Balvik v. Sylvester

In 1979, Elmer Balvik (plaintiff) and Thomas Sylvester (defendant) formed a partnership called Weldon Electric. Balvik quit his prior job and contributed $10,000 to Weldon’s assets, and Sylvester contributed $25,000. Each maintained equal rights in management of the business. In 1984, Balvik and Sylvester incorporated Weldon, with Sylvester receiving 70 percent of the stock and Balvik receiving 30 percent, in proportion to their contributions. Sylvester, Balvik, and each of their wives were Weldon’s four directors. According to the bylaws, shareholders were entitled to one vote per share of stock owned, which gave Balvik a minority interest in control of the company. In 1985, Sylvester and Balvik had a falling out and Sylvester fired Balvik as an employee. Balvik then filed suit against Sylvester seeking Weldon’s dissolution, or payment of the true value of his stock. Specifically, Balvik contended that Sylvester had oppressed Balvik by using his majority control to fire him. At Weldon’s annual shareholder meeting the following year, Sylvester used his 70-percent vote to amend the bylaws, reducing the number of directors and removing Balvik from the board. Balvik received no compensation from the corporation. The trial court found in Balvik’s favor, concluding that Sylvester was guilty of oppression, and that Sylvester’s conduct formed the basis for Weldon’s dissolution. Sylvester appealed.