{"id":201,"date":"2026-10-19T05:51:40","date_gmt":"2026-10-19T05:51:40","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/34-24-254-23.nip.io\/?page_id=201"},"modified":"2026-10-27T14:48:56","modified_gmt":"2026-10-27T14:48:56","slug":"business-partner-stole-my-business","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/kewlegal.com\/resources\/outside-general-counsel-for-businesses\/business-partner-stole-my-business\/","title":{"rendered":"Business Partner Stole My Business: Florida LLC Options"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<div class=\"wp-block-cover alignfull is-dark chg-hero\" style=\"min-height:460px;aspect-ratio:unset;\"><span aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-cover__background has-background-dim-60 has-background-dim wp-block-cover__gradient-background has-background-gradient\" style=\"background:linear-gradient(90deg,rgba(32,36,46,1) 0%,rgba(32,36,46,1) 55%,rgba(32,36,46,0.7) 100%)\"><\/span><img class=\"wp-block-cover__image-background wp-image-1058\" alt=\"Empty shelves and a &quot;closed&quot; sign inside a small storefront after hours, with a &quot;for sale&quot; notice on the window.\" src=\"https:\/\/kewlegal.com\/resources\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/empty-shelves-and-a-closed-sign-inside-a-small-storefront-af-photo-3.jpg\" width=\"1376\" height=\"768\" srcset=\"https:\/\/kewlegal.com\/resources\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/empty-shelves-and-a-closed-sign-inside-a-small-storefront-af-photo-3-150x150.jpg 150w, https:\/\/kewlegal.com\/resources\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/empty-shelves-and-a-closed-sign-inside-a-small-storefront-af-photo-3-300x167.jpg 300w, https:\/\/kewlegal.com\/resources\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/empty-shelves-and-a-closed-sign-inside-a-small-storefront-af-photo-3-768x429.jpg 768w, https:\/\/kewlegal.com\/resources\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/empty-shelves-and-a-closed-sign-inside-a-small-storefront-af-photo-3-1024x572.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/kewlegal.com\/resources\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/empty-shelves-and-a-closed-sign-inside-a-small-storefront-af-photo-3.jpg 1376w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 825px) 825px, 100vw\" fetchpriority=\"high\" decoding=\"async\"\/><div class=\"wp-block-cover__inner-container has-global-padding is-layout-constrained wp-block-cover-is-layout-constrained\">\n<p class=\"chg-eyebrow has-base-color has-text-color wp-block-paragraph\" style=\"text-shadow:0 1px 3px rgba(0,0,0,0.6),0 0 18px rgba(0,0,0,0.35)\">Partnership Disputes | Coral Gables &amp; Sunny Isles Beach<\/p><h1 class=\"wp-block-heading has-base-color has-text-color\" style=\"text-shadow:0 1px 3px rgba(0,0,0,0.6),0 0 18px rgba(0,0,0,0.35)\">Your Business Partner Shut You Out? Know Your Florida LLC Options<\/h1><p class=\"has-base-color has-text-color wp-block-paragraph\" style=\"font-size:clamp(0.875rem, 0.875rem + ((1vw - 0.2rem) * 0.625), 1.25rem);text-shadow:0 1px 3px rgba(0,0,0,0.6),0 0 18px rgba(0,0,0,0.35)\">KEW Legal represents business owners and investors across Miami-Dade and South Florida in partnership and LLC disputes. Kristina E. Wilson reviews your operating agreement, company records and next steps so you can make informed decisions about your business.<\/p><div class=\"wp-block-buttons is-layout-flex wp-block-buttons-is-layout-flex\"><div class=\"wp-block-button chg-cta chg-cta-call\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link wp-element-button\" href=\"tel:+13059902300\">Schedule Your Free Consultation or Call 305-990-2300<\/a><\/div><div class=\"wp-block-button chg-cta chg-cta-form\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link wp-element-button\" href=\"https:\/\/kewlegal.com\/contact-us\/\">Schedule Your Free Consultation or Call 305-990-2300<\/a><\/div><\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\" style=\"font-size:0.85rem;color:#6b7280;margin-bottom:1.5rem\">By Kristina E. Wilson \u00b7 Published October 19, 2026<\/p>\n\n<article lang=\"en\">\n\n<h2>Business Partner Stole My Business? Your Florida LLC Options<\/h2>\n<p>If a business partner stole my business, the first step is knowing which claim fits. You may have claims under Florida law when a co-owner takes company money, property, or opportunities, or shuts you out. The right claim depends on how the company is organized, who manages it, and who was harmed. KEW Legal helps business owners and investors in Miami-Dade and South Florida, with offices in Coral Gables and Sunny Isles Beach.<\/p>\n\n<div class=\"cta-dose-mid wp-block-group has-contrast-color has-surface-background-color has-text-color has-background has-global-padding is-layout-constrained wp-container-core-group-is-layout-32197852 wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\" style=\"background-color:var(--wp--preset--color--surface,#f2f3f5);color:var(--wp--preset--color--contrast,#22252b);border-radius:8px;padding-top:1.5rem;padding-bottom:1.5rem;padding-left:1.5rem;padding-right:1.5rem;border-left:6px solid var(--wp--preset--color--cta,currentColor);box-shadow:0 2px 10px rgba(0,0,0,0.18)\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If your partner has cut you out of the company&#x27;s records, money, or decisions, you may have a claim worth reviewing with our team. Talk it through with our team &#8212; the first consultation is free, confidential, and carries no obligation.<\/p><div class=\"wp-block-buttons is-layout-flex wp-block-buttons-is-layout-flex\"><div class=\"wp-block-button chg-cta-call\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link wp-element-button\" href=\"tel:+13059902300\">Get a free consultation<\/a><\/div><div class=\"wp-block-button chg-cta-form\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link wp-element-button\" href=\"https:\/\/kewlegal.com\/contact-us\/\">Get a free consultation<\/a><\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large has-custom-border\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/kewlegal.com\/resources\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/closed-sign-hanging-on-a-glass-door-at-night-with-a-blurred-photo.jpg\" alt=\"A closed sign hangs on a glass door at night, with a blurred view of the dark interior behind it.\" style=\"border-radius:8px;width:100%;aspect-ratio:16\/9;object-fit:cover\"\/><\/figure>\n<h2>What does it mean when a partner takes your business?<\/h2>\n<p>A partner takes your business when a co-owner uses company property, profits, or opportunities for personal gain. It can also mean a partner blocks your access to decisions, records, or money. Florida law sets the duties each owner owes.<\/p>\n<p>For an LLC (limited liability company), <a href=\"https:\/\/www.leg.state.fl.us\/statutes\/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&amp;URL=0600-0699\/0605\/Sections\/0605.04091.html\">Fla. Stat. \u00a7 605.04091<\/a> says each manager of a manager-managed LLC and each member of a member-managed LLC owes duties of loyalty and care. The duty of loyalty includes:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Accounting to the company for any property, profit, or benefit taken from company business.<\/li>\n<li>Not competing with the company before it dissolves.<\/li>\n<li>Not dealing with the company as someone whose interests are against it, unless the deal meets the statute&#8217;s conditions.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>The duty of care means refraining from grossly negligent or reckless conduct, willful or intentional misconduct, or a knowing violation of law. A manager of a manager-managed LLC and a member of a member-managed LLC must discharge their duties and exercise any rights consistently with the obligation of good faith and fair dealing.<\/p>\n<p>Self-interest alone does not prove a breach. The same statute says a member does not violate a duty solely because its conduct furthers its own interest. The facts decide the question.<\/p>\n<p>Conflicts matter too. Under <a href=\"https:\/\/www.leg.state.fl.us\/statutes\/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&amp;URL=0600-0699\/0605\/Sections\/0605.04092.html\">Fla. Stat. \u00a7 605.04092<\/a>, a member can be &#8220;indirectly&#8221; a party to a deal. That happens when the member has a material financial interest in the other party, or is one of its officers, directors, members, managers, or partners.<\/p>\n<p>If your business is a general partnership rather than an LLC, different rules apply.<\/p>\n<h2>Direct action or derivative action?<\/h2>\n<p>A direct action is for harm to you. A derivative action is for harm to the company. The label matters because the statute sets different requirements for each.<\/p>\n<h3>Direct action for your own injury<\/h3>\n<p>Under <a href=\"https:\/\/www.leg.state.fl.us\/statutes\/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&amp;URL=0600-0699\/0605\/Sections\/0605.0801.html\">Fla. Stat. \u00a7 605.0801<\/a>, a member can sue another member, a manager, or the LLC to enforce its own rights. That includes rights under the operating agreement. Under <a href=\"https:\/\/www.leg.state.fl.us\/statutes\/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&amp;URL=0600-0699\/0605\/Sections\/0605.0801.html\">Fla. Stat. \u00a7 605.0801<\/a>, a member maintaining a direct action under this section must plead and prove either:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>An actual or threatened injury to you that is not solely the result of an injury to the company.<\/li>\n<li>An actual or threatened injury from breach of a separate statutory or contractual duty the wrongdoer owed you, even if it overlaps with the company&#8217;s injury.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3>Derivative action for injury to the company<\/h3>\n<p>Under <a href=\"https:\/\/www.leg.state.fl.us\/statutes\/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&amp;URL=0600-0699\/0605\/Sections\/0605.0802.html\">Fla. Stat. \u00a7 605.0802<\/a>, a member can sue to enforce a right of the company. First, the member must demand that the managers or other members take action. If they do not act within a reasonable time, not to exceed 90 days, the member may sue.<\/p>\n<p>The first is when a demand would be futile. The second is when waiting would cause irreparable injury to the company.<\/p>\n<p>When a partner drains company cash, the company is usually the one harmed. That is why the claim type needs careful review.<\/p>\n<h2>Getting access to company records<\/h2>\n<p>When an LLC refuses to let you see its records, KEW Legal can review your situation and explain your options. Call 305-990-2300 to schedule a free, confidential first consultation with no obligation to continue.<\/p>\n<p>Keep a written record of every request, its date, and the response.<\/p>\n<h2>Deadlock, dissolution, and buyouts<\/h2>\n<p>Under <a href=\"https:\/\/www.leg.state.fl.us\/statutes\/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&amp;URL=0600-0699\/0605\/Sections\/0605.0702.html\">Fla. Stat. \u00a7 605.0702<\/a>, a manager or member may ask a circuit court to dissolve the company. Listed grounds include:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Conduct of all or substantially all of the company&#8217;s activities and affairs that is unlawful.<\/li>\n<li>Managers or members in control acting illegally or fraudulently.<\/li>\n<li>Assets being misappropriated or wasted, causing injury.<\/li>\n<li>Deadlock where the members cannot break it and irreparable injury is threatened or being suffered.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Read the operating agreement first. If the company is deadlocked, the members cannot break the deadlock, and irreparable injury to the company is threatened or being suffered, a deadlock sale provision in the operating agreement that was initiated before a court finds deadlock grounds applies instead of judicial dissolution, as long as it is then carried out under its terms. These provisions can call for a buyout, a governance change, or a sale of the company.<\/p>\n<h2>Trade secrets, competing, and moved assets<\/h2>\n<p>If your partner used confidential information, such as customer lists or pricing, Florida&#8217;s trade secret law may apply.<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Damages:<\/strong> Under <a href=\"https:\/\/www.leg.state.fl.us\/statutes\/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&amp;URL=0600-0699\/0688\/Sections\/0688.004.html\">Fla. Stat. \u00a7 688.004<\/a>, damages can include actual loss and unjust enrichment not counted in actual loss. For willful and malicious misappropriation, the court may award exemplary damages up to twice the award.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Court orders:<\/strong> Under <a href=\"https:\/\/www.leg.state.fl.us\/statutes\/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&amp;URL=0600-0699\/0688\/Sections\/0688.003.html\">Fla. Stat. \u00a7 688.003<\/a>, actual or threatened misappropriation may be enjoined.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Time limit:<\/strong> Under <a href=\"https:\/\/www.leg.state.fl.us\/statutes\/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&amp;URL=0600-0699\/0688\/Sections\/0688.007.html\">Fla. Stat. \u00a7 688.007<\/a>, the action must be brought within 3 years after the misappropriation is discovered, or should have been discovered with reasonable diligence.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>If a partner moves assets to hinder or defraud a creditor, Florida&#8217;s fraudulent transfer statute may apply. <a href=\"https:\/\/www.leg.state.fl.us\/statutes\/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&amp;URL=0700-0799\/0726\/Sections\/0726.105.html\">Fla. Stat. \u00a7 726.105<\/a> lists factors courts may weigh, such as a transfer to an insider or concealment of the transfer.<\/p>\n\n<div class=\"cta-dose-mid wp-block-group has-contrast-color has-surface-background-color has-text-color has-background has-global-padding is-layout-constrained wp-container-core-group-is-layout-32197852 wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\" style=\"background-color:var(--wp--preset--color--surface,#f2f3f5);color:var(--wp--preset--color--contrast,#22252b);border-radius:8px;padding-top:1.5rem;padding-bottom:1.5rem;padding-left:1.5rem;padding-right:1.5rem;border-left:6px solid var(--wp--preset--color--cta,currentColor);box-shadow:0 2px 10px rgba(0,0,0,0.18)\">\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading has-contrast-color has-text-color\">Not sure what your next step is?<\/h3><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Talk it through with our team &#8212; the first consultation is free, confidential, and carries no obligation.<\/p><div class=\"wp-block-buttons is-layout-flex wp-block-buttons-is-layout-flex\"><div class=\"wp-block-button chg-cta-call\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link wp-element-button\" href=\"tel:+13059902300\">Get a free consultation<\/a><\/div><div class=\"wp-block-button chg-cta-form\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link wp-element-button\" href=\"https:\/\/kewlegal.com\/contact-us\/\">Get a free consultation<\/a><\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<h2>Deadlines to keep in mind<\/h2>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Derivative demand:<\/strong> The other members or managers get a reasonable time to act, not to exceed 90 days, unless a demand would be futile or irreparable injury would result to the company.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>When a deadline starts and whether it applies depends on the facts. Don&#8217;t wait to find out.<\/p>\n<h2>Mistakes that can hurt your position<\/h2>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Cutting off a partner on your own.<\/strong> If you hold a manager or member role, the good faith duty applies to you too.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Waiting to document.<\/strong> Save bank statements, emails, texts, and every records request.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Skipping the demand.<\/strong> A derivative claim usually requires a written demand first.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2>Why KEW Legal for this matter<\/h2>\n<ul>\n<li>KEW Legal is a Florida business law firm with offices in Coral Gables and Sunny Isles Beach.<\/li>\n<li>The firm acts as outside general counsel for business owners and investors across Miami-Dade and South Florida.<\/li>\n<li>The work covers partnership disputes, vendor disputes, employee issues, buying, selling and succeeding a business, contracts and commercial leases, and investment property.<\/li>\n<li>Kristina E. Wilson is the attorney responsible for this page. Our team of assistants and office staff supports the practice.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2>Frequently asked questions<\/h2><details class=\"wp-block-details chg-faq is-layout-flow wp-block-details-is-layout-flow\"><summary>Can my partner shut me out of the company?<\/summary><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A partner may breach duties owed to you, depending on the facts. Managers of a manager-managed LLC and members of a member-managed LLC owe duties of loyalty and care and must act in good faith.<\/p><\/details><details class=\"wp-block-details chg-faq is-layout-flow wp-block-details-is-layout-flow\"><summary>Can a court dissolve my LLC because we are deadlocked?<\/summary><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A court can, but only if the statute&#8217;s conditions are met. The members must be unable to break the deadlock, and irreparable injury must be threatened or suffered.<\/p><\/details><details class=\"wp-block-details chg-faq is-layout-flow wp-block-details-is-layout-flow\"><summary>What is the difference between a direct and a derivative action?<\/summary><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A direct action enforces your own rights. A derivative action enforces a right of the company and generally requires a prior demand.<\/p><\/details><details class=\"wp-block-details chg-faq is-layout-flow wp-block-details-is-layout-flow\"><summary>How do I get access to LLC records?<\/summary><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Ask the company in writing. Should the company refuse, you can send KEW Legal a message to have attorney Kristina E. Wilson review the options open to you.<\/p><\/details><details class=\"wp-block-details chg-faq is-layout-flow wp-block-details-is-layout-flow\"><summary>What can I do if a business partner stole my business?<\/summary><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Start by documenting what happened and reviewing the operating agreement. Then get advice on which claim fits your facts.<\/p><\/details>\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large has-custom-border\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/kewlegal.com\/resources\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/a-black-framed-sorry-we-re-closed-sign-hangs-against-a-dark-photo.jpg\" alt=\"A black-framed &quot;Sorry We&#x27;re Closed&quot; sign hangs against a dark background.\" style=\"border-radius:8px;width:100%;aspect-ratio:16\/9;object-fit:cover\"\/><\/figure>\n<h2>Talk through your situation<\/h2>\n<p>If a business partner stole my business, you do not have to sort out the options alone. If your partner has cut you out of records, money, or decisions, you may have a claim worth reviewing. You can reach KEW Legal at 305-990-2300 or through <a href=\"https:\/\/kewlegal.com\/contact-us\/\">our contact page<\/a>. The first consultation is free, confidential, and carries no obligation to continue.<\/p>\n\n<\/article>\n<footer class=\"disclaimer\"><em>The engagement of a lawyer is an important decision that should not be based solely upon advertisements. The information on this website is general information about KEW Legal and the services we offer; it does not constitute legal advice and is intended for informational purposes only. Accessing this website or contacting our firm does not establish an attorney-client relationship. KEW Legal, 16690 Collins Ave Ste 1101, Sunny Isles Beach, FL 33160.<\/em><\/footer>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group alignwide has-global-padding is-layout-constrained wp-container-core-group-is-layout-583d630a wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\" style=\"padding-top:3rem;padding-bottom:3rem;padding-left:1.5rem;padding-right:1.5rem\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-align-center\">How KEW Legal Approaches Partnership Disputes<\/h2>\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns alignwide is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-f56f613f wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\"><div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\"><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span class=\"chg-icon chg-icon--document\"><\/span><\/p><h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Review the Governing Documents<\/h3><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We start with your operating agreement, articles of organization and company records to understand how the LLC is managed and what duties apply.<\/p><\/div><div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\"><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span class=\"chg-icon chg-icon--shield\"><\/span><\/p><h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Protect Your Position<\/h3><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We identify steps that can help preserve your interests while the dispute is evaluated, including how to handle access to records, accounts and company decisions.<\/p><\/div><div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\"><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span class=\"chg-icon chg-icon--lightbulb\"><\/span><\/p><h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Explore Practical Options<\/h3><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Depending on the facts, options may include negotiation, a buyout, a restructuring of the company or litigation in court. We explain the tradeoffs of each path.<\/p><\/div><div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\"><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span class=\"chg-icon chg-icon--chat\"><\/span><\/p><h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Clear Communication<\/h3><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Our team keeps you informed at every stage, so you always know where the matter stands and what decisions are ahead.<\/p><\/div><\/div>\n\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group has-contrast-color has-surface-background-color has-text-color has-background has-global-padding is-layout-constrained wp-container-core-group-is-layout-32197852 wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\" style=\"background-color:var(--wp--preset--color--surface,#f2f3f5);color:var(--wp--preset--color--contrast,#22252b);border-radius:8px;padding-top:1.5rem;padding-bottom:1.5rem;padding-left:1.5rem;padding-right:1.5rem;border-left:6px solid var(--wp--preset--color--cta,currentColor);box-shadow:0 2px 10px rgba(0,0,0,0.18)\">\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading has-contrast-color has-text-color\">Before You Act, Talk to Counsel<\/h3><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Changing bank signatories, locking out a partner or moving company assets without advice can complicate a dispute. Contact KEW Legal before taking significant action so your next step is planned, not reactive.<\/p><div class=\"wp-block-buttons is-layout-flex wp-block-buttons-is-layout-flex\"><div class=\"wp-block-button chg-cta-call\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link wp-element-button\" href=\"tel:+13059902300\">Contact KEW Legal<\/a><\/div><div class=\"wp-block-button chg-cta-form\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link wp-element-button\" href=\"https:\/\/kewlegal.com\/contact-us\/\">Contact KEW Legal<\/a><\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group alignfull has-surface-background-color has-background has-global-padding is-layout-constrained wp-container-core-group-is-layout-583d630a wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\" style=\"padding-top:3rem;padding-bottom:3rem;padding-left:1.5rem;padding-right:1.5rem\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-align-center\">Common Partner and LLC Disputes We Handle<\/h2>\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns alignwide is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-f56f613f wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\"><div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\"><div class=\"wp-block-group has-base-background-color has-background is-layout-flow wp-block-group-is-layout-flow\" style=\"border-radius:8px;box-shadow:0 4px 14px rgba(0,0,0,0.08);padding-top:1.5rem;padding-bottom:1.5rem;padding-left:1.5rem;padding-right:1.5rem\"><h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Shut Out of the Company<\/h3><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">When a partner blocks access to records, accounts or management, we review your rights under the operating agreement and Florida law.<\/p><\/div><\/div><div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\"><div class=\"wp-block-group has-base-background-color has-background is-layout-flow wp-block-group-is-layout-flow\" style=\"border-radius:8px;box-shadow:0 4px 14px rgba(0,0,0,0.08);padding-top:1.5rem;padding-bottom:1.5rem;padding-left:1.5rem;padding-right:1.5rem\"><h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Deadlock Between Members<\/h3><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">When members cannot agree on major decisions, we evaluate the available paths, including negotiated solutions and court relief where appropriate.<\/p><\/div><\/div><div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\"><div class=\"wp-block-group has-base-background-color has-background is-layout-flow wp-block-group-is-layout-flow\" style=\"border-radius:8px;box-shadow:0 4px 14px rgba(0,0,0,0.08);padding-top:1.5rem;padding-bottom:1.5rem;padding-left:1.5rem;padding-right:1.5rem\"><h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Misuse of Funds or Assets<\/h3><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If a partner has moved money or property without authority, we help you assess the records and pursue appropriate remedies.<\/p><\/div><\/div><div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\"><div class=\"wp-block-group has-base-background-color has-background is-layout-flow wp-block-group-is-layout-flow\" style=\"border-radius:8px;box-shadow:0 4px 14px rgba(0,0,0,0.08);padding-top:1.5rem;padding-bottom:1.5rem;padding-left:1.5rem;padding-right:1.5rem\"><h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Buyouts and Exit Terms<\/h3><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We help members negotiate or enforce buyout terms, valuation methods and the orderly transfer of ownership interests.<\/p><\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group alignfull has-base-color has-primary-background-color has-text-color has-background has-global-padding is-layout-constrained wp-container-core-group-is-layout-4d466591 wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\" style=\"background-color:var(--wp--preset--color--primary,#20242e);color:var(--wp--preset--color--base,#ffffff);padding-top:3rem;padding-bottom:3rem;padding-left:1.5rem;padding-right:1.5rem\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-align-center has-base-color has-text-color\">Talk to KEW Legal About Your Business Partner Dispute<\/h2>\n<div class=\"wp-block-buttons is-content-justification-center is-layout-flex wp-container-core-buttons-is-layout-0aa01211 wp-block-buttons-is-layout-flex\"><div class=\"wp-block-button chg-cta chg-cta-call\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link wp-element-button\" href=\"tel:+13059902300\">Schedule Your Free Consultation or Call 305-990-2300<\/a><\/div><div class=\"wp-block-button chg-cta chg-cta-form\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link wp-element-button\" href=\"https:\/\/kewlegal.com\/contact-us\/\">Schedule Your Free Consultation or Call 305-990-2300<\/a><\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Related practice areas<\/h2><ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><li>Outside General Counsel For Businesses<\/li><li><a href=\"\/resources\/outside-general-counsel-for-businesses\/my-business-partner-is-stealing-from-the-company\/\">My Business Partner Is Stealing from the Company<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"\/resources\/outside-general-counsel-for-businesses\/my-business-partner-stole-money-from-the-company\/\">My Business Partner Stole Money from the Company<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"\/resources\/outside-general-counsel-for-businesses\/miami-dade-county\/\">Outside General Counsel For Businesses in Miami-Dade County<\/a><\/li><\/ul>\n<!-- chg:section-siblings -->\n<nav aria-label=\"More in this section\">\n<h2>More in this section<\/h2>\n<ul><li><a href=\"\/resources\/outside-general-counsel-for-businesses\/can-i-sue-a-business-partner-for-abandonment\/\">Can I sue a business partner for abandonment?<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"\/resources\/outside-general-counsel-for-businesses\/can-i-sue-my-business-partner-for-stealing-from-the-company\/\">Can I sue my business partner for stealing from the company?<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"\/resources\/outside-general-counsel-for-businesses\/can-my-business-partner-withdraw-funds-without-my-consent\/\">Can my business partner withdraw funds without my consent?<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"\/resources\/outside-general-counsel-for-businesses\/can-you-sue-someone-for-sabotaging-your-business\/\">Can you sue someone for sabotaging your business?<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"\/resources\/outside-general-counsel-for-businesses\/commercial-lease-dispute-attorney-miami-dade\/\">Commercial Lease Dispute Attorney in Miami-Dade | KEW Legal<\/a><\/li><\/ul>\n<\/nav>\n<!-- \/chg:section-siblings -->","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Partner took money or cut you out of a Florida LLC? See direct and derivative claims, records access and key deadlines. KEW Legal, Coral Gables.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":2,"featured_media":0,"parent":14,"menu_order":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","template":"","meta":{"chg_review":"{\"v\": 1, \"checked_at\": \"2026-10-11T00:11:24+00:00\", \"checked\": true, \"jurisdiction\": \"Florida\", \"claims\": [{\"url\": \"https:\/\/www.leg.state.fl.us\/statutes\/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&URL=0600-0699\/0605\/Sections\/0605.04091.html\", \"cite\": \"Fla. Stat. \u00a7 605.04091\", \"heading\": \"Standards of conduct for members and managers.\", \"support\": \"owes fiduciary duties of loyalty and care\", \"verdict\": \"supported\", \"law_text\": \"(1) Each manager of a manager-managed limited liability company and member of a member-managed limited liability company owes fiduciary duties of loyalty and care to the limited liability company and members of the limited liability company. (2) The duty of loyalty includes: (a) Accounting to the limited liability company and holding as trustee for it any property, profit, or benefit derived by the manager or member, as applicable: 1. In the conduct or winding up of the company\u2019s activities and affairs; 2. \u2026\", \"sentence\": \"**Breach of duty.** Fla. Stat. \u00a7 605.04091 says LLC managers and members owe duties of loyalty and care.\"}, {\"url\": \"https:\/\/www.leg.state.fl.us\/statutes\/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&URL=0600-0699\/0605\/Sections\/0605.04091.html\", \"cite\": \"Fla. Stat. \u00a7 605.04091\", \"heading\": \"Standards of conduct for members and managers.\", \"support\": \"The duty of loyalty includes: (a) Accounting to the limited liability company and holding as trustee for it any property, profit, or benefit derived by the manager or member\", \"verdict\": \"supported\", \"law_text\": \"\u2026 (2) The duty of loyalty includes: (a) Accounting to the limited liability company and holding as trustee for it any property, profit, or benefit derived by the manager or member, as applicable: 1. In the conduct or winding up of the company\u2019s activities and affairs; 2. From the use by the member or manager of the company\u2019s property; or 3. From the appropriation of a company opportunity; \u2026\", \"sentence\": \"The duty of loyalty includes accounting for company property, profit, or benefit.\"}, {\"url\": \"https:\/\/www.leg.state.fl.us\/statutes\/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&URL=0600-0699\/0605\/Sections\/0605.04091.html\", \"cite\": \"Fla. Stat. \u00a7 605.04091\", \"heading\": \"Standards of conduct for members and managers.\", \"support\": \"Refraining from competing with the company in the conduct of the company\u2019s activities and affairs before the dissolution of the company.\", \"verdict\": \"supported\", \"law_text\": \"\u2026 From the appropriation of a company opportunity; (b) Refraining from dealing with the company in the conduct or winding up of the company\u2019s activities and affairs as, or on behalf of, a person having an interest adverse to the company, except to the extent that a transaction satisfies the requirements of s. 605.04092; and (c) Refraining from competing with the company in the conduct of the company\u2019s activities and affairs before the dissolution of the company. (3) The duty of care in the conduct or winding up of the company\u2019s activities and affairs is to refrain from engaging in grossly negligent or reckless conduct, willful or intentional misconduct, or a knowing violation of law. \u2026\", \"sentence\": \"It also bars competing with the company before dissolution.\"}, {\"url\": \"https:\/\/www.leg.state.fl.us\/statutes\/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&URL=0600-0699\/0620\/Sections\/0620.8404.html\", \"cite\": \"Fla. Stat. \u00a7 620.8404\", \"heading\": \"General standards of partner\u2019s conduct.\", \"support\": \"The only fiduciary duties a partner owes to the partnership and the other partners are the duty of loyalty and the duty of care\", \"verdict\": \"supported\", \"law_text\": \"(1) The only fiduciary duties a partner owes to the partnership and the other partners are the duty of loyalty and the duty of care, as set forth in subsections (2) and (3). (2) A partner\u2019s duty of loyalty to the partnership and the other partners is limited to the following: \u2026\", \"sentence\": \"Fla. Stat. \u00a7 620.8404 sets similar duties for partners.\"}, {\"url\": \"https:\/\/www.leg.state.fl.us\/statutes\/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&URL=0600-0699\/0620\/Sections\/0620.8405.html\", \"cite\": \"Fla. Stat. \u00a7 620.8405\", \"heading\": \"Actions by partnership and partners.\", \"support\": \"A partnership may maintain an action against a partner for a breach of the partnership agreement, or for the violation of a duty to the partnership, causing harm to the partnership.\", \"verdict\": \"supported\", \"law_text\": \"(1) A partnership may maintain an action against a partner for a breach of the partnership agreement, or for the violation of a duty to the partnership, causing harm to the partnership. (2) A partner may maintain an action against the partnership or another partner for legal or equitable relief, with or without an accounting as to partnership business, to: (a) Enforce such partner\u2019s rights under the partnership agreement; (b) Enforce such partner\u2019s rights under this act, including: 1. \u2026\", \"sentence\": \"**Claims between owners.** Fla. Stat. \u00a7 620.8405 lets a partnership sue a partner for breaching the partnership agreement or a duty that harms the partnership.\"}, {\"url\": \"https:\/\/www.leg.state.fl.us\/statutes\/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&URL=0600-0699\/0688\/Sections\/0688.002.html\", \"also\": [{\"url\": \"https:\/\/www.leg.state.fl.us\/statutes\/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&URL=0600-0699\/0688\/Sections\/0688.002.html\", \"cite\": \"Fla. Stat. \u00a7 688.002\", \"heading\": \"Definitions.\", \"support\": \"\u201cTrade secret\u201d means information, including a formula, pattern, compilation, program, device, method, technique, or process that:\", \"law_text\": \"\u2026 (3) \u201cPerson\u201d means a natural person, corporation, business trust, estate, trust, partnership, association, joint venture, government, governmental subdivision or agency, or any other legal or commercial entity. (4) \u201cTrade secret\u201d means information, including a formula, pattern, compilation, program, device, method, technique, or process that: (a) Derives independent economic value, actual or potential, from not being generally known to, and not being readily ascertainable by proper means by, other persons who can obtain economic value from its disclosure or use; and (b) Is the subject of efforts that are reasonable under the circumstances to maintain its secrecy. \u2026\"}], \"cite\": \"Fla. Stat. \u00a7 688.002\", \"heading\": \"Definitions.\", \"support\": \"\u201cMisappropriation\u201d means:\", \"verdict\": \"supported\", \"law_text\": \"\u2026 688.001-688.009, unless the context requires otherwise: (1) \u201cImproper means\u201d includes theft, bribery, misrepresentation, breach or inducement of a breach of a duty to maintain secrecy, or espionage through electronic or other means. (2) \u201cMisappropriation\u201d means: (a) Acquisition of a trade secret of another by a person who knows or has reason to know that the trade secret was acquired by improper means; or (b) Disclosure or use of a trade secret of another without express or implied consent by a person who: 1. Used improper means to acquire knowledge of the trade secret; or 2. \u2026\", \"sentence\": \"**Trade secrets.** If a partner took customer lists or proprietary methods, Fla. Stat. \u00a7 688.002 defines a trade secret and misappropriation.\"}, {\"url\": \"https:\/\/www.leg.state.fl.us\/statutes\/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&URL=0600-0699\/0688\/Sections\/0688.003.html\", \"cite\": \"Fla. Stat. \u00a7 688.003\", \"heading\": \"Injunctive relief.\", \"support\": \"Actual or threatened misappropriation may be enjoined.\", \"verdict\": \"supported\", \"law_text\": \"(1) Actual or threatened misappropriation may be enjoined. Upon application to the court, an injunction shall be terminated when the trade secret has ceased to exist, but the injunction may be continued for an additional reasonable period of time in order to eliminate commercial advantage that otherwise would be derived from the misappropriation. \u2026\", \"sentence\": \"Fla. Stat. \u00a7 688.003 allows a court to enjoin actual or threatened misappropriation.\"}, {\"url\": \"https:\/\/www.leg.state.fl.us\/statutes\/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&URL=0600-0699\/0688\/Sections\/0688.004.html\", \"cite\": \"Fla. Stat. \u00a7 688.004\", \"heading\": \"Damages.\", \"support\": \"If willful and malicious misappropriation exists, the court may award exemplary damages in an amount not exceeding twice any award made under subsection (1).\", \"verdict\": \"supported\", \"law_text\": \"\u2026 In lieu of damages measured by any other methods, the damages caused by misappropriation may be measured by imposition of liability for a reasonable royalty for a misappropriator\u2019s unauthorized disclosure or use of a trade secret. (2) If willful and malicious misappropriation exists, the court may award exemplary damages in an amount not exceeding twice any award made under subsection (1). History: s. 4, ch. 88-254.\", \"sentence\": \"If the misappropriation is willful and malicious, Fla. Stat. \u00a7 688.004 lets the court award exemplary damages up to twice the damages award.\"}, {\"url\": \"https:\/\/www.leg.state.fl.us\/statutes\/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&URL=0600-0699\/0605\/Sections\/0605.0105.html\", \"cite\": \"Fla. Stat. \u00a7 605.0105\", \"heading\": \"Operating agreement; scope, function, and limitations.\", \"support\": \"Relieve or exonerate a person from liability for conduct involving bad faith, willful or intentional misconduct, or a knowing violation of law.\", \"verdict\": \"supported\", \"law_text\": \"\u2026 605.04091, except as otherwise provided in subsection (4). (f) Eliminate the obligation of good faith and fair dealing under s. 605.04091, but the operating agreement may prescribe the standards by which the performance of the obligation is to be measured if the standards are not manifestly unreasonable. (g) Relieve or exonerate a person from liability for conduct involving bad faith, willful or intentional misconduct, or a knowing violation of law. (h) Unreasonably restrict the duties and rights stated in s. 605.0410, but the operating agreement may impose reasonable restrictions on the availability and use of information obtained under that section and may define appropriate remedies, including liquidated damages, for a breach of a reasonable restriction on use. \u2026\", \"sentence\": \"An operating agreement cannot relieve a person from liability for bad faith, willful misconduct, or a knowing violation of law.\"}, {\"url\": \"https:\/\/www.leg.state.fl.us\/statutes\/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&URL=0600-0699\/0605\/Sections\/0605.0410.html\", \"cite\": \"Fla. Stat. \u00a7 605.0410\", \"heading\": \"Records to be kept; rights of member, manager, and person dissociated to information.\", \"support\": \"A limited liability company shall keep at its principal office or another location the following records: (a) A current list of the full names and last known business, residence, or mailing addresses of each member and manager.\", \"verdict\": \"supported\", \"law_text\": \"(1) A limited liability company shall keep at its principal office or another location the following records: (a) A current list of the full names and last known business, residence, or mailing addresses of each member and manager. (b) A copy of the then-effective operating agreement, if made in a record, and all amendments thereto if made in a record. \u2026\", \"sentence\": \"Fla. Stat. \u00a7 605.0410 requires an LLC to keep a current list of members and managers.\"}, {\"url\": \"https:\/\/www.leg.state.fl.us\/statutes\/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&URL=0600-0699\/0605\/Sections\/0605.0410.html\", \"cite\": \"Fla. Stat. \u00a7 605.0410\", \"heading\": \"Records to be kept; rights of member, manager, and person dissociated to information.\", \"support\": \"Copies of the financial statements of the limited liability company, if any, for the 3 most recent years.\", \"verdict\": \"supported\", \"law_text\": \"\u2026 (d) Copies of the limited liability company\u2019s federal, state, and local income tax returns and reports, if any, for the 3 most recent years. (e) Copies of the financial statements of the limited liability company, if any, for the 3 most recent years. (f) Unless contained in an operating agreement made in a record, a record stating the amount of cash and a description and statement of the agreed value of the property or other benefits contributed and agreed to be contributed by each member, and the times at which or occurrence of events upon which additional contributions agreed to be made b \u2026\", \"sentence\": \"It also requires copies of financial statements for the 3 most recent years.\"}, {\"url\": \"https:\/\/www.leg.state.fl.us\/statutes\/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&URL=0600-0699\/0605\/Sections\/0605.0410.html\", \"cite\": \"Fla. Stat. \u00a7 605.0410\", \"heading\": \"Records to be kept; rights of member, manager, and person dissociated to information.\", \"support\": \"Upon reasonable notice, a member may inspect and copy during regular business hours\", \"verdict\": \"supported\", \"law_text\": \"\u2026 (2) In a member-managed limited liability company, the following rules apply: (a) Upon reasonable notice, a member may inspect and copy during regular business hours, at a reasonable location specified by the company: 1. The records described in subsection (1); and 2. \u2026\", \"sentence\": \"In a member-managed LLC, a member may inspect and copy records on reasonable notice.\"}, {\"url\": \"https:\/\/www.leg.state.fl.us\/statutes\/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&URL=0600-0699\/0605\/Sections\/0605.0411.html\", \"cite\": \"Fla. Stat. \u00a7 605.0411\", \"heading\": \"Court-ordered inspection.\", \"support\": \"may summarily order inspection and copying of the records demanded, at the limited liability company\u2019s expense\", \"verdict\": \"supported\", \"law_text\": \"\u2026 to inspect and copy any records required by that section to be available for inspection, the circuit court in the county where the limited liability company\u2019s principal office is or was last located, as shown by the records of the department or, if there is no principal office in this state, where its registered office is or was last located, may summarily order inspection and copying of the records demanded, at the limited liability company\u2019s expense, upon application of the member, manager, or other person. \u2026\", \"sentence\": \"If an LLC refuses inspection, Fla. Stat. \u00a7 605.0411 lets the circuit court summarily order inspection at the company's expense.\"}, {\"url\": \"https:\/\/www.leg.state.fl.us\/statutes\/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&URL=0600-0699\/0605\/Sections\/0605.0411.html\", \"cite\": \"Fla. Stat. \u00a7 605.0411\", \"heading\": \"Court-ordered inspection.\", \"support\": \"it shall also order the limited liability company to pay the costs, including reasonable attorney fees, reasonably incurred by the member, manager, or other person seeking the records to obtain the order and enforce its rights under this section unless the limited liability company proves that it refused inspection in good faith\", \"verdict\": \"supported\", \"law_text\": \"\u2026 (2) If the court orders inspection or copying of the records demanded, it shall also order the limited liability company to pay the costs, including reasonable attorney fees, reasonably incurred by the member, manager, or other person seeking the records to obtain the order and enforce its rights under this section unless the limited liability company proves that it refused inspection in good faith because the company had a reasonable basis for doubt about the right of the member, manager, or such other person to inspect or copy the records demanded. \u2026\", \"sentence\": \"The court must also order the company to pay reasonable attorney fees, unless the company shows a good-faith refusal.\"}, {\"url\": \"https:\/\/www.leg.state.fl.us\/statutes\/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&URL=0600-0699\/0605\/Sections\/0605.0802.html\", \"cite\": \"Fla. Stat. \u00a7 605.0802\", \"heading\": \"Derivative action.\", \"support\": \"The member first makes a demand on the other members in a member-managed limited liability company or the managers of a manager-managed limited liability company requesting that the managers or other members cause the company to take suitable action to enforce the right\", \"verdict\": \"supported\", \"law_text\": \"A member may maintain a derivative action to enforce a right of a limited liability company if: (1) The member first makes a demand on the other members in a member-managed limited liability company or the managers of a manager-managed limited liability company requesting that the managers or other members cause the company to take suitable action to enforce the right, and the managers or other members do not take the action within a reasonable time, not to exceed 90 days; or (2) A demand under subsection (1) would be futile, or irreparable injury would result to the company by waiting for the other members or the managers to take action to enforce the right in accordance with subsection (1). History: s. 2, ch. 2013-180.\", \"sentence\": \"**Derivative claims.** A member may sue for the company only after first demanding that the other members or managers act.\"}, {\"url\": \"https:\/\/www.leg.state.fl.us\/statutes\/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&URL=0600-0699\/0605\/Sections\/0605.0802.html\", \"cite\": \"Fla. Stat. \u00a7 605.0802\", \"heading\": \"Derivative action.\", \"support\": \"within a reasonable time, not to exceed 90 days\", \"verdict\": \"supported\", \"law_text\": \"A member may maintain a derivative action to enforce a right of a limited liability company if: (1) The member first makes a demand on the other members in a member-managed limited liability company or the managers of a manager-managed limited liability company requesting that the managers or other members cause the company to take suitable action to enforce the right, and the managers or other members do not take the action within a reasonable time, not to exceed 90 days; or (2) A demand under subsection (1) would be futile, or irreparable injury would result to the company by waiting for the other members or the managers to take action to enforce the right in accordance with subsection (1). History: s. 2, ch. 2013-180.\", \"sentence\": \"Under Fla. Stat. \u00a7 605.0802, the managers get a reasonable time to act, not to exceed 90 days.\"}, {\"url\": \"https:\/\/www.leg.state.fl.us\/statutes\/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&URL=0600-0699\/0605\/Sections\/0605.0802.html\", \"cite\": \"Fla. Stat. \u00a7 605.0802\", \"heading\": \"Derivative action.\", \"support\": \"A demand under subsection (1) would be futile, or irreparable injury would result to the company by waiting for the other members or the managers to take action to enforce the right\", \"verdict\": \"supported\", \"law_text\": \"A member may maintain a derivative action to enforce a right of a limited liability company if: (1) The member first makes a demand on the other members in a member-managed limited liability company or the managers of a manager-managed limited liability company requesting that the managers or other members cause the company to take suitable action to enforce the right, and the managers or other members do not take the action within a reasonable time, not to exceed 90 days; or (2) A demand under subsection (1) would be futile, or irreparable injury would result to the company by waiting for the other members or the managers to take action to enforce the right in accordance with subsection (1). History: s. 2, ch. 2013-180.\", \"sentence\": \"The demand can be excused if it would be futile or cause irreparable injury.\"}, {\"url\": \"https:\/\/www.leg.state.fl.us\/statutes\/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&URL=0600-0699\/0620\/Sections\/0620.8405.html\", \"cite\": \"Fla. Stat. \u00a7 620.8405\", \"heading\": \"Actions by partnership and partners.\", \"support\": \"A partner may maintain an action against the partnership or another partner for legal or equitable relief\", \"verdict\": \"supported\", \"law_text\": \"\u2026 (2) A partner may maintain an action against the partnership or another partner for legal or equitable relief, with or without an accounting as to partnership business, to: (a) Enforce such partner\u2019s rights under the partnership agreement; (b) Enforce such partner\u2019s rights under this act, including: 1. Such partner\u2019s rights under s. 620.8401, s. 620.8403, or s. 620.8404; 2. \u2026\", \"sentence\": \"If you think a business partner stole my business, you may have claims under Florida law.\"}, {\"url\": \"https:\/\/www.leg.state.fl.us\/statutes\/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&URL=0000-0099\/0095\/Sections\/0095.11.html\", \"cite\": \"Fla. Stat. \u00a7 95.11\", \"heading\": \"Limitations other than for the recovery of real property.\", \"support\": \"A legal or equitable action founded on fraud.\", \"verdict\": \"supported\", \"law_text\": \"\u2026 (d) An action for injury to a person founded on the design, manufacture, distribution, or sale of personal property that is not permanently incorporated in an improvement to real property, including fixtures. \u2026 (i) A legal or equitable action founded on fraud. (j) A legal or equitable action on a contract, obligation, or liability not founded on a written instrument, including an action for the sale and delivery of goods, wares, and merchandise, and on store accounts. \u2026 (o) Any action not specifically provided for in these statutes. (p) An action alleging a violation, other than a willful violation, of s. 448.110. \u2026\", \"sentence\": \"**Fraud.** A fraud claim is subject to a filing deadline under Florida law, so it is worth reviewing the timing of a possible claim early.\"}, {\"url\": \"https:\/\/www.leg.state.fl.us\/statutes\/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&URL=0600-0699\/0605\/Sections\/0605.0410.html\", \"cite\": \"Fla. Stat. \u00a7 605.0410\", \"heading\": \"Records to be kept; rights of member, manager, and person dissociated to information.\", \"support\": \"Upon reasonable notice, a member may inspect and copy during regular business hours\", \"verdict\": \"supported\", \"law_text\": \"\u2026 (2) In a member-managed limited liability company, the following rules apply: (a) Upon reasonable notice, a member may inspect and copy during regular business hours, at a reasonable location specified by the company: 1. The records described in subsection (1); and 2. \u2026\", \"sentence\": \"Florida law gives owners a route to company records.\"}, {\"url\": \"https:\/\/www.leg.state.fl.us\/statutes\/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&URL=0600-0699\/0620\/Sections\/0620.8405.html\", \"also\": [{\"url\": \"https:\/\/www.leg.state.fl.us\/statutes\/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&URL=0600-0699\/0605\/Sections\/0605.0802.html\", \"cite\": \"Fla. Stat. \u00a7 605.0802\", \"heading\": \"Derivative action.\", \"support\": \"A member may maintain a derivative action to enforce a right of a limited liability company\", \"law_text\": \"A member may maintain a derivative action to enforce a right of a limited liability company if: (1) The member first makes a demand on the other members in a member-managed limited liability company or the managers of a manager-managed limited liability company requesting that the managers or other members cause the company to take suitable action to enforce the right, and the managers or other members do not take the action within a reasonable time, not to exceed 90 days; or (2) A demand under subsection (1) would be futile, or irreparable injury would result to the company by waiting for the other members or the managers to take action to enforce the right in accordance with subsection (1). History: s. 2, ch. 2013-180.\"}], \"cite\": \"Fla. Stat. \u00a7 620.8405\", \"heading\": \"Actions by partnership and partners.\", \"support\": \"A partnership may maintain an action against a partner for a breach of the partnership agreement\", \"verdict\": \"supported\", \"law_text\": \"(1) A partnership may maintain an action against a partner for a breach of the partnership agreement, or for the violation of a duty to the partnership, causing harm to the partnership. (2) A partner may maintain an action against the partnership or another partner for legal or equitable relief, with or without an accounting as to partnership business, to: (a) Enforce such partner\u2019s rights under the partnership agreement; \u2026\", \"sentence\": \"The company or a co-owner may have claims under Florida law.\"}, {\"url\": \"https:\/\/www.leg.state.fl.us\/statutes\/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&URL=0600-0699\/0620\/Sections\/0620.8202.html\", \"cite\": \"Fla. Stat. \u00a7 620.8202\", \"heading\": \"Formation of partnership.\", \"support\": \"Except as otherwise provided in subsection (2), the association of two or more persons to carry on as co-owners a business for profit forms a partnership, whether or not the persons intend to form a partnership.\", \"verdict\": \"supported\", \"law_text\": \"(1) Except as otherwise provided in subsection (2), the association of two or more persons to carry on as co-owners a business for profit forms a partnership, whether or not the persons intend to form a partnership. (2) An association formed under a statute, other than this act, a predecessor statute, or a comparable law of another jurisdiction is not a partnership under this act. (3) In determining whether a partnership is formed, the following rules apply: \u2026\", \"sentence\": \"Under Florida partnership law, with certain exceptions, when two or more persons associate to carry on as co-owners a business for profit, they form a partnership, whether or not they intend to form one.\"}, {\"url\": \"https:\/\/www.leg.state.fl.us\/statutes\/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&URL=0600-0699\/0605\/Sections\/0605.0105.html\", \"also\": [{\"url\": \"https:\/\/www.leg.state.fl.us\/statutes\/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&URL=0600-0699\/0605\/Sections\/0605.0105.html\", \"cite\": \"Fla. Stat. \u00a7 605.0105\", \"heading\": \"Operating agreement; scope, function, and limitations.\", \"support\": \"To the extent the operating agreement does not otherwise provide for a matter described in subsection (1), this chapter governs the matter.\", \"law_text\": \"\u2026 (b) The rights and duties under this chapter of a person in the capacity of manager. (c) The activities and affairs of the company and the conduct of those activities and affairs. (d) The means and conditions for amending the operating agreement. (2) To the extent the operating agreement does not otherwise provide for a matter described in subsection (1), this chapter governs the matter. (3) An operating agreement may not do any of the following: (a) Vary a limited liability company\u2019s capacity under s. 605.0109 to sue and be sued in its own name. (b) Vary the law applicable under s. 605.0104. (c) Vary the requirement, procedure, or other provision of this chapter pertaining to: 1. Registered agents; or 2. \u2026\"}], \"cite\": \"Fla. Stat. \u00a7 605.0105\", \"heading\": \"Operating agreement; scope, function, and limitations.\", \"support\": \"Except as otherwise provided in subsections (3) and (4), the operating agreement governs the following: (a) Relations among the members as members and between the members and the limited liability company.\", \"verdict\": \"supported\", \"law_text\": \"(1) Except as otherwise provided in subsections (3) and (4), the operating agreement governs the following: (a) Relations among the members as members and between the members and the limited liability company. (b) The rights and duties under this chapter of a person in the capacity of manager. (c) The activities and affairs of the company and the conduct of those activities and affairs. (d) The means and conditions for amending the operating agreement. \u2026\", \"sentence\": \"Under Florida's LLC statute, with certain exceptions, the operating agreement governs relations among the members and between the members and the company, and the statute governs any of those matters the operating agreement does not address.\"}], \"languages\": [{\"code\": \"en\", \"post_id\": 201}]}","chg_sendback":"","chg_canonical":"","chg_lang":"","chg_hreflang":"[]","chg_jsonld":"[{\"name\": \"Florida LLC Co-Owner Dispute Guidance\", \"@type\": [\"Service\", \"FAQPage\"], \"@context\": \"https:\/\/schema.org\", \"audience\": {\"@type\": \"Audience\", \"audienceType\": \"Business owners and investors in Florida limited liability companies who are non-managing members or co-owners\"}, \"provider\": {\"@type\": \"Organization\", \"@id\": \"https:\/\/kewlegal.com\/resources\/#organization\", \"name\": \"KEW Legal\", \"url\": \"https:\/\/kewlegal.com\/\"}, \"speakable\": {\"@type\": \"SpeakableSpecification\", \"cssSelector\": [\"article > p:first-of-type\", \".wp-block-details p\", \"article > h1\"]}, \"areaServed\": [{\"name\": \"Miami-Dade County, Florida\", \"@type\": \"AdministrativeArea\"}, {\"name\": \"South Florida\", \"@type\": \"AdministrativeArea\"}], \"description\": \"Guidance for non-managing members of a Florida LLC who are shut out of company decisions, distributions, or information, or whose business partner has taken company money, property, or opportunities. Covers how the type of claim (direct or derivative) depends on how the company is organized and who was harmed, records access, and key deadlines to consider.\", \"serviceType\": \"Business dispute and co-owner claims under Florida law\", \"author\": {\"@type\": \"Person\", \"name\": \"Kristina E. Wilson\", \"url\": \"https:\/\/kewlegal.com\/our-team\/kristina-e-wilson\/\", \"jobTitle\": \"Founder\", \"sameAs\": [\"https:\/\/www.floridabar.org\/directories\/find-mbr\/profile\/?num=71205\", \"https:\/\/www.linkedin.com\/in\/kristina-wilson-702b5410\/\", \"https:\/\/www.avvo.com\/attorneys\/33160-fl-kristina-wilson-3417246.html\"]}, \"publisher\": {\"@type\": \"Organization\", \"@id\": \"https:\/\/kewlegal.com\/resources\/#organization\", \"name\": \"KEW Legal\", \"url\": \"https:\/\/kewlegal.com\/\"}, \"reviewedBy\": {\"@type\": \"Person\", \"name\": \"Natalie Martinez\", \"jobTitle\": \"Associate Attorney\", \"sameAs\": [\"https:\/\/www.floridabar.org\/directories\/find-mbr\/profile\/?num=1003311\"]}, \"inLanguage\": \"en\", \"mainEntity\": [{\"@type\": \"Question\", \"name\": \"Can my partner shut me out of the company?\", \"acceptedAnswer\": {\"@type\": \"Answer\", \"text\": \"A partner may breach duties owed to you, depending on the facts. Managers of a manager-managed LLC and members of a member-managed LLC owe duties of loyalty and care and must act in good faith.\"}}, {\"@type\": \"Question\", \"name\": \"Can a court dissolve my LLC because we are deadlocked?\", \"acceptedAnswer\": {\"@type\": \"Answer\", \"text\": \"A court can, but only if the statute's conditions are met. The members must be unable to break the deadlock, and irreparable injury must be threatened or suffered.\"}}, {\"@type\": \"Question\", \"name\": \"What is the difference between a direct and a derivative action?\", \"acceptedAnswer\": {\"@type\": \"Answer\", \"text\": \"A direct action enforces your own rights. A derivative action enforces a right of the company and generally requires a prior demand.\"}}, {\"@type\": \"Question\", \"name\": \"How do I get access to LLC records?\", \"acceptedAnswer\": {\"@type\": \"Answer\", \"text\": \"Ask the company in writing. Should the company refuse, you can send KEW Legal a message to have attorney Kristina E. Wilson review the options open to you.\"}}, {\"@type\": \"Question\", \"name\": \"What can I do if a business partner stole my business?\", \"acceptedAnswer\": {\"@type\": \"Answer\", \"text\": \"Start by documenting what happened and reviewing the operating agreement. Then get advice on which claim fits your facts.\"}}]}, {\"@context\": \"https:\/\/schema.org\", \"@type\": \"BreadcrumbList\", \"itemListElement\": [{\"@type\": \"ListItem\", \"position\": 1, \"name\": \"Home\", \"item\": \"https:\/\/kewlegal.com\/resources\/\"}, {\"@type\": \"ListItem\", \"position\": 2, \"name\": \"Outside General Counsel For Businesses\", \"item\": \"https:\/\/kewlegal.com\/resources\/outside-general-counsel-for-businesses\/\"}, {\"@type\": \"ListItem\", \"position\": 3, \"name\": \"Business Partner Stole My Business: Florida LLC Options\", \"item\": \"https:\/\/kewlegal.com\/resources\/outside-general-counsel-for-businesses\/business-partner-stole-my-business\/\"}]}]","chg_meta_description":"Partner took money or cut you out of a Florida LLC? See direct and derivative claims, records access and key deadlines. KEW Legal, Coral Gables.","footnotes":""},"class_list":["post-201","page","type-page","status-publish","hentry"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/kewlegal.com\/resources\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/201","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/kewlegal.com\/resources\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/kewlegal.com\/resources\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/page"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/kewlegal.com\/resources\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/2"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/kewlegal.com\/resources\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=201"}],"version-history":[{"count":5,"href":"https:\/\/kewlegal.com\/resources\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/201\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":5403,"href":"https:\/\/kewlegal.com\/resources\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/201\/revisions\/5403"}],"up":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/kewlegal.com\/resources\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/14"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/kewlegal.com\/resources\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=201"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}