Joel R. Glucksman
Partner
201-896-7095 jglucksman@sh-law.comKey Contacts
Back
James River Coal Co. has filed for protection under Chapter 11 of the bankruptcy law for the second time. The latest filing was on April 7, according to Bloomberg. James River Coal is a mine operator in the U.S. Midwest and Appalachia. Falling coal prices caused the company to idle a dozen mines, resulting in $818.7 million in debt that it was unable to repay without legal protection.
High levels of natural gas production from shale rock in recent years have caused a number of electric utilities providers to switch to gas, resulting in lower demand for coal, the news source explained. Production of metallurgic coal in Australia, which is used in the steel making process, increased the global supply of the resource, further reducing prices. James River plans to continue operating as it reorganizes under court protection, though one or more portions of the company could be sold.
“The coal markets in the U.S. have changed dramatically during the past several years,” Chief Executive Officer Peter Socha said in a statement yesterday, according to Bloomberg.
Coal companies have also suffered as a result of President Barack Obama’s push for stricter greenhouse, Reuters explained.
James River will be entering into a $110 million debtor-in-possession financing facility with several large financial funds, according to the news source. The company said that it will use the funds to support its business, assuming approval by the bankruptcy court. It will also evaluate alternatives, like capital investment through a plan of reorganizing. James River shares traded above $60 in June 2008, but closed at 71 cents on the Nasdaq April 7.
- Practices: Corporate Transactions & Business, Bankruptcy & Creditors' Rights, Bankruptcy Litigation
- Locations: Red Bank, NJ, New York City, Little Falls, NJ
No Aspect of the advertisement has been approved by the Supreme Court. Results may vary depending on your particular facts and legal circumstances.
Related Posts
See all
What Founders Can Learn From Start-up Suits
High-profile founder litigation is more than just a media spectacle. For startup founders, these cases underscore the legal and structural risks that can arise when rapid growth outpaces formal oversight. While launching a new company can be both an exciting and deeply rewarding endeavor, founders must be mindful that it also comes with significant risks. […]
Author: Dan Brecher
Corporate Governance Reviews: A Practical Guide for New Jersey Companies
Every New Jersey company should periodically evaluate its governance framework. Strong corporate governance protects directors and officers, builds investor confidence, reduces litigation exposure, and positions a company for sustainable growth. The first quarter of the year is a great time to evaluate your corporate governance practices and perform any routine maintenance needed to keep that […]
Author: Ken Hollenbeck
What to Do After Being Served with a Lawsuit: Steps to Protect Your Legal Rights
Being served with a lawsuit is one of the most stressful legal events a business or individual can face. Whether the claim involves a contract dispute, an employment matter, an intellectual property issue, or another legal challenge, the actions you take in the first few days can significantly shape the outcome of your case. Acting […]
Author: Robert E. Levy
Will 2026 Be a Banner Year for SPACs? Understanding the Risks and Opportunities
Special Purpose Acquisition Companies (SPACs) continue to gain momentum as we move through 2026. After enduring a significant contraction following the 2021 boom and the regulatory scrutiny that followed, SPAC activity rebounded sharply in 2025 and now carries forward into 2026 with real momentum. The SPAC resurgence reflects broader improvements in both market conditions and the […]
Author: Dan Brecher
Why Compliance Monitoring Matters for NY and NJ Businesses
Compliance programs are no longer judged by how they look on paper, but by how they function in the real world. Compliance monitoring is the ongoing process of reviewing, testing, and evaluating whether policies, procedures, and controls are being followed—and whether they are actually working. What Is Compliance Monitoring? In today’s heightened regulatory environment, compliance […]
Author: Dan Brecher
When Are New Jersey Business Owners Personally Liable for Corporate Debt?
New Jersey personal guaranty liability is a critical issue for business owners who regularly sign contracts on behalf of their companies. A recent New Jersey Supreme Court decision provides valuable guidance on when a business owner can be held personally responsible for a company’s debt. Under the Court’s decision in Extech Building Materials, Inc. v. […]
Author: Charles H. Friedrich
No Aspect of the advertisement has been approved by the Supreme Court. Results may vary depending on your particular facts and legal circumstances.
Sign up to get the latest from our attorneys!
Explore What Matters Most to You.
Consider subscribing to our Firm Insights mailing list by clicking the button below so you can keep up to date with the firm`s latest articles covering various legal topics.
Stay informed and inspired with the latest updates, insights, and events from Scarinci Hollenbeck. Our resource library provides valuable content across a range of categories to keep you connected and ahead of the curve.