Becoming a franchisor is very complicated and highly regulated, but Guzman Law Group can navigate that process and make sure that the client is in compliance with federal and state laws, whether you are a start up or established franchisor. We also deal with the relationship between franchisor and franchisee in regards to fees, encroachments/territory disputes, and buy/sell agreements. Our expertise can guide you through the day to day business and franchise issues you face as you grow your system. We’ll help you every step of the way to position you so you can expand your system domestically and internationally.

Guzman Law Group can help you, the client, as you become a franchisee. We also deal with franchisees who have disputes between other franchisees and/or franchisors. In the event that the client is selling his/her franchise, we can facilitate and manage your exit strategy.

Representative work

For Franchisors:

• Counseling and advising new franchise businesses
• Creating new entities and/or partnerships amongst franchisor
• Preparing FDD (Franchise Disclosure Documents) and related exhibits, including Franchise Agreements, Area Development Agreements, and Sub-Franchisor/Franchisee relationships
• Coordinating and ensuring regulatory compliance in registration states, as well as business opportunity states
• Dispute resolution on fees, encroachments/territory, termination and other relationship issues between the franchisor and franchisee or third parties.

For Franchisees:

• Reviewing franchise agreements
• Sales/Transfers of franchisee businesses
• Franchise renewals
• Dispute resolution on matters with franchisors and/or third parties.

For Licensees:

• Evaluate the licensing vs. franchising business format for a particular business concept
• Review or draft licensing and/or distribution arrangements
• Dispute resolution on matters between licensors/licensees and/or third parties.