Document Type
Article
Publication Date
1-1991
Abstract
This paper is based on a lecture given on December 6, 1990 ast the Second Annual Robert E. Krinock Lecture. The absolute priority rule is a specific application of the broader doctrine that reorganization plans must be "fair and equitable." Both have their origins in the railroad reorganization cases of the early 20th century. The general doctrine is now codified in section 1129(b)(2) of the Bankruptcy Code and the rule is codified in subsection 1129(b)(2)(B)(ii) which provides that the debtor must pay a nonconsenting class of unsecured creditors in full or "the holder of any claim or interest that is junior to the claims of such class will not receive or retain under the plan on account of such junior claim or interest any property." At least when it is applied rigorously, this simple rule is a powerful brake on the debtor's behavior and a strong influence on the negotiation that is likely to occur over-a reorganization plan.
Recommended Citation
White, James J. "Absolute Priority and New Value." Cooley L. Rev. 8 (1991): 1-31.
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