Before you write to the other side, answer these questions honestly. They decide whether a dispute is worth starting.

The questions

What do the shareholders’ agreement and the articles actually say? What would a court order, and would you be happy with that outcome? What will it cost to get there, and what will it cost to settle?

Then decide

If the answers point to a settlement, open with an offer. If they point to a fight, gather your documents before you send the first letter.