Information for Franchisors

Attorney Rob Castle has experience representing some of the nation’s largest and most recognizable franchisors, both domestically and abroad—including brands in the restaurant, fitness, education, and entertainment industries. For franchisors, The Castle Law Firm will provide comprehensive counseling in transactions and compliance with the many intricate regulations and laws applicable to franchisors on both the state and federal levels. From establishing your growing franchise system to managing franchisees and franchisee relationships, The Castle Law Firm will work with you every step of the way to put you in a position to achieve your business goals. Some of the services the firm offers include:

• Drafting Franchise Disclosure Documents (FDDs) and related disclosure material
  • In the case of an existing franchisor with a mature program, we will tailor your document to meet your unique needs
• Registering your system with the appropriate state agencies nationwide, maintaining your continuing compliance obligations, seeking exemptions where appropriate, and managing your yearly expirations and renewals – all while acting as your liaison with the state and federal regulators overseeing this process
• Negotiating with prospective franchisees, and drafting your franchise agreements, area development agreements, lease addendums, trademark licenses, confidentiality and non-disclosure agreements, guarantees, and related material
• Managing and documenting relationships with licensees, vendors, and suppliers
• Assisting you in enforcing system standards, including drafting default and termination agreements to put your franchisees on notice of possible violations
• Protecting your post-termination and non-renewal rights against competition, solicitation, and disclosure of your confidential information
• Applying for and protecting your trademark and intellectual property
• Providing Consents and other transactional material in the event of a unit sale by a franchisee

International: If and when you are ready to bring your business global, The Castle Law Firm has you covered. The firm has experience facilitating franchisors’ operations and expansion internationally – including negotiating and documenting master franchise and area development deals, drafting disclosure material that complies with your new country’s regulations, and registering and protecting your intellectual property rights as you operate abroad.