Find Resolution In Shareholder And Co-Owner Disputes With Lexington Attorneys

Last updated on March 26, 2025

When you do business with partners or shareholders, disagreements are inevitable—even among the most amicable ownership groups. Disputes can arise over virtually any aspect of company operations, from strategic decisions and fiduciary duties to profit distributions and governance issues.

Left unresolved, these internal conflicts can spiral out of control, jeopardizing the health and future of the business you’ve worked so hard to build. That’s why it’s important to consult with an experienced shareholder disputes attorney who can protect your rights and interests.

At Miller Edwards Rambicure PLLC in Lexington, we understand the complexities involved in shareholder and partnership disputes. For our team, results matter. We’ve handled multiple business and commercial law cases in Kentucky, so you can trust that we will handle your dispute matter.

There’s no one approach to settling these disputes; we’ll work closely with you to explore all possible options.

Strategically Defusing Business Disputes

Our skilled attorneys have successfully represented clients in conflicts involving:

• Breaches of fiduciary duty or shareholder agreements
• Minority shareholder oppression
• Self-dealing or misappropriation claims
• Deadlocks over major business decisions
• Dissolution and business valuation
• Co-owner/partner buyouts

We know how disruptive and distracting these internal power struggles can become. Our attorneys pursue the most strategic path, whether that’s negotiating an equitable settlement or aggressively litigating the dispute through trial if necessary.

Preventing Future Conflicts Through Shareholder Agreements

One of the best ways to avoid costly partnership or shareholder battles down the road is to establish a comprehensive shareholder agreement from the start. Our team at Miller Edwards Rambicure PLLC can draft and review shareholder agreements that establish governance, profit/loss distribution, exit strategies and more, providing a clear roadmap to prevent future disputes.

Kentucky Shareholder And Partnership Dispute FAQs

As attorneys who regularly guide clients through challenging business conflicts, we understand the questions that arise during shareholder and partnership disputes. As such, here are our straightforward answers to common questions we encounter from Kentucky business owners.

How can shareholder/partnership disputes be resolved without going to court?

Several effective alternatives exist for resolving disputes without litigation, including:

• Mediation: A neutral third party helps facilitate discussion and negotiation between parties to reach a voluntary agreement. Kentucky courts often encourage mediation before proceeding to trial.
• Negotiated settlements: Direct negotiations between parties (or their attorneys) can lead to mutually acceptable solutions that preserve business relationships.
• Buyout agreements: One partner may agree to purchase the other’s interest at a predetermined or independently appraised value.
• Restructuring: Reorganizing the business structure or management responsibilities can address underlying issues while maintaining the partnership.

Kentucky law favors resolution through these methods as they typically cost less, conclude faster and maintain confidentiality compared to litigation.

What are my options if my partnership agreement includes an arbitration clause?

In such situations, you are generally bound to resolve disputes through arbitration rather than court. In Kentucky:

• Arbitration clauses are typically enforceable under both state law and the Federal Arbitration Act.
• You may select an arbitrator with specific industry expertise, which can lead to more informed decisions.
• The arbitration process is usually private, faster than court proceedings and results in binding decisions.
• Limited grounds exist for appealing arbitration decisions under state law.
• Even with an arbitration clause, parties can still pursue mediation first or negotiate directly.
• Courts may intervene if the arbitration clause is unconscionable or fundamentally unfair.

Review your agreement closely to understand the scope of the arbitration clause and consult an attorney to help ensure compliance.

How long do shareholder/partnership dispute cases typically take to resolve in Kentucky?

The timeline depends on how you handle it. Out-of-court talks or mediation might wrap up in a few weeks or months if everyone cooperates. Arbitration can take three to six months, depending on the arbitrator’s schedule and case details.

If the case goes to court, expect six months to a year or longer if it is complicated or appealed. Kentucky’s court system moves steadily but is not rushed. Delays can happen if the evidence is disputed or schedules clash. As such, starting with a clear plan helps keep things on track.

Don’t Let Internal Conflicts Derail Your Business

Whether you need skilled negotiators or fierce courtroom advocates, our lawyers are committed to achieving a positive outcome for your business and protecting your financial interests. Contact Miller Edwards Rambicure PLLC today at 859-365-2535 or email us to discuss your unique situation and how we can help resolve your shareholder or partnership disagreements.