Establish the business structure
An ordinary partnership, an LLP and a company do not follow the same rules. The agreement and legal structure are the starting point for understanding rights and responsibilities.
Business Disputes
Partnership Disputes
A disagreement between business partners can affect decisions, drawings and the future of the business. We can review the agreement and help you understand the options for resolving the issue or arranging an exit.
Understanding your next steps
How we can help
Understand the disputed decisions
Bring the papers relating to accounts, contributions, profit shares, access to information or the proposed departure. A short chronology can help separate the legal issue from the wider disagreement.
Consider a workable outcome
Negotiations may address an exit, a buyout or how the business will continue. Valuation and accounting input may be needed alongside legal advice. We can discuss what each stage would involve.
A clear way forward
What happens next
What to have ready
Bring the partnership or LLP agreement, amendments, accounts and relevant correspondence. Identify who owns key assets and what result you are seeking.
Your next step
Tell us if there is an imminent withdrawal of funds, threatened exclusion or a notice of departure. We can confirm the scope of help and whether urgent action needs consideration.
Planning ahead
Fees and timescales
01 / Fees
What the costs cover
Reviewing the agreement is different from negotiating an exit or conducting proceedings. We agree the initial legal fee and VAT, then discuss further work. An accountant or valuer may be needed, with their charges considered separately.
02 / Timescales
Timing and deadlines
The agreement may set notice periods and dispute procedures. Avoid treating an informal conversation as a completed exit. Prompt advice can help identify obligations that continue after departure.
Read our published Price Guide, then contact us to confirm the work you need and the costs involved.
View Price GuideUseful to know
Your questions, answered
What if there is no written agreement?
Rights and duties may still exist. The structure, conduct and relevant legal rules need examination. Bring evidence of what the partners agreed and how the business operated.
Can one partner remove another?
Do not assume so. The agreement and applicable rules must be checked before taking or responding to that step.
Will an accountant be needed?
Often financial records and valuation questions are central. We can discuss how accounting input fits with the legal work.
Can an exit be agreed without closing the business?
It may be possible, depending on the structure, agreement and the parties’ positions. The terms need to deal with assets, liabilities and continuing obligations.
General information for England and Wales. Contact us for advice about your circumstances.
SJS Solicitors · Balham