Company and partnership disputes

We handle a wide range of company and partnership disputes in organisations of all sizes. These often involve issues such as:

• breach of directors’ and partners’ duties to the business
• cases involving shareholders’ interests
• claims of unfair prejudice and derivative actions.

The nature of disputes

Disputes of this sort can sometimes be extremely acrimonious. Often the parties will have worked together over many years and will have strong views on their own positions in the business and on what has taken place.

Non-commercial issues are sometimes of great importance to those concerned and not uncommonly, such disputes will involve family members.

Our approach

Experience and understanding of the ‘big picture’ as well as of the specific issues in dispute are crucial in providing practical advice that is tailored to the client’s circumstances and their position in the business. For example:

• In many cases, we will act ‘behind the scenes’ to provide early advice on exit strategies and assist with the business share-valuation process.
• Sometimes it is essential to take robust action to protect the client’s position and the assets of the business.
• We are experienced in bringing complex, high-value claims in the High Court, as well as more straightforward, lower-value claims in the county courts. We advise when applications for injunctive relief should be made.
• Methods of alternative dispute resolution, such as mediation,can play a valuable role in resolving disputes of this nature.This approach can be particularly useful, for example, when negotiating the value or means of valuation of a business share to facilitate a settlement or other exit for one of the parties in the business.

For more help on company and partnership disputes, please get in touch.

Disclaimer: Please note that this fact sheet is for guidance only and is not intended to replace legal advice.