Are we owners?

Business 3 views 4 answers
Shares of a close corporation were purchased over 25 years ago. It was recently learned that the seller did not have legal title. We paid for the shares, are we owners? We have a corporate stock certificate but it too was issued by the seller who never surrendered them.

Attorney Answers

4
Edna Straus ·
Thus question is probably beyond the scope of , but I will change the category. BTW, It would be wise to avoid the passive voice in such inquiries.
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Adam A StudnickiPersonal Injury LawyerScottsdale, AZ ·
Your question is unclear. I don't understand how you have the stock certificate if the seller never surrendered it. The stock certificate is evidence of ownership. Check with the corporation and see if they list you as a shareholder of record. If not, you probably have a claim against whoever sold you the shares, except there could be a statute of limitations problem. Talk to a lawyer ASAP as there are deadlines for making legal claims.
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George Munoz ·
Your question is a little confusing please clarify
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Robert Marks ·
You don't say the most important fact: did the seller sell the stock to someone else? Because, if so, your only claim is an action against the sell for money. However, if the seller still owns the stock, he could (depends on other facts) be forced to give them to you since you paid for them. You need a lawyer to review any documentation, talk to the corporation and look up any relevant state corporate and contract law.
0 upvotes

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