The research studies the liability that arises from the determination of policy at a company. In principle, directors and shareholders of companies are not liable for obligations of the company. Under special circumstances, it is possible to deviate from this principle, so that the director or shareholder can still be liable. Such liability may also apply to persons who do not hold a formal management position in the company, but who have acted as such. The author describes various cases in which liability can be assumed for policy-making, distinguishes differences and parallels between the various schemes and provides practical guidance