Resolving Minnesota Shareholder Disputes With Integrity
Last updated on April 1, 2025
Shareholder disputes can feel like a business divorce. These disputes occur when disagreements arise among a company’s shareholders about the business’s operations, management or overall direction. When relationships between business partners break down, it can disrupt your entire operation.
Our business law attorneys at Schwartz Law Firm know how complex and contentious these disputes can become. That is why we are committed to helping you resolve them efficiently and effectively. Based in Oakdale, our firm has served business owners, partners and shareholders throughout Minnesota since 1983. Our approach combines strategic legal methods with a deep understanding of our clients’ needs. By working directly with senior attorneys, you gain a partner who understands the importance of preserving your business relationships and achieving favorable outcomes.
Common Types Of Shareholder Disputes
Shareholder disputes can arise in various forms, each with its own set of challenges. Understanding these types helps in identifying the best approach for resolution:
- Breach of fiduciary duty: When a shareholder or director acts against the company’s interest for personal gain.
- Dividend disputes: Disagreements over the distribution of company profits.
- Corporate governance issues: Conflicts over the management and decision-making processes within the company.
- Self-dealing claims: Accusations of shareholders profiting at the company’s expense.
- Derivative actions: Legal action taken by shareholders on behalf of the company against third parties.
- Shareholder agreements: Conflicts stemming from differing interpretations or breaches of these agreements.
- Forced buyout: Situations where shareholders are compelled to sell their shares against their will.
These disputes can disrupt your business operations. Our role is to address these issues swiftly, protecting your interests and allowing you to focus on your business.
What Are Some Common Causes Of Shareholder Disputes?
Understanding the root causes of shareholder disputes can help in addressing them before they escalate:
- Allegations of theft
- Mismanagement or poor leadership
- Financial discrepancies
- Lack of communication
- Differences in business vision
- Breach of shareholder agreements
Identifying these causes early can prevent costly disputes and preserve business relationships.
An Efficient, Goal-Oriented Approach
We strive to resolve shareholder disputes before they can become a financial burden. Our shareholder dispute attorneys are skilled negotiators and seasoned business litigators, ready to defend your interests in and out of court. We prioritize understanding your goals and weighing the costs and benefits of each strategy. Our focus is on achieving results that align with your business objectives, whether through negotiation or litigation.
Family Relationships And Shareholder Disputes
Family-run businesses often face unique challenges that other companies do not. When boundaries blur, disputes can become personal, bitter and very painful. Our attorneys offer objective perspectives, helping to separate emotions from business decisions. We aim to resolve these disputes while preserving family relationships whenever possible. Our goal is to help you see the situation clearly and find a resolution that benefits both your family and your business.
Read What Some Of Our Clients Have To Say
Our clients’ success stories speak volumes about our commitment to their needs. One client shared, “The attorneys at Schwartz Law Firm provided invaluable guidance during a challenging shareholder dispute. Their strategic approach helped us reach a resolution that protected our business interests.” Another client said, “The personalized service and direct communication with senior lawyers made all the difference in resolving our shareholder issues.”
Our past clients’ satisfaction with our counsel speaks volumes about our ability, passion and quality of service. Please allow us to bring these qualities to your shareholder dispute concerns.
Discuss Minnesota Shareholder Dispute Issues With Us Today
Our team at Schwartz Law Firm is here to guide you through shareholder disputes with care and precision. Whether you are facing a breach of fiduciary duty or a business ownership dispute, we are ready to help.