Conflicts between partners and associates – Securing your professional relationships in the horse industry

There are many collaborative projects in the horse industry: group stables, co-ownerships, syndicates, commercial partnerships, etc. But when relationships between associates or partners deteriorate, the consequences can be serious: deadlocks, loss of trust, paralysis of equestrian activity.

Inscio Avocats supports you in the prevention, management and resolution of conflicts between associates and partners.

Identifying sources of conflict – Governance, finances, strategy

Conflicts between partners or associates can arise from:

  • Disagreements over the management or strategy of the business
  • Blockages in decision-making (poorly drafted articles of association, lack of majority)
  • Unequal distribution of expenses or profits
  • Breaches of contractual or ethical commitments

A legal analysis of the articles of association, shareholder agreements or partnership agreements can help identify ways out of the situation.

Preventing conflicts – Clauses and legal structuring

Prevention requires a solid legal structure:

  • Drafting clear and balanced articles of association
  • Shareholder agreements or partnership agreements with mediation, exit and pre-emption clauses
  • Definition of roles, powers and responsibilities
  • Organisation of decision-making and financial rights

Good anticipation helps to avoid deadlocks and sudden breakdowns in relationships.

Resolving conflicts – Mediation, negotiation, litigation

In the event of a proven conflict, several solutions are possible:

  • Mediation or conciliation: to restore dialogue and reach an amicable agreement
  • Negotiation: to organise an exit or restructuring
  • Legal proceedings: dismissal of directors, dissolution, exclusion of a partner, compensation

Our firm will assist you in choosing the strategy best suited to your situation, with a focus on long-term solutions.

Special cases in the equine sector

  • Racing clubs and syndicates: disputes over horse management, racing commitments, distribution of winnings
  • Stallion syndicates: disagreements over breeding rights, marketing, governance
  • Commercial partnerships: disputes over services, intellectual property, non-competition clauses

These arrangements require particular vigilance due to their emotional and financial implications.