MINORITY SHAREHOLDER & CLOSELY-HELD BUSINESS DISPUTES

Many of the firm's clients are members of entrepreneurial families which have established and continue to run closely-held businesses, sometimes with involvement from a small number of non-family equity participants. Relations between owners and managers of such closely-held businesses present unique challenges and are governed by legal principles similar to partnerships, including fiduciary obligations. Resolution of such disputes requires sensitivity and an ability to manage the sometimes charged emotional component of these disputes between family members or longtime business associates who come to disagree.

Hemenway & Barnes has a long history of handling such matters with an eye to quick resolution. Discreet negotiations will resolve some matters, while other times full formal civil proceedings are required. The Litigation Group has the experience to handle both ends of this spectrum, as necessary to resolve the dispute.