Preventive Arrangement: Commentary on Judgment No. 18019 of 2024

The judgment No. 18019 of July 1, 2024, issued by the Court of Appeal of Venice, represents an important clarification regarding preventive arrangements and, in particular, the power of the parties to contest the provisions of the delegated judge. This decision is part of the context of the norms provided by the Italian Bankruptcy Law, specifically Article 169-bis, and offers significant insights for those managing business crisis situations.

The Regulatory Context

The preventive arrangement is a legal tool that allows a distressed entrepreneur to restructure their debts and continue operations. However, the decisions of the delegated judge, who operates in this area, can be subject to contestation. The Court established that a party dissatisfied with a provision made pursuant to Article 169-bis can assert the lack of prerequisites for the pronouncement of dissolution or suspension, even after the approval of the arrangement.

Provision made by the delegated judge pursuant to Article 169-bis of the Bankruptcy Law - Contestability in a full knowledge judgment - Existence - Approval of the preventive arrangement - Preclusion - Exclusion - Reasons.

Implications of the Judgment

The Court clarified that the administrative nature of the provision does not become jurisdictional even once the arrangement is approved. This means that there is no preclusion from res judicata that prevents the filing of a judicial request in ordinary court. The parties involved can contest decisions regarding pending contracts and the resulting credits, allowing for greater protection of the rights of creditors and entrepreneurs.

  • Possibility to contest provisions even after approval.
  • Administrative nature of the decisions of the delegated judge.
  • Greater protection for the parties involved in the arrangement.

Conclusions

In summary, judgment No. 18019 of 2024 marks an important step in Italian bankruptcy law. It consolidates the possibility of contesting the decisions of the delegated judge, reinforcing the principle that every party must have the opportunity to defend their rights. This approach promotes greater fairness and transparency in preventive arrangement procedures, essential elements for the safeguarding of businesses and jobs. Legal practitioners and entrepreneurs must pay attention to these provisions to successfully navigate the complex landscape of business crises.

Bianucci Law Firm