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Disputes

Conflicts are part of doing business, but they should not paralyse your operations. Whether it concerns unpaid invoices, disputes with suppliers or discussions between shareholders, clear agreements and good file management make all the difference. It is crucial to intervene before things escalate. Sometimes through mediation, sometimes through the courts. But always with a view to preserving relationships and your interests. The better prepared you are, the stronger your negotiating position will be.

Recognizable situations

Situations you recognize, answers that help you move forward.

Disputes within an organisation can arise between directors, shareholders, employees or departments. They often concern responsibilities, strategic choices or failure to comply with agreements. It is important that you do not allow the conflict to escalate, but intervene quickly and in a structured manner. The first step is usually to seek an internal solution through dialogue or mediation. If this does not work, there are external procedures such as amicable settlement, mediation or legal action. 

Arbitration is also possible, especially when larger interests are at stake. Do you want to avoid conflicts or deal with them efficiently? Then it is wise to lay down clear procedures in advance in internal regulations or agreements. This will allow you to respond more quickly when tensions arise.

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Jo Vandecasteele
Jo Vandecasteele
Partner Audit
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In complex structures or partnerships, conflicting interests are almost inevitable. Differences in vision, objectives or pace between shareholders, partners or business associates can lead to tensions. To keep such situations manageable, a clear framework is essential: 

  • What exactly has been agreed? 
  • What are the rules? 
  • What is everyone's role and responsibility? 

An independent mediator can be of great value here. They guide the discussion, monitor objectivity and help to reach a compromise that everyone can support. In addition, you can prevent many problems by drawing up watertight contracts in advance, including clear procedures in case of disagreements. By aligning interests in good time, you prevent a difference of opinion from developing into a rift.

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Koen Steeland
Koen Steeland
Partner Corporate Finance | Valuations
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Loss of business often occurs after an unexpected event such as a fire, cyber attack or prolonged interruption of activities. In such cases, it is important that you can demonstrate the economic damage correctly and objectively. This means understanding lost revenue, fixed costs that continue to accrue and any additional expenses incurred to keep the business running. 

The damage is calculated on the basis of historical figures, forecasts and the market situation. A thorough financial analysis, possibly supported by external experts, is indispensable in this regard. If you wish to be eligible for compensation through insurance or legal action at a later stage, it is important to document your loss properly from the outset.

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Jo Vandecasteele
Jo Vandecasteele
Partner Audit
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