Limited Liability and Veil Piercing

Limited liability of shareholders of corporations is the primary principle of corporate law in most countries. Limited liability is however subject of debates by law and economic scholars. The research method applied in this research is theoretical analysis and the research approach is non-normative analyzing the possible solution without considering status que in search of most efficient solution. Limited liability is not efficient in terms of economic analysis of law, particularly in the context of company group, which is the main actor of the today’s world. The externalities created by abuse of company form exceed its benefits. Common law doctrine of veil piercing sets aside the veil of corporation and holding shareholders personally liable for company debts in case of abuses by shareholders or lack of observance of company formalities. This doctrine can modify the effect of the externalities and reduce moral hazard created by limitation of liability. Such theory or similar mechanisms, except with special regulations related to the tax and banking system, do not exist in Iran legal system. Therefore legislation in this regard is recommended.