50 boxes of the same component parts five days ago. There are 128 boxes of component parts:
-if not easily identifiable (comingled with computermark and ABC) then not repossessable
203
Individual comes to see you. Decides to make an assignment in bankruptcy. One of his assets is a house. He is 50% owner of the house, his ex is other 50% owner. His ex wife uses the house, pays the taxes/upkeep and mortgage payments. Value of house is 345K, 200K mortgage. How do you deal with this asset? Bankrupt is not interested in purchasing asset from the estate.
-the share of the bankrupt in the house belongs to the bankruptcy estate -the ex-wife can payoff the estate for the bankrupt’s share; the share/interest of the bankrupt will need to be determined as ex-wife has been paying all the house’s expenses -if ex wife is not interested then: -trustee can go to court, get an order to be able to sell the house for the benefit of the creditors; sale order -trustee can register on land title so when property is sold, the trustee is notified and will receive proceeds from the sale of the property
204
Trustee of Mr. Salem, owns Toyota Camry, listed on SOA at $9,000. It is free and clear of all liens. Mr. Salem wants to purchase the car from you. In order to sell the car to the bankrupt, what should you consider and do?
-he can purchase it -there’s a 4K vehicle exemption so buy-back amount would be 9-4=5K -have a purchase agreement in place -ensure you value the vehicle via BBV*
205
You’re the trustee for a doctor. On his SOA, he stated he cashed in a bond and used proceeds of 25K to pay his creditors (four c/c companies were paid in full). You learn that this doctor has two cards in his possession that he continued to use.
-S.158 says to deliver all credit cards to the Trustee, except a credit card issue to a third party (employer, friend, spouse) -for a third-party card, trustee must have confirmation that the issuer or third party has authorized the bankrupt to continue to possess and use the card. -determine amount spent on the cards since DOB and if any payments were made (were these payments on the I&E report -report on s170 report under conduct -cut up the cards to prevent further use, give card issue the notice of the bankruptcy
206
You’re trustee of ABC Ltd. SRD has been completed, comment letter received and accounts were taxed by Court. 50 dividend cheques totalling $15K have been sent to the creditors. 3 returned marked “moved-address unknown”. One cheque is payable to RBC, one to John Ryan and third to a local DEF Co. which is no longer in business. Bank has credited/added additional interest of 75.68. As Trustee, what do you do with these funds?
-make a reasonable attempt to trace the current address of the nationally known creditor (RBC) -check to see if DEF is bankrupt -before proceeding to discharge, trustee must forward the SOB all o/s unpaid dividends -Forward the interest of $75.68 to the SOB
207
S.101 can be used to attack who?
-director -shareholder related to the director
208
You’re trustee of an ordinary personal bankruptcy. Bankrupt sold her 51% interest of shares to her sister at undervalue. Clothes r us burnt down and went bankrupt. Company now worthless. What would you consider re. sale of shares?
- I could attack as a TUV - Consideration conspicuously less than FMV - Sale occurred within one year of initial bankruptcy event to non-arms length party so no need to prove intent nor insolvency
209
You’re appointed private receiver. You sell everything. Shareholders are out on vacation. Directors have resigned. You have $50K left, what do you do with it?
-deposit remaining funds into the account of the corporation and obtain discharge from secured creditor who appointed you. Someone could argue that you didn’t act in commercially reasonable manner. -seek advice and direction from court, court could bless your actions eliminating any potential liability -make application to court to convert to court appointment (has benefit of clear process to deal with the funds)
210
You’re the trustee of a glass manufacturer. Bank has security over all assets through a GSA. Bank is about to appoint another firm as agent and Receiver. Upon your bankruptcy trustee appt, you go to the premises to secure assets but you have been told that several of the company’ s trucks are on the road, drivers are owed back pay and they’re refusing to return trucks. What do you do?
-Trustee has power to search and seize assts -report theft to police -have drivers examined under oath to determine location of assets -obtain independent legal opinion on the validity and enforceability of the security -it may be practical to settle with the drivers rather than incur legal costs
211
What’s a bill of lading?
It’s a piece of paper that proves goods were shipped and says who has the right to receive them.
212
Follow up… drivers have a bill of lading required to invoice the AR to customers for the last 6 loads they have delivered, what do you do?
-power of trustee to demand return of books and records -assets subject to bank’s security providing security is valid -Receiver/agent should recover as there is nothing to be gained by estate in recovery of assets
213
Follow up…drivers advise that they have hired a lawyer and turned over the bills of lading to him who is holding them as security for his fees. What do you do?
-Trustee has power to demand books and record and this is effective over a solicitor’s lien.
214
What if inspectors tie, voting on a resolution?
-seek opinion of absent inspector, if any -or trustee resolves matter unless matter related to trustee’s conduct or remuneration
215
What would you do if no creditors consent to act as Inspector?
-encourage non-creditors present to seek appointment -obtain court or creditor approval for all matters that would otherwise be approved by the inspectors
216
Inspectors offer 8000 on a bid and highest bid is 4000.
-no offer can be accepted from an inspector without court approval
217
Can inspector send their representative to a meeting?
-no, they can’t delegate their authority.
218
Q6 (page 15 of 109), you’re an LIT in a Div I for a manufacturing company. General meeting of creditors is taking place in 1 hour. You’re accepting backlash from employees who were laid off. The employees have a meeting scheduled with you as well. You have not had a chance to check with your staff prior to the meeting; you just found out your team’s estate admin. is very ill and not in the office today. What do you need to do to ensure everything is in order prior to the meeting?
-in a div I, there’s an FMOC within 21 days -an LIT must be in attendance -if estate admin sick then bring a replacement staff member -start the meeting if you’re the chair -bring Attendance sheet | 2. Agenda | 3. Proposal | 4. Statement of Affairs (SOA) | 5. Cash Flow (CF) | 6. Trustee’s Preliminary Report (cause of insolvency, insolvent person’s conduct, business and financial affairs) | 7. Proofs of Claim (POCs) | 8. Proxies and voting letters received | 9. Proof of service of Notice of Meeting | 10. Claims register -need to be able to take in POC’s and voting letters up to the meeting -adjourn meeting for a few minutes to review these if they’re last minute -need someone to take attendance -need someone to take minutes -need someone to record the votes -need to ensure those voting are eligible to vote; need someone to review POCs, proxies and voting letters received to date -if it’s a company, they need a proxy to vote
219
Q6 part 2 (page 15 of 109). Bank is in attendance to vote (largest creditor); proxy is cousin of Director. No employees have shown up except for CFO, Controller who have filed claims for unpaid wages and severance as they had been terminated. 35 proven claims in the estate at the time of voting. Your junior’s tabulation says 22 votes for and 8 votes against. What should you do prior to ending the meeting?
* Re-check the votes, each class of unsecured creditors should have approved the proposal by 2/3 in dollar value and majority in number present at the meeting (in person or by proxy) * Ensure that each party that votes was permitted to vote i.e had properly filled out POC and proxy form * Cousin not “related” so she can vote for and against * Controllers/employees can’t vote for the preferred portion ($2K unpaid wages and vacation) of their claim, only on the unsecured portion * Appoint inspectors and get their collect their contact info so you can hold a subsequent inspector meeting * Once meeting ends, apply to court for approval
220
Q15 pg 34. A woman meets with you. She’s considering filing for bankruptcy. She has brought all necessary financial information. 2nd time bankrupt. Monthly income $2,800 and lives alone. SOB standard $2,089. What steps must you take prior to accepting this assignment?
-OSB name search to check if she was discharged from her last bankruptcy - you must obtain the full details of that earlier bankruptcy, including the assignment documents and file history. -surplus income payment 2800-2089=711/2=355.5 per month for 36 months -eligible for automatic discharge; unless Trustee objects or creditor objects
221
Q15 pg 34. A woman meets with you. She’s considering filing for bankruptcy. She has brought all necessary financial information. 2nd time bankrupt. Monthly income $2,800 and lives alone. SOB standard $2,089. What info will you give regarding her potential discharge?
-She’d be bankrupt for 36 months since she’s got surplus income over the $200 threshold -For a second timer its 24 months (no surplus) and 36 months (if surplus) -caution her that she must comply with duties S.158 and any offences will be reflected on her s.170 report
222
Q15 pg 34. A woman meets with you. She’s considering filing for bankruptcy. She has brought all necessary financial information. 2nd time bankrupt. Monthly income $2,800 and lives alone. SOB standard $2,089. She says she has a life-threatening illness. Does not expect to live more than 6 months. Her debts are $5K, 2 credit cards.
-I would advise her that she can individually call these creditors to negotiate with them since it’s a small list -they could forgive the amount or freeze the interest or reduce the amount -she’s essentially creditor proof if she has no assets
223
Q17 (page 38). LIT under the BIA. Working as a sole practitioner for many years. One employee: estate admin who also acts as office manager. Adam is a potential client. Comes to you to discuss personal financial troubles. Wife died 15 years ago to cancer. Lost his job recently at retail store. Adam is 58 and finding it tough to find employment. Had to sell his home to pay-off some gambling debts. Large credit card debt, no assets except 50% in shares in a home in Aruba who his sister lives in. Adam says he cannot afford bankruptcy. What do you tell him?
-gambling (I would ask if it’s ongoing or if he’s over it now; has he had gambling counselling) -should gambling have been a contributing factor of his bankruptcy, he may have committed an offense which may lead to an opposition to his discharge and will need to be disclosed on the 170 report. It may be that he is submitted for examination under oath. -I would do a new appraisal on the house -I would check if it’s encumbered -The sister can purchase his portion of the shares or Trustee can get sale order through court -trustee must register on title on the house -if he can’t afford bankruptcy then he can apply through BAP (Bankruptcy Assistance Program) where he’d pay a voluntary fee -should he have surplus income over the course of the bankruptcy the BAP agreement will be void, he’ll need to pay in accordance with surplus income guidelines and his bankruptcy term would be extended -I would explain the stay of proceedings so collection efforts from credit card companies would stop -He’ll need to swear an SOA and disclose all assets and creditors -He’ll need to file monthly I&E’s
224
Q17 (page 38). LIT under the BIA. Working as a sole practitioner for many years. One employee: estate admin who also acts as office manager. Adam is a potential client. Comes to you to discuss personal financial troubles. Wife died 15 years ago to cancer. Lost his job recently at retail store. Adam is 58 and finding it tough to find employment. Had to sell his home to pay-off some gambling debts. Large credit card debt, no assets except 50% in shares in a home in Aruba who his sister lives in. Adam says he cannot afford bankruptcy. You don’t hear from Adam since he last attended your office. Another fellow Trustee starts talking and it sounds exactly like Adam. What do you do?
-I’d want to know if the Aruba property was disclosed -Whether Adam disclosed that he had gambling issues -Conduct BIA name search -call the trustee and ask if he’s aware of gambling and Aruba property -Adam’s trustee is required to report these to the court and SOB -we need to uphold public confidence and integrity of the insolvency system -report these alleged offences to the SOB so senior bankruptcy analyst can investigate further -Adam’s trustee can examine Adam to ask about prior consultation, gambling and property
225
Gambling
-should gambling have been a contributing factor of his bankruptcy, he may have committed an offense which may lead to an opposition to his discharge and will need to be disclosed on the 170 report. It may be that he is submitted for examination under oath.
226
BAP
-if he can’t afford bankruptcy then he can apply through BAP (Bankruptcy Assistance Program) where he’d pay a voluntary fee -should he have surplus income over the course of the bankruptcy the BAP agreement will be void, he’ll need to pay in accordance with surplus income guidelines and his bankruptcy term would be extended
227
Your firm is court-appointed Receiver of Confefe Inc. Administration is generally complete and you are preparing your application to Court to distribute net proceeds and obtain your discharge. In addition to your own records kept during the process of the receivership, your firm is in possession of 250 boxes of Company’s records. The major secured creditor is Bank A. The Bank advises they have no interest in retaining the company’s records. What is your obligation as receiver with respect to these books and records?
-BIA does not provide guidance to Receiver’s on this matter -In general, return the records to the debtor. -See if the court order has anything specifically to deal with the debtor’s records -Per CRA, we may need to retain certain docs for 6 years if Receiver filed returns on behalf of the company -If they don’t take them back, seek permission from Court to destroy the records. -Receiver can apply to court for direction and advice but need to suggest a method for dealing with the records.
228
Your firm is court-appointed Receiver of Confefe Inc. Administration is generally complete and you are preparing your application to Court to distribute net proceeds and obtain your discharge. In addition to your own records kept during the process of the receivership, your firm is in possession of 250 boxes of Company’s records. The major secured creditor is Bank A. The Bank advises they have no interest in retaining the company’s records. Your firm was sent a copy of the Stmt of Claim filed by the shareholders of the Company challenging the security of Bank A. You consult with the shareholders re what to do with the records. They don’t want to retain nor fund storage costs but they want access as they may need them for the lawsuit. They believe it’s the Receiver’s responsibility to retain the records and provide access. The Bank advises they have no interest in retaining the company’s records. What would you say to the shareholders?
-Receiver is not obligated to store these records -Receiver does not believe that proceeds from the sale should be used to fund storage costs since effectively it would be Bank A funding the storage costs as the money is meant for them -Bank A has indicated they don’t want to retain the records -Receiver will only store the records if the shareholders indemnify the Receiver for COSTS TO STORE and ANY RETRIEVAL COSTS -Tell the shareholders that the Receiver will require a retainer for these costs
229
Your firm is court-appointed Receiver of Confefe Inc. Administration is generally complete and you are preparing your application to Court to distribute net proceeds and obtain your discharge. In addition to your own records kept during the process of the receivership, your firm is in possession of 250 boxes of Company’s records. The major secured creditor is Bank A. The Bank advises they have no interest in retaining the company’s records. How long is Receiver obligated to retain books and records relating to administration of the estate?
-Bia has no guidance to Receiver’s on this matter -4 years following completion of assignment
230
Would your obligation with respect to the debtor’s records change if you were the trustee in bankruptcy of the estate of the company?
-yes - BIA Rule 68 and OSB Directive 17 specifically outlines the Trustees obligations with respect to debtor records. - After being discharged, the Trustee must send a written notice to the last known address of the bankrupt or the officer of the bankrupt corporation advising that he/she has 30 days to take back any of the books and records, otherwise the Trustee may dispose of them. - Retention period should be extended where the Trustee foresees that particular documents should be available because of investigations or possible litigation, or where records are required to be retained pursuant to the ITA
231
Mr. Tremblay files as assignment with you. It’s his first bankruptcy and he has no surplus income. At month 8, he provides you with documentation for calculation of surplus income and you determine that he has no surplus. Therefore is eligible for auto discharge in 9 months. 5 days before discharge, your admin gets a phone call from third party saying he’s got a second job where he’s paid cash. The third party does not want to confirm anything in writing. Your admin can’t reach Tremblay on the phone. What would you do?
-it’s Tremblay’s duty to get in touch with me and keep me apprised of his situation at all times -to provide me of address changes; phone number and contact info changes need to be reported to me -continue to try to get in touch -not reporting his complete income would be a breach of his s.158 duty and s.173 offence -try to get more info from linkedin or social media -if we have no info then we must oppose his discharge -we have a duty to uphold public confidence in the insolvency system -use time in between hearing to investigate further -set up meeting with debtor -contact his bank, see if there’s a second account -recommend him for examination -try to get written accusation from third party -if you think third party is lying then recommend absolute discharge as of the date of auto -if investigation turns up something – reassess surplus and make a conditional order recommendation.
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Receivership case (page 69): Q: What is the main decision the Receiver must make early in the mandate? Q: What must the Receiver confirm before operating the plant? Q: What is the key financial test for continuing operations? Q: What non financial factors must be considered before operating? Q: Why are warranties a concern? Q: What insurance issues must be checked before operating? A: Adequacy of coverage, including product liability and long tail risk. Q: How should the Receiver assess requested bonuses? Q: With whom must the Receiver discuss the operating decision? Q: What must be done about the stolen forklift? Q: What statutory notices must be prepared early in the receivership? Q: Is Ms. Goodwin’s personal guarantee the Receiver’s concern? A: No. It is a matter strictly between Ms. Goodwin and the Bank. Q: How can the Receiver protect itself from claims of improvident realization? Q: What is the guiding principle for the Receiver’s decision for selling?
Q: What is the main decision the Receiver must make early in the mandate? A: Whether to continue operating the manufacturing plant or shut it down pending asset realization. Q: What must the Receiver confirm before operating the plant? A: Whether the receivership order gives authority to operate or if court approval is required. Q: What is the key financial test for continuing operations? A: Operations must be cash flow positive on a contract by contract basis. Q: What non financial factors must be considered before operating? A: Staffing availability, union constraints, supply availability, supplier payment terms, insurance, safety, and environmental compliance. Q: Why are warranties a concern? A: The Receiver cannot provide warranties, which may affect customers’ willingness to buy. Q: What insurance issues must be checked before operating? A: Adequacy of coverage, including product liability and long tail risk. Q: How should the Receiver assess requested bonuses? A: Determine if they are necessary, if operations remain profitable after bonuses, and whether court approval is required. Q: With whom must the Receiver discuss the operating decision? A: The Bank (as fulcrum creditor), management, and potentially the Court. Q: What must be done about the stolen forklift? A: Investigate, attempt recovery, notify insurer, consider police involvement, and report to court if necessary. Q: What statutory notices must be prepared early in the receivership? A: Notice and Statement of the Receiver (NSR) under BIA sections 245 and 246. Q: Is Ms. Goodwin’s personal guarantee the Receiver’s concern? A: No. It is a matter strictly between Ms. Goodwin and the Bank. Q: How can the Receiver protect itself from claims of improvident realization? A: By completing a documented, reasonable analysis and seeking court approval if the decision is contentious. Q: What is the guiding principle for the Receiver’s decision for selling? A: Act in a commercially reasonable manner to maximize realizations for the estate, supported by evidence and documentation.
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James McElroy – operates a struggling consulting business as a proprietorship. Several judgements and writ’s of execution. Transfers one of his cars to his wife. Takes a sizeable advance on his LOC to pay uncle Uncle not listed on SOA. Filed for bankruptcy. All the above facts become known at FMOC, exact dates are unknown. Inspectors want to take immediate action on this estate and there is money to begin this process. What additional questions might you ask?
-judgements and writs stayed by the bankruptcy - Judgment relates to fraud, misrepresentation, or support arrears are non-dischargeable -Car to wife: -TUV 1.no consideration or consideration conspicuously less than FMV -if within last 12 months to non-arm’s length party then no need to prove INTENT nor INSOLVENCY -if within last 5 years then prove 1 of the two tests -payback to uncle: 1.debtor-creditor relationship 2.payment by INSOLVENT debtor at expense of other creditors -if within 12 months to non-arms length party then Trustee can attack as preference -if effect is preferential then view is presumed -difficult to rebut -I would inquire about dates for advance from LOC and transfer of car, worth of the car, how much he paid his uncle, was he insolvent at time of payment to uncle, are there other payments or transactions not disclosed -I would inquire why the debtor didn’t provide this info to me at the initial interview -they were not being forthcoming (material omission) so report this on s.170 report and oppose discharge
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James McElroy – operates a struggling consulting business as a proprietorship. Several judgements and writ’s of execution. Transfers one of his cars to his wife. Takes a sizeable advance on his LOC to pay uncle Uncle not listed on SOA. Filed for bankruptcy. All the above facts become known at FMOC, exact dates are unknown. Inspectors want to take immediate action on this estate and there is money to begin this process. What potential actions would the LIT discuss with the inspectors?
-can we Commence proceedings to set aside a transfer at undervalue against the wife in respect of the car, if criteria are met. -can we Commence preference proceedings to recover the payment made to the uncle, depending on timing, relationship, and insolvency -discuss with inspectors Cost vs. benefit of recovery actions - Conduct a more detailed examination of the bankrupt regarding pre bankruptcy conduct and intent.
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who can examine the debtor?
Trustee, OR or Court can examine -creditors and inspectors need court permission.
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You are meeting with a 23 year old individual who is unable to pay his debts. He is single with no dependents and his debts include a capital one card maxed out at $2000 and a payday loan of $1000. He has no other debts and no assets. He is currently on social assistance and received $833 per month in addition to $800 subsidized housing credit paid directly to his housing program. He has never been bankrupt before. What do you advise this individual?
- Candidate must discuss all options available to the debtor per the Assessment directive o Do nothing – Potential risk to debtors bank account if creditor gets a judgement to seize ▪ But they are unlikely to be successful to garnish Social assistance o He could try to negotiate with his creditors on his own – he has a small number of creditors and considering the nature of debts may be successful in settling for a lesser amount or interest freeze, potentially refer to outside resources for budgeting assistance or additional resources that he may apply for. o Credit counsellor to negotiate for him – be aware of fees o ODP - would need to review budget for affordability o CP – potentially if there is a third party of family member that can support o Bankruptcy – the administration cost may be too high ▪ Refer to BAP if no other option of reach a fee agreement ▪ Needs to be aware of future repercussions ie: 2x bankruptcy is longer Candidate should make a recommendation along the lines that he could file a formal proceeding but given the low debt amount, relative ‘credit proofing’, young age and limited living expenses he has he should talk to the various other resources and determine what is best for him.
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Bankruptcy How to respond to employee claims.
● Advise workers of WEPPA, which covers claim for unpaid wages, vacation pay, severance and termination up to maximum of four times the maximum weekly insurable earnings under the Employment Insurance Act (approximately $ $9,275). ● For amounts paid by the government for wages and vacation pay (under WEPPA), the government is subrogated to any rights the employee may have in respect of those amounts. This includes the priority secured claim over current assets for unpaid wages and vacation pay up to $2,000 (per s.81.3 and 81.4 of BIA). The secured claim does not cover severance and termination pay. ● Employees can file unsecured claims in the bankruptcy for any amounts not paid through WEPPA. ● Directors have personal liability for unpaid wages and vacation pay. ● Union v. non-union issues. ● Is there a pension plan? If so, there could be priority claims for unremitted pension contributions.
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Bankruptcy Re Unpaid corporate taxes
unsecured claims in bankruptcy - no priority.
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Bankruptcy Re GST
● Need to calculate if GST owing, following netting of input tax credits. ● CRA has unsecured claim in bankruptcy - no priority. ● Directors have personal liability.
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Bankruptcy Re Real-estate prpoerty that is contaminated and the environmental regulator is also involved.
Regulator / Environmental Issues Advise the environmental regulator if there may be insufficient funds to remediate the property Regulator can take whatever action it deems appropriate Environmental Orders & Disclaimer If regulator issues a remediation order: Where an order is made that requires the trustee to remedy any environmental condition the trustee is not personally liable for failure to comply with the order if within 10 days of appointment the trustee: 1. Complies with the order 2. Abandons or disposes of the property 3. Contests the Order 4. Releases interest in the property a. If the Crown cleans up the damage and environmental issues after the trustee abandons the property the charge will rack ahead of any security Sale of Contaminated Property Trustee decides whether property can still be realized upon despite contamination Obtain information on environmental status: Environmental reports (Phase I, II, or III) Trustee does not need possession to sell, but: Lack of possession makes showing/marketing more difficult Possession & Liability If trustee does take possession: Protected under BIA s. 14.06(2) from environmental liability Protection applies as long as contamination is not continuing Sale Mechanics Property can be sold, but trustee must: Fully disclose contamination to purchaser Sell on an “as is, where is” basis Consider obtaining a vesting order, especially if: Environmental issues are complex Purchaser requests one (likely) Security & Title Issues Confirm whether there is: A mortgage Other registered charges on title Marketing the Property Consider multiple sale options: Real estate agent Contacting industry players / competitors Tender or sealed‑bid process
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Q57 page 100 What it is: At filing he paid spousal support ($1,500/month until Aug 31, 2017) and child support ($950/month for two kids). Why it matters:
Support payments reduce his disposable income and directly affect surplus income calculations and affordability of payments. Support obligations also help explain why he filed (cash flow strain). What the Trustee does: Verify support order/agreement. Confirm what he actually paid and when support ended (spousal ended Aug 2017).
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2) Income and bonuses (variable income) What it is: He nets $2,750/month after support and sometimes receives large bonuses ($25k in 2016; $20k in 2017; unknown in 2018). Why it matters:
Surplus income is based on actual income—bonuses can increase surplus materially. At discharge, big “extra” income raises the question: Did he pay the correct surplus? Also raises: Could he have made a proposal instead of bankruptcy? (conduct/appropriateness issue). What the Trustee does: Request T4s, paystubs, bonus letters, bank statements. Recalculate surplus with actual income including bonuses. Consider whether the mediated surplus amount still makes sense given the bonuses.
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3) Surplus income mediation agreement What it is: Six months in, he disputed surplus; it was mediated to $10,000 total, payable $250/month for 40 months. He’s current; about $4,500 remains in Jan 2018. Why it matters:
If he still owes money under the agreement, that’s a reason for the Trustee to recommend: Adjournment, or Conditional discharge (finish paying), rather than absolute discharge. Also: if income changed (bonuses/trust distributions), the agreement might be understated. What the Trustee does: Confirm remaining balance precisely. Bring payment history to court. Ask whether surplus needs reassessment due to new income facts.
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4) Matrimonial home transfer (beneficial vs legal title) What it is: He signed over the home in late 2014, but his name remained on title. Why it matters:
Title suggests he owns something, but beneficial ownership may have been transferred already. Trustee needs to confirm if there’s actually any realizable interest for the estate (likely no, if properly transferred under divorce settlement). Also possible review: was the transfer a reviewable transaction? (timing is 2014; bankruptcy 2016—still something to understand, but often part of family law equalization). What the Trustee does: Obtain separation/divorce agreement, transfer documents, land title. Confirm whether he truly has no beneficial interest despite name still on title.
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5) Condo and non‑arm’s length sale What it is: He cashed RRSPs in early 2015, bought a condo and furnishings. After bankruptcy, Trustee sold condo to a non‑arm’s length party and realized net equity. Why it matters:
Non‑arm’s length sale = heightened scrutiny: was it marketed properly, fair price, proper process? Trustee must be able to show the sale was commercially reasonable and in creditors’ best interests. Condo funded by RRSP collapse ties into the CRA debt story and pre‑bankruptcy conduct. What the Trustee does: Ensure file has valuation/appraisal, marketing evidence, approval (if needed), and clear rationale. Provide court with proceeds summary and transparency.
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6) Family cottage (¼ interest) and court‑approved sale What it is: He owns ¼ share in a cottage (FMV $200k). Siblings bought his share for $45k, court approved in 2016. Why it matters:
Shows Trustee realized an asset successfully (good administration). Court approval helps defend value and process (hard to sell a ¼ interest to outsiders). What the Trustee does: Present it as a positive: realization was maximized given practical limitations.
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7) Undisclosed family trust (major issue) What it is: Trustee discovers he is a beneficiary of a discretionary family trust (book value $750k; owns 2 commercial rentals). Trustees are siblings; only one distribution since 2015: $10k paid Dec 31, 2017. He didn’t disclose because he thought it wasn’t an “asset.” Why it matters (big):
Non‑disclosure is a conduct issue. Even if it’s not estate property, he should have disclosed it. Trustee must determine: Is his interest property of the estate or not? Are distributions income for surplus purposes? Discretionary trusts often mean no enforceable right to demand money, but distributions received during bankruptcy can still affect surplus. What the Trustee does: Obtain and review trust deed (often with legal counsel). Determine if any portion is realizable. Treat actual distributions as potential income and reassess surplus. Tell court Trustee needs time to investigate → supports adjournment.
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8) Creditor opposition (1458923 Alberta Inc.) What it is: Creditor filed unsecured claim $21,750 (on $30k loan). They oppose discharge and want their debt excluded because they say loan funded a Ferrari purchase. Why it matters:
Why it matters: Court must consider creditor opposition. The creditor’s request to “exclude the debt from discharge” only works if it fits non‑dischargeability grounds (e.g., fraud, misrepresentation, false pretences). If it’s just “he borrowed and didn’t pay,” that’s normally discharged. What the Trustee does: Present opposition fairly. Explain what evidence exists (or not) for fraud/misrepresentation. Keep the focus on facts and whether the legal test is met.
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9) Ferrari purchase + sale + failure to disclose (conduct issue) What it is: Ferrari bought 2014; sold June 2015 for $17,500. Not disclosed on SOA; he says he forgot and resale was lower due to poor maintenance. No security registered; buyer got clear title. Creditor was not told about sale. Why it matters:
Failure to disclose a material asset disposition is a classic bankrupt conduct problem. Trustee must assess: Was the car sold for fair value? Where did proceeds go? Was there intent to mislead creditors? Could support: Adjournment (to investigate), Conditional discharge (if misconduct but not severe), In serious cases: suspended discharge or opposition. What the Trustee does: Verify valuation around sale date, obtain bill of sale, bank deposit trail. Confirm use of funds. Report to court on whether omission appears innocent vs deliberate.
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10) Tax debt from RRSP collapse (CRA debt) What it is: Unsecured debts total $198,450 including CRA income tax $42,500 from RRSP withdrawal. Why it matters:
Shows why the CRA debt arose (RRSP collapse to restart life after divorce). Also confirms he is not a “high tax debtor” case (threshold not met), so special discharge restrictions don’t apply on that basis. Still relevant to overall financial history and conduct. What the Trustee does: Confirm CRA claim and basis. Present as part of overall liabilities summary.
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11) Was bankruptcy appropriate vs proposal? (“Bonus concern”) What it is: Given later changes (spousal support ended + bonuses + trust distribution), could he have paid more through a proposal? Why it matters:
Courts sometimes consider whether the bankrupt took advantage of bankruptcy when a proposal may have been viable — not always determinative, but it can influence the type of discharge order. This is especially relevant where new information suggests higher payment capacity. What the Trustee does: Raise it carefully as a consideration. Use it mainly to justify adjournment to investigate income and trust impacts.
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Q59. Receiver appointed 5 days ago Business: small bulk‑food store Location: leased premises Secured creditor has a GSA over: Cash Accounts receivable Inventory Equipment Government is owed Source Deductions and GST Two issues arise today: Today, a supplier stops by to make a delivery of goods purchased prior to the receivership and you advise him of the receivership. He now wants to discuss payment of the outstanding account and this delivery. Landlord asking about rent
KEY POINTS ● Type of Receiver – court v. private. ● Receiver would not pay arrears of supplier, and would probably not accept delivery of goods recently purchased by debtor unless the Receiver is planning to operate. In that case, the Receiver will probably have to pay for supplies on C.O.D. basis. ● Possible priority 15 day claims from farmers and 30-day goods’ claims from other suppliers. ● Inventory is perishable and will need to be realized on quickly. ● Landlord issues - A private receiver will have to pay ongoing rent while in occupation of the premises and will probably have to pay rent arrears unless he/she can negotiate another arrangement with the landlord. ● A Court appointed receiver only needs to pay current per-diem rent while in occupation if order says so. ● Need to determine amount of unremitted source deductions to assess whether it’s worthwhile to realize on assets. ● A bankruptcy should be considered to reverse priority of GST arrears.
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Short Question, Referral, Lawyer You’re 1 of 3 Trustees in a growing firm. Your niche is mid-market files. Your friend, a lawyer, approaches you and asks if you will act as Trustee on a file for a “sizable” corporation he is working with. In turn, he wants you to appoint him as counsel for the large file he has heard your firm will be taking on very soon. How do you handle the situation?
A Trustee cannot accept appointments or make professional appointments based on reciprocal referrals or personal benefit. I would advise the lawyer that, if I am to act as Trustee, it must be without any expectation regarding the appointment of counsel. Legal counsel appointments must be based on merit/qualification/expertise and the best interests of the estate, not relationships. Per the RPA, Trustee must not let any influence, interest or relationship impact their judgment and objectivity. If there is any concern about perceived conflict, I would decline the trustee appointment altogether and consider referral to another trustee in the firm.
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unliquidated proof of claim for damages
Liquidated amount=provable in bankruptcy. Unliquidated amount is a contingent claim. Disallow. If the claim is proven in court and results in a judgement, then it's a provable claim in the bankruptcy.
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Q56: Environmental Issue: As part of the manufacturing process, the business was required to use various materials that could be hazardous if not handled properly. At times, the company learned that some hazardous materials were not disposed of properly and leached onto the property. Ministry of Environment had visited the site various times and inspector had noted the problem to the company to address. Trustee wishes to sell property and building.
If there’s a remediation order, trustee is not personally liable for failure to comply with the order if within 10 days of appointment the trustee: CACR 1. Complies with order 2. Abandons or disposes of interest in the property 3. Contest the order 4. Release interest in the property in writing *Trustee must obtain inspector approval. In the RedWater example, if Trustee abandons the property, and clown cleans up then they rank ahead of any security. Trustee is protected for conditions: 1. That arose before appt 2. That arose after appt unless due to gross negligence of Trustee *Trustee must report the issue to Environment Regulator. Trustee can advise the Regulator that there may not be sufficient funds in the estate to remediate the property and that the Regulator can take whatever steps it deems appropriate.
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Q56. If Trustee wants to sell the contaminated property:
1. See if there’s a mortgage or other charges on the property – to assess realizable value 2. Obtain information regarding the status of the environmental issue – via an environmental report (Phase I, II or III) 3. Determine whether the property can be realized upon, even with the contamination 4. Trustee does not need to go into possession directly to sell the property – but it can be difficult to “show” a property if no one is in possession 5. Consider options to sell the property – real estate agent – contacting competitors – tender sale 6. Ensure the buyer is fully informed of the contamination 7. Sell on an “as is, where is” basis 8. Seek a vesting order with respect to the sale of the property – transfers the property to the purchaser free and clear – reduces the risk that environmental claims will follow later
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Third time bankrupt 3rd time
Third time bankrupt: oppose at 10 month mark. Apply for discharge hearing no earlier than 3 months and no later than 12 months. Trustee must send notice 15 days before hearing to sob, bankrupt and every known creditor.
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CRA deemed trust claim DT
CRA DT only attached to cash, receivables, inventory and other personal property. DT does not prime a valid mortgage or real-property security. DT does not attach to real property.