Franchise Law

Overview

Franchise law requires specialized knowledge of complex regulations, disclosure requirements, and relationship dynamics between franchisors and franchisees. At Martin Harvey's Lawfirm, we provide comprehensive legal services for all aspects of franchising, from developing franchise systems to negotiating agreements and resolving disputes. Our attorneys combine deep expertise in franchise law with practical business insight to help clients successfully navigate franchise opportunities, expansions, and challenges.

Who We Help

Franchisors

Business owners looking to expand through franchising who need help structuring franchise systems, preparing disclosure documents, and managing franchise relationships.

Franchisees

Entrepreneurs considering franchise opportunities who need expert review of franchise agreements and disclosure documents before making significant investments.

Multi-Unit Operators

Established franchisees expanding to multiple locations who require sophisticated legal counsel for development agreements and ongoing compliance.

International Franchises

Companies seeking to franchise internationally or foreign franchisors entering UK and European markets who need cross-border legal expertise.

Our Process

1

Business Assessment

We evaluate your business model, growth objectives, and franchising goals to determine the optimal franchise structure and strategy for success.

2

Documentation Development

Our team prepares comprehensive franchise disclosure documents, franchise agreements, operations manuals, and all required legal documentation in compliance with regulations.

3

Regulatory Compliance

We ensure full compliance with franchise regulations, including required registrations and filings, protecting you from legal risks and penalties.

4

Agreement Negotiation

Whether representing franchisors or franchisees, we skillfully negotiate franchise terms to protect our clients' interests while facilitating successful partnerships.

5

Ongoing Support

We provide continued legal counsel for franchise renewals, transfers, disputes, and system modifications as your franchise network evolves.

What to Expect

Comprehensive Disclosure: For franchisors, we prepare detailed franchise disclosure documents that meet all legal requirements while effectively presenting your opportunity.

Due Diligence: For franchisees, we conduct thorough reviews of franchise agreements and financial disclosures, identifying potential risks and negotiating favorable terms.

Regulatory Expertise: We navigate complex franchise regulations across jurisdictions, ensuring compliance with disclosure laws, registration requirements, and relationship rules.

Business Partnership: We serve as strategic advisors, combining legal expertise with business acumen to help you build successful franchise relationships and systems.

Frequently Asked Questions

You need a proven business model, proper trademark protection, franchise disclosure documents (FDD), franchise agreement, operations manual, and compliance with franchise regulations. We guide you through each requirement.

Review the FDD carefully, analyze financial performance representations, speak with current franchisees, assess the franchise agreement terms, and have our attorneys conduct legal due diligence before signing.

While many franchisors present standard agreements, certain terms may be negotiable, particularly for experienced franchisees or multi-unit deals. We identify negotiation opportunities and advocate for favorable terms.