If you have received a bankruptcy complaint
An adversary proceeding is a lawsuit within a bankruptcy case. The complaint and summons should be reviewed promptly to identify the claims, the parties and the response requirements. A demand letter or settlement proposal also deserves careful review before a response is made.
Disputes we address
- Preference claims seeking recovery of payments made before bankruptcy.
- Fraudulent transfer claims involving alleged transfers of money or property.
- Disputes about whether a particular debt may be discharged.
- Objections to claims and disagreements about creditor treatment.
- Contested matters involving collateral, the automatic stay and adequate protection.
- Bankruptcy appeals and related litigation.
For creditors receiving a bankruptcy notice
A notice can affect how a creditor pursues payment or deals with collateral. We help creditors assess their position, review the automatic stay and relevant court orders, and evaluate steps within the bankruptcy process. Receiving a notice is a reason to review collection activity before continuing it.
Evaluate the record before deciding how to respond
A payment history alone rarely tells the whole story. Agreements, invoices, communications, the purpose of a transfer and the relationship among the parties can matter. We examine the factual and legal basis for the demand and the practical alternatives for defending or resolving it.
Experience across bankruptcy roles
Karl’s experience representing creditors, debtors and trustees informs his analysis of contested matters. He also brings a bankruptcy judicial clerkship and a record of writing and teaching on bankruptcy subjects.
Bankruptcy counsel with depth
Karl Johnson is one of only three attorneys in Minnesota certified as a Business Bankruptcy Specialist by the American Board of Certification. His experience includes thousands of bankruptcy cases under Chapters 7, 11, 12 and 13.