Business Disputes and Challenges

Shareholder and Director disputes

When shareholders or directors disagree or fallout, it can be highly stressful for all concerned and have a devastating impact on the company.

We combine advice about our clients’ legal rights and obligations, with strategic expertise, which is critical in any boardroom battle. We advise when and how to litigate or on alternative means of dispute resolution where appropriate, including arbitration, mediation and round table settlement discussions.

Our expertise includes:

• Unfair prejudice petitions for and against minority shareholders
• Contract disputes
• Acting for shareholders in relation to breaches of shareholder agreements
• Bringing and defending derivative actions
• Earn out disputes
• Acting on behalf of shareholders to enforce their rights to purchase or sell shares under sale and purchase agreements

For more details, please read our Shareholder and Director Disputes page.

Workplace disputes

As a director it is likely that from time to time you will have to deal with disputes in the workplace, some of which may include allegations against you personally.

If workplace disputes are not dealt with quickly and sensitively they can have a considerable impact on your people and your business.

Our experienced employment team has the expertise and experience with all forms of workplace disputes, and are able to advise and support employees at all levels.

Our services include:

• Workplace investigations and whistleblowing
• Disciplinary and Grievance Procedures, Absence and Performance Management
• Sexual Misconduct in the workplace
• Discrimination claims
• Terminations and settlement agreements

Business failure and insolvency

Business failure is a very real threat for every director. If a company enters into insolvency then a director can be investigated and could be held personally responsible – leading to significant consequences.

The risk of failure may necessitate a restructuring of the business which may entail a sale of part of the business or of redundancies.

It is therefore vital that you seek the best advice in order to protect yourself and your stakeholders from financial and legal difficulties.

For more information, please see our Insolvency Litigation Advice for Directors  and our Transactions, Redundancies, Restructurings and Outsourcing pages.