{"id":"court_ctb_3534_0","court":"CTB","case_no":"22-50073","doc_number":3534,"sub_number":0,"doc_type":"ORDER","filed_date":"2024-09-16","title":"UNITED STATES BANKRUPTCY COURT DISTRICT OF CONNECTICUT BRIDGEPORT DIVISION In re:","summary_zh":"聘用特别法律顾问申请 —— Ho Wan Kwok 破产案（郭文贵 / Guo Wengui / Miles Guo），CTB 22-50073 ECF #3534（2024-09-16立案）。第 11 章受托人 Luc Despins 申请法院批准自 2024 年 8 月 19 日起聘用 Winne, Banta, Basralian & Kahn, P.C. 为特聘新泽西州房地产法律顾问，以协助处理涉及新泽西州马瓦豪宅（Mahwah Mansion）的资产追收、对抗性程序及日常维持费用等事宜。","summary_en":"Application to Retain Special Counsel — In re Ho Wan Kwok (Miles Guo / Guo Wengui), CTB 22-50073 ECF #3534 (Filed 2024-09-16). Chapter 11 Trustee Luc Despins applied for entry of an order authorizing the retention of Winne, Banta, Basralian & Kahn, P.C. as special New Jersey real estate counsel effective August 19, 2024, to assist with recovery efforts, adversary proceedings, and carrying cost matters regarding the Mahwah Mansion property.","body_en":"## **UNITED STATES BANKRUPTCY COURT DISTRICT OF CONNECTICUT BRIDGEPORT DIVISION**\n\nIn re:\n\nHO WAN KWOK, et al.,\n\nChapter 11\n\nCase No. 22-50073 (JAM)\n\nDebtors. <sup>1</sup>\n\n(Jointly Administered)\n\n# **APPLICATION OF CHAPTER 11 TRUSTEE FOR ENTRY OF ORDER APPROVING RETENTION OF WINNE, BANTA, BASRALIAN & KAHN, P.C., AS SPECIAL NEW JERSEY REAL ESTATE COUNSEL TO TRUSTEE EFFECTIVE AS OF AUGUST 19, 2024**\n\nLuc Despins, in his capacity as the Chapter 11 Trustee (the \"Trustee\" or \"Movant\") appointed in the Chapter 11 case (the \"Chapter 11 Case\") of Ho Wan Kwok (the \"Debtor\"), files this application (the \"Application\") requesting entry of an order, substantially in the form attached hereto as **Exhibit A** (the \"Proposed Order\"): (i) appointing Winne, Banta, Basralian & Kahn, P.C. (\"WBBK\") as special New Jersey real estate counsel to the Trustee, effective as of August 19, 2024, pursuant to sections 327(e) and 328 of Title 11 of the United States Code (the \"Bankruptcy Code\"); and (ii) granting related relief. In support of this Application, the Trustee submits the declaration of Richard R. Kahn (\"Attorney Kahn\"), principal of WBBK (the \"Kahn Declaration\"), attached as **Exhibit B** hereto, and further respectfully states as follows.\n\n<sup>1</sup> The Debtors in these chapter 11 cases are Ho Wan Kwok (also known as Guo Wengui, Miles Guo, and Miles Kwok, as well as numerous other aliases) (last four digits of tax identification number: 9595), Genever Holdings LLC (last four digits of tax identification number: 8202) and Genever Holdings Corporation (collectively, the \"Chapter 11 case\"). The mailing address for the Trustee, Genever Holdings LLC, and the Genever Holdings Corporation is Paul Hastings LLP, 200 Park Avenue, New York, NY 10166 c/o Luc A. Despins, as Trustee for the Estate of Ho Wan Kwok (solely for purposes of notices and communications).\n\n### **JURISDICTION, VENUE, AND STATUTORY BASIS**\n\n1. The United States Bankruptcy Court for the District of Connecticut (the \"Court\") has jurisdiction over this matter pursuant to 28 U.S.C. §§ 157 and 1334 and the *Standing Order of Reference* from the United States District Court for the District of Connecticut. This is a core proceeding within the meaning of 28 U.S.C. § 157(b).\n\n2. Venue in this District is proper pursuant to 28 U.S.C. §§ 1408 and 1409.\n\n3. The bases for the relief requested herein are sections 327(e) and 328 of the Bankruptcy Code.\n\n### **BACKGROUND**\n\n4. On February 15, 2022 (the \"Petition Date\"), the Debtor filed with the Court a voluntary petition for relief under Chapter 11 of the Bankruptcy Code.\n\n5. On March 21, 2022, the United States Trustee appointed an Official Committee of Unsecured Creditors (\"Committee\") in the Chapter 11 Case. No examiner has been appointed in the Chapter 11 Case.\n\n6. On June 15, 2022, the Court entered a memorandum of decision and order [ECF No. 465] (the \"Trustee Order\") directing the United States Trustee to appoint a Chapter 11 Trustee in the Chapter 11 Case. Pursuant to the Trustee Order, the United States Trustee selected Luc A. Despins as the Trustee.<sup>2</sup>\n\n7. On July 8, 2022, the Court entered an order granting the appointment of Luc A. Despins as the Trustee in the Chapter 11 Case [ECF No. 523].\n\n<sup>2</sup> The references to docket numbers set forth in this Application refer to the Chapter 11 Case docket unless otherwise indicated.\n\n### **MAHWAH MANSION AND ADVERSARY PROCEEDING**\n\n8. The Mahwah Mansion, as defined herein, is a 21-bedroom, 50,000-square-foot personal residence sitting on 12.5 acres overlooking the Ramapo mountains. The Debtor purchased the Mahwah Mansion in 2021 for \\$26 million through Taurus Fund LLC (\"Taurus Fund\"), an entity then nominally owned by the Debtor's chauffeur and bodyguard, Scott Barnett.\n\n9. On July 11, 2023, the Trustee commenced an adversary proceeding (Adv. Proc. No. 23-05017, the \"Mahwah A.P.\") against Taurus Fund, and Scott Barnett and Taurus Management LLC, as trustees of Taurus Fund (collectively, the \"Defendants\"), seeking (a) a declaratory judgment that (i) the Debtor is the equitable owner of real property located at 675 Ramapo Valley Road, Mahwah, New Jersey 07430 (the \"Mahwah Mansion\"), (ii) the Debtor is the equitable owner of Taurus Fund; and (iii) Taurus Fund is the alter ego of the Debtor; and (b) on these respective bases, an order under 11 U.S.C. §§ 541, 542 and 544 requiring turnover to the Debtor's Chapter 11 estate (the \"Estate\") and delivery to the Trustee of: (i) the Mahwah Mansion and all fixtures and personal property inside the Mahwah Mansion; (ii) any membership interest or other ownership interest in Taurus Fund; and (iii) all of Taurus Fund's assets.\n\n10. On August 24, 2023, the Court entered the *Memorandum of Decision and Order Granting in Part Motion for Preliminary Injunction* [Adv. Proc. 23-05017 ECF No. 47] (as modified, the \"PI Order\"), which provided, *inter alia*, that the Defendants were to employ security services (the \"Security Services\") for the Mahwah Mansion in order to secure and safeguard any and all assets or property of Taurus Fund, including the Mahwah Mansion; and that proof of insurance covering all assets and property of the Taurus Fund, including the Mahwah Mansion and all personalty and/or fixtures in, on or at the Mahwah Mansion was to be filed with the Court. (PI\n\nOrder at pp. 23). Despite the requirements of the PI Order, the Defendants failed to provide proof of insurance covering the assets and property of Taurus Fund.\n\n11. Following the Debtor's conviction on nine felony charges in his criminal case, Taurus Fund informed the Trustee that it would no longer fund the Security Services, real estate taxes for the Mahwah Mansion, or other expenses associated with ownership and maintenance of the Mahwah Mansion (the \"Carrying Costs\"). The Trustee estimates that the Carrying Costs presently exceed \\$300,000 per quarter.\n\n12. On August 15, 2024, the Court entered its *Order Granting Amended Motion of Chapter 11 Trustee, Pursuant to 363(b), for entry of Order Authorizing Trustee to Fund Maintenance of Mahwah Mansion and for Related Relief* [ECF No. 3422] (the \"Funding Order\"). Pursuant to the terms of the Funding Order, the Trustee was authorized to use property of the Estate to fund the Carrying Costs.\n\n13. On September 11, 2024, the Trustee filed his Motion for Summary Judgment (the \"Summary Judgment Motion\") in the Mahwah A.P. [Adv. Proc. 23-05017 ECF No. 124] seeking entry of an order providing, among other things, that the Mahwah Mansion is property of the Estate. If the Trustee obtains summary judgment, the Trustee intends to immediately market the Mahwah Mansion for sale for the benefit of the Estate. The unique nature of this real property coupled with the uncertain real estate market and the substantial Carrying Costs, renders it prudent to prepare for the marketing and sale of the Mahwah Mansion in anticipation of a favorable ruling on the Summary Judgment Motion.\n\n14. To that end, the Trustee engaged in discussions with Attorney Kahn, a principal of WBBK, regarding retention of the law firm to act as New Jersey real estate counsel to the Trustee.\n\nIt is necessary that experienced New Jersey real estate counsel be involved from the outset in order to ensure the marketing and sale of the Mahwah Mansion is expeditious and effective.\n\n### **WBBK'S RETENTION**\n\n15. By this Application, the Movant requests entry of an order, substantially in the form attached hereto, appointing WBBK as New Jersey real estate counsel for the Trustee, effective as of August 19, 2024.\n\n16. It is evident that expertise in New Jersey real estate law would facilitate the negotiation and consummation of a future sale of the Mahwah Mansion. Attorney Kahn and WBBK have extensive expertise in New Jersey real estate law.\n\n17. The Mahwah Mansion is a unique property. The \\$26 million purchase price in 2021 was reportedly the highest sale price for residential real property in New Jersey that year.<sup>3</sup> The 2021 purchase by Taurus Fund was apparently preceded by a lengthy marketing period and marked price changes. Since 2021, the Debtor, through Taurus Fund, has funded millions of dollars into improvements at the Mahwah Mansion.\n\n18. The Mahwah Mansion is one of the most valuable assets of the Estate and therefore it is important to preserve and protect the asset for the benefit of the estate. However, the Carrying Costs are a large burden upon the Estate and are anticipated to remain a burden unless and until the property is sold.<sup>4</sup> It is also possible that the residential real estate market will be affected in\n\n<sup>3</sup> Mary Chao (January 31, 2022), *USA Today*, \"This mansion is the most expensive house sold in NJ last year. Here's what \\$26M bought.\"\n\n<sup>4</sup> The Funding Order provides that, in the event there is no finding that the Mahwah Mansion is property of the Estate, the Trustee, for the benefit of the estate shall have a claim against Taurus Fund for the aggregate amount of the Carrying Costs, secured by a lien covering the Mahwah Mansion. (Funding Order, at p. 2-4 pp. 4). Further, in the event the Mahwah Mansion is the subject of any forfeiture proceedings related to the Criminal Case, the Trustee and the United States of America have stipulated that any expenses incurred by the estate to ensure the safekeeping and custody of the Mahwah Mansion shall be paid from the proceeds of a sale of the Mahwah Mansion. (*Order Approving, Pursuant to Bankruptcy Rule 9019, Motion of Chapter 11 Trustee Regarding*\n\nthe coming months by changes in interest rates and other market factors. As a result, it is imperative that the WBBK be ready to immediately commence work reviewing any listing agreements, negotiating and preparing a purchase and sale agreement, and ensuring any negotiated transaction is consummated upon its terms and in accordance with any orders of this Court.\n\n## **WBBK'S QUALIFICATIONS**\n\n19. WBBK is one of the oldest firms in New Jersey and one of the largest full-service firms in Bergen County. The firm represents a wide array of clients, from small local businesses to Fortune 500 companies in real estate, land use, planning and zoning and many other practice areas. Attorney Kahn has practiced real estate law in New Jersey for over forty years. (Kahn Declaration at ¶ 4.)\n\n20. WBBK has substantial experience in the legal issues associated with the sale of Bergen County residential real property. (*Id*.) Its experience and expertise across different practice areas makes WBBK particularly well-suited to assist the Trustee with the marketing and sale of the Mahwah Mansion.\n\n# **SERVICES TO BE PROVIDED**\n\n21. At the request of the Trustee, it is anticipated that WBBK will render the following services relating to the sale of the Mahwah Mansion:\n\n- a) Negotiation and review of any real estate broker listing agreement;\n- b) Negotiation and preparation of any purchase and sale agreements with respect to the real property;\n- c) Review and address any issues affecting the ownership, maintenance, and potential sale of the real property, including, without limitation, title issues;\n- d) Review, prepare and negotiate closing documentation; and\n\n*Settlement with United States of America* [ECF No. 2849].)\n\ne) Prepare for and attendance at the closing of a sale and address any postclosing issues.\n\n### **WBBK'S COMPENSATION**\n\n22. WBBK intends to apply for compensation for professional services rendered on an hourly basis and for reimbursement of expenses incurred, subject to the Court's approval, and in compliance with sections 330 and 331 of the Bankruptcy Code and any other applicable provisions of the Bankruptcy Code, the Bankruptcy Rules, the Local Rules, and any other applicable procedures and orders of the Court. The hourly rates WBBK will charge are generally the same as the hourly rates that WBBK charges in other matters of a similar nature. (*Id.* at ¶ 5.)\n\n23. Currently, WBBK's customary hourly rate ranges are as follows:\n\n| Hourly Rate Range |\n|-------------------|\n| \\$485 – \\$595     |\n| \\$260 – \\$375     |\n| \\$200 – \\$225     |\n|                   |\n\n(*Id.* at ¶ 6.)\n\n24. The Trustee submits that WBBK's hourly rates are reasonable and within the range of rates charged by comparably skilled professionals.\n\n25. It is WBBK's policy to charge its clients in all areas of practice for all expenses incurred in connection with a client's matter. The expenses charged to clients include, among other things, photocopying, travel expenses, filing and recording fees, long distance telephone calls, postage, express mail and messenger charges, computerized legal research charges and other computer services, and telecopier charges. WBBK will charge the Trustee for these expenses in a manner and at rates consistent with charges generally made to its other clients. (*Id.* at ¶ 7.)\n\n26. WBBK has agreed to accept as compensation for its services such sums as may be allowed by this Court, based upon the time spent and services rendered, the difficulties encountered, and other appropriate factors. (*Id.* at ¶ 8.)\n\n### **WBBK IS DISINTERESTED AS TO ISSUES OF RETENTION**\n\n27. Engagement of WBBK as special counsel, pursuant to section 327(e) of the Bankruptcy Code, is appropriate, because WBBK is to be engaged for \"a specified special purpose,\" *i.e.*, to serve as New Jersey real estate counsel. *See Daly v. Konover Constr. Corp. (In re Homesteads Cmty. at Newtown, LLC)*, 390 B.R. 32, 48 (Bankr. D. Conn. 2008) (\"where the trustee seeks to appoint counsel only as 'special counsel' for a specific matter, there need only be no conflict between the trustee and counsel's … client with respect to the specific matter itself\").\n\n28. WBBK has reviewed its electronic database to determine whether it has any relationships with the Debtor and parties in interest (as set forth in a list provided by Trustee's counsel) that were or plausibly may have been involved in affairs related to the Mahwah Mansion, and WBBK has not identified any connections to these parties in interest. WBBK currently represents the municipality of Mahwah as to matters unrelated to the Mahwah Mansion. WBBK has agreed to supplement its disclosure to the Court if any facts or circumstances are discovered that would require such additional disclosure. (*Id.* at ¶ 10.) Based on the foregoing, WBBK does not represent or hold any interest adverse to the Debtor or to the Estate with respect to the matters on which WBBK is to be employed.\n\n### **NO PRIOR REQUEST**\n\n29. No prior application for the relief requested herein has been made to this or any other court.\n\n### **BASIS FOR THE RELIEF**\n\n30. This Application is made pursuant to sections 327(e) and 328 of the Bankruptcy Code, for entry of an order approving the retention of WBBK as New Jersey real estate counsel for the Debtors' estates.\n\n### **RETENTION EFFECTIVE AS OF AUGUST 19, 2024, IS APPROPRIATE**\n\n31. Local Bankruptcy Rule 2014-1 provides that if \"an application to employ a professional is filed within thirty (30) days after the commencement of services provided by that professional, the application shall be deemed contemporaneously filed unless the Court orders otherwise.\" Accordingly, the Trustee requests authority to retain and employ WBBK effective August 19, 2024, which was the date that WBBK began providing services to the Trustee.\n\n## **NOTICE**\n\n32. Notice of this Motion has been given to the United States Trustee, the Debtor, the Committee, and, by electronic filing utilizing the Court's electronic filing (\"CM/ECF\") system, to all appearing parties who utilize the CM/ECF system.\n\n33. Accordingly, the Trustee respectfully submits that the WBBK retention and approval of the compensation sought herein is warranted.\n\n*[Remainer of page intentionally left blank.]*\n\nWHEREFORE, for the foregoing reasons, the Trustee requests that the Court enter an Order, substantially in the form of the Proposed Order filed herewith, granting the Application, authorizing the employment of WBBK as special New Jersey real estate counsel, and such other and further relief as the Court deems just and proper.\n\nDated: September 16, 2024 New Haven, Connecticut\n\n## LUC A. DESPINS, CHAPTER 11 TRUSTEE\n\nBy: */s/ Patrick R. Linsey* Douglas S. Skalka (ct00616) Patrick R. Linsey (ct29437) NEUBERT, PEPE & MONTEITH, P.C. 195 Church Street, 13th Floor New Haven, Connecticut 06510 (203) 821-2000 dskalka@npmlaw.com plinsey@npmlaw.com\n\n*and*\n\nG. Alexander Bongartz, Esq. PAUL HASTINGS LLP 200 Park Avenue New York, New York 10166 (212) 318-6472\n\n*Counsel for the Chapter 11 Trustee*\n\nCase 22-50073 Doc 3534 Filed 09/16/24 Entered 09/16/24 12:48:43 Page 11 of 18\n\n## **EXHIBIT A**\n\n**Proposed Order**\n\n## **UNITED STATES BANKRUPTCY COURT DISTRICT OF CONNECTICUT BRIDGEPORT DIVISION**\n\n| ----------------------------------------------------------- | x           |                         |\n|-------------------------------------------------------------|-------------|-------------------------|\n| In re:                                                      | :<br>:      | Chapter 11              |\n| HO WAN KWOK,<br>et al.,                                     | :<br>:      | Case No. 22-50073 (JAM) |\n| Debtors.1                                                   | :<br>:<br>: | Jointly Administered    |\n| ----------------------------------------------------------- | x           |                         |\n\n## **[PROPOSED] ORDER APPROVING RETENTION OF WINNE, BANTA, BASRALIAN & KAHN, P.C., AS SPECIAL NEW JERSEY REAL ESTATE COUNSEL TO TRUSTEE EFFECTIVE AS OF AUGUST 19, 2024**\n\nUpon the application (the \"Application\") of Luc Despins, in his capacity as the Chapter 11 trustee (the \"Trustee\" or \"Movant\") appointed in the Chapter 11 Case of Ho Wan Kwok (the \"Debtor\") for entry of an order (this \"Order\") approving the retention of Winne, Banta Basralian & Kahn (\"WBBK\") as special New Jersey real estate counsel effective as of August 19, 2024, under sections 327(e) and 328 of the Bankruptcy Code; and it appearing that WBBK does not hold an interest adverse to the Debtor or the Estate respecting the matters upon which it is to be engaged; and good and sufficient notice of the Application having been given; and no other or further notice being required; and it appearing that the employment of WBBK is in the best interest of the Debtors' estates and creditors; and sufficient cause appearing therefor;<sup>2</sup>\n\n<sup>1</sup> The Debtors in these chapter 11 cases are Ho Wan Kwok (also known as Guo Wengui, Miles Guo, and Miles Kwok, as well as numerous other aliases) (last four digits of tax identification number: 9595), Genever Holdings LLC (last four digits of tax identification number: 8202) and Genever Holdings Corporation. The mailing address for the Trustee, Genever Holdings LLC, the Genever Holdings Corporation is Paul Hastings LLP, 200 Park Avenue, New York, NY 10166 c/o Luc A. Despins, as Trustee for the Estate of Ho Wan Kwok (solely for purposes of notices and communications).\n\n<sup>2</sup> Capitalized terms not express defined herein adopt the definitions ascribed to them in the Application.\n\n### IT IS HEREBY ORDERED THAT:\n\n1. The Application is granted as set forth herein.\n\n2. The Trustee is authorized to retain and employ WBBK as his special New Jersey real estate counsel, effective as of August 19, 2024, pursuant to section 327(e) of the Bankruptcy Code, on the terms set forth in the Application and the Kahn Declaration.\n\n3. The Estate shall be responsible for WBBK's compensation and reimbursement of expenses in this Chapter 11 Case.\n\n4. The allowance of any compensation to be paid to WBBK shall be determined in accordance with the procedures set forth in sections 330 and 331 of the Bankruptcy Code, Bankruptcy Rule 2016, and Local Bankruptcy Rule 2016-1.\n\n5. The Trustee and WBBK are authorized and empowered to take all actions necessary to effectuate the relief granted in this Order.\n\n6. The terms and conditions of this Order shall be immediately effective and enforceable upon its entry.\n\n7. This Court shall retain jurisdiction with respect to all matters arising from or related to the implementation, interpretation, and enforcement of this Order.\n\nCase 22-50073 Doc 3534 Filed 09/16/24 Entered 09/16/24 12:48:43 Page 14 of 18\n\n## **EXHIBIT B**\n\n**Declaration**\n\n# **UNITED STATES BANKRUPTCY COURT DISTRICT OF CONNECTICUT BRIDGEPORT DIVISION**\n\n| ----------------------------------------------------------- | x           |                         |\n|-------------------------------------------------------------|-------------|-------------------------|\n| In re:                                                      | :<br>:      | Chapter 11              |\n| HO WAN KWOK,<br>et al.,                                     | :<br>:<br>: | Case No. 22-50073 (JAM) |\n| Debtors.1                                                   | :<br>:      | Jointly Administered    |\n| ----------------------------------------------------------- | x           |                         |\n\n# **DECLARATION OF RICHARD R. KAHN IN SUPPORT OF TRUSTEE'S APPLICATION FOR AUTHORIZATION TO RETAIN AND EMPLOY WINNE BANTA BASRALIAN & KAHN AS SPECIAL NEW JERSEY REAL ESTATE COUNSEL TO THE TRUSTEE EFFECTIVE AUGUST 19, 2024**\n\nI, Richard R. Kahn, make this declaration (the \"Declaration\") under 28 U.S.C. § 1746:\n\n1. I am a principal of Winne Banta Basralian & Kahn (\"WBBK\"). The matters set\n\nforth herein are made of my own personal knowledge and, if called and sworn as a witness, I could and would testify competently thereto.<sup>2</sup>\n\n2. This Declaration is made in support of the Trustee's application (the \"Application\")<sup>3</sup>\n\nfor an order pursuant to sections 327(e) and 328 of Title 11 of the United States Code (the\n\n\"Bankruptcy Code\"), authorizing the employment and retention of WBBK as special New Jersey real\n\n<sup>1</sup> The Debtors in these chapter 11 cases are Ho Wan Kwok (also known as Guo Wengui, Miles Guo, and Miles Kwok, as well as numerous other aliases) (last four digits of tax identification number: 9595), Genever Holdings LLC (last four digits of tax identification number: 8202) and Genever Holdings Corporation. The mailing address for the Trustee, Genever Holdings LLC, the Genever Holdings Corporation is Paul Hastings LLP, 200 Park Avenue, New York, NY 10166 c/o Luc A. Despins, as Trustee for the Estate of Ho Wan Kwok (solely for purposes of notices and communications).\n\n<sup>2</sup> Certain of the disclosures herein relate to matters within the knowledge of other professionals at WBBK and are based on information provided by them.\n\n<sup>3</sup> Capitalized terms used but not otherwise defined herein shall have the respective meanings ascribed to such terms in the Application.\n\nestate counsel to the Trustee as of August 19, 2024. A proposed form of order granting the relief requested in the Application (the \"Proposed Order\") is annexed thereto as **Exhibit A**.\n\n3. WBBK is one of the oldest firms in New Jersey and one of the largest full-service firms in Bergen County. The firm represents a wide array of clients, from small local businesses to Fortune 500 companies in real estate, land use, planning and zoning and many other practice areas.\n\n4. WBBK has substantial experience in the legal issues associated with the sale of Bergen County residential real property. I have practiced real estate law in New Jersey for over forty years.\n\n5. WBBK intends to apply for compensation for professional services rendered on an hourly basis and for reimbursement of expenses incurred, subject to the Court's approval, and in compliance with sections 330 and 331 of the Bankruptcy Code and any other applicable provisions of the Bankruptcy Code, the Bankruptcy Rules, the Local Rules, and any other applicable procedures and orders of the Court. The hourly rates WBBK will charge are generally the same as the hourly rates that WBBK charges in other matters of a similar nature.\n\n6. Currently, WBBK's customary hourly rate ranges are as follows:\n\n| Hourly Rate Range |\n|-------------------|\n| \\$485 – \\$595     |\n| \\$260 – \\$375     |\n| \\$200 – \\$225     |\n|                   |\n\n7. It is WBBK's policy to charge its clients in all areas of practice for all expenses incurred in connection with a client's matter. The expenses charged to clients include, among other things, photocopying, travel expenses, filing and recording fees, long distance telephone calls, postage, express mail and messenger charges, computerized legal research charges and other\n\ncomputer services, and telecopier charges. WBBK will charge the Trustee for these expenses in a manner and at rates consistent with charges generally made to its other clients.\n\n8. WBBK has agreed to accept as compensation for its services such sums as may be allowed by this Court, based upon the time spent and services rendered, the difficulties encountered, and other appropriate factors.\n\n9. To the best ofmy knowledge, understanding, and belief, the proposed employment ofWBBK is in all respects in accordance with and proper under section 327(e) ofthe Bankruptcy Code.\n\n10. WBBK has reviewed its electronic database to determine whether it has any relationships with the Debtor and parties in interest (as set forth in a list provided by Trustee's counsel) that were or plausibly may have been involved in affairs related to the Mahwah Mansion, and WBBK has not identified any connections to these parties in interest. WBBK currently represents the municipality of Mahwah as to matters unrelated to the Mahwah Mansion. WBBK has agreed to supplement its disclosure to the Court if any facts or circumstances are discovered that would require such additional disclosure. Based on the foregoing, I believe that WBBK does not represent or hold any interest adverse to the Debtor or to the Estate with respect to the matters on which WBBK is to be employed.\n\nPursuant to 28 U.S.C. § 1746, <sup>I</sup> declare under penalty of perjury that the foregoing is true and correct to the best ofmy information, knowledge, and belief.\n\nDated: September/3, 2024 Hackensack, New Jersey\n\nRichardI Principal .Kahn Winne Banta Basralian & Kahn\n\n## **SCHEDULE 1**\n\n## **Potential Parties in Interest**\n\n- 1. Ho Wan Kwok a/k/a Guo Wengui a/k/a Miles Guo a/k/a Miles Kwok (the Debtor, and the beneficial owner of the property)\n- 2. Taurus Fund LLC, Nevada LLC (title owner of the property)\n- 3. Taurus Management LLC, New Mexico LLC\n- 4. Scott Barnett, last known address: 218 Elsie Avenue, Merrick, NY (formerly nominal owner of Taurus Fund LLC, Debtor's head of security, driver)\n- 5. GS Security Solutions Inc., New York corporation\n- 6. HGA Property Operation LLC, New Jersey LLC\n- 7. Hamilton Opportunity Fund SPC, Cayman Island entity (Hamilton Taurus Fund SP or Taurus Fund SP are segregated portfolios within same)\n- 8. G Club International Ltd., BVI entity\n- 9. G Club Operations LLC, Puerto Rico LLC\n- 10. Golden Spring (New York) Ltd., Delaware entity\n- 11. Lamp Capital LLC, Delaware LLC\n- 12. HCHK Technologies, Inc., Delaware corporation\n- 13. HCHK Property Management, Inc., Delaware corporation\n- 14. Lexington Property and Staffing, Inc., Delaware corporation\n- 15. Amy Buck, Budd Lake, NJ\n- 16. Buck Esq LLC (law practice based in Budd Lake, NJ)\n- 17. Mei Guo, New York, NY and Greenwich, CT (Debtor's daughter)\n- 18. Defeng Cao, New York, NY and Greenwich, CT (Debtor's daughter's boyfriend)\n- 19. Hing Chi Ngok, Greenwich, CT (Debtor's wife)\n- 20. Qiang Guo a/k/a Mileson Guo a/k/a Mileson Kwok, UK national (Debtor's son)\n- 21. William Je, UK national (criminal co-conspirator, at large)\n- 22. Yanping (\"Yvette\") Wang, New York (criminal co-conspirator, awaiting sentencing)\n- 23. David Fallon, believed to be in UK\n- 24. Gladys Chow, New York (project manager)\n- 25. Lawall & Mitchell, LLC (Morristown, NJ law firm) and its principal, Aaron Mitchell\n- 26. Savio Law LLC (Hazlet, NJ law firm, believed defunct) and its principal, Nicholas Savio\n- 27. Yun Jin a/k/a Sean Jing, individual in New York\n- 28. Qin Li, individual in New Jersey\n- 29. Qi Yong, individual residing in Florida","body_zh":"美国破产法院 康涅狄格州联邦地区 布里奇波特分院\n\n关于：\n\nHO WAN KWOK（郭文贵）等，\n\n第11章\n\n案号 22-50073 (JAM)\n\n债务人。1\n\n（合并管理）\n\n第11章受托人申请作出命令，批准自 AUGUST 19, 2024 起聘任 WINNE, BANTA, BASRALIAN & KAHN, P.C. 为受托人的新泽西州特别房地产法律顾问\n\nLuc Despins（吕克·德斯潘）以其在 Ho Wan Kwok（郭文贵）（“债务人”）第11章案件（“第11章案件”）中获任命的第11章受托人身份（“受托人”或“申请人”），提交本申请（“本申请”），请求作出一项命令，其形式实质上如随附的附件A（“拟议命令”）所示：(i) 根据《美国法典》第11编（“破产法典”）第327(e)条和第328条，自 August 19, 2024 起任命 Winne, Banta, Basralian & Kahn, P.C.（“WBBK”）为受托人的新泽西州特别房地产法律顾问；及 (ii) 给予相关救济。为支持本申请，受托人提交 WBBK 的负责人 Richard R. Kahn（“Kahn 律师”）的声明（“Kahn 声明”），该声明作为附件B附于本申请之后，并进一步谨陈如下。\n\n1 本第11章案件中的债务人为 Ho Wan Kwok（郭文贵）（亦称 Guo Wengui、Miles Guo 和 Miles Kwok，以及众多其他别名）（税务识别号码后四位：9595）、Genever Holdings LLC（税务识别号码后四位：8202）以及 Genever Holdings Corporation（合称“第11章案件”）。受托人、Genever Holdings LLC 和 Genever Holdings Corporation 的邮寄地址为：Paul Hastings LLP, 200 Park Avenue, New York, NY 10166，收件人为 Luc A. Despins，以 Ho Wan Kwok（郭文贵）破产财团受托人身份收取（仅用于通知和通信）。\n\n管辖权、审判地及法定依据\n\n1. United States Bankruptcy Court for the District of Connecticut（美国康涅狄格州联邦破产法院）（“本院”）根据 28 U.S.C. §§ 157 和 1334，以及 United States District Court for the District of Connecticut（美国康涅狄格州联邦地区法院）作出的移送常设命令，对本事项具有管辖权。本事项属于 28 U.S.C. § 157(b) 所称的核心程序。\n\n2. 根据 28 U.S.C. §§ 1408 和 1409，本地区为适格审判地。\n\n3. 本申请所请求救济的依据为破产法典第327(e)条和第328条。\n\n背景\n\n4. 于 February 15, 2022（“申请日”），债务人向本院提交了根据破产法典第11章寻求救济的自愿申请。\n\n5. 于 March 21, 2022，United States Trustee（美国受托人）在第11章案件中任命了 Official Committee of Unsecured Creditors（无担保债权人正式委员会）（“委员会”）。第11章案件中尚未任命审查员。\n\n6. 于 June 15, 2022，本院作出裁决备忘录及命令 [ECF No. 465]（“受托人命令”），指示美国受托人在第11章案件中任命一名第11章受托人。根据受托人命令，美国受托人选定 Luc A. Despins（吕克·德斯潘）担任受托人。2\n\n7. 于 July 8, 2022，本院作出命令，批准任命 Luc A. Despins（吕克·德斯潘）为第11章案件的受托人 [ECF No. 523]。\n\n2 除非另有说明，本申请中所列案卷编号均指第11章案件的案卷编号。\n\nMAHWAH 豪宅及对抗程序\n\n8. 如本申请所定义，Mahwah Mansion（马瓦豪宅）是一处拥有21间卧室、面积50,000平方英尺的私人住宅，坐落于12.5英亩土地上，俯瞰 Ramapo mountains（拉马波山脉）。债务人于2021年通过 Taurus Fund LLC（“Taurus Fund”）以 $26 million 购得马瓦豪宅；该实体当时名义上由债务人的司机兼保镖 Scott Barnett（斯科特·巴内特）所有。\n\n9. 于 July 11, 2023，受托人对 Taurus Fund，以及作为 Taurus Fund 受托人的 Scott Barnett（斯科特·巴内特）和 Taurus Management LLC，提起对抗程序（Adv. Proc. No. 23-05017，“Mahwah A.P.”）（合称“被告”），请求：(a) 作出确认性判决，确认 (i) 债务人是位于 675 Ramapo Valley Road, Mahwah, New Jersey 07430 的不动产（“马瓦豪宅”）的衡平所有人，(ii) 债务人是 Taurus Fund 的衡平所有人，以及 (iii) Taurus Fund 是债务人的另一个自我；及 (b) 基于前述各项依据，根据 11 U.S.C. §§ 541、542 和 544 作出命令，要求向债务人的第11章破产财团（“财团”）返还并向受托人交付：(i) 马瓦豪宅及马瓦豪宅内的所有固定装置和动产；(ii) Taurus Fund 的任何会员权益或其他所有权权益；以及 (iii) Taurus Fund 的全部资产。\n\n10. 于 August 24, 2023，本院作出部分准予初步禁令动议的裁决备忘录及命令 [Adv. Proc. 23-05017 ECF No. 47]（经修改后称“PI 命令”），其中规定，被告应为马瓦豪宅雇用安保服务（“安保服务”），以保障和保护 Taurus Fund 的任何及全部资产或财产，包括马瓦豪宅；并且，应向本院提交涵盖 Taurus Fund 全部资产和财产的保险证明，包括马瓦豪宅以及马瓦豪宅内、其上或其处的全部动产和/或固定装置。（PI 命令，第23页。）尽管 PI 命令有此要求，被告未能提供涵盖 Taurus Fund 资产和财产的保险证明。\n\n11. 在债务人因其刑事案件中的九项重罪罪名项被定罪后，Taurus Fund 告知受托人，其将不再为马瓦豪宅的安保服务、房地产税或与马瓦豪宅所有权及维护相关的其他费用（“持有成本”）提供资金。受托人估计，目前持有成本每季度超过 $300,000。\n\n12. 于 August 15, 2024，本院作出命令，准予第11章受托人根据第363(b)条提出的修正动议，授权受托人为马瓦豪宅维护提供资金并给予相关救济 [ECF No. 3422]（“资金命令”）。根据资金命令的条款，受托人获授权使用财团财产为持有成本提供资金。\n\n13. 于 September 11, 2024，受托人在 Mahwah A.P. 中提交其简易判决动议（“简易判决动议”）[Adv. Proc. 23-05017 ECF No. 124]，请求作出命令，其中包括认定马瓦豪宅为财团财产。若受托人获得简易判决，受托人拟立即为财团利益营销出售马瓦豪宅。该不动产的独特性质，加之不确定的房地产市场和巨额持有成本，使得为预期简易判决动议获得有利裁定而准备马瓦豪宅的营销和出售是审慎的。\n\n14. 为此，受托人与 WBBK 的负责人 Kahn 律师就聘任该律师事务所担任受托人的新泽西州房地产法律顾问进行了讨论。\n\n为确保马瓦豪宅的营销和出售迅速且有效，从一开始就需要有经验丰富的新泽西州房地产法律顾问参与。\n\nWBBK 的聘任\n\n15. 申请人通过本申请，请求作出一项命令，其形式实质上如随附于本申请之后的命令所示，自 August 19, 2024 起任命 WBBK 为受托人的新泽西州房地产法律顾问。\n\n16. 显然，具备新泽西州房地产法方面的专门知识将有助于谈判并完成未来对马瓦豪宅的出售。Kahn 律师和 WBBK 在新泽西州房地产法方面拥有广泛专长。\n\n17. 马瓦豪宅是一处独特房产。据报道，2021年的 $26 million 购买价格是当年新泽西州住宅不动产的最高成交价格。3 Taurus Fund 于2021年进行的购买显然此前经历了漫长的营销期和价格变动。自2021年以来，债务人通过 Taurus Fund 为马瓦豪宅的改进投入了数百万美元。\n\n18. 马瓦豪宅是财团最有价值的资产之一，因此，为财团利益保全和保护该资产至关重要。然而，持有成本对财团构成沉重负担，并预计将持续构成负担，直至该房产出售为止。4 未来数月内，住宅房地产市场也可能受到利率变化及其他市场因素的影响。因此，WBBK 必须准备好立即开始审查任何挂牌协议、谈判和准备购买及销售协议，并确保任何经谈判达成的交易按照其条款并依照本院任何命令完成。\n\n3 Mary Chao（玛丽·赵）（January 31, 2022），USA Today（《今日美国》）：“This mansion is the most expensive house sold in NJ last year. Here's what $26M bought.”\n\n4 资金命令规定，如未认定马瓦豪宅为财团财产，受托人为财团利益将就持有成本总额对 Taurus Fund 享有债权，并由涵盖马瓦豪宅的留置权担保。（资金命令，第2-4页，第4页。）此外，如马瓦豪宅成为与刑事案件有关的任何没收程序的标的，受托人和 United States of America（美利坚合众国）已约定，财团为确保马瓦豪宅的妥善保管和监管而发生的任何费用，应从马瓦豪宅出售所得中支付。（根据 Bankruptcy Rule 9019 批准第11章受托人关于与美利坚合众国和解的动议的命令 [ECF No. 2849]。）\n\nWBBK 的资格\n\n19. WBBK 是新泽西州历史最悠久的律师事务所之一，也是 Bergen County（卑尔根县）最大的综合性律师事务所之一。该所代表广泛的客户，包括房地产、土地使用、规划和分区以及其他众多业务领域中的本地小型企业和《财富》500强公司。Kahn 律师已在新泽西州执业房地产法逾四十年。（Kahn 声明，第4段。）\n\n20. WBBK 在与卑尔根县住宅不动产出售有关的法律问题方面拥有丰富经验。（同上。）其跨不同业务领域的经验和专长，使 WBBK 特别适合协助受托人营销和出售马瓦豪宅。\n\n将提供的服务\n\n21. 应受托人要求，预计 WBBK 将就马瓦豪宅的出售提供下列服务：\n\na) 谈判及审查任何房地产经纪人挂牌协议；\n\nb) 就该不动产谈判和准备任何购买及销售协议；\n\nc) 审查并处理影响该不动产所有权、维护和潜在出售的任何问题，包括但不限于产权问题；\n\nd) 审查、准备并谈判成交文件；以及\n\ne) 为出售成交作准备并出席成交，以及处理任何成交后问题。\n\nWBBK 的报酬\n\n22. WBBK 拟就所提供的专业服务按小时申请报酬，并申请偿还已发生费用，但须经本院批准，并遵守破产法典第330条和第331条及破产法典、破产规则、地方法则、本院任何其他适用程序和命令的任何其他适用规定。WBBK 将收取的小时费率通常与其在其他性质类似事项中收取的小时费率相同。（同上，第5段。）\n\n23. 目前，WBBK 的惯常小时费率范围如下：\n\n小时费率范围\n\n$485 – $595\n$260 – $375\n$200 – $225\n\n（同上，第6段。）\n\n24. 受托人主张，WBBK 的小时费率合理，且处于具备相当技能的专业人士所收取费率的范围内。\n\n25. WBBK 的政策是，就与客户事项有关而产生的所有费用，向其各执业领域的客户收费。向客户收取的费用包括但不限于复印费、差旅费、提交及登记费用、长途电话费、邮费、快递及专人递送费、计算机化法律检索费及其他计算机服务费，以及传真费。WBBK 将以与其一般向其他客户收取费用一致的方式和费率，向受托人收取该等费用。（同上，第 7 段。）\n\n26. WBBK 已同意，就其服务接受本法院根据所投入的时间、所提供的服务、所遇到的困难及其他适当因素所准许的金额作为报酬。（同上，第 8 段。）\n\n就聘用事宜而言，WBBK 不存在利害关系冲突\n\n27. 根据《破产法》第 327(e) 条，聘用 WBBK 作为特别法律顾问是适当的，因为聘用 WBBK 系为“特定的特别目的”，即担任新泽西州房地产法律顾问。参见 Daly v. Konover Constr. Corp. (In re Homesteads Cmty. at Newtown, LLC), 390 B.R. 32, 48 (Bankr. D. Conn. 2008)（“如果受托人寻求仅就一项具体事项任命法律顾问为‘特别法律顾问’，则仅须受托人与该法律顾问的……客户之间就该具体事项本身不存在冲突”）。\n\n28. WBBK 已审查其电子数据库，以确定其是否与债务人及利害关系方（如受托人法律顾问提供的清单所载）存在任何关系，而该等人士曾经或可能合理地参与了与 Mahwah Mansion（马瓦宅邸）有关的事务；WBBK 未发现与该等利害关系方存在任何关联。WBBK 目前就与 Mahwah Mansion 无关的事项代理 Mahwah（马瓦）市政府。WBBK 已同意，如发现任何需要作出该等额外披露的事实或情况，将向法院补充披露。（同上，第 10 段。）基于上述情况，WBBK 就其拟受聘处理的事项，并未代表债务人或破产财产的任何不利利益，亦未持有任何与其不利的利益。\n\n此前未提出请求\n\n29. 此前未曾向本法院或任何其他法院提出要求给予本申请所请求救济的申请。\n\n救济依据\n\n30. 本申请依据《破产法》第 327(e) 条及第 328 条提出，请求作出一项裁定，批准聘用 WBBK 担任债务人破产财产的新泽西州房地产法律顾问。\n\n自 2024 年 8 月 19 日起生效的聘用属适当\n\n31. 地方法院破产规则第 2014-1 条规定，如“聘用专业人士的申请在该专业人士开始提供服务后三十（30）日内提交，除非法院另有命令，该申请应视为同时提交。”因此，受托人请求获授权自 2024 年 8 月 19 日起聘用 WBBK，该日为 WBBK 开始向受托人提供服务之日。\n\n通知\n\n32. 本动议的通知已送达 United States Trustee（美国受托人）、债务人、委员会，并通过使用法院电子提交（“CM/ECF”）系统的电子提交方式送达所有使用 CM/ECF 系统出庭的当事人。\n\n33. 因此，受托人谨此主张，有理由批准本申请所请求的对 WBBK 的聘用及其报酬。\n\n［本页其余部分特意留白。］\n\n鉴于上述理由，受托人请求法院作出一项裁定，其形式大体如随附提交的拟议裁定所示，准许本申请，授权聘用 WBBK 担任特别新泽西州房地产法律顾问，并给予法院认为公正、适当的其他及进一步救济。\n\n日期：September 16, 2024 New Haven, Connecticut（康涅狄格州纽黑文）\n\nLUC A. DESPINS（卢克·A·德斯平斯），第 11 章受托人\n\n代理人：/s/ Patrick R. Linsey（帕特里克·R·林赛）\nDouglas S. Skalka（道格拉斯·S·斯卡尔卡）(ct00616)\nPatrick R. Linsey（帕特里克·R·林赛）(ct29437)\nNEUBERT, PEPE & MONTEITH, P.C.（纽伯特、佩佩及蒙泰斯律师事务所）\n195 Church Street, 13th Floor\nNew Haven, Connecticut 06510\n(203) 821-2000\ndskalka@npmlaw.com\nplinsey@npmlaw.com\n\n以及\n\nG. Alexander Bongartz, Esq.（G. 亚历山大·邦加茨，律师）\nPAUL HASTINGS LLP（普衡律师事务所）\n200 Park Avenue\nNew York, New York 10166\n(212) 318-6472\n\n第 11 章受托人法律顾问\n\nCase 22-50073 Doc 3534 Filed 09/16/24 Entered 09/16/24 12:48:43 Page 11 of 18\n\n附件 A\n\n拟议裁定\n\nUNITED STATES BANKRUPTCY COURT（美国破产法院） DISTRICT OF CONNECTICUT（康涅狄格州地区） BRIDGEPORT DIVISION（布里奇波特分部）\n\n-----------------------------------------------------------　x\n\n关于：　：\n：　第 11 章\nHO WAN KWOK（郭文贵），\n等人，　：\n：　Case No. 22-50073 (JAM)\n债务人。1　：\n：\n：　合并管理\n-----------------------------------------------------------　x\n\n［拟议］裁定：批准自 2024 年 8 月 19 日起聘用 WINNE, BANTA, BASRALIAN & KAHN, P.C.（温尼、班塔、巴斯拉利安及卡恩律师事务所）担任受托人的特别新泽西州房地产法律顾问\n\n兹审议 Luc Despins（卢克·德斯平斯）以其作为 Ho Wan Kwok（郭文贵）（“债务人”）第 11 章案件中获任命的第 11 章受托人（“受托人”或“动议提出人”）身份所提出的申请（“申请”），请求作出一项裁定（本“裁定”），根据《破产法》第 327(e) 条及第 328 条，批准自 2024 年 8 月 19 日起聘用 Winne, Banta Basralian & Kahn（“WBBK”）担任特别新泽西州房地产法律顾问；且经查明，WBBK 就其拟受聘处理的事项并未持有与债务人或破产财产不利的利益；且申请已获充分及适当通知；且无需任何其他或进一步通知；且经查明，聘用 WBBK 符合债务人破产财产及债权人的最佳利益；且已显示存在充分理由；2\n\n1 本第 11 章案件中的债务人为 Ho Wan Kwok（郭文贵）（亦称 Guo Wengui、Miles Guo 和 Miles Kwok，以及众多其他别名）（税务识别号后四位：9595）、Genever Holdings LLC（Genever控股有限责任公司）（税务识别号后四位：8202）及 Genever Holdings Corporation（Genever控股公司）。受托人、Genever Holdings LLC 及 Genever Holdings Corporation 的邮寄地址为 Paul Hastings LLP，200 Park Avenue, New York, NY 10166，c/o Luc A. Despins，作为 Ho Wan Kwok 破产财产的受托人（仅供通知及通信之用）。\n\n2 本文中未明确定义的首字母大写术语，采用《申请》中赋予该等术语的定义。\n\n现特此命令：\n\n1. 如本裁定所述，准许该申请。\n\n2. 授权受托人依照《破产法》第 327(e) 条，按照《申请》及 Kahn Declaration（卡恩声明）所载条款，自 2024 年 8 月 19 日起聘用 WBBK 担任其特别新泽西州房地产法律顾问。\n\n3. 破产财产应负责支付 WBBK 在本第 11 章案件中的报酬及费用偿还。\n\n4. 应付给 WBBK 的任何报酬之准许，应依照《破产法》第 330 条及第 331 条、《破产规则》第 2016 条及地方法院破产规则第 2016-1 条规定的程序确定。\n\n5. 授权受托人及 WBBK 采取一切必要行动，以落实本裁定所给予的救济。\n\n6. 本裁定的条款及条件应于作出后立即生效并可执行。\n\n7. 本法院保留对因实施、解释及执行本裁定而产生或与之有关的所有事项的管辖权。\n\nCase 22-50073 Doc 3534 Filed 09/16/24 Entered 09/16/24 12:48:43 Page 14 of 18\n\n附件 B\n\n声明\n\nUNITED STATES BANKRUPTCY COURT（美国破产法院） DISTRICT OF CONNECTICUT（康涅狄格州地区） BRIDGEPORT DIVISION（布里奇波特分部）\n\n-----------------------------------------------------------　x\n\n关于：　：\n：　第 11 章\nHO WAN KWOK（郭文贵），\n等人，　：\n：\n：　Case No. 22-50073 (JAM)\n债务人。1　：\n：　合并管理\n-----------------------------------------------------------　x\n\nRICHARD R. KAHN（理查德·R·卡恩）为支持受托人申请授权自 2024 年 8 月 19 日起聘用 WINNE BANTA BASRALIAN & KAHN 担任受托人特别新泽西州房地产法律顾问所作的声明\n\n本人 Richard R. Kahn（理查德·R·卡恩）根据 28 U.S.C. § 1746 作出本声明（“声明”）：\n\n1. 本人为 Winne Banta Basralian & Kahn（“WBBK”）的主管合伙人。本文所述事项均基于本人的亲身知悉；如被传唤并宣誓作为证人，本人能够且将会就此作出胜任的证言。2\n\n2. 本声明系为支持受托人的申请（“申请”）3 而作出，该申请请求根据《美国法典》第 11 编第 327(e) 条及第 328 条（“破产法”）作出一项裁定，授权自 2024 年 8 月 19 日起聘用 WBBK 担任受托人的特别新泽西州房地产法律顾问。准许《申请》所请求救济的拟议裁定格式（“拟议裁定”）作为附件 A 附于该申请。\n\n3. WBBK 是新泽西州最古老的律师事务所之一，也是 Bergen County（卑尔根县）最大的综合性律师事务所之一。该所代理广泛的客户群，从本地小型企业至《财富》500 强公司，业务领域包括房地产、土地使用、规划和分区以及诸多其他执业领域。\n\n4. WBBK 在与出售卑尔根县住宅不动产有关的法律问题方面拥有丰富经验。本人已在新泽西州从事房地产法律业务超过四十年。\n\n5. WBBK 拟就按小时计费提供的专业服务申请报酬，并申请偿还已发生的费用，但须经法院批准，并须遵守《破产法》第 330 条及第 331 条和《破产法》《破产规则》、地方法院规则以及法院任何其他适用程序和命令的任何其他适用规定。WBBK 将收取的小时费率总体上与 WBBK 在其他性质相似事项中收取的小时费率相同。\n\n6. 目前，WBBK 的惯常小时费率范围如下：\n\n小时费率范围\n\n$485 – $595\n$260 – $375\n$200 – $225\n\n7. WBBK 的政策是，就与客户事项有关而产生的所有费用，向其各执业领域的客户收费。向客户收取的费用包括但不限于复印费、差旅费、提交及登记费用、长途电话费、邮费、快递及专人递送费、计算机化法律检索费及其他计算机服务费，以及传真费。WBBK 将以与其一般向其他客户收取费用一致的方式和费率，向受托人收取该等费用。\n\n8. WBBK 已同意，就其服务接受本法院根据所投入的时间、所提供的服务、所遇到的困难及其他适当因素所准许的金额作为报酬。\n\n9. 据本人所知、所理解及所信，拟议聘用 WBBK 在所有方面均符合《破产法》第 327(e) 条，并且依该条属适当。\n\n10. WBBK 已审查其电子数据库，以确定其是否与债务人及利害关系方（如受托人律师提供的清单所列）存在任何关系，而该等关系已经或可能涉及与 Mahwah Mansion 有关的事务；WBBK 未发现与该等利害关系方存在任何关联。WBBK 目前就与 Mahwah Mansion 无关的事项代理 Mahwah 市政府。若发现任何需要作出该等额外披露的事实或情形，WBBK 已同意向法院补充其披露。基于上述情况，我相信，就拟聘用 WBBK 处理的事项而言，WBBK 并不代表或持有与债务人或破产财产相对立的任何利益。\n\n根据 28 U.S.C. § 1746，本人谨在伪证处罚的约束下声明，据本人所获信息、所知情况及所信所认，上述内容真实且正确。\n\n日期：September/3, 2024　Hackensack, New Jersey\n\nRichard I. Kahn　负责人\nWinne Banta Basralian & Kahn\n\n附件 1\n潜在利害关系方\n\n- 1. Ho Wan Kwok（郭文贵），又名 Guo Wengui，又名 Miles Guo，又名 Miles Kwok（债务人及该房产的受益所有人）\n- 2. Taurus Fund LLC，Nevada LLC（该房产的登记所有人）\n- 3. Taurus Management LLC，New Mexico LLC\n- 4. Scott Barnett，最后已知地址：218 Elsie Avenue, Merrick, NY（原 Taurus Fund LLC 名义所有人、债务人的安保主管及司机）\n- 5. GS Security Solutions Inc.，New York corporation\n- 6. HGA Property Operation LLC，New Jersey LLC\n- 7. Hamilton Opportunity Fund SPC，Cayman Island entity（Hamilton Taurus Fund SP 或 Taurus Fund SP 为其旗下的隔离投资组合）\n- 8. G Club International Ltd.，BVI entity\n- 9. G Club Operations LLC，Puerto Rico LLC\n- 10. Golden Spring (New York) Ltd.，Delaware entity\n- 11. Lamp Capital LLC，Delaware LLC\n- 12. HCHK Technologies, Inc.，Delaware corporation\n- 13. HCHK Property Management, Inc.，Delaware corporation\n- 14. Lexington Property and Staffing, Inc.，Delaware corporation\n- 15. Amy Buck，Budd Lake, NJ\n- 16. Buck Esq LLC（位于 Budd Lake, NJ 的律师事务所）\n- 17. Mei Guo，New York, NY 及 Greenwich, CT（债务人的女儿）\n- 18. Defeng Cao，New York, NY 及 Greenwich, CT（债务人女儿的男友）\n- 19. Hing Chi Ngok，Greenwich, CT（债务人的妻子）\n- 20. Qiang Guo，又名 Mileson Guo，又名 Mileson Kwok，UK national（债务人的儿子）\n- 21. William Je，UK national（刑事共谋者，在逃）\n- 22. Yanping（“Yvette”）Wang，New York（刑事共谋者，等待宣判）\n- 23. David Fallon，据信在 UK\n- 24. Gladys Chow，New York（项目经理）\n- 25. Lawall & Mitchell, LLC（位于 Morristown, NJ 的律师事务所）及其负责人 Aaron Mitchell\n- 26. Savio Law LLC（位于 Hazlet, NJ 的律师事务所，据信已停业）及其负责人 Nicholas Savio\n- 27. Yun Jin，又名 Sean Jing，New York 的个人\n- 28. Qin Li，New Jersey 的个人\n- 29. Qi Yong，居住于 Florida 的个人","key_entities":["Je","Kwok","Ho Wan Kwok","Guo","CIPA","Despins","Miles Guo","Paul Hastings","Luc Despins","HCHK","William Je","RICO","forfeiture"],"ecf_references":[{"doc_number":47,"court":"CTB"},{"doc_number":124,"court":"CTB"},{"doc_number":465,"court":"CTB"},{"doc_number":523,"court":"CTB"},{"doc_number":2849,"court":"CTB"},{"doc_number":3422,"court":"CTB"}],"word_count":4449,"status":"published","published_at":"2024-09-16 00:00:00","created_at":"2024-09-16","updated_at":"2026-08-23 18:28:59"}