Derivative Action

/ˈdɛrɪvətɪv ˈækʃən/

Definitions

  1. (n.) A lawsuit initiated by a shareholder on behalf of a corporation to enforce rights the corporation has failed to assert.
    The shareholder brought a derivative action against the board for breaching their fiduciary duty.

Forms

  • derivative actions

Commentary

Derivative actions are a critical tool for minority shareholders to address wrongs against the corporation when management fails to act.

This glossary is for general informational and educational purposes only. Definitions are jurisdiction-agnostic but reflect terminology and concepts primarily drawn from English and American legal traditions. Nothing herein constitutes legal advice or creates a lawyer-client relationship. Users should consult qualified counsel for advice on specific matters or jurisdictions.

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Amicus Docs | Derivative Action Definition