Disputes among owners often arise in a corporation, limited liability company or partnership, whether those ownership interests are shares, membership or partnership interests. Intra-corporate disputes that spiral into lengthy litigation can sap cohesiveness of an organization or even destroy a company. It is critical that the majority owners of a business facing a revolt from a disgruntled co-owner, or a minority shareholder being unfairly treated by the majority, obtain competent legal advice about their real options when disputes arise – including, when necessary, aggressive litigation.
At the Heyman Law Office, Mr. Heyman provides more than 20 years of practical legal experience handling complex corporate matters and intra-corporate disputes. Mr. Heyman is a highly accomplished litigator and works diligently and strategically to advocate on behalf of his client’s position in corporate disputes. To schedule a confidential consultation at the Baltimore-based Heyman Law Office, call (410) 305-9287 today or contact the firm online.
Common Reasons Intra-Corporate Disputes Arise
Disputes among owners of stock in a regular or close corporation, or between members of an LLC or partners, may ultimately result in a substantial disagreement that leads to intra-corporate litigation. For example, suppose a minority shareholder claims that the majority shareholder is using corporate funds for his own benefit. Or, a majority shareholder begins paying disguised dividends as salary to the detriment of a minority shareholder. Or co-owners who once were the best of friends can no longer be in the same room together, let alone work together. In still other scenarios, questions regarding potential conflicts of interest may arise. In all of these situations, both majority and minority owners – as well as the company – require the best possible representation and advice.
One of the most common corporate disputes is known as a “minority freezeout.” A minority freezeout occurs when a company’s majority owners pressure minority owners to sell their statkes in the company, whether by terminating minority shareholder employees or refusing to declare a dividend. When this occurs, minority owners have certain rights by law to inspect the company internal documents, and all parties need to understand those rights and how to effectively enforce and defend against the prosecution of those rights. Minority freezeouts often resolve, after discovery, with the sale of the minority owner’s interest to the company or to the majority owner(s). Mr. Heyman has been involved with numerous minority freezeout cases from inception to conclusion, whether through trial or negotiated resolution.
Seasoned Business Litigation Lawyer Handles Intra-corporate Disputes
If the interests of shareholders, members, directors, partners and other parties have diverged and corporate infighting has arisen, William S. Heyman can work to develop your position, advance it through negotiation or litigation, and help you achieve a successful result. To schedule a confidential consultation call the Heyman Law Office at (410) 305-9287 today or contact the firm online.