Directors and Shareholders Disputes

In addition to their standard terms the employment contracts of directors and senior executives often touch on other issues such as the issue of shares and shares options normally accompanied by a shareholders agreement.

Restrictions imposed both in your contract of employment and in the shareholders agreement can restrict your ability to earn your living should you leave your employer so its important that you take expert advice before entering into these.

Our employment and commercial specialists can provide you with advice and guidance to ensure that your interests are protected and that all parties are clear as to their roles and responsibilities.

Where disputes arise our dispute resolution team have practical experience of resolving disputes involving shareholders and directors - preferably by way of negotiation but where necessary through litigation.

Often disputes centre on the terms of a shareholders agreement following the departure of one party and the termination of their employment - these agreement will normally detail the terms on which their shares must be sold and impose restrictions on their future business activities.

This is a complex area of law and it essential that you take advice in order to protect your interests at the outset of your relationship with your employer and at the earliest possible opportunity should a dispute arise.