Shareholder Agreements

What else you might like to know about Shareholder Agreements

If you are entering into a shareholder agreement, a legal service provider is well placed to draft contracts, mediate between parties and provide valuable advice. Here is some basic guidance to inform your choice of legal expert.

What is a shareholder agreement?

A shareholder agreement is a contract distributed to all shareholders in a company. The agreement is typically used to ensure that the shareholders understand their rights, roles and responsibilities as a part owner of a business.

What should be included in a shareholder agreement?

A shareholder agreement should include a detailed breakdown of the rights and obligations of the shareholders, as well as setting out how the company is going to be run and how decisions will be made. The agreement should also outline the protection provided to minority shareholders.

What rights does a shareholder agreement give me?

A shareholder agreement enables the shareholders of a business to establish their legal rights in relation to the company. This includes the right to receive business critical information such as the annual report and accounts; copies of the register of directors and memorandum; and articles of association. Voting shareholders are also entitled to attend general shareholder meetings, receive a dividend where applicable, and receive a share of any moneys left over should a company be wound up.

How can I choose the best legal expert?

It is worth considering a number of factors when choosing a legal expert to handle the creation of shareholder agreements. First and foremost, such important documentation requires a legal service provider with the necessary experience and knowledge of business law. You may also wish to consider the location, reputation and cost of a firm before making your decision.

 

Answer a few short questions now and start comparing legal service providers based on the criteria most important to you.

How will a legal service provider charge me?

Shareholder agreements may vary in complexity. Legal service providers may offer this service on a fixed fee or hourly rate basis.