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- SDFL Adopts Guidelines For Cooperation On Int’l Bankruptcies| Sequor Law
The Southern District of Florida bankruptcy court adopted the Judicial Insolvency Network’s Chapter 15 cooperation guidelines to improve cross-border insolvency communication. SDFL Adopts Guidelines For Cooperation On Int’l Bankruptcies Open In the News Open February 16, 2018 3 minutes read Sequor Law By Carolina Bolado The Southern District of Florida’s bankruptcy court has adopted guidelines for communication and cooperation between courts in cross-border insolvency matters that practitioners say will help courts efficiently handle the increasing number of Chapter 15 cases filed in the region as its ties to Latin America continue to strengthen. In an order issued Feb. 1, Chief Judge Laurel Myerson Isicoff said the court would adopt the Judicial Insolvency Network’s guidelines for cooperation on Chapter 15 bankruptcies, making the district the third, after Delaware and the Southern District of New York, to implement the toolkit for cross-border cooperation. “Together with the District of Delaware and the Southern District of New York, we have the vast majority of the Chapter 15 cases filed in the country, so it makes sense that at least in our jurisdictions that we would adopt these guidelines,” Judge Isicoff said. The guidelines, created by JIN in late 2016, are meant to improve communication and cooperation between courts handling parallel bankruptcy proceedings. Courts that adopt the guidelines agree to accept orders made in proceedings in other jurisdictions, barring an objection by one of the parties. The guidelines also provide frameworks for holding joint hearings and for judge-to-jfrom nowudge communication. Greg Grossman of Sequor Law , which files a large percentage of the Chapter 15 cases in the Southern District of Florida, called the guidelines a “really large toolkit.” “In some cases, you’re going to need a wrench; some will need a Phillips-head screwdriver, and some will need a hammer,” he said. “This is an opportunity to encourage more direct communication with each other.” Under the guidelines, bankruptcy courts should encourage administrators of estates in parallel proceedings to work together. A bankruptcy judge should also share all orders, judgments, opinions, transcripts of proceedings and other court documents with his or her counterpart in a different jurisdiction, according to the guidelines. The guidelines also lay out procedures for communications between courts by requiring notice of any judge-to-judge communication and allowing the parties to be present. In addition, they allow courts to authorize a party in a foreign proceeding to appear and be heard on a specific matter without making the party subject to that court’s jurisdiction for any other purpose. After the guidelines were drafted, Singapore and the District of Delaware were the first jurisdictions to adopt them in early February 2017. The Southern District of Florida followed shortly thereafter, as did Bermuda, England, Wales and the British Virgin Islands. New South Wales in Australia agreed to the guidelines in September. So far, the Southern District of Florida averages about two Chapter 15 cases per month, but it’s a number that is growing as Miami in particular deepens its ties with Latin America, according to Grossman. This move by the Southern District of Florida’s bankruptcy court could encourage courts in Latin America to get on board, he said. “Nobody in Latin America has passed it, but it’s coming,” he said. “It took them awhile to get Chapter 15, so baby steps.” Already they appear to be moving in that direction. Two bankruptcy judges in Latin America, one in Sao Paulo, Brazil, and another in Buenos Aires, Argentina, joined JIN, though Grossman said it is not clear whether they have adopted the guidelines for cooperation. But the action by the judges marked JIN’s first foray into Latin America. “Our best guess — but we are by no means certain — is that these individual judges would follow the guidelines in their own cases, but they are not able to have their courts adopt the guidelines,” Grossman said. Judge Isicoff said that these communication and coordination issues have not come up in any Chapter 15 cases she has overseen, and her fellow judges on the bench reported no problems so far when they sat down to discuss whether to adopt the guidelines. But she said that didn’t mean it didn’t make sense for the court to get on board. “Just because something hasn’t come up yet doesn’t mean it won’t come up, especially as more and more Chapter 15 cases get filed,” Judge Isicoff said. “We just felt it makes sense for us to be consistent with the Southern District of New York and the District of Delaware.” To view full article, click here. Open Back to all Entries Share this article Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Copy link Latest News & Insights Open Open Attorney Spotlight Aug 17, 2026 3 minutes read Attorney Spotlight – Get to Know Carolina M. Rosso “Pour faire de grandes choses, il ne faut pas être un si grand génie... Firm News Jun 23, 2026 3 minutes Sequor Law Welcomes Attorney Carolina M. Rosso to Its Expanding International Litigation and Asset Recovery Team Sequor Law is pleased to announce that Carolina M. Rosso has joined the firm as an Attorney. Attorney Spotlight May 19, 2026 1 minute read Attorney Spotlight – Get to Know Noah Rosenblum 1. What inspired you to pursue a law career? I was drawn to law because I've always enjoyed solving complicated problems and thinking.. Attorney Spotlight May 9, 2026 2 minutes read Attorney Spotlight – Get to Know Michael Hanlon 1. What inspired you to pursue a law career? I was less drawn to law in the abstract and more..
- Offshore Alert vGlobal 2021 Conference| Sequor Law
Sequor Law's Gregory Grossman speaks at OffshoreAlert's vGlobal 2021 Asset Recovery Day, a virtual conference on intelligence, investigations, and recovery in international finance. Offshore Alert vGlobal 2021 Conference Open Events & Speaking Open November 30, 2021 1 minute read Sequor Law December 6-10 A virtual conference on intelligence, investigations, & recovery for everyone in high-value international finance. Sequor Law’s Founding Shareholder, Gregory Grossman will be sfopeaking at OffshoreAlert’s vGlobal Asset Recovery Day on December 8th. OffshoreAlert vGlobal 2021 graphic featuring Gregory Grossman speaking at Asset Recovery Day, Decemb Sequor Law Asset Recovery Day panel Sequor Law Counsel, Daniel Coyle will be speaking at OffshoreAlert’s vGlobal Crypto Day on December 9th. OffshoreAlert vGlobal 2021 graphic featuring Daniel Coyle speaking at Crypto Day, December 9, 2021. Sequo r Law Crypto Day panel graphic titled “How to Recover Crypto” featuring Daniel Coyle and Aidan Open Back to all Entries Share this article Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Copy link Latest News & Insights Open Open Attorney Spotlight Aug 17, 2026 3 minutes read Attorney Spotlight – Get to Know Carolina M. Rosso “Pour faire de grandes choses, il ne faut pas être un si grand génie... Firm News Jun 23, 2026 3 minutes Sequor Law Welcomes Attorney Carolina M. Rosso to Its Expanding International Litigation and Asset Recovery Team Sequor Law is pleased to announce that Carolina M. Rosso has joined the firm as an Attorney. Attorney Spotlight May 19, 2026 1 minute read Attorney Spotlight – Get to Know Noah Rosenblum 1. What inspired you to pursue a law career? I was drawn to law because I've always enjoyed solving complicated problems and thinking.. Attorney Spotlight May 9, 2026 2 minutes read Attorney Spotlight – Get to Know Michael Hanlon 1. What inspired you to pursue a law career? I was less drawn to law in the abstract and more..
- Partner Q&A| Sequor Law
Meet Sequor Law's new partners Leyza B. Florin and Fernando Menendez in this Q&A about their cross-border insolvency and asset recovery practices and why they joined the firm. Partner Q&A Open Attorney Spotlight Open July 3, 2018 4 minutes read Sequor Law This June, we welcomed two new powerhouse attorneys as partners at Sequor Law. We sat down with Leyza B. Florin and Fernando Menendez to discuss what led them to our firm, their viewpoints on their unique practice areas, and their interests and community involvement. Why did you decide to join Sequor Law? Fernando – Being geographically situated in Miami, which serves as a gateway to Latin America and a hub for international business, Leyza and I were excited by the possibilities presented in joining a firm with a great depth of experience and knowledge in the international asset recovery arena. We have known the lawyers at Sequor Law professionally for many years and greatly admire their practice. We believe that our addition to this exceptional team creates natural synergies, adds to the firm’s resources and helps us all respond to the needs of our clients worldwide. Leyza – Sequor Law presented an excellent opportunity to join professional colleagues who are world-class experts in the fields of Insolvency, Creditors’ Rights and Asset Recovery, and who would augment my cross-border practice with an already established global presence in those fields. What do you think is unique about the firm? Fernando – The firm’s depth of experience in international asset recovery matters is truly impressive. In the few short weeks since joining the firm, I’ve had the opportunity to assist clients and work with global teams on matters with ties, not only to the U.S., but to the U.K., Gibraltar, Luxembourg, Panama, Turkey, and Romania. I don’t know that I could say that anywhere else. Leyza – Sequor Law is unique because it is a specialized firm with a niche practice and global reach in the Insolvency, Restructuring and Asset Recovery space. How are your practice areas important for Sequor, and/or in general? Fernando – I’ve focused my practice on bankruptcy and creditors’ rights matters for some time. Sequor’s focus on representing companies and individual clients in the areas of asset recovery, financial fraud, insolvency and financial services litigation fits perfectly within the scope of the work I’ve done throughout my career. I believe that our addition to the team will amplify the firm’s already formidable resources, and allow us to better assist and respond to the needs of our clients, whenever and wherever they may arise. Leyza – Our practice areas have synergy with Sequor’s existing cross-border insolvency and restructuring practices. We look forward to adding to Sequor’s already deep bench in these areas. How do you see your practice areas evolving or changing in the next 5-10 years? Fernando – In a world that (at least as it relates to commerce) is getting smaller by the day, I see the scope of my work expanding to meet the needs of U.S.-based clients engaged in international business, and to assist clients in their asset recovery efforts around the world. Leyza – I see our practice evolving to expand the use of U.S. Courts to assist clients from all parts of the world in asset recovery and insolvency proceedings. What special strengths do you bring to Sequor? Fernando – During my career, I’ve had the opportunity to handle numerous types of bankruptcy and insolvency matters from a number of different perspectives. In addition to working for plaintiffs and defendants in various fraudulent transfer and avoidance cases, I’ve also assisted a broad range of clients acting in various capacities in bankruptcy and other litigation proceedings, including debtors, trustees, secured creditors, bondholders, judgment creditors, and shareholders. I think the broad range of my prior engagements provides the benefit of multiple perspectives on how to handle new challenges. Leyza – We bring additional depth of experience in both cross-border and domestic insolvency and creditors’ rights matters as well as the ability to counsel clients in Spanish, as we are native Spanish speakers. How do you give back to the community? Fernando – My wife and I contribute to several charities that are primarily focused on assisting children in developing countries. Leyza – For many years, I have taught law students in clinical programs with the goal of serving the profession of law and the community. Most recently, I have assisted with a medical/legal partnership clinic assisting students with indigent clients who seek pro bono assistance in insolvency matters. I am also committed to increasing diversity and inclusion in the legal profession and to this end have served in various leadership roles, including Treasurer of the Florida Bar’s Business Law Section and Finance Director of IWIRC (International Women’s Insolvency & Restructuring Confederation.) When I served as President of the Bankruptcy Bar Association of the Southern District of Florida, I brought the Credit Abuse Resistance Education Program (C.A.R.E.) to South Florida, and then throughout the state. The C.A.R.E. Program teaches students of all ages the dangers of credit abuse. Through this program, we have presented to students in middle schools through to university freshmen. I am still involved in this program and most recently presented to students at the Department of Juvenile Justice in collaboration with the Legal Up Program. Teaching at-risk students and foster youth in transition about the dangers of credit abuse has been a good way to merge my skill set and experience as a bankruptcy lawyer with my love of teaching. What is something people don’t know about you? Fernando – Last year, I decided to take on the challenge of building a large wooden deck in my backyard. Not being a carpenter, and working only on weekends, the project turned out to be somewhat ambitious, and took far, far, . . . far longer than anticipated. Although it was a very rewarding experience, I’m fairly certain that my wife will insist that all future carpentry be left to the professionals. Leyza – Many people do not know that law is my second career, having worked as a public school teacher prior to and during my law school years. Since then, I have also served as an adjunct professor teaching law students. Open Back to all Entries Share this article Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Copy link Latest News & Insights Open Open Attorney Spotlight Aug 17, 2026 3 minutes read Attorney Spotlight – Get to Know Carolina M. Rosso “Pour faire de grandes choses, il ne faut pas être un si grand génie... Firm News Jun 23, 2026 3 minutes Sequor Law Welcomes Attorney Carolina M. Rosso to Its Expanding International Litigation and Asset Recovery Team Sequor Law is pleased to announce that Carolina M. Rosso has joined the firm as an Attorney. Attorney Spotlight May 19, 2026 1 minute read Attorney Spotlight – Get to Know Noah Rosenblum 1. What inspired you to pursue a law career? I was drawn to law because I've always enjoyed solving complicated problems and thinking.. Attorney Spotlight May 9, 2026 2 minutes read Attorney Spotlight – Get to Know Michael Hanlon 1. What inspired you to pursue a law career? I was less drawn to law in the abstract and more..
- Meet the Leader of Sequor Law’s New DC Office| Sequor Law
Sequor Law opens its Washington, D.C. office led by Tara Plochocki, strengthening asset recovery and cross-border dispute capabilities. Meet the Leader of Sequor Law’s New DC Office Open In the News Open June 7, 2024 2 minutes read Sequor Law Sequor Law has expanded its national footprint with the launch of its Washington, D.C. office, marking a strategic move that strengthens the firm’s position in complex Asset Recovery and cross-border disputes. The new office is led by Tara Plochocki , a seasoned practitioner in international financial litigation who joins the firm to further develop its presence in high-stakes, global matters. The expansion reflects a deliberate evolution. For more than two decades, Sequor Law has built a reputation as a premier boutique focused on International Litigation , financial fraud, and global enforcement strategy. Establishing a D.C. presence signals to the market that the firm operates on a fully national platform, positioned at the center of regulatory, diplomatic, and investor-state dispute activity. Plochocki brings significant experience in cross-border financial disputes, commercial litigation, and sovereign-related matters. Her longstanding involvement with ICC FraudNet, a global network of asset recovery practitioners, aligns directly with Sequor’s international reach. She has worked extensively on matters involving misappropriated funds, transnational enforcement, and complex recovery efforts across jurisdictions. Washington, D.C. offers strategic advantages. The district is a hub for investor-state disputes and international arbitration, areas that intersect naturally with International Arbitration and sovereign asset tracing. Sequor’s growth in this arena reflects increasing demand for coordinated litigation strategies that combine U.S. court proceedings with parallel actions abroad. The firm’s focus remains disciplined. Asset Recovery , financial fraud litigation, Creditors’ Rights , and cross-border commercial disputes continue to define its core practice. At the same time, Sequor is deepening its work in anti-corruption matters and recovery actions involving sovereign assets. These cases often require navigating U.S. enforcement actions while ensuring restitution reaches victims rather than being absorbed into general government recovery pools. Plochocki’s leadership in D.C. reinforces Sequor’s collaborative model. The firm emphasizes integrated teamwork across offices, ensuring consistency in strategy whether a matter is filed in Miami, Washington, or overseas. For clients facing fraud, cross-border disputes, or enforcement challenges tied to sovereign actors, the D.C. launch expands Sequor’s ability to act quickly and strategically at the national level. Read the full Law360 Pulse interview to learn more about the firm’s expansion and the strategic direction of the new Washington office here . Open Back to all Entries Share this article Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Copy link Latest News & Insights Open Open Attorney Spotlight Aug 17, 2026 3 minutes read Attorney Spotlight – Get to Know Carolina M. Rosso “Pour faire de grandes choses, il ne faut pas être un si grand génie... Firm News Jun 23, 2026 3 minutes Sequor Law Welcomes Attorney Carolina M. Rosso to Its Expanding International Litigation and Asset Recovery Team Sequor Law is pleased to announce that Carolina M. Rosso has joined the firm as an Attorney. Attorney Spotlight May 19, 2026 1 minute read Attorney Spotlight – Get to Know Noah Rosenblum 1. What inspired you to pursue a law career? I was drawn to law because I've always enjoyed solving complicated problems and thinking.. Attorney Spotlight May 9, 2026 2 minutes read Attorney Spotlight – Get to Know Michael Hanlon 1. What inspired you to pursue a law career? I was less drawn to law in the abstract and more..
- Eleventh Circuit Gives Green Light to Broad Discovery in Aid of Foreign Bankruptcies| Sequor Law
Sequor Law's Greg Grossman and Francis Curiel analyze the Eleventh Circuit's broad discovery ruling under Section 1782 in support of foreign bankruptcy proceedings, comparing it to Chapter 15. Eleventh Circuit Gives Green Light to Broad Discovery in Aid of Foreign Bankruptcies Open Legal Insights Open October 21, 2020 5 minutes read Sequor Law By Greg Grossman and Francis Curiel , Miami The Eleventh Circuit recently affirmed a district court’s broad grant of discovery for use in five foreign bankruptcy proceedings to which the discovery applicant was a creditor-party. This article will briefly examine how the (relaxed) standard set forth by this Section 1782 proceeding compares to the (less relaxed) standard set forth by two notable Chapter 15 cases. In re Petroforte, by now a well-known Chapter 15 case, involved the liquidation of one of Brazil’s largest gas and ethanol distributors. During the liquidation, the Brazilian trustee found evidence of fraudulent transfers made to several entities, which led the Brazilian court to extend the bankruptcy case to include the transferees. The Brazilian trustee commenced a Chapter 15 proceeding in the Southern District of Florida to seek discovery to assist the Brazilian liquidation. The discovery targets objected, arguing that the subpoenas sought broad financial information about the non-debtor targets that exceeded the limits of discovery under Section 1521(a)(4) and Rule 2004. When the court interpreted the scope of “debtor” under Section 1521(a)(4), it held, in part, that the entities that were subject to the Brazilian bankruptcy extension order were “debtors subject to Section 1521’s discovery powers; however, with regard to any third parties who were not subject to the extension order, the trustee was entitled to broad discovery only when the debtor was a majority stockholder in the non-debtor discovery target. In re SAM likewise dealt with a Chapter 15 proceeding stemming from a Brazilian bankruptcy, wherein the debtor concealed corporate interests by transferring property to family members. The foreign representative sought documents relating to non-debtors who the foreign representative alleged were relevant to his investigation and potential recovery of assets of the foreign estate. The court focused on whether the foreign representative exceeded the proper scope of Rule 2004 discovery. It found that the foreign representative was entitled to discovery relating to (1) the transferees and (2) the non-debtor corporate entities in which the debtor had a majority interest or in those entities already found by the Brazilian courts to have participated in the debtor’s asset concealment scheme. The foreign representative was not entitled to discovery relating to the non-debtor entities whose connections to the debtor had not yet been established in the Brazilian courts. The court further noted that the foreign representative’s inquiries of non-debtors were to be narrowly tailored. Notably, courts have analogized discovery under Chapter 15 with discovery under 28 U.S.C. § 1782. An incongruity may now exist when comparing Petroforte and In re SAM to the Eleventh Circuit’s recent case, In re Victoria. In March 2018, Victoria, LLC (Victoria) filed a § 1782 application in the Southern District of Florida, seeking discovery for use in five pending Russian bankruptcy proceedings to which Victoria was a creditor. The bankruptcy proceedings pertained to either (1) Iliya Likhtenfeld (the Debtor) or (2) his Russian companies. Victoria planned to object to the dischargeability of debt, but first needed proof that the Debtor failed to disclose his U.S. assets in the Russian bankruptcies. To do so, Victoria requested testimony and documents relating to corporate governance, banking, financing, money transfers, business transactions, accounting practices, and the like, from (1) the Debtor; (2) Florida banks with which the Debtor did business; (3) Florida entities that the Debtor allegedly owned or was affiliated with; and (4) individuals affiliated with the Florida entities. To support the existence of these affiliations, Victoria submitted Sunbiz corporate records. Some of these records showed that a woman—who lived at the same address as the Debtor—acted as (either current or former) manager and registered agent of two of the target Florida entities. Notably, the Debtor’s name appeared nowhere on the corporate records of these two Florida entities. Discovery was nonetheless granted for use in the Russian bankruptcies. The shared residence between the Debtor and the manager of these entities proved connection enough. Moreover, in support of its allegations that the subpoena targets were “closely related” to the Debtor, and that the targets “should have documents and knowledge of assets tied to the Russian [bankruptcies],” Victoria created and submitted a chart showing that many of the Florida entities shared the same address, principals, and registered agents. The entities were thus alleged to be interrelated to each other, although not all directly related to the Debtor himself. Victoria also submitted two noteworthy declarations in support of its Section 1782 application. The first declarant alleged “upon information and belief” that the Debtor had (1) caused his Russian companies to enter loan agreements with no intention of repaying; (2) failed to repay the borrowed money; and (3) transferred the borrowed money directly or indirectly to his family members or trusted representatives. Ultimately, the declarant “believed” that the borrowed funds found their way into the United States and were used, in part, to support the Debtor’s luxurious lifestyle in Florida. Neither the declarant nor Victoria submitted any other evidence to support these allegations or the connection between the borrowed funds and the Florida corporations. The second declarant stated that the Debtor had not disclosed any of his U.S. assets to the Russian bankruptcy court even though, “based on the [Sunbiz corporate records],” the Debtor owned and/or held officer positions in several Florida entities. Despite the tenuous connections between the Debtor and some subpoena targets, the court granted the broad financial discovery request with few limitations. The aforementioned evidence (or lack thereof) was enough for this grant of discovery to survive through the Eleventh Circuit, which upheld the district court’s ruling. The disconnect between the above cases poses a noteworthy question—is the Petroforte limitation too narrow in light of the In re Victoria grant of discovery? Victoria, as a creditor seeking discovery assistance for use in foreign bankruptcy proceedings, was granted wide-ranging discovery relating to (1) the Debtor; (2) the Debtor’s banks; (3) non-debtor associates; and (4) non-debtor entities, some of which showed little to no relation to the Debtor besides a shared address with the entities’ manager. The court did not inquire into the Debtor’s ownership interests (or transfer thereof). Nor did it probe into the foreign courts’ findings. Rather, the grant of discovery was based largely on uncorroborated beliefs and bare allegations. More so, it was based on reasonable suspicion that these target individuals and non-debtor entities were involved in the Debtor’s transfer of assets to the detriment of his creditors. In re Victoria has introduced a more relaxed standard that loosens the restrictions placed on discovery requests for use in foreign bankruptcies. In light of this recent development, perhaps it is time to reassess the scope of discovery in Chapter 15 cases, too. Click here to read the original PDF . Open Back to all Entries Share this article Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Copy link Latest News & Insights Open Open Attorney Spotlight Aug 17, 2026 3 minutes read Attorney Spotlight – Get to Know Carolina M. Rosso “Pour faire de grandes choses, il ne faut pas être un si grand génie... Firm News Jun 23, 2026 3 minutes Sequor Law Welcomes Attorney Carolina M. Rosso to Its Expanding International Litigation and Asset Recovery Team Sequor Law is pleased to announce that Carolina M. Rosso has joined the firm as an Attorney. Attorney Spotlight May 19, 2026 1 minute read Attorney Spotlight – Get to Know Noah Rosenblum 1. What inspired you to pursue a law career? I was drawn to law because I've always enjoyed solving complicated problems and thinking.. Attorney Spotlight May 9, 2026 2 minutes read Attorney Spotlight – Get to Know Michael Hanlon 1. What inspired you to pursue a law career? I was less drawn to law in the abstract and more..
- Emergency Measures in Insolvency Legislation in Response to the COVID-19 Crisis| Sequor Law
Sequor Law's Cristina Vicens examines US emergency measures in insolvency and restructuring legislation enacted during the COVID-19 pandemic, including the CARES Act and bankruptcy reforms. Emergency Measures in Insolvency Legislation in Response to the COVID-19 Crisis Open Legal Insights Open December 15, 2020 3 minutes read Sequor Law by Cristina Vicens , Sequor Law, P.A., Miami, Florida What emergency measures in insolvency or restructuring legislation has the United States adopted to help businesses cope with the economic crisis caused by the COVID-19 pandemic? In March 2020, the U.S. Congress swiftly passed a series of stimulus packages to help stabilise the economy after COVID-19 forced many businesses to shut down and caused millions of Americans to become unemployed. The third (and latest) of these stimulus packages, the “Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act” (CARES Act; P.L. 116-136), was a US$2 trillion stimulus packages passed on 25 March 2020. The CARES Act directs financial assistance to individual tax payers, expands unemployment benefits to persons that normally would not have qualified for unemployment benefits, provides for federal grants, loans, and other assistance for small businesses and other businesses disproportionately affected by the COVID-19 pandemic, and establishes a US$150 billion Coronavirus Relief Fund to make payments to states, tribal governments, and local governments as they respond to the public health emergency. Specifically, with regard to insolvency or restructuring legislation adopted to help businesses cope with the economic crisis, the CARES Act provides for several amendments to the U.S. Bankruptcy Code. First, it increases the debt ceiling for businesses to be eligible to file under the small business provisions of Chapter 11 of the Bankruptcy Code from US$2,725,625 to US$ 7,500,000. The Small Business Reorganisation Act (“SBRA”), which took effect on 19 February 2020, just a few weeks before the national shutdown, provides a streamlined path through Chapter 11 for small business debtors. This increased threshold will potentially allow more businesses with access to the SBRA to survive. After one year, however, the debt ceiling increase reverts to US$2,725,625. Second, for a period of one year, the CARES Act amends the definition of “income” under Chapters 7 and 13 to exclude COVID-19 related payments from the federal government. Third, applicable to individuals rather than businesses, it clarifies that the calculation of disposable income under Chapter 13 does not include COVID-19 related payments; and, lastly, permits individuals and families in Chapter 13 proceedings to seek payment plan modifications in response to COVID-19 related financial hardship, including extending payments for up to seven years after their initial payment was due. In addition, the CARES Act provides the authority to the Administrator of the U.S. Small Business Administration (“SBA”) to make loans under the Paycheck Protection Program (“PPP”) through the commercial banking market. The PPP is designed to provide a direct incentive for small businesses to keep their employees on the payroll and allows loans to be forgiven if all employees of a business are kept on the payroll for eight weeks and the loan proceeds are used for payroll, rent, mortgage interest, or utilities. While the CARES Act does not prohibit PPP loans or grants to be provided to Chapter 11 debtors, the SBA has taken the position that it does, creating uncertainty for companies operating under Chapter 11 protection and leading to litigation. [See Perspectives on COVID-19 Relief Funding and the Reopening of America, ABI Journal, July 2020, at 8.] Further, small business owners are able to apply for Economic Injury Disaster Loans (“EIDL”) and receive an advance of up to US$10,000, designed to provide economic relief to businesses that are experiencing a temporary loss of revenue. Relevantly, the loan advance does not have to be repaid and recipients do not have to be approved for the loan in order to receive the Emergency Measures in Insolvency Legislation in Response to the COVID-19 Crisis AIJA Insolvency Commission 2020 68 advance. Contrary to the PPP loans, the SBA administers the EIDL program directly and not through the commercial banking market. Click here to read the full summary (page 67). Open Back to all Entries Share this article Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Copy link Latest News & Insights Open Open Attorney Spotlight Aug 17, 2026 3 minutes read Attorney Spotlight – Get to Know Carolina M. Rosso “Pour faire de grandes choses, il ne faut pas être un si grand génie... Firm News Jun 23, 2026 3 minutes Sequor Law Welcomes Attorney Carolina M. Rosso to Its Expanding International Litigation and Asset Recovery Team Sequor Law is pleased to announce that Carolina M. Rosso has joined the firm as an Attorney. Attorney Spotlight May 19, 2026 1 minute read Attorney Spotlight – Get to Know Noah Rosenblum 1. What inspired you to pursue a law career? I was drawn to law because I've always enjoyed solving complicated problems and thinking.. Attorney Spotlight May 9, 2026 2 minutes read Attorney Spotlight – Get to Know Michael Hanlon 1. What inspired you to pursue a law career? I was less drawn to law in the abstract and more..
- Sequor Law’s Latest Rankings and Recognitions| Sequor Law
Sequor Law earns top rankings in 2021 Chambers USA for asset recovery and bankruptcy litigation, with attorneys recognized as Global Elite Thought Leaders. Sequor Law’s Latest Rankings and Recognitions Open Awards & Recognition Open July 1, 2021 2 minutes read Sequor Law Sequor Law continues to earn national and global recognition for its work in high-stakes Asset Recovery , Bankruptcy Litigation , and cross-border disputes. In the 2021 Chambers USA and Litigation Support Guides, the firm ranked among the top firms in Band 2 for both Bankruptcy Litigation and Global-Wide Asset Tracing & Recovery. These rankings are based on extensive independent research, including client and peer interviews. The message from the market is consistent. Sequor delivers results in complex, international matters where precision and strategy matter most. Chambers also recognized individual shareholders for leadership in their respective fields. Edward H. Davis Jr. earned Band 2 recognition for Global-Wide Asset Tracing & Recovery. Gregory S. Grossman was ranked in Bankruptcy Litigation. Leyza F. Blanco received Band 2 distinctions in Bankruptcy Litigation and Bankruptcy/Restructuring in Florida. These rankings reinforce Sequor’s standing in International Litigation , restructuring disputes, and recovery actions spanning multiple jurisdictions. The firm’s reputation extends beyond Chambers. Who’s Who Legal named Edward H. Davis Jr. and Arnoldo B. Lacayo as Global Elite Thought Leaders in Asset Recovery, a distinction reserved for a small percentage of practitioners worldwide. Sequor’s forensic and investigative capabilities were also recognized, with professionals such as Bob Lindquist and Barbara Miranda acknowledged as leading experts in the recovery space. This combination of litigation strategy and financial investigation is central to Sequor’s model in global fraud and enforcement matters. Sequor attorneys were further recognized by Super Lawyers, including Edward H. Davis Jr. , Gregory S. Grossman , Leyza F. Blanco , and Arnoldo B. Lacayo , along with Rising Stars across international and creditor-debtor rights practice areas. These honors reflect sustained excellence in Creditors’ Rights , complex insolvency litigation, and cross-border recovery efforts. Beyond rankings, Sequor continues to lead thought leadership in Cross-Border Insolvency . Counsel Nyana Abreu Miller contributed to international education initiatives and co-authored analysis on Brazil’s implementation of the UNCITRAL Model Law, underscoring the firm’s global reach. Attorneys such as Juan J. Mendoza also remain active in asset recovery and Section 1782 evidence-gathering proceedings. For clients confronting fraud, corruption, insolvency disputes, or international enforcement challenges, these recognitions signal more than accolades. They confirm depth of experience, global connectivity, and a results-driven approach. To view the full rankings and learn more about Sequor Law’s recognized attorneys and practice strengths, read the complete announcement here . Open Back to all Entries Share this article Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Copy link Latest News & Insights Open Open Attorney Spotlight Aug 17, 2026 3 minutes read Attorney Spotlight – Get to Know Carolina M. Rosso “Pour faire de grandes choses, il ne faut pas être un si grand génie... Firm News Jun 23, 2026 3 minutes Sequor Law Welcomes Attorney Carolina M. Rosso to Its Expanding International Litigation and Asset Recovery Team Sequor Law is pleased to announce that Carolina M. Rosso has joined the firm as an Attorney. Attorney Spotlight May 19, 2026 1 minute read Attorney Spotlight – Get to Know Noah Rosenblum 1. What inspired you to pursue a law career? I was drawn to law because I've always enjoyed solving complicated problems and thinking.. Attorney Spotlight May 9, 2026 2 minutes read Attorney Spotlight – Get to Know Michael Hanlon 1. What inspired you to pursue a law career? I was less drawn to law in the abstract and more..
- Attorney Spotlight: Jennifer Mosquera| Sequor Law
Meet Sequor Law Attorney Jennifer Mosquera, an asset recovery specialist who discusses her passion for international law, her approach to complex cases, and her path to the legal profession. Attorney Spotlight: Jennifer Mosquera Open Attorney Spotlight Open September 25, 2023 2 minutes read Sequor Law What inspired you to pursue a law career? When I was in high school, I became heavily involved in mock trial, moot court, and debate. My senior year I had the honor of arguing before the Florida Supreme Court and winning the Florida State Moot Court Finals. Participating in these programs showed me all of the ways the law was dynamic and interesting, and it helped me realize that I wanted to be a lawyer. What skills do you draw upon when it comes to your specific practice areas? The most important skills I employ in my asset recovery practice are critical thinking and consistency. A lot of times, the best solutions require not only creativity, but additional follow through to make sure the desired results are achieved. Why did you choose those areas of law? I practice in the asset recovery space because I have an interest in international law and the challenges found therein. I enjoy keeping up with and learning about changes in the international law area, and thinking of the best ways to apply them to my practice. You are heavily involved in many industry organizations. What do you enjoy most about your memberships? I enjoy fostering relationships with other attorneys and business leaders, both in South Florida and around the world. Nurturing these connections means that I learn more and have a deeper understanding of others perspectives, which is critical to improving my practice. I especially enjoy when this leads to opportunities to give back to the broader community — for example, I am involved with the Legal Services of Greater Miami, which provides legal counsel to low income individuals in South Florida. Tell us about a mentor who made an impact on your career? Judge Lynn Quimby-Pennock was one of the first mentors I had in the legal field and she mentored me throughout law school and beyond. While I was completing my studies, she and I would have lunch together at least once a month, where we would talk not only about the challenges of legal practices, but also issues of integrity and honesty. She taught me that to be a good lawyer you have to maintain good moral character both in and out of the courtroom. If you weren’t practicing law, what would you be doing? I’d likely work in something relating to paleography. I’ve always been interested in ancient manuscripts and rare books. What might people be surprised to learn about you? For many years, I made sculptures predominantly using clay as my preferred medium. Some of my pieces were showcased in local amateur art exhibitions. What is a good book you read recently or your favorite book? Wild by Cheryl Strayed is a recent favorite. I don’t typically favor memoirs, but this one really stuck with me. Open Back to all Entries Share this article Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Copy link Latest News & Insights Open Open Attorney Spotlight Aug 17, 2026 3 minutes read Attorney Spotlight – Get to Know Carolina M. Rosso “Pour faire de grandes choses, il ne faut pas être un si grand génie... Firm News Jun 23, 2026 3 minutes Sequor Law Welcomes Attorney Carolina M. Rosso to Its Expanding International Litigation and Asset Recovery Team Sequor Law is pleased to announce that Carolina M. Rosso has joined the firm as an Attorney. Attorney Spotlight May 19, 2026 1 minute read Attorney Spotlight – Get to Know Noah Rosenblum 1. What inspired you to pursue a law career? I was drawn to law because I've always enjoyed solving complicated problems and thinking.. Attorney Spotlight May 9, 2026 2 minutes read Attorney Spotlight – Get to Know Michael Hanlon 1. What inspired you to pursue a law career? I was less drawn to law in the abstract and more..
- EDITED Sequor Law Expands: Complex Cross-Border Bankruptcy Litigation Expertise Grows| Sequor Law
Sequor Law adds former GrayRobinson shareholders Leyza Florin and Fernando Menendez to its Miami-based bankruptcy litigation practice, enhancing cross-border insolvency expertise. Sequor Law Picks Up Two Bankruptcy Attorneys From GrayRobinson Open Firm News Open June 11, 2018 2 minutes read Sequor Law By Rick Archer Miami, Florida - June 4, 2018 Sequor Law has added two former GrayRobinson PA shareholders, including one of the founding members of that firm’s Miami office, to its own Miami-based bankruptcy litigation practice, the firm has announced. In a statement released June 4, Sequor Law said new partners Leyza B. Florin and Fernando Menendez Jr. have experience dealing with complex and cross-border bankruptcy cases, which would be a particular asset to the firm. “The firm not only gains two outstanding lawyers with years of experience in insolvency, restructuring, and commercial litigation, but their bilingual and multicultural heritage will add to the growth of our market leadership in international asset recovery and cross-border insolvency,” Sequor Law founding shareholder Ed Davis said in the statement. Seven years ago Florin, a graduate of the University of Miami School of Law, was one of the founding shareholders of GrayRobinson’s Miami office. The statement said Florin has a wide range of litigation experience with a special emphasis on complex business bankruptcy and commercial litigation matters. She has extensive international bankruptcy experience, including with the Chapter 15 proceedings for Barbados-based British American Insurance Co., where she served as U.S. counsel for the court-appointed representatives from 11 different jurisdictions. She is also a Florida Supreme Court Certified Civil Mediator. Menendez, a New York University School of Law graduate, also spent seven years with GrayRobinson after starting his career at White & Case LLP. Menendez has worked on a broad range of business reorganization and restructuring matters as well as complex and contested bankruptcy issues, the statement said. According to his biography on the firm’s website, one major case Menendez has handled was representing the holders of more than $30 million in secured debt in the contested Chapter 11 of the owner of a large Miami real estate parcel. Both attorneys credited what they called Sequor’s focus on international business as their reason for joining the firm. “I think we were both concerned about widening the breadth of our international practice,” Menendez said in a phone interview Monday. “They’re already in these markets. I think we have the opportunity to expand our relationships overseas.” In the statement, Florin said they had both worked with a number of Sequor’s attorneys for years and had “long admired” the firm. “They have significant depth in the cross-border area,” Florin said in the phone interview. “They have a really deep bench.” Miami-based Sequor represents financial institutions, governments, and public and non-public companies in commercial litigation, financial fraud cases, and bankruptcies in the U.S. and internationally, according to the statement. Click to view full article. Open Back to all Entries Share this article Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Copy link Latest News & Insights Open Open Attorney Spotlight Aug 17, 2026 3 minutes read Attorney Spotlight – Get to Know Carolina M. Rosso “Pour faire de grandes choses, il ne faut pas être un si grand génie... Firm News Jun 23, 2026 3 minutes Sequor Law Welcomes Attorney Carolina M. Rosso to Its Expanding International Litigation and Asset Recovery Team Sequor Law is pleased to announce that Carolina M. Rosso has joined the firm as an Attorney. Attorney Spotlight May 19, 2026 1 minute read Attorney Spotlight – Get to Know Noah Rosenblum 1. What inspired you to pursue a law career? I was drawn to law because I've always enjoyed solving complicated problems and thinking.. Attorney Spotlight May 9, 2026 2 minutes read Attorney Spotlight – Get to Know Michael Hanlon 1. What inspired you to pursue a law career? I was less drawn to law in the abstract and more..
- Attorney Spotlight: Maria Jose Cortesi| Sequor Law
Meet Sequor Law Attorney Maria Jose Cortesi, who shares her journey into international litigation and asset recovery, her creative approach to complex cases, and her passion for the law. Attorney Spotlight: Maria Jose Cortesi Open Attorney Spotlight Open February 7, 2024 2 minutes read Sequor Law What inspired you to pursue a law career? I’ve been an avid reader my entire life, and I also like to think that I am creative. For me, a legal career just made sense, since a lot of what we do as lawyers is craft creative solutions for our clients, both based on prior precedent, or where relevant, by advocating for a change in the legal landscape. I liked the structure that laws bring to society, and I knew I would be challenged intellectually in my day-to-day. Why did you choose the areas of law that you practice? I was drawn to my areas of practice because of the complexity and novelty of the issues we encounter. No two cases are the same, and that results in exposure to different jurisdictions, legal systems and people that allow me to learn new things every day. What skills do you draw upon when it comes to your specific practice areas? The first that come to mind are critical thinking, problem-solving, and analytical skills. We are often navigating uncharted waters, and that requires out-of-the box thinking to figure out how to address the issues we are presented. Communication is also a skill that I use every single day—we regularly work with lawyers in different jurisdictions as part of a robust cross-border legal team to handle matters, and coordinating efforts to achieve the best results is critical. What is the most rewarding part about your job? I think the most rewarding part of my job is knowing I am solving a problem for someone who may have thought the problem was insurmountable. It is also extremely rewarding, professionally, to be part of a team that is constantly at the forefront of legal developments, and to get to work and learn from attorneys who are the best in their fields. Tell us about a mentor who made an impact on your career. Before and during law school, I worked for an estate planning and probate lawyer, Tania. As her legal assistant, I worked closely with her and she taught me to take pride in my work product, even when I doubted myself sometimes. I took that into my time in law school, and now as an attorney. If you weren’t practicing law, what would you be doing? If I was not practicing law, I would be running an event planning company. I love putting together and hosting events where my guests enjoy themselves and walk away with good memories that they remember fondly. What might people be surprised to learn about you? I think it may surprise people that I have read the Harry Potter series in its entirety 4 times! There’s something so wonderful about being lost in a book, and Harry Potter will always have a spot in my heart for being the first series to do that for me. What is a good book or article you read recently? I recently read Atomic Habits by James Clear, which really has helped me shift my mindset about doing things that may seem “insignificant” or “not a big deal” and be more conscious about my actions. Open Back to all Entries Share this article Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Copy link Latest News & Insights Open Open Attorney Spotlight Aug 17, 2026 3 minutes read Attorney Spotlight – Get to Know Carolina M. Rosso “Pour faire de grandes choses, il ne faut pas être un si grand génie... Firm News Jun 23, 2026 3 minutes Sequor Law Welcomes Attorney Carolina M. Rosso to Its Expanding International Litigation and Asset Recovery Team Sequor Law is pleased to announce that Carolina M. Rosso has joined the firm as an Attorney. Attorney Spotlight May 19, 2026 1 minute read Attorney Spotlight – Get to Know Noah Rosenblum 1. What inspired you to pursue a law career? I was drawn to law because I've always enjoyed solving complicated problems and thinking.. Attorney Spotlight May 9, 2026 2 minutes read Attorney Spotlight – Get to Know Michael Hanlon 1. What inspired you to pursue a law career? I was less drawn to law in the abstract and more..
- Business Law Section Updates Pro Bono Guide| Sequor Law
Sequor Law's Leyza B. Florin, Chair of the Florida Bar's Business Law Section, leads an update to the Section's Pro Bono Best Practices Guide, highlighting attorneys' responsibility to serve. Business Law Section Updates Pro Bono Guide Open In the News Open August 7, 2020 4 minutes read Sequor Law If Spider-Man can do it, then so can the Business Law Section and other Florida lawyers. That’s the logic of section Chair Leyza B. Florin , explaining the section’s long-standing web of support for pro bono activities, just reinforced with the new revision of its Pro Bono Best Practices Guide. “It goes back to the Peter Parker principle, ‘with great power comes great responsibility,’” Florin said. But there are also hard numbers and practical reasons. The section’s mission is “to promote business-friendly initiatives” and pro bono falls squarely into that mission, she said, because studies have shown each dollar of civil legal services provided to low-income clients yields $7.19 of economic benefits. Carlos Sardi, chair of the section’s Pro Bono Committee, said the new guide covers the Supreme Court’s 2017 approval of Bar Rule 4-6.6, which addresses conflicts of interest affecting short-term pro bono representations. The Pro Bono Best Practices Guide has been posted for free on the Florida Business Law website . “One of the things that we’re trying to instill not only in our members but to all of our colleagues is there are tools out there that can help” in providing pro bono, Sardi said. “It’s a starting point for such efforts or to retool and rethink their pro bono policy to encourage their colleagues to do the right thing and provide pro bono services to the most-needy members of our community. “This tool provides the mechanisms all the way from intake to representation, even if it’s on a short term based on the safe harbor in Rule 4-6.6.” The updating is the first freshening of the guide since 2014, Sardi said, and was prompted in part by the Supreme Court’s adoption in 2017 of Bar Rule 4-6.6. “It provides a safe harbor for those who provide short-term, limited legal services [such as at a legal clinic]…for them to be able to provide services on a short term without being on the hook for representing a client,” he said. “We included that new rule into our guide basically for our members to be aware of the impact it has on your internal checking and intake mechanism that you use to run conflict searches.” According to a November 15, 2017, Bar News column by Assistant Ethics Counsel Hey-Yen Cam Bailey the rule “applies to lawyers who provide short-term limited legal services through a program sponsored by a nonprofit organization, court, government agency, bar association, or ABA-accredited law school. Although attorney-client relationships are still established through these programs, neither the lawyer nor client expect the relationship to last beyond that short-term representation. Under the rule, a lawyer participating in these programs will only be subject to Rules 4-1.7 and 4-1.9(a), conflict of interest rules regarding current and former clients, if the lawyer knows that the representation involves a conflict of interest.” The guide addresses intake, initial interviews, engagement letters, opening a file, deciding what is pro bono, the safe harbor in Rule 4-6.6, how pro bono credit is determined, using nonlawyer employees for pro bono cases, determining if costs will be charged, and dividing fees, costs, and awards that may come from a pro bono case. Also covered are having law firm staff dedicated to pro bono work to satisfy the guidelines in Rule 4-6.1(c) and getting such plans approved by circuit pro bono committees. Aside from presenting the considerations in outline form, there is also extensive commentary on important points and issues. Working with legal aid offices and pro bono circuit committees is important, Sardi said, because “you can always be more sensitive to the immediate pro bono needs in your community. “The pro bono needs may be completely different in northern Florida than in the southern part of our state. Obviously that connectivity with the local area is very important in setting your pro bono firm-wide policy.” Support for pro bono is in the DNA of the section, as shown by the handbook and other efforts. “I’ve been an active member of the Business Law Section since 2006. I don’t remember a time where the Pro Bono Committee was not present and pro bono services were not promoted,” Sardi said. “One of the missions of the Pro Bono Committee is to achieve 100% participation of our members. Last year, when we took on the task of reviewing how well we are doing, well over 60% of our members in one way or another provided pro bono services. It’s a work in progress but it’s a fantastic achievement by our members. We continue to promote our pro bono heroes and services.” Members may also take to heart Florin’s point that effective pro bono is good for the business community. She cited a 2016 study, Economic Impacts of Civil Legal Aid Organization in Florida conducted by The Resource for Great Programs, which found that in 2015 civil legal aid had garnered for Floridians $120.6 million in Social Security benefits, $70.7 million in Medicare and Medicaid payments, and $2.7 million in veterans benefits. That in turn boosted business income by $274.8 million, created 2,243 jobs and avoided $2.9 million in emergency shelter costs, $50.6 million in foreclosure costs, and $6.9 million in domestic violence costs. “Pro bono work provides a benefit to the Florida legal community that may not otherwise be available,” Florin said. “The members of our section have skills that are in short supply and in great need.” Click here to read the original article . Open Back to all Entries Share this article Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Copy link Latest News & Insights Open Open Attorney Spotlight Aug 17, 2026 3 minutes read Attorney Spotlight – Get to Know Carolina M. Rosso “Pour faire de grandes choses, il ne faut pas être un si grand génie... Firm News Jun 23, 2026 3 minutes Sequor Law Welcomes Attorney Carolina M. Rosso to Its Expanding International Litigation and Asset Recovery Team Sequor Law is pleased to announce that Carolina M. Rosso has joined the firm as an Attorney. Attorney Spotlight May 19, 2026 1 minute read Attorney Spotlight – Get to Know Noah Rosenblum 1. What inspired you to pursue a law career? I was drawn to law because I've always enjoyed solving complicated problems and thinking.. Attorney Spotlight May 9, 2026 2 minutes read Attorney Spotlight – Get to Know Michael Hanlon 1. What inspired you to pursue a law career? I was less drawn to law in the abstract and more..
- A Twenty-First Century Prisoner Exchange: The Case of the Isaías Brothers| Sequor Law
This article examines the Isaías Brothers case as a modern prisoner exchange between Ecuador and the United States, exploring press freedom, Edward Snowden asylum politics, and campaign finance. A Twenty-First Century Prisoner Exchange: The Case of the Isaías Brothers Open Legal Insights Open September 3, 2014 1 minute read Sequor Law Two brothers from Latin America are pitting the United States and Ecuador against each other in a battle over the freedom of the press, Edward Snowden, and campaign finance rules. Open article here Open Back to all Entries Share this article Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Copy link Latest News & Insights Open Open Attorney Spotlight Aug 17, 2026 3 minutes read Attorney Spotlight – Get to Know Carolina M. Rosso “Pour faire de grandes choses, il ne faut pas être un si grand génie... Firm News Jun 23, 2026 3 minutes Sequor Law Welcomes Attorney Carolina M. Rosso to Its Expanding International Litigation and Asset Recovery Team Sequor Law is pleased to announce that Carolina M. Rosso has joined the firm as an Attorney. Attorney Spotlight May 19, 2026 1 minute read Attorney Spotlight – Get to Know Noah Rosenblum 1. What inspired you to pursue a law career? I was drawn to law because I've always enjoyed solving complicated problems and thinking.. Attorney Spotlight May 9, 2026 2 minutes read Attorney Spotlight – Get to Know Michael Hanlon 1. What inspired you to pursue a law career? I was less drawn to law in the abstract and more..












