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AI Summary of 610. Civil liability for fraudulent or reckless trading of company

This provision outlines the court's authority to hold company officers personally liable for debts incurred through reckless or fraudulent business practices. If an officer knowingly participates in actions detrimental to creditors, they risk sanctions where liquidators or creditors may pursue claims for personal liability.

Key considerations include the officer's understanding of their financial responsibilities and the reasonable actions taken to mitigate losses. The court may also consider the creditor's awareness of the company's financial instability when the debt was incurred, ensuring a balanced assessment of liability.

Version status: In force | Document consolidation status: Updated to reflect all known changes
Version date: 1 July 2024 - onwards
Version 4 of 4

610. Civil liability for fraudulent or reckless trading of company

(1) If in the course of the winding up of a company or in the course of proceedings under Part 10 in relation to a company, or in the course of a rescue period under Part 10A in respect of an eligible company, it appears that -

(a) any person was, while an officer of the company, a party to the carrying on of any business of the company in a reckless manner, or

(b) any person was knowingly a party to the carrying on of any business of the company with intent to defraud creditors of the company, or creditors of any other person or for any fraudulent purpose,

the court, on the application of the liquidator, examiner or process adviser of the company, a receiver of property of the company or any creditor or contributory of it, has the following power.