We help clients with all types of director disputes – from straightforward disagreements to complex, high-stakes litigation. Our role is to provide clear, strategic legal advice that protects your interests and helps you achieve a fair resolution.

Here are some of the most common types of director disputes we advise on:

Breach of fiduciary duties

Directors must act in the company’s best interests, avoid conflicts of interest, and exercise reasonable care, skill, and diligence. Whether justified or not, allegations of a breach of these duties can result in significant legal consequences. We support clients through internal investigations, disciplinary processes, and litigation where required.

Conflict of interest allegations

Disputes may arise when a director is perceived to be placing personal interests above the company’s or engaging in activities that present a potential conflict. We advise on conflict management, disclosure obligations, and defending or bringing claims relating to breaches of trust and confidence.

Disputes over dividends and money

Disagreements may arise over the distribution of dividends or other financial matters, especially when there are conflicting views on the company’s performance, profitability, or future strategy. Disputes can also involve concerns about the mismanagement or improper distribution of funds.

We provide clear advice to directors, shareholders, and other stakeholders on their rights and obligations when it comes to dividend payments and the allocation of profits. 

Allegations of mismanagement or misconduct

Accusations of mismanagement, abuse of authority, or unethical conduct can lead to serious reputational damage and legal exposure. These allegations are sometimes linked to a company’s financial distress or even insolvency, where directors can face personal liability. We act for stakeholders on both sides of such disputes, ensuring processes are followed lawfully and fairly.

Appointment of directors 

Conflicts may stem from the appointment process itself (e.g. breaches of the company’s articles of association or shareholders’ agreements), or from concerns about a nominee’s independence, qualifications, or intentions. We provide strategic legal advice on contested appointments, voting rights, and remedies where appointments have been made improperly or without consent.

Removal or resignation of a director

Disputes often emerge around the departure of a director – particularly where there is disagreement about the reasons for removal, severance arrangements, or ongoing rights as a shareholder. We advise on lawful director removal procedures and protect against unfair or unlawful termination.

Director and shareholder disagreements

When directors also hold shares in the business, disputes can quickly escalate into legal conflicts with long-term consequences. We can help with: 

• Derivative claims 
• Unfair prejudice petitions
• Breaches of shareholders’ agreements.
  
  

Our solicitors will assess your position, explain your legal remedies, and help you take swift action if your rights are being compromised.

Abuse of majority control

In companies where one director or a group of directors holds a majority of voting power, disputes can arise if that control is used to disadvantage minority shareholders or other directors. We advise on minority shareholder protections, company governance obligations, and potential claims for unfair prejudice.

Access to company information

Directors have the right to access certain company information. When access is denied – often in the context of a dispute – it can hinder a director’s ability to fulfil their duties or protect their interests. We advise on enforcing information rights and resolving disclosure disputes quickly.

50/50 director disputes (company disputes between directors)

Deadlock situations are particularly challenging in companies with two equal directors. Without an agreement, the business can grind to a halt – affecting operations, cash flow, and staff morale.

We help clients navigate these complex 50/50 director disputes with strategic advice, negotiation, and where necessary, court intervention or applications for company restructuring or winding up.