Shareholder and Director Disputes

Navigating disputes between shareholders and directors can be a complex and stressful experience.

At Bennett Griffin, we understand the intricacies of these conflicts and offer tailored legal solutions to help you resolve them efficiently.

Whether you are dealing with issues related to shareholder rights, director duties, or both, our team of experienced commercial litigation solicitors is here to guide you through the process.

Contact us today to discuss how we can help you safeguard your business interests and find the most effective resolution.

Examples of Shareholder and Director Disputes

Disputes between shareholders and directors can arise for various reasons, often leading to significant disruptions in business operations.

Some common scenarios include:

• Breach of Director Duties: Directors are legally bound to act in the company’s best interests. Disputes may occur if a director is perceived to have violated these duties, such as by engaging in conflicts of interest or failing to exercise due diligence.
• Minority Shareholder Oppression: Minority shareholders may feel the majority shareholders or directors are suppressing their rights, leading to claims of unfair treatment or exclusion from important decisions.
• Misuse of Company Funds: Allegations of financial mismanagement or misuse of company resources by directors or shareholders can escalate into serious legal disputes.
• Disagreements Over Company Strategy: Differences in opinion regarding the direction and management of the company can lead to disputes, particularly if shareholders and directors cannot align on a unified approach.
• Shareholder Agreement Breaches: Conflicts may arise when the terms of a shareholder agreement are breached, leading to disputes over voting rights, dividend policies, or share transfers.

Shareholder Disputes

Shareholder disputes often involve disagreements over the management and operation of the company.

These disputes can threaten the stability and profitability of the business if not handled correctly.

Our team at Bennett Griffin is well-versed in managing shareholder disputes and can provide expert advice on the following:

• Enforcing Shareholder Rights: We help shareholders assert their legal rights and ensure their interests are protected in accordance with the shareholder agreement and relevant laws.
• Minority Shareholder Claims: If you are a minority shareholder facing unfair treatment, we can assist you in pursuing claims for unfair prejudice and securing a fair outcome.
• Negotiating Buyouts: In some cases, the best resolution may involve negotiating a buyout or exit strategy. We can facilitate these discussions to ensure a smooth transition.

Director Disputes

Director disputes can significantly impact a company’s governance and operational effectiveness.

Whether you are a director facing allegations or a shareholder concerned about a director’s conduct, Bennett Griffin offers expert guidance to resolve these conflicts:

• Breach of Fiduciary Duties: Directors are held to high standards of conduct, and allegations of breaching fiduciary duties can be serious. We can help you address these claims and protect your reputation and interests.
• Removal of a Director: Removing a director from the board can be a complex process requiring careful legal procedure navigation. Our team can guide you through this process to ensure compliance with corporate governance rules.
• Disputes Over Decision-Making: If there are disagreements within the boardroom, we can assist in resolving conflicts and restoring harmony among directors.

Why Choose Bennett Griffin?

Bennett Griffin is dedicated to resolving shareholder and director disputes, focusing on achieving the best outcomes for your business.

Our experienced team understands the complexities of these conflicts and offers tailored solutions that align with your specific needs.

We combine in-depth local knowledge with a broader national perspective, making us the trusted choice for businesses in West Sussex.

When you choose Bennett Griffin, you choose a partner committed to protecting your interests and guiding you through disputes with clarity and confidence.

Contact Bennett Griffin

Don’t leave it to chance if you are facing a shareholder or director dispute.

Contact Bennett Griffin today for a confidential consultation with one of our experienced solicitors.

With offices in Worthing and Chichester, you can call us on 01903 229999 or 01243 256370, respectively.

Alternatively, email info@bennett-griffin.co.uk and a commercial dispute resolution team member will get back to you shortly.