Partnership disputeS

When business partners disagree, the consequences can extend far beyond a single transaction: they can threaten the viability of the entire enterprise. Whether conflict stems from a breakdown in trust, a disputed exit, or allegations of financial misconduct, unresolved partnership disputes have a way of escalating quickly.

At Pinto Shekib LLP, our Toronto commercial litigation lawyers counsel business owners and partners at every stage of a dispute — from early-stage negotiation through to courtroom advocacy. We bring strategic clarity to complex situations, helping clients understand their rights, evaluate their options, and pursue outcomes that protect what they have built.

Our team advises on a broad range of partnership and closely-held business disputes, including:
 – Breach of fiduciary duty
 – Partnership dissolution and winding-up
 – Wrongful exclusion from management
 – Buy-out and valuation disputes
 – Misappropriation of partnership assets
 – Breach of partnership agreements
 – Oppression remedy applications
 – Accounting and profit-sharing disputes
 – Fraud and misrepresentation by a partner
 – Injunctive relief and asset preservation
 – Non-compete and confidentiality violations
 – Corporate governance breakdowns

Business partnership disputes rarely follow a predictable path. We bring the focus and adaptability these cases demand.

Resolution-First Approach
We pursue negotiated and mediated outcomes wherever possible. Efficient resolution preserves business value and relationships; litigation is a tool we deploy strategically, not reflexively.

Courtroom-Ready Advocacy
When a dispute demands litigation, our lawyers are prepared to argue your case effectively. We have appeared before the Ontario Superior Court and appellate courts on complex commercial matters.

Practical Business Advice
We understand that legal decisions have business consequences. Our counsel is grounded in the real-world realities our clients face, not just legal theory.

1. What legal remedies are available to me?

Depending on the circumstances, remedies may include an accounting of partnership assets, injunctive relief to preserve assets or prevent further harm, damages for breach of fiduciary duty or contract, a court-ordered buyout, or dissolution of the partnership. The appropriate remedy depends on the specific facts and the relief sought.

2. Does the dispute have to go to Court?

Not necessarily. Many partnership disputes are resolved through negotiation or mediation without the need for a trial. However, some matters, particularly those involving urgent injunctive relief, do require court intervention. We assess each situation individually and advise on the most effective path forward.

3. What if there is no written partnership agreement?

Partnership disputes can and do arise whether or not a formal agreement exists. Ontario’s Partnerships Act provides a default legal framework governing the rights and duties of partners. If no written agreement is in place, the Act’s provisions apply. We help clients navigate these situations regardless of the documentation available.

Call 416.901.9984 or email info@pintoshekib.ca for a confidential consultation.