Shareholder & partnership disputes

Areas of Practice

In the dynamic landscape of business, partnerships and shareholder relationships are crucial to success. However, conflicts can arise that jeopardize not only the stability of these relationships but also the viability of the business itself. Successful resolution of these conflicts is particularly difficult—and crucial—in the context of a highly-regulated business. We specialize in resolving partnership and shareholder disputes, providing the legal expertise and support needed to navigate these challenging situations.

Breach of Contract

Whether a partnership agreement or corporate bylaws, breaches can have serious implications. We help clients understand their rights and options when faced with violations.

Governance Disputes

Power struggles over decision-making authority and governance can create rifts that impact operations. We work to clarify roles and facilitate constructive dialogue to restore balance.

Financial Disagreements

Conflicts over profit distribution, financial reporting, and investments are common. Our attorneys assist in resolving these issues fairly and transparently, protecting your financial interests.

Shareholder Rights

Shareholders may face challenges regarding their rights and entitlements. We advocate for your interests, ensuring compliance with corporate governance standards and protecting your investment.

Exit Strategies & Buyouts

When a partner or shareholder wishes to exit, the process can be complex. We provide guidance on buyouts, valuations, and structuring exits to minimize disruption and ensure fairness.

Mediation & Litigation

We prioritize amicable resolutions through negotiation and mediation but are prepared to represent your interests in court if necessary. Our goal is to achieve the best possible outcome for you.

Proven Results for Our Clients

Securing Justice

Client was a partner in one of the largest affordable housing developers in the country. His partner learned that the company was under federal investigation and put in place a scheme to frame Client for any wrongdoing while taking the bulk of the business’s cash for himself. We put a stop to his scheme and maneuvered Client into a far more favorable financial position, with a three-arbitrator panel, including a former justice of the Florida Supreme Court, awarding our client the company’s most valuable properties.

Compensation Restored

Client was a founder of one of the first medical marijuana dispensaries in Oregon. After out-of-state investors secured control of a majority share of the company, our client was forced out without compensation. We persuaded an arbitrator to award Client the full value of his share in the company, as well as a substantial employment compensation award, and his attorneys’ fees and costs.

Strategic Exit

Client was a equity-holder in a large vertically-integrated cannabis company, but was dissatisfied with the company’s direction. Through litigation and strategic pressure, we convinced the company to agree to buy out Client’s interest for a very favorable price.

Lockout Prevented

Client and partners operated hemp seed nursery, but partners locked Client out and planned to harvest and spirit away the proceeds of the business. We obtained a preliminary injunction against the partners, forcing them to come to the bargaining table, for a far more equitable outcome.

Business Victory

Client acquired multiple marijuana retail stores, a major processing facility, and production capacity, and grew his business to be one of the top revenue-producing operations in Oregon. Because of the delay in effectuating the acquisition agreements occasioned by slow agency processing, his acquisition partners attempted to renege on the sales and take over the now far-more-profitable business. After a week-long arbitration, Client prevailed on all claims, sellers were ordered to consummate the acquisition, and Client was awarded approximately $175,000 in attorneys’ fees and costs.