She eventually became a bankruptcy judge and then, in 2000, finally got the nod.

The move came after a bankruptcy judge in Delaware refused to block the action.

But a bankruptcy judge has held off ruling in the matter while the sides negotiate.

"A bankruptcy judge can kind of work on your balance sheet," he said.

The agreement would be subject to approval by United's bankruptcy judge.

Barney's has asked the bankruptcy judge to make a summary decision on the issue.

A federal bankruptcy judge approved the plan and allowed the sale.

"Do they really want it in the hands of a bankruptcy judge?"

A bankruptcy judge may soon help determine the company's future.

But if help does not arrive by today, the company will ask the bankruptcy judge to end its labor contract.