Disagreements within a business often occur, but if they escalate they can be extremely disruptive for the business and its reputation. These disputes may be between directors of the board or be shareholder or partnership disputes. Disagreements are usually as a result of personal difference or conflicts of interest, whether it’s a dispute about the management of the business, its future strategy or the rights of decision-makers who have a stake in the business being ignored.

As a result of these disputes, time is often diverted from the core strategic aims of the business and very often the legal solution may be inadequate because of the cost and disruptive nature of going to court.

Our lawyers are known for their creative approach to resolution and regularly use alternative dispute resolution tools in order to rapidly resolve disputes and avoid taking it to court. This approach ultimately ensures that your business is protected without any major negative impacts.

In cases where litigation is necessary our lawyers have experience of

  • director, trustee and fiduciary duties – these are statutory and common law duties owed to a company, LLP or partnership (the entity)
  • conflicts of interest – these occur where an individual’s interest are not aligned with those of the entity
  • breach of shareholders agreements – these usually give rise to direct claims between the shareholders
  • LLP and partnership disputes – the parties relationships may be governed by LLP or partnership agreements or the Limited Liability Partnership Act 2000 / Partnership Act 1890
  • unfair prejudice claims – these arise under Section 994 Companies Act 2006
  • claims under the Companies Act 2006 – the act provides various grounds upon which a claim or application can be bought including, for example, applications for rectification of the register of members
  • disputes over directors remuneration – this may not be authorised by the articles of association or company remuneration policy
  • breach of the company constitution – otherwise known as the articles of association which set out the rules by way the company should be operated
  • fraud – it is unfortunately common for entities to be the victims of fraud perpetrated by their directors, shareholders, employees or agents. We have experience of forensically unravelling complex fraud.
What Clients Say
  • Juliet Schalker is a powerhouse. Her team covers the full range of dispute resolution work and does so to an extremely high standard.

    The Legal 500 UK 2023
  • Juliet has a sharp mind but is very client focused and also empathetic. She goes the extra mile.

    The Legal 500 UK 2023
  • Juliet is extremely responsive, knowledgeable and technically and commercially astute. She has a great understanding of the industry and clients love her. We have a number of mutual clients who also hold her in high regard.

    The Legal 500 UK 2023
  • They are all hard-working, commercial and pragmatic lawyers who go the extra mile for clients. The firm has a good collegiate culture and a modern settlement-focused approach to litigation.

    The Legal 500 UK 2023
  • Alex Neale is a fantastic lawyer. Great to work with and always puts in the extra effort for clients. He is very capable and conscientious and is excellent at settling disputes.

    The Legal 500 UK 2023
  • Debenhams Ottaway are a very professional and long established firm.

    The Legal 500 UK 2022
  • Constructive and concise explanations, friendly and helpful advice at every turn – we are truly grateful for the help you have given us.

    Client
  • The entire service from start to finish was excellent, from the initial phone enquiry to the provision of notes from the solicitor, the whole process was faultless, professional, courteous, high standard from the beginning to the end. I cant recommend this firm enough, truly supportive, helpful and understanding.

    Client
  • Kept us informed all the way through the process from start to finish and were very happy with the resolution. Thank you.

    Client
  • Ease of contact and very professional in all aspects of the service. Highly recommended.

    Client