Fast Facts: A Bird’s Eye View of the The Bankruptcy Scene

Dow Corning's proposed $3.2 billion settlement over the breast implant controversy - which will allow it to surface from bankruptcy - represents more than a singular business move. Every year, thousands of companies file for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection in hopes of reorganizing floundering operations.

For IR execs, that means your job may one day entail handling communications surrounding the dismantling of a major corporation.

For those interested, the Administrative Office of the United States Courts releases periodical reports that break down the number of bankruptcies filed in each circuit and district nationwide. Call 202/273-1900.