West Virginia Business Lawyers Skilled in Franchise Relationships
Reputable Charleston law firm advises franchisors and franchisees
Franchising is a useful model for investment in and operation of a business. It allows the franchisor company to grow efficiently while allowing franchisees to tap into an established brand, get corporate support and retain a good degree of autonomy. At Pullin, Fowler, Flanagan, Brown & Poe, our business attorneys have experience with assisting parties on either end of the franchise transaction. We can provide reliable legal services to facilitate your business’s success.
Basics of franchise law in West Virginia
A franchise operates under the brand of an established business. The franchisor sells the rights to a franchisee, which owns and manages the local shop. The franchisor promises ongoing support through training, corporate guidance, marketing, supplies, proprietary products and trademarked merchandise. The franchisee agrees to uphold the standards of the parent company and to pay a share of the profits.
Legal services for franchisors
Franchising companies can expand more quickly at a lower cost per location than traditional business models. Our provides a range of services for franchisors, including:
- Drafting and reviewing franchise business plans
- Drafting the franchise disclosure document (FDD)
- Drafting franchise agreements
- Registering the business with state and local governments
- Complying with all pertinent government regulations
- Securing the company’s intellectual property, including trademark or service mark registration
- Providing legal advice and counsel on such matters as recruitment, training, managing disputes and enforcing franchise agreements
We can help you put your company on an effective path to secure growth.
Guiding franchisees towards business success
Our business law attorneys assist franchisees, many of whom are first-time business owners who need personalized assistance. Franchised businesses are not without risks, and buyers might suffer remorse due to oppressive terms in their agreement and lack of support from the parent company. Our lawyers understand the perils of one-sided franchise agreements and are meticulous about protecting your interests. Services we provide include:
- Reviewing franchise agreements and negotiating fair terms
- Reviewing the FDD and other relevant documents
- Conducting risk assessment
- Advising on financing options
- Assisting with loan applications
- Providing legal support on an ongoing basis
It is not uncommon for franchisees to have disputes with the parent company over a perceived lack of promised support. Our law firm is determined to assert your rights so you obtain the full benefit of your bargain.
Although franchise ownership is beneficial to many who would not otherwise be able to go into business for themselves, a percentage of franchisees find the arrangement unprofitable or otherwise unworkable. Should that happen in your case, we can assist with termination of the franchise agreement.
Litigation services for franchisors and franchisees
Our legal team is able to represent your interests in any dispute related to your franchise agreement. Because litigation can be expensive and time consuming, many franchise agreements contain clauses that require alternative dispute resolution, such as through arbitration or mediation. Our firm has ample experience in pursuing the appropriate remedy and seeking optimal results.
Contact a law firm experienced in franchise law
The business attorneys at Pullin, Fowler, Flanagan, Brown & Poe provide franchise services for business buyers and sellers throughout West Virginia, Ohio, and Kentucky. Call us at 304-344-0100 or contact us online to retain trustworthy guidance.
