Bankruptcy is a federal court procedure conducted under the Code. The goal of bankruptcy is to give individuals and businesses a "fresh start" by eliminating or restructuring debts they cannot repay and help creditors receive some payment in an equitable manner. The filing of a bankruptcy petition operates as an "automatic stay" that stops most lawsuits, foreclosures, and most other collection activities against the debtor. Under the Code, secured creditors-those with liens or other secured claims against the debtor's property-are more likely to get some debt repaid than unsecured creditors. Creditors typically receive payment of their debts before shareholders receive any return of their equity in the failed company.