Despite agreeing that the Tenth Circuit got it wrong, the Solicitor General for the United States filed a brief opposing certiorari in the case of Kinney v. HSBC Bank USA, No. 21-599 (brief filed Aug. 30, 2022). The issue was a simple one: whether the debtor could receive a completion discharge under section 1328(a) when she missed the final three payments on her mortgage due to a car accident, but made up the payments shortly after her plan expired. [Read more…] about SG Agrees 10th Erred But Opposes Cert
Unlawful Possession of Real Property Does Not Create Property Interest
Where the debtor was subject to a state court judgment cutting off his right to cure the default on an installment land contract, he had no interest in the property despite his continued unlawful possession and, therefore, the bankruptcy court erred in confirming the debtor’s chapter 13 plan that provided for payment of the default judgment. In re Peralta, No. 20-2380 (E.D. Pa. Dec. 4, 2020).
The debtor entered into an installment contract with the creditor for the transfer of real property. After the debtor defaulted on the contract, a new agreement was reached obligating the debtor in the event of future default to submit to a default judgment and vacate the property. He defaulted and the creditor obtained a judgment in the amount of $41,151.70, as well as a Judgment for Possession in state court. But rather than vacate the property, the debtor filed for chapter 13 bankruptcy and proposed a plan under which he would pay off the judgment and obtain possession of the property free and clear of the creditor’s interest. The bankruptcy confirmed the plan over the creditor’s objection. [Read more…] about Unlawful Possession of Real Property Does Not Create Property Interest
Debtor’s Right to Amend Extends to Reopened Cases
A debtor may amend his schedules as a matter of right “without limitation of whether the case is open or reopened after closing.” Mendoza v. Montoya, No. 18-19, Dollman v. Montoya, No. 18-30 (B.A.P. 10th Cir. Feb. 5, 2019). [Read more…] about Debtor’s Right to Amend Extends to Reopened Cases
In re Connors, No. 06-3321 (3d Cir.)
Type: Amicus
Date: December 11, 2006
Description: Whether debtor who, following sheriff’s auction, still possesses a right of redemption under state law is entitled to cure mortgage default pursuant to section 1322(c)(1).
Result: Affirmed. Debtor lost. 497 F.3d 314 (3d Cir. 2007)
Connors NACBA Amicus 3rd Cir.