A shareholder dispute often involves several connected issues: information is withheld, a meeting resolution is challenged or an owner objects to the disposal of assets. Separate these issues before preparing a claim. Each may involve different parties, evidence and remedies. A general aim to regain control does not yet establish a sequence of actions.
Reconstruct the chronology
Create a table recording the date, action, parties and supporting document for each event. Note separately when you received notice, learned of a decision or requested information. Preserve original letters, attachments, envelopes and electronic messages. Do not alter documents or the sequence of correspondence when preparing copies.
Governance documents
Articles of association, shareholder agreements, resolutions, minutes, powers of attorney and meeting notices. Check for attachments and evidence that documents were sent to shareholders.
Disputed transactions
Contracts, acceptance records, bank documents and asset transfer records. For each issue, identify the decision challenged and the consequences you attribute to it.
Requests and responses
Collect information requests, company responses and proof of receipt. Distinguish a missing document from one whose contents are known but disputed.
Define the desired outcome
Discuss with your lawyer what should change once the conflict is resolved: access to information, governance arrangements, the consequences of a transaction or the ownership structure. Then assess the available remedies, evidence and deadlines. Different claims may need different preparation; bringing them all at once does not necessarily strengthen the case.
Negotiations also need a concrete basis. A settlement proposal should explain which documents will be provided, what each party must do and how performance will be verified. If the business continues trading, separately agree interim arrangements for current payments and obligations.
For an assessment of the litigation position, see our dispute resolution practice. A brief chronology and a list of disputed decisions are sufficient for an initial enquiry.
Start by preserving documents and separating the conflict into individual issues. This helps define a concrete objective and a consistent position for negotiations and proceedings.