Director disputes can cripple a company’s momentum, reputation, and value. If you’re facing conflict in the boardroom—whether due to governance breakdowns, financial irregularities, or shareholder disputes—Boss Lawyers is here to help.
Our Brisbane-based team, led by commercial litigation expert Mark Harley, provides rapid, strategic solutions to director and shareholder disputes under the Corporations Act 2001 (Cth).
What Causes Director Disputes?
- Deadlocks in decision-making
- Misuse of company funds or breaches of duty
- Oppression of minority shareholders
- Disputes over business direction or equity exit
- Exclusion of directors from management or accounts
These issues often arise in small-to-medium enterprises (SMEs), startups, and family-run businesses with 50/50 ownership structures or loosely drafted shareholder agreements.
How Boss Lawyers Resolves Director Disputes
We use a commercial-first approach to avoid unnecessary litigation—but we act decisively when legal intervention is needed.
1. Early Intervention & Dispute Analysis
We review your company constitution, shareholders’ agreement, and past conduct to assess your position and exposure.
2. Mediation or Negotiation
We attempt to resolve disputes confidentially—preserving relationships where possible—through mediation or strategic negotiation.
3. Court Action or Urgent Injunctions
Where necessary, we bring or defend proceedings under:
- s232 Corporations Act (oppression)
- s180–184 (director duties)
- s461 (just and equitable winding up)
- Injunctions to prevent dissipation of assets
4. Shareholder Exit & Deeds of Release
We structure fair exits (with or without buy-out clauses) and settle matters through well-drafted Deeds of Settlement and Release to protect future interests.
Real-World Results for Directors and Shareholders
🔹 Family-Owned Retail Group: Resolved a board deadlock between co-directors through negotiated share sale and debt indemnities.
🔹 Technology Startup: Protected our client’s equity after exclusion from management and wrongful removal as a director.
🔹 Unit Trust Property Investment: Advised on dispute involving rent-free occupancy and ATO debt exposure—resulted in a restructured asset exit.
🔹 Health & Wellness Franchise: Stopped a rival director from transferring business assets to a competing company.
Why Choose Boss Lawyers?
| Advantage | What It Means for You |
|---|---|
| Brisbane-Based Experts | Deep knowledge of Queensland business laws, courts, and governance frameworks. |
| Led by Mark Harley | A trusted commercial litigator with 15+ years’ experience in corporate disputes. |
| Strategic, Cost-Effective Approach | We avoid court where possible—but litigate hard when needed. |
| Transparent Fees | Clear billing structure. |
📎 Learn more about our Commercial Litigation Services
📎 Meet Mark Harley, Principal of Boss Lawyers
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is a director dispute?
A dispute between directors of a company, typically involving disagreements about governance, management, financial control, or breaches of fiduciary duty.
Q: Can a minority shareholder sue a director in Queensland?
Yes. Under s232 of the Corporations Act, a shareholder can bring an oppression claim if the company’s affairs are conducted unfairly or prejudicially.
Q: What are my options if I’m excluded from my own company?
You may be able to apply for reinstatement, seek an injunction, or claim relief under shareholder oppression or breach of duty provisions.
Q: What’s the typical outcome of director disputes?
Outcomes range from negotiated exits and financial settlements to court orders for winding up, injunctions, or removal of directors.
Talk to a Director Disputes Lawyer Today
Boss Lawyers has resolved hundreds of shareholder and director disputes across Brisbane and Queensland. Whether you need urgent protection or strategic exit planning, our commercial litigation lawyers are ready to act.
📞 Call us now on 1300 267 711 or (07) 3188 0200
📧 Email: info@bosslawyers.com.au
🌐 Visit: www.bosslawyers.com.au
Boss Lawyers – Trusted Director Disputes Lawyers in Brisbane.
