Overview
Shareholders interests often change overtime resulting in disputes within a private company.
Shareholder disputes can arise in a number of circumstances whether it be a minority shareholder being excluded from the management of a company, shareholders disagreeing on the company’s future direction or something else completely.
Unfortunately, not all businesses have detailed articles or a shareholders agreement setting out a clear dispute resolution process which deal with transfer of shares where there is a dispute. However, whether you are a majority or minority shareholder it is crucial to understand what you can and cannot do and what options the other shareholders may have to stop you doing what you wish.
If your dispute is left unresolved it can become personal and emotionally charged, all of which could make it even more difficult and expensive to amend. Whatever the reason, resolving the dispute quickly is important for both the business and everyone involved. It may be possible to fix through a general meeting or mediation or may require legal action.
Jackson Lees can help outline your options and the possible outcomes or consequences. We’re committed to providing professional and transparent advice, so you can be reassured that you’re getting the highest quality service for your business. We’ll explain likely outcomes, expected timescales and costs, so you can focus on getting your business back on track.
Call us today to speak to one of our dispute resolution solicitors
How can Jackson Lees help?
Some of the contentious areas that we deal with include:
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Commercial Agency
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Commercial Contracts
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Shareholder Rights
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Warranty Claims
We have many methods of resolving the above disputes, including:
Mediation
Mediation is a popular dispute resolution option. With mediation, you will be in the same room as the other party involved in your dispute and an impartial mediator who will guide the conversation, highlighting the key points in each party’s argument to help you both gain a better understanding of each other’s position. If you are interested in mediation, Jackson Lees can help point you in the right direction.
Alternative dispute resolution
If your dispute cannot be resolved through mediation, alternative dispute resolution (ADR) gives you the chance to seek a legally binding decision without having to go to court to solve your property dispute. This is much more cost-effective than going to court and allows you to have more input in the overall decision. Our commercial planning dispute solicitors are experts in alternative dispute resolution, get in touch to find out more about this option.
Arbitration
Through arbitration, the final decision will rest with the arbitrator, and the court will then make that decision legally binding. A commercial planning dispute expert can help guide you through this process, protecting your position every step of the way.
Litigation
If all other options are exhausted and your dispute is still not resolved, litigation may be necessary. You will need an expert litigator to help establish and protect your legal position and advise you on your best route to success. Litigation can be complex, and it is crucial that you work with a litigator that you trust will do everything they can to secure your desired outcome. At Jackson Lees, when it comes to litigation, our experienced team are by your side every step of the way to protect your best interests.
What happens if your claim is worth less than £10,000?
We do not accept claims that are worth less than £10,000. Claims of this value are dealt with through the ‘small claims’ court. It’s a simplified procedure allowing parties to represent themselves. You generally will not be able to recover legal fees if your claim is successful.
Clients in these cases tend to want to keep their legal fees low and may only wish to receive minimal help from a lawyer. We feel this poses a risk that we will not have all the necessary details to offer valuable advice in these matters.
Contact us for expert advice
If you would like to speak to us about your business, call us on 0151 282 1700 and find out how we can help you. Alternatively you can make an enquiry or request a call back at a time that suits you. Allow us to assist in resolving your company disputes, so that you can focus on your business’ success.
If you need support with a shareholder dispute, call us today or make an enquiry, and an expert member of our team will be in touch.