Boardroom or shareholder disputes, involving the ownership or governance of businesses, threaten the investments and livelihoods of those involved. If allowed to escalate, such matters can become acrimonious and will eventually have a major impact on the day-to-day running of the business.
The law regulating shareholders’ and directors' activities is complex, imposing significant duties on directors in terms of how they manage a company; in some circumstances directors can be personally liable. Our litigation team can get quickly to the core of a problem and set out the various options available. We have advised on such issues as:
- Directors fiduciary duties (for example, the duty to act in good faith in the best interests of the company )
- Derivative claims (claims brought by shareholders on behalf of a company)
- Directors' disqualification
- Share purchase/pre-emption rights
- Minority rights
- Personal liability/exemption of liability
- Guarantees over the matrimonial home
- Shadow Directors
- Corporate manslaughter
- Rights and duties of partners
Wherever possible, we use our experience in negotiation and mediation to resolve disputes as professionally and effectively as possible without having to resort to the Courts. If a negotiated settlement cannot be reached, we can skilfully guide and assist you throughout the litigation process, either issuing or defending a claim.
For further information about our litigation and dispute resolution services or to discuss a particular matter in more detail, please contact Patrick Smith on 0845 263 7503 or by email at patrick.smith@pictons.co.uk