At the law firm of Alan L. Frank Law Associates, P.C., we provide skilled legal representation to closely held corporations facing complex business disputes.
These companies—often family-owned or privately held with a limited number of shareholders—face unique legal challenges, especially when business disagreements turn personal. Often, disputes in closely held corporations stem from internal conflict between owners, shareholders, or directors that can quickly turn into deadlocks. Disputes can also arise between the closely held corporation and its general counsel.
Corporate Litigation Matters We Handle
- Claims of oppressions, breaches of shareholder agreements, or disputes over ownership rights and profit distribution.
- Claims involving the corporate’s counsel when the shareholder agreement was not drafted or followed as it should have been.
- Holding officers, directors, or partners accountable when they act in their own interest rather than in the best interest of the business.
- Guiding clients through the legal process of splitting up, buying out an owner, or winding down a business when partnerships break down.
- Representing minority owners when majority shareholders engage in unfair practices such as withholding dividends, excluding them from decision-making, or misusing company assets.
- Litigating disputes involving exit strategies, valuations, or trigger events under operating or shareholder agreements.
- Taking legal action when an insider or former business partner improperly uses confidential information or company resources.
- Providing solutions when owners or directors are at an impasse, including litigation, mediation, or appointment of a custodian/receiver.
Our experienced commercial litigation attorneys help clients navigate these issues with a results-driven approach across Pennsylvania, New Jersey, and other venues throughout the country.
Frequently Asked Questions About Commercial Litigation
What is “commercial litigation” and do I need a lawyer who specializes in closely held corporations?
Commercial litigation refers to legal disputes that arise out of business relationships, such as contract breaches, partnership conflicts, or shareholder disagreements.
If your business is privately owned—especially a family business or closely held corporation—working with a law firm experienced in the unique challenges of private entities is essential. These cases often involve sensitive internal dynamics and require strategic solutions that protect both your financial and legal interests.
Disputes in closely held businesses often stem from breakdowns in trust or unclear governance. Common issues include shareholder oppression, breach of fiduciary duty, unauthorized use of company resources, disagreements over profit distribution, and disputes over company valuation.
These matters can escalate quickly and often require legal action to protect minority interests or enforce ownership rights.
Oppression claims arise when majority owners or directors take actions that unfairly harm minority shareholders—such as withholding dividends, excluding them from decisions, or diverting company assets.
Minority shareholders can protect their rights by enforcing shareholder agreements, seeking injunctive relief, or filing claims under applicable corporate statutes. Courts may appoint a custodian or receiver, order a buyout, or dissolve the company in extreme cases.