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offitkurman logo Offit Kurman is among the fastest-growing law firms in the United States, offering comprehensive legal services to address virtually all your needs.

Offit Kurman is among the fastest-growing law firms in the United States, offering comprehensive legal services to address virtually all your needs.

Franchise Law

Building a business around a reputable brand provides numerous benefits. At Offit Kurman, we work with distributors, suppliers, franchisors, and franchisees to establish successful ventures across the United States and internationally. Our services extend to assisting foreign franchisors with their U.S. business operations and helping U.S. franchisors expand globally. With a wealth of experience, the attorneys on Offit Kurman’s Franchising Team have supported a wide range of industries by developing compliant franchise systems, advising established franchisors, and addressing regulatory issues with state franchise authorities.

Our legal team, known for its expertise in franchise law, includes seasoned attorneys who actively participate as members and leaders in prominent organizations such as the American Bar Association’s Forum on Franchising, the International Franchise Association, and various state bar associations. Team members frequently contribute to the franchise community through speaking engagements, published articles, and thought leadership, including the firm’s Franchise Alchemy blog.

Franchise Business Services

Whether representing franchisors or franchisees, we routinely draft and review franchise agreements, disclosure documents, and manage state franchise registration and renewal requirements. We also assist business owners with the legal complexities of operating a company, encompassing real estate, intellectual property, employment law, and commercial contracts. Our services include:

  • Structuring appropriate business entities
  • Providing securities counsel
  • Handling trademark applications and portfolios
  • Drafting trade secret agreements
  • Managing mergers and acquisitions
  • Developing license, technology, distribution, and supply agreements
  • Negotiating international agreements
  • Advising on labor, employment, and joint employer issues
  • Preparing commercial leases

Franchise Dispute Resolution

We represent parties involved in franchise and distribution relationships in federal and state courts, alternative dispute resolution forums, and administrative proceedings. Our team frequently addresses matters such as:

  • Franchisee and distributor terminations
  • Bankruptcy-related litigation
  • Breach of contract claims
  • Intellectual property disputes, including trademarks and licensing
  • Unfair competition allegations
  • Labor and employment conflicts
  • Encroachment issues
  • Commercial disputes
  • Non-solicitation and non-compete violations
  • Real estate disagreements

Our goal is to deliver practical, effective solutions tailored to the unique challenges of franchising and business operations.