The new law on derivative actions by shareholders under the Companies Act 2006 came into force on 1st October 2007.

This fresh new course examines the position of shareholders within a company. It considers their rights, and their ability to take action to remedy acts done by the directors or fellow shareholders, which cause loss either to the company or to the individual shareholder concerned. Delegates are introduced to a case study and work through exercises designed to broaden and enhance their understanding of a company’s constitution and the division of rights and powers between directors and shareholders.

They then look at a dispute and analyse the law relating to unfair prejudice. Delegates practise giving preliminary advice to a client, drafting a petition and considering how to ensure an offer to purchase the petitioner’s shares is treated as reasonable by the courts.

The course moves on to look at the new law relating to derivative actions. Delegates will again work through a case study, considering causes of action and the requirements for obtaining permission to continue with a claim.

This highly interactive and informative 6 hour course has been run successfully for partners and associates at a number of major firms. It is a must for the commercial litigator who wants to keep abreast of changes in a dynamic area of the law.

What the delegates say

“Clear, lively, knowledgeable”

“Very comprehensive – especially on the practical and procedural side”

“Excellent use of workshop exercises to facilitate better understanding”

“Comprehensive and practical advice”

“Very clear, concise and approachable”

“The practical sessions allowed us to apply the principles”

“Clear structure – good mixture of talk and inter-action sessions – good handouts”