Helping Franchise Owners Succeed

Whether you are developing a franchise system or simply looking to purchase a franchise, you know that experience counts – experience that can help you find your way through the franchise maze. We have helped companies and individuals navigate the franchise maze for over 30 years.

Our lawyers' experience includes:

Franchise Focus - Commercial law/franchise litigation practice for over 30 years

  • Franchise Disclosure Document - Preparation and development
  • Franchisor/Franchise Systems - General/ongoing representation of franchise systems
  • Franchise Dispute Resolution - Mediation, and arbitration
  • Franchise Experience - Government regulator, General Counsel and private practice
  • Former General Counsel - Damon's Grill®
  • Franchise Development – Former VP of Franchise Development for Damon's Grill®
  • Franchisee Representation - Franchise buyers & multi-unit operators/FDD Review/Negotiation
  • How to Buy a Franchise
  • Franchise Groups – Former General Counsel to a Petroleum Retailers Association

Development and Representation of Franchise Systems

The franchise business model can be applied successfully to almost any type of business. But did you know:

  • Franchising is highly regulated in the United States and, in some instances, abroad?
  • In the U.S., a mishmash of state and federal franchise laws control the process?
  • 15 states have franchise disclosure laws and many more have business opportunity laws?
  • Calling a "franchise" by another name ("start-your-own-business," "license," "distributorship" or "business opportunity") seldom sidesteps the franchise laws?
  • Approximately 20 states have franchise relationship laws?
  • Navigating the maze of franchise laws and regulations can be a daunting task but with the proper guidance you can develop a competitive and legally-compliant franchise system.

Experience, knowledge and direction are essential to the franchise development process. Starting a franchise system is a collaborative, symbiotic process that we embrace with each new venture. And, once you are up and running, we are ready to assist with your day-to-day questions and challenges.

We are ready to help with all of your franchise development needs.

Franchise Owners and Purchasers

Buying a franchise is the biggest investment you will ever make but some people think they can go it alone. That's when their biggest investment turns into their biggest mistake.

Franchising continues to be the preferred choice when starting a new business … but your fate is tied to the franchisor and family of franchisees. Choose carefully...

There is much to learn:

  • What is an FDD?
  • What if it is a "license"? Do I still need an attorney?
  • Can I negotiate?
  • When do I consult with an attorney?
  • How much will I make?
  • What is a national ad fund?
  • The salesman told me I could expect great returns but I don't see it in the FDD?

Client education is where we begin. One of our lawyers authored How to Buy a Franchise to help our clients. Franchise buyers should have a thorough understanding of franchising before looking into specific franchise concepts or systems. Investigating the business, the franchise system and the unit economics are crucial. Only when our client has a complete understanding of the business, the franchisor and the franchise agreement are they ready to purchase.

Contact Us To Learn More

Call our offices at 614-799-2800 or send an email to request a return call to schedule a consultation.

Please visit www.fddlawyer.com and www.ohiofranchiselawyer.com to learn more.