Reasons for Shareholder Disputes ================================ shareholder disputes -------------------- Shareholder disagreements can occur for various reasons, causing both operational and financial issues that can undermine the business and even cause reputational damage. Such disputes risk becoming time-consuming with potentially costly litigation. These issues are particularly acute for small and medium-sized private companies (SMEs), under which shareholders often fulfil simultaneous roles of directors or employees and conflicts of interest are more prevalent. Shareholder disputes operate in a complex and technical area of the law, and as such their resolution often requires a highly sensitive and creative approach. **If you need advice or representation on any Corporate Law or shareholder matter, click below for a free initial consultation with one of our expert Corporate solicitors.** [BOOK CONSULTATION](https://vardags.com/contact "BOOK CONSULTATION") Are you a Shareholder? ---------------------- Directors, oversee the day-to-day control of a company, a position that gives these individuals the right to make certain decisions on the company's behalf, for example, entry into contracts or the raising of finance. Usually, they act as a majority subject to the articles of association of that company. Shareholders, take ultimate control and they have the power to dismiss directors and appoint new ones. It is important to note in these instances, however, [the difference between minority and majority shareholders](https://vardags.com/law-guide/shareholder-agreements-and-disputes/what-is-a-shareholding). Majority shareholders own 50% or more of the shares in a company, with the reverse pertaining to minority shareholders. Inevitably, majority shareholders take stronger positions and rights in these disputes, which is why boardroom disputes can take two forms: a majority shareholder being blocked by the minority, or a minority shareholder being overtaken by a majority. Common causes of shareholder disputes ------------------------------------- There are numerous reasons why a shareholder dispute can arise and the main ones are discussed here. ### Disagreement over the management of the company Management disputes commonly revolve around company finances. Where shareholders also take roles as employees or directors, disputes can often arise regarding the amount of money taken out in the form of dividends or salary payments, and that which is reinvested for company development. For companies struggling financially, handling these arrangements can be particularly divisive, especially where there is disagreement surrounding the sensitive issue of winding up a company (and cutting losses) versus embarking on strategies to remedy this. Other management disputes can evolve where parties feel they are being excluded from the management, or that they are operating on a board where there is constant deadlock and, therefore, a lack of progression. Sometimes these disputes leave certain shareholders feeling that company is being run for the benefit, or in the interests of, a single or distinct number of the shareholders. ### Shareholders lack of participation SMEs often have shareholders occupying roles as directors or employees. This can incite disputes where it is felt that a shareholder is not performing adequately in these latter roles. Such issues can become particularly protracted where most of the money taken out from a company is in dividends rather than salaries. In such scenarios, shareholders who put in significantly more time and effort within their capacity as employees or directors may feel undermined by those entitled to reap the same rewards albeit with much less work. ### Personal issues arising between shareholders Trust forms an incredibly important part of starting, and indeed running, a business. This is why many businesses originate between former colleagues, friends and family. These interpersonal relationships, though successful in forming businesses, can often constitute an acute source of problems where they deteriorate. A prime example is where spouses who run businesses together begin divorce proceedings. Unfortunately, it is not uncommon for acrimonious divorce proceedings to spill over into the management and ownership of a company. These disputes tend to regard ownership of the company and valuation of its shares, sometimes resulting in the removal of one spouse as a director (or their dismissal as an employee). These very issues are being considered in the [Bill and Melinda Gates divorce](https://vardags.com/family-law/all-you-need-to-know-about-the-gates-divorce) in relation to the future of the Gates Foundation, where they are currently co-chairs and trustees. ### Valuation of the company shares Where shares are sold in a private company, it can be difficult to find an unconnected purchaser. As such, shares are often trading amongst existing shareholders, which can make About Us -------- Ayesha VardagFounder & President "ROLLS ROYCE SERVICE FROM START TO FINISH" Vardags offer a unique approach to the law, specially tailored to the needs of HNW individuals. Our lawyers come from the very best universities and receive the very best training - they are determined, diligent, and dedicated to getting the best outcome... [read more](https://vardags.com/about-us) [BOOK FREE CONSULTATION](https://vardags.com/contact) The information on this website is intended as a guide and does not constitute legal advice. Vardags do not accept liability for any errors in the information on this website, nor any losses stemming from reliance upon the statements made herein. All articles and pages aim to reflect the legal position at time they were published, and may have been rendered obsolete by subsequent developments in the law. Should you require specialist advice, tailored to your situation, please see how Vardags can help you. What our clients say -------------------- They were magnificent, in both practical and emotional terms, during what was a very upsetting and difficult period of my life. The advice given was always well considered and sound. 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