The fundamental ethical problem in bankruptcy is that insolvents have promised to pay their debts but can not keep their promise. The Ethics of Bankruptcy examines the morality of bankruptcy. The author compares and contrasts the Humean doctrine of promises as useful conventions with the Kantian view of autonomous agency constituting promissory obligations; he explores ethical concerns raised by forgiveness, utilitarianism and distributive justice and the moral aspects of insolvents' contractual, fiduciary, tortious and criminal liability. Finally, the author assesses recent bankruptcy law reforms. Bankruptcies severly hurt creditors and society. For the insolvents and their families the experience is painful and stigmatising, yet philosophers have paid little attention to the moral aspects of this violent social phenomenon. The Ethics of Bankruptcy is the first comprehensive study that employs the tools of ethics to examine the controversies surrounding insolvency, which makes valuable and sometimes controversial reading in a decade recovering from the Recession.

Students are increasingly familiar with the burden of debt for higher education. This case depicts the financial struggles of Nancy Lewellen, a woman who decided to quit her job to attend law school in mid-life. Ms. Lewellen borrowed money to obtain her law degree and worked for a law firm upon graduation. While working for the firm, she earned a sufficient income to make payments on her student loan debts and cover her costs of living with her adult disabled daughter. When Ms. Lewellen was laid off, she found herself scrambling to pay her bills. The struggle seemed perpetual and Ms. Lewellen considered bankruptcy as a result. This case study is based on Ms. Lewellen v. Access Group (2010), and questions the legal, financial, and ethical implications of Ms. Lewellens bankruptcy claims. The ethical framework of bankruptcy surrounded the issues in Ms. Lewellens case both before and after the judge ruled.

John R. Sutherland describes bankruptcy's economic toll. Taking into account both Canadian and U.S. legislation, he explains what bankruptcy is, what causes it, and how to avoid it. Bankruptcy leaves in tatters feelings of self-worth and right standing before God. Going Broke explores such emotional and spiritual wounds. It also suggests ways to minister to persons devastated by bankruptcy. Sutherland probes the ethics of bankruptcy. He carefully studies general business ethics and biblical principles. Then he shows how they help clarify whether or not bankruptcy is ethical.

A practical resource for novice and seasoned bankruptcy lawyers, this second edition includes recent case law and substantial updates. It provides an understanding of the bankruptcy claims process, rights and duties of debtors and creditors, priority scheme, the objection process, and grounds for challenging discharge of a particular claim. Includes legal analysis and answers important questions.