Restructuring and Insolvency Law Firm

Our London branch at Holborn Gate, 330 High Holborn, London, WC1V 7QH, England, advises corporates, creditors and stakeholders on complex restructuring and insolvency matters across England and Wales. We act where turnaround or formal insolvency procedures are required and where cross-border issues and creditor coordination are critical to preserving value.

Scope of services

We provide strategic and executional support on: administration, company and individual voluntary arrangements, schemes of arrangement, statutory moratoriums and contested insolvency proceedings. Our work encompasses pre-insolvency restructurings, distressed M&A, creditor and security enforcement, and cross-border recognition and coordination.

Practical approach and key considerations

English law prioritises rescue where feasible. Early assessment of cashflow, creditor security, and the company’s centre of main interests (COMI) is essential. Directors must balance duties under the Companies Act 2006 with the risk of wrongful trading and other personal liabilities under the Insolvency Act 1986.

Common tactical issues include:

• Selecting the optimal procedure (informal workout, CVA, administration, scheme or moratorium).
• Securing interim liquidity and protecting essential supply lines.
• Managing secured creditor enforcement and inter-creditor conflict.
• Designing a creditor communications and voting strategy for any court-sanctioned process.

Cross-border and litigation risk

London remains a leading forum for multinational restructurings and schemes of arrangement. Where assets or creditors are overseas, recognition and cooperation mechanisms — including the UNCITRAL Model Law as implemented in UK law — will shape outcomes. Contested matters often require urgent injunctive relief and careful forum analysis.

Practical checklist for a rapid response

1. Immediate diagnostic: cash runway, key contracts, secured creditors and contingent liabilities.
2. Preserve value: suspend non-essential payments, protect IP and critical supply contracts.
3. Engage stakeholders: notify primary lenders and major trade creditors; open dialogue early.
4. Evaluate procedural options: compare effects of moratorium, administration, CVA and scheme.
5. Prepare documentation: accounting records, creditor lists and disclosure for any court process.
6. Consider cross-border recognition steps and appoint experienced insolvency practitioners where needed.

Jurisdiction and sources

Primary sources and guidance include:

• Insolvency Act 1986 and the Insolvency Rules 2016.
• Companies Act 2006 (schemes of arrangement and directors’ duties).
• Cross-Border Insolvency Regulations 2006 (UNCITRAL Model Law implementation).
• The Insolvency Service and official court practice directions.

General information only; not legal advice and not a substitute for advice on a particular matter.