A founder and 40% shareholder in a profitable recruitment company was dismissed as a director by two fellow directors and shareholders and was asked to sign a settlement agreement relating to his employment and leave the office with immediate effect. There was no written employment contract or shareholder agreement. He was offered a severance package in relation to his employment, but there was no mention of addressing his position as a shareholder.
As the client had been removed from a business he founded, we advised he had a good claim for an order that the remaining shareholders be ordered to buy his shares at a fair value. This was a classic “quasi partnership” shareholder claim, where the client had a legitimate expectation to continue to be involved in the business as a director / shareholder.
After early settlement discussions failed, legal proceedings in the form of an unfair prejudice petition were issued under the Companies Act 2006. The Court ordered a jointly instructed accountant to value the business and shortly after the valuation was obtained, the case was settled for a figure of £600,000, including recovery of all legal costs.
I have worked with Darwin Gray for a number of years and the level of service, professionalism and timely response is second to none. I would highly recommend Darwin Gray to any business.”
Darwin Gray have provided us with a first-class service for many years now. They really take the time to understand our business and develop relationships which results in advice and support that is contextualised and effective.”
We have worked with Darwin Gray for several years and have always found their services and advice to be first class.”
An extremely professional and sincere firm who make time for your queries and understand the need to break down certain facts and information to ensure everything is understood perfectly. I would highly recommend the firm to anyone looking for any type of legal advice”
PSS has worked with Darwin Gray for many years. We have always received an excellent service. Prompt and professional advice and support.”
Darwin Gray have acted for myself and my company over a number of years and at all times we have been treated with a professional manner yet maintain a common-sense approach at all levels. We couldn’t recommend them more highly.”
We have been clients of Darwin Gray for many years; they’ve always dealt with all of our legal matters with such professionalism. They work around us, even during awkward hours, and we feel confident we can always rely on them.”
Darwin Gray has been acting for Siltbuster for more than ten years. We would have no hesitation in recommending Darwin Gray to other organisations small or large.”
From the very first conversation, I had no doubt that Darwin Gray should be the firm to receive our instructions on this matter. I would have no hesitation in recommending Darwin Gray.”
We regularly instruct Darwin Gray. Their service in dealing with our transactional matters and disputes is always professional, prompt and efficient.”
Darwin Gray guided me through a long and extended process that would have been much more difficult had it not been for their patience and constant support.”
Excellent and efficient service. Great result achieved, highly professional and transparent on pricing. Would recommend.”
Superb legal service provided. Exceeded expectations. They went above and beyond in order to provide the best service possible.”
Very professional and understanding. They were a calming influence in a very troubling situation and they brought it to a very successful conclusion”
We have used Darwin Gray and have been seriously impressed. The personal approach is what Darwin Gray are excelling on and is the reason why we will continue to work with them in the future.”
