Law.com Subscribers SAVE 30%

Call 855-808-4530 or email [email protected] to receive your discount on a new subscription.

The Bankruptcy StrategistFeaturesBankruptcyLitigationRegulation

Ninth Circuit Bankruptcy Appellate Panel: 523(a) Discharge Exceptions Don't Apply to Corporate Debtors Under Subchapter V

By Lawrence J. Kotler and Elisa Hyder
April 01, 2024

In the case of Lafferty v. Off-Spec Solutions (In re Off-Spec Solutions), 651 B.R. 862 (9th B.A.P. 2023), the U.S. Bankruptcy Appellate Panel of the Ninth Circuit held that the discharge exceptions under Section 523(a) do not apply to corporate debtors under Subchapter V of Chapter 11 of the Bankruptcy Code. In so holding, the Lafferty court disagreed with the decision rendered by the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Fourth Circuit, the only circuit court to address this issue in the case of Cantwell-Cleary v. Cleary Packaging (In re Cleary Packaging), 36 F.4th 509 (4th Cir. 2022).

Background

In this case, the debtor, Off-Spec Solutions LLC filed for bankruptcy in the U.S. Bankruptcy Court for the District of Idaho and elected to proceed under Subchapter V of Chapter 11 as a small business enterprise. During the case, a former employee filed a complaint against the debtor, seeking a declaration from the bankruptcy court that her claims against the debtor for sexual harassment, discrimination, retaliation, and wrongful termination were nondischargeable under Sections 1192(2) and 523(a)(6) of the Bankruptcy Code.

In support of her complaint, the former employee cited the Fourth Circuit's decision in Cleary. In that case, the Fourth Circuit held that, pursuant to Section 1192(2), the discharge exceptions set forth in Section 523(a) apply to all Subchapter V debtors. Section 1192(2) provides, in relevant part, that, "if a plan of the debtor is confirmed under Section 1191(b) … the court shall grant the debtor a discharge of all debts … except any debt … of the kind specified in Section 523(a)."

This premium content is locked for Entertainment Law & Finance subscribers only

  • Stay current on the latest information, rulings, regulations, and trends
  • Includes practical, must-have information on copyrights, royalties, AI, and more
  • Tap into expert guidance from top entertainment lawyers and experts

For enterprise-wide or corporate acess, please contact Customer Service at [email protected] or 877-256-2473

Read These Next
Overview of Regulatory Guidance Governing the Use of AI Systems In the Workplace Image

Businesses have long embraced the use of computer technology in the workplace as a means of improving efficiency and productivity of their operations. In recent years, businesses have incorporated artificial intelligence and other automated and algorithmic technologies into their computer systems. This article provides an overview of the federal regulatory guidance and the state and local rules in place so far and suggests ways in which employers may wish to address these developments with policies and practices to reduce legal risk.

Is Google Search Dead? How AI Is Reshaping Search and SEO Image

This two-part article dives into the massive shifts AI is bringing to Google Search and SEO and why traditional searches are no longer part of the solution for marketers. It’s not theoretical, it’s happening, and firms that adapt will come out ahead.

While Federal Legislation Flounders, State Privacy Laws for Children and Teens Gain Momentum Image

For decades, the Children’s Online Privacy Protection Act has been the only law to expressly address privacy for minors’ information other than student data. In the absence of more robust federal requirements, states are stepping in to regulate not only the processing of all minors’ data, but also online platforms used by teens and children.

Revolutionizing Workplace Design: A Perspective from Gray Reed Image

In an era where the workplace is constantly evolving, law firms face unique challenges and opportunities in facilities management, real estate, and design. Across the industry, firms are reevaluating their office spaces to adapt to hybrid work models, prioritize collaboration, and enhance employee experience. Trends such as flexible seating, technology-driven planning, and the creation of multifunctional spaces are shaping the future of law firm offices.

From DeepSeek to Distillation: Protecting IP In An AI World Image

Protection against unauthorized model distillation is an emerging issue within the longstanding theme of safeguarding intellectual property. This article examines the legal protections available under the current legal framework and explore why patents may serve as a crucial safeguard against unauthorized distillation.