In a Chapter 11 bankruptcy, the individual or business filing bankruptcy (debtor) has the first opportunity to propose a reorganization plan—to reorganize the debtor’s operations and payment of debts. A Chapter 11 plan is an agreement between the debtor and its creditors as to how the debtor will operate and pay its debts going forward.

Chapter 11 plans often include downsizing of the debtor’s operations to reduce expenses, and renegotiation of debts. If the proposed reorganization plan is accepted by the court and the creditors, the bankruptcy process moves forward.

In Maryland, as in all states, Chapter 11 bankruptcy is governed by federal law, specifically the U.S. Bankruptcy Code. Under Chapter 11, both individuals and businesses can reorganize their debts. The debtor usually has a 120-day period during which they have an exclusive right to file a reorganization plan. This plan details how the debtor intends to operate and pay off obligations moving forward. It may include strategies such as downsizing business operations to cut costs or renegotiating debts with creditors. Creditors may vote on the plan, and if it garners enough support, the bankruptcy court will need to confirm it. The court will approve the plan if it finds that it complies with the requirements of the Bankruptcy Code and is fair and equitable. Once confirmed, the debtor must make payments according to the plan's terms and is bound by its provisions. If the debtor fails to propose a plan within the exclusivity period, or if the proposed plan is not accepted and confirmed, creditors may propose alternative reorganization plans.