Defending a Business Legacy: Ian Coupland Leads Six-Day Trial to Victory

Another standout success in Ian Coupland’s outstanding career in Litigation was his representation of the founder of a well-established estate agency in a high-stakes dispute against a former business partner. The case, which culminated in a six-day trial, highlighted both Ian’s tenacity in court and his deep understanding of the commercial and personal dynamics at play in partnership disputes.

The estate agency in question had been painstakingly built up by its founder over the course of three decades, developing a loyal client base and an impressive reputation in a highly competitive market. However, this legacy came under serious threat when a new partner attempted to divert both clients and income away from the firm. The value of the attempted misappropriation was estimated at around £300,000, with the former partner seeking to claim entitlement to revenue from work carried out by the company.

Ian Coupland led the case with characteristic precision, constructing a compelling narrative that underscored the founder’s long-standing commitment and hard work in creating the business. Drawing on the idea of “standing on the shoulders of giants,” Ian emphasised that the former partner had sought to benefit from the fruits of decades of enterprise and dedication without proper entitlement.

At trial, Ian’s strategic approach proved decisive. The claim brought by the former partner was robustly dismantled, and the court delivered a resounding victory for the founder. In addition to dismissing the claim, the court awarded an indemnity costs order in favour of the estate agency, ensuring that the client was not left burdened by the significant expense of defending the proceedings.

The outcome was more than a legal win; it was the safeguarding of a lifetime’s work and the protection of a business’s hard-earned reputation. For Ian Coupland, this case exemplifies his ability to blend rigorous legal strategy with a keen appreciation of the personal stakes involved, delivering results that truly matter for his clients.

If you are facing a partnership dispute, a breach of trust, or an attempt by a former colleague or business partner to divert clients or income, it is vital to act quickly and with the right legal support. Our Litigation team, led by Ian Coupland, has extensive experience in protecting businesses and their founders in high-value and complex disputes.

Contact us today to discuss your situation in confidence and find out how we can help you safeguard the future of your business.