In the context of bankruptcy law in the United States, the automatic stay is a powerful provision that goes into effect immediately upon the filing of a bankruptcy petition. The automatic stay generally prohibits creditors from taking any action to collect debts from the debtor or to enforce liens against the debtor's property. However, there are some exceptions to the automatic stay. Some common exceptions include:

1. Criminal Proceedings: Criminal proceedings are generally not subject to the automatic stay. This means that criminal cases, including investigations or prosecutions, can proceed regardless of the bankruptcy filing.

2. Certain Tax Proceedings: The IRS or other tax authorities can continue with tax audits, assessments, and the issuance of tax deficiency notices despite the automatic stay.

3. Domestic Support Obligations: Actions to establish, modify, or collect child support or alimony are not stayed by the bankruptcy filing.

4. Certain Evictions: Eviction proceedings that were initiated before the bankruptcy filing can continue, although the actual eviction of the tenant might be stayed temporarily.

5. Actions by Government Agencies: Certain actions by government agencies to enforce police or regulatory powers may not be subject to the automatic stay.

6. Multiple Filings: If a debtor has had multiple bankruptcy filings within a certain timeframe, the automatic stay might be limited or lifted altogether.

7. Certain Loans Secured by Property: Creditors holding certain types of liens, such as mortgage holders or car lenders, may petition the court to lift the automatic stay to pursue foreclosure or repossession of the collateral.

8. Fraudulent Conduct or Lack of Equity: If the bankruptcy court determines that the bankruptcy filing was made in bad faith or that the debtor lacks equity in the property, it may lift the automatic stay to allow creditors to proceed with their claims.

9. Certain Lawsuits or Legal Proceedings: Lawsuits or legal proceedings that do not involve collection of debts or enforcement of liens, such as divorce proceedings or certain types of injunctions, may not be subject to the automatic stay.

These exceptions vary depending on the specific circumstances of the case and the type of bankruptcy filed (Chapter 7, Chapter 11, Chapter 13, etc.). It's essential for debtors and creditors to consult with experienced bankruptcy attorneys to understand how the automatic stay may affect their rights and obligations in a bankruptcy proceeding.