When you invest in a corporation, you expect it to act in the best interest of its shareholders. But what happens when the corporation’s leadership does not seem to have its shareholders’ interests in mind? Shareholders may be able to enforce their rights and the rights of other shareholders through litigation. Shareholders have several options when it comes to...
Continue ReadingShareholders of large and small companies have a right under Michigan law to inspect company documents and records. Shareholders are entitled to inspect the company’s financial books and records, including, but not limited to, financial statements, shareholder lists, corporate stock ledgers, and meeting minutes. If you’re a shareholder that has been denied access to company documents, contact our shareholder...
Continue ReadingNo matter how amicable your business partnership is, it is likely that you will benefit from the assistance of a business partnership attorney at some point. If you are starting a partnership, have questions about partnership issues, or have become involved in a dispute with your partners, you should consider reaching out to an experienced partnership dispute lawyer. When...
Continue ReadingKey Takeaways Importance of clear vendor contracts — A well-written vendor agreement should clearly define scope, obligations, performance standards, termination, and liability to prevent misunderstandings. Common grounds for disputes — Vendor-contract conflicts often arise from missed deadlines, quality issues, unclear termination rights, or lack of defined remedies. Litigation risk if unaddressed — When vendor breaches are material and unresolved,...
Continue ReadingMinority oppression occurs when those in control of a company abuse their power in a way that fundamentally harms a minority owner’s interests. The people in control can be majority shareholders, or members, officers, directors, or managers. As a minority owner, you have certain legal rights. If others are denying you those rights or abusing their power, you need...
Continue ReadingOne of the most valuable assets a business has is its reputation. Whether through marketing, employee training, or other initiatives, you have likely invested significant time and money into cultivating a specific reputation for your business. Unfortunately, there are those who may seek to tear down your business out of jealousy, malice, or even carelessness. Our commercial litigation attorneys...
Continue ReadingAnytime you start a business with other people, you can expect to have disputes from time to time. However, some disputes between LLC members can become so serious that you need to consider leaving the business altogether or removing a member. If your dispute with another LLC member has reached this level, it may be time to contact a...
Continue ReadingArbitration involves different rules and procedures than typical litigation. Therefore, it is important to look for a lawyer who has specific experience with arbitration. A Michigan arbitration attorney can advise you on things like selecting an arbitrator, gathering evidence, and presenting your case. Key Takeaways Understanding Arbitration: Arbitration is a private form of alternative dispute resolution where a neutral...
Continue ReadingKey Takeaways Federal trade-secret cause — The Defend Trade Secrets Act (DTSA) of 2016 created a nationwide civil remedy in federal court for misappropriation of trade secrets. Employer obligations & remedies — Employers must include DTSA-required notice in nondisclosure agreements to pursue exemplary damages; remedies include injunctive relief, compensatory/exemplary damages, and attorney fees. Definition & safe-harbor — The DTSA...
Continue ReadingNew court rules enacted in Michigan have a significant impact on the procedures for case evaluation. Case evaluation is a form of alternative dispute resolution that is governed by Michigan Court Rule 2.403. The purpose of case evaluation is for a panel of independent lawyers to make an objective assessment of the monetary value of a lawsuit. Overview of...
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