Shareholder disputes arise over oppressive conduct, board deadlock, dilution, minority rights, and exit mechanisms. Section 163 of the Companies Act gives relief for oppressive, unfairly prejudicial, or unfairly disregarding conduct - a broad and powerful remedy. Sections 161-163 provide statutory remedies for directors, shareholders, and trade unions.
When to hire a shareholder disputes attorney
- Majority shareholders are acting oppressively.
- A director or majority is misusing company funds or assets.
- Minority shareholders are being squeezed out.
- Board deadlock prevents company operations.
- You want to buy out a disgruntled co-shareholder.
What to expect
Section 163 applications go to the High Court. Relief is flexible - the court can order buy-outs, setting aside of transactions, damages, director removal, or appointment of administrators. Most matters settle once the application is issued - oppressive conduct is hard to defend and reputationally damaging.
Typical fees
Section 163 application: R80,000-R500,000+. Buy-out negotiations: R30,000-R200,000. Litigation through trial: R400,000-R3M+.
Verified attorneys
No attorneys match your filters.
No attorneys have self-selected this specialisation yet.
Browse all Business & Commercial Law attorneys here →