Business partnerships or joint ventures can start with a lot of promise, but they could go awry along the way and create disputes that can jeopardize operations and the future of the business and even strain the personal and professional relationships of those involved.
At Nihang Law, we help partners preserve the value they’ve built by addressing disputes early, strategically, and with a clear understanding of both legal obligations and business realities. With our experience in handling business-related matters, Nihang Law can help address a wide array of disputes and disagreements related to partnership agreements, fiduciary obligations, and partnership dissolution.
What Are Partnership Disputes?
Partnership disputes arise when individuals who jointly own and manage a business disagree on critical issues such as finances, responsibilities, management decisions, or the terms of the partnership agreement itself. These disputes can stem from differing expectations, breaches of fiduciary duties, unequal work contributions, or mistrust over financial transparency.
Even if the partnership was formed without a written agreement, Ontario’s Partnership Act still provides a legal framework that governs the rights and responsibilities of each partner. However, enforcing or interpreting these rights often requires experienced legal intervention.
At Nihang Law, we represent both majority and minority partners in disputes across a wide range of industries. We aim to resolve conflicts in a way that protects your investment, clarifies obligations, and—when necessary—pursues legal remedies such as dissolution or buyout.
Comprehensive Legal Services for Partnership Disputes
We provide legal support for all aspects of partnership breakdowns and related disputes, including:
Breach of Partnership Agreement
We advise on and litigate disputes involving alleged breaches of written or oral partnership agreements, including conflicts over management rights, profit sharing, and decision-making authority.
Breach of Fiduciary Duty in Partnership
Partners are legally required to act honestly and in good faith for the benefit of the partnership. We represent clients in claims involving self-dealing, conflicts of interest, secret profits, and other breaches of trust.
Dissolution of Partnership and Winding-Up
When a partnership cannot continue, we guide clients through voluntary or contested dissolution, the fair distribution of assets and liabilities, and the winding up of the business.
Accounting and Financial Transparency Disputes
We assist clients who seek an accounting from co-partners or who face allegations of financial impropriety, especially where there are concerns about hidden income, unauthorized withdrawals, or poor record-keeping.
Expulsion or Removal of Partner in Business
In cases where a partner has acted contrary to the best interests of the business, we represent clients in pursuing or resisting removal from the partnership.
Valuation and Buyout of Partnership Interests
Disputes often arise over the fair value of a departing partner’s interest. We work with forensic accountants and valuation experts to ensure clients receive or pay a fair value, depending on the circumstances.
Interim Injunctions and Emergency Relief
In cases involving urgent risks to the business (e.g., asset dissipation or reputational harm), we seek court-ordered injunctions to preserve the status quo while the dispute is resolved.
Nihang Law’s Approach to Partnership Disputes
At Nihang Law, we recognize that partnership disputes are more than just legal battles. They often involve years of hard work, shared trust, and complex financial arrangements. We approach these matters with the strategic foresight and practical focus that business owners need.
- Understanding the Business Context: We take the time to understand your business structure, objectives, and relationship dynamics. Whether you’re in a professional partnership, family business, or joint venture, we tailor our advice to your specific situation.
- Early Dispute Assessment and Risk Mitigation: We conduct an early case assessment to identify strengths, weaknesses, and risks. Our goal is to position you for a favorable outcome—whether through negotiation, mediation, or litigation.
- Focused on Preserving Business Value: When appropriate, we explore solutions that allow the business to continue functioning while protecting your interests. If ongoing cooperation isn’t feasible, we guide you through an efficient separation or buyout.
- Experienced in Litigation and Resolution: If court intervention is necessary, our litigation team is ready to act swiftly. We have experience with injunctions, dissolution applications, and complex partnership claims in both the Superior Court and arbitration.
Why Choose Nihang Law
Nihang Law brings a balanced and business-minded approach to partnership disputes in Ontario. We understand the legal and practical consequences of prolonged conflict between partners and strive to find solutions that are both enforceable and sustainable.
Our team possesses a profound understanding of Ontario’s Partnership Act and experience in both negotiated resolutions and high-stakes litigation. Whether you’re enforcing your rights, removing a non-performing partner, or negotiating a fair exit, we deliver strategic guidance at every stage.
Partnership disputes are generally subject to a two-year limitation period under Ontario’s Limitations Act, 2002, beginning when the issue is discovered or reasonably ought to have been discovered. Seeking prompt legal advice is essential to preserving your legal options and protecting your business interests.
If you are currently facing a partnership dispute or want to understand your rights and options before conflict escalates, contact Nihang Law today. Let us help you protect what you’ve built.