Practices

Franchising and Franchises

The world of franchising can present profitable opportunities and significant risk for franchisor and franchisee alike. If you are involved in franchising, expert legal counsel is a must. Our practice group chair has in-house experience in franchise operations and transactions with a large franchisor, affording us a great deal of insight into the practical issues facing franchisors and franchisees.

Franchisors. Fraser Trebilcock's attorneys will help you comply with the FTC Franchise Disclosure Rule and the various state laws that apply to franchises. Our attorneys draft franchise and license agreements and the Uniform Franchise Offering Circular ("UFOC"). They also handle state filings where required and work on the annual updates to the franchise agreements and state filings as appropriate.

Franchisees. Before you buy a franchise, you should have an experienced attorney review the UFOC and franchise agreement. Fraser Trebilcock's attorneys know what to look for. They can help you understand the terms of the offered franchise, evaluate what is normal and what is unusual, and evaluate the risks associated with making an investment in the franchise. Once you have invested in a franchise, you may have questions from time to time about your relationship with your franchisor. Our attorneys would be happy to work through these issues with you, and advise you as to your rights.