business ownership disputes
Business ownership disputes center around the issues of control, assets, exits, and unfair competition practices.

Disputes between business owners range from simple disagreements to complex derivative action lawsuits. These disputes are often emotionally charged. A thoroughly thought-out negotiation strategy in combination with appropriate legal tools will bring clarity and facilitate resolution.
  • Breach of fiduciary duties
    Some (but not all) business owners, officers, and directors may owe fiduciary duties to the company or other co-owners. If a person self-dealt to gain advantage over the others, the law provides for remedies.
  • Exit strategies
    If a business co-owner in a limited liability company, corporation, or partnership wishes to exit the company, the options depend on the business entity type, the existing agreements, the operating documents, and other factors.
  • Buyout and valuations
    When a business co-owner wants to be bought out of the company, common disputes involve disagreements over payment, the value of the company share, and the process of the buyout.
  • Majority v. minority ownership rights
    Minority owners have legal tools and remedies. They include derivative action, financial audit, injunctive relief, and judicial dissolution. However, the governance and majority have strong defenses, too.
  • Deadlock situations
    A distributorship relationship may involve the use of trademarks or confidential information. If the trademarks or secrets were misused or overused, it is important to understand available remedies.
  • Dissolutions and winding up
    Indemnity is a powerful tool when used correctly. Indemnity is used when one party wants to shift the burden of losses to the other party.
  • Profit distribution and accounting
    The right to distribute can be limited in geographical, time, or exclusivity terms. The limitations usually depend on the agreement's language, usage, and its interpretation.
  • Ownership of intellectual property
    If a party sustained losses because the other party terminated the contract, it is important to understand available remedies.
  • Personal asset protection
    A distributorship relationship may involve the use of trademarks or confidential information. If the trademarks or secrets were misused or overused, it is important to understand available remedies.
Business Ownership Disputes FAQ
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