A shareholder agreement is one of the most important documents a business can have. It is more than just paperwork, it is a roadmap for how a company will be owned, managed, and protected. In Canada, a well-drafted shareholder agreement not only outlines ownership and decision-making but also plays a critical role in preventing disputes from turning into costly litigation. When disagreements do arise, litigation lawyers step in to protect shareholder rights and, where possible, resolve conflicts without a lengthy court battle.