Director & Shareholder Disputes

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What is a Director & Shareholder Dispute?

Disputes arise when those involved in running or owning a business fall into disagreement. These issues often revolve around decision-making, profit sharing, or someone failing to meet their responsibilities.

Common triggers include breaches of directors’ duties, unfair treatment of shareholders, conflicts over the business’s direction, or a partner acting without consent. These disputes can seriously harm both individuals and the business.

At CEL Solicitors, we know how stressful and personal these situations can be. Whether you’re being excluded, concerned about misconduct, or facing a breakdown in trust, we’re here to help. We’ll move quickly to protect your position and find a way forward.

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How We Can Help

CEL Solicitors provides expert legal support for directors, shareholders, and partners in dispute. We help clients across the UK manage internal business conflicts with clear advice and strong representation.

Here’s what to expect when you work with us:

Specialist Expertise:

Our team understands company law, partnership law, and directors’ duties — so we can get straight to the heart of the matter.

A Tailored Approach:

Every dispute is different. We’ll listen carefully and build a strategy that reflects your goals and your business.

Clear, Honest Advice:

We speak your language. No jargon or legalese — just straightforward guidance from the start.

Skilled Negotiators:

Whenever possible, we resolve disputes without the need for court — saving you time, money, and stress. Our team are expert negotiators who protect your interests while aiming for an amicable solution.

Strategic Resolution:

Where possible, we aim to resolve disputes through negotiation or mediation — protecting relationships and avoiding the cost of court.

Full Legal Representation:

If court action is necessary, we’ll represent you robustly and protect your rights at every stage.

Free Initial Advice:

Not sure where you stand? We offer a free, no-obligation call to help you understand your next steps.

Types of Disputes We Handle

We support clients facing a wide range of internal business disputes, including:

Director Disputes

Including breach of duty, conflicts of interest, or unfair exclusion from decisions. We act for directors and for companies affected by misconduct.

Shareholder Disputes

Covering unfair prejudice, dividend issues, attempts to remove directors, or deadlock situations. We act for both majority and minority shareholders.

Partnership Disputes

Including profit-sharing disagreements, unclear responsibilities, exits, or dissolution. We’ll help clarify your legal position and protect your share.

Breach of Director Duties

We advise when directors fail in their legal responsibilities — such as acting in bad faith, hiding conflicts, or misusing company assets.

Minority Shareholder Rights

We act when smaller shareholders are excluded, denied fair value, or suffer from damaging conduct by majority stakeholders.

Removing Directors or Partners

If relationships have broken down, we’ll guide you through the legal steps to remove a director or partner in line with your agreements.

Professional Negligence

If another professional has let your business down, we can help you hold them accountable and recover what you’ve lost.

Whatever the issue, we’ll provide calm, practical support with your best interests at heart.

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Resolving Disputes Effectively

Not every dispute needs to end in court. We’ll help you explore the most appropriate resolution for your case:

Negotiation

Direct dialogue can be the quickest and most cost-effective way to reach an agreement.

Arbitration

This private process offers a binding decision by an independent expert — faster and less public than litigation.

Mediation

A neutral mediator helps both sides reach common ground. It’s a flexible, confidential process that can preserve relationships.

Litigation

If court action is necessary, we’ll stand by you with clear advice and strong legal representation every step of the way.

We’ve already helped thousands of people across the UK.

Speak to our friendly team today. You are not alone, and you may have a case.

Just Tell CEL

When business relationships break down, it can feel like everything’s at stake. But you don’t have to face it alone.

At CEL Solicitors, we’ll help you resolve director and shareholder disputes — protecting your position, your rights, and your business. From negotiation to court proceedings, we’ll be with you every step of the way.

We listen, we care, we win. Get in touch today for expert legal advice and no-obligation support.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Your questions, answered.

Yes — negotiation, mediation, or arbitration can often achieve a resolution more quickly and affordably than court.

Yes. If your rights as a shareholder are being undermined, you may have a claim for unfair prejudice under the Companies Act. We can help you understand your options.

This depends on the company’s articles of association or partnership agreement. Legal advice is essential to follow the correct process and avoid liability.

You usually have up to six years from the date of the issue — but earlier advice can make a big difference to the outcome.

Directors have legal duties to act in the company’s best interests, avoid conflicts, and exercise care and diligence. Breaching these can lead to legal action.

Keep records such as meeting minutes, shareholder agreements, partnership contracts, emails, and financial statements. We’ll help assess the strength of your case.

Disagreements may lead to restructuring or dissolution of the partnership. We help mediate outcomes or take legal action if necessary.

Even without a formal agreement, partners may still have legal rights under the Partnership Act 1890. We’ll explain your position and help protect your interests.

A director dispute involves a disagreement between directors or between directors and the company. It may involve decisions, management style, misconduct, or breaches of duty.