Representing Business Owners in Internal Disputes
Disputes between co-owners can have a serious effect on a business's operations and profitability. One way or another, it is important to everyone involved to get these disputes resolved as promptly and efficiently as possible.
I'm Minneapolis attorney Lee Watson, and I have decades of experience helping business owners seek fair outcomes to disputes with co-owners of their Minnesota-based businesses. Contact me to discuss how I can help you.
Getting to the Root of Your Business Owner Dispute
Disputes between business owners can be rooted in professional or personal differences or in changed circumstances that have affected the original intentions of those who started the business. Most often, disputes end up being over one of two things:
- Compensation: If you do not believe you are being fairly compensated for your contributions as a co-owner, or if another co-owner is claiming unfairness in compensation, I can help you pursue your options for seeking a fair outcome.
- Ownership: When one co-owner of a business dies, becomes disabled, retires or gets divorced, there may be disputes over the transfer of that person's ownership interest. I have long experience helping clients resolve these disputes.
Resolving a dispute between business owners may require a forced buyout of one co-owner's share and/or breakup of the formal business entity through the legal process of dissolution. I am highly familiar with these procedures.
Addressing Issues of Business Ownership and Control
Many business owner disputes can be avoided if proper shareholder or member control agreements — including buy-sell and partnership agreements — are put in place beforehand. If you are starting a business and concerned about the potential for future disputes between the owners, I can help.
Under any circumstances where you are looking for a lawyer to skillfully advocate for your interests as a co-owner of a closely held business, don't hesitate to contact me.
