Choosing your Franchise Lawyer

Not every business lawyer has experience in franchising.

Franchise law is a unique. It involves special federal laws. In some cases, it also involves special state laws. It involves a unique culture, with its own unofficial norms and standards.

So, you want to make sure that your lawyer has the expertise and experience to actually provide the help you need.

Now the harder part. How can you tell if a lawyer has the expertise and experience you want?

A good, old-fashioned interview should be part of your process. We recommend that you ask the following types of questions:

  • How many FDDs/Franchise Agreements have you reviewed? Negotiated?
  • Give me the names of some of the franchises you've worked on?
  • Do you lecture and/or write about franchise issues?
    • If yes, where, when, to whom?
  • Have you represented clients in franchise lawsuits? In franchise arbitrations?
    • If yes, how many? In Texas? Where else?
  • Have you ever helped a franchisee sell/transfer their franchise?
    • If yes, give some examples.

At Dickinson & Wheelock P.C., we also think your franchise lawyer should be able to serve as your company's “general counsel” on other business matters. So, ask the lawyer:

  • Can you help me form my legal entity?
    • How many entities have you formed?
  • Can you help me review and negotiate my lease?
    • What's your experience in leases for franchisees?
  • Can you help with employee issues?
    • What's your experience?
  • Do you have your own business experience?
    • If yes, tell me about it.
  • If I have disputes, will you be able to help me?
    • What experience do you have in litigation? In arbitration?

When you ask these questions, listen to the answer. But also listen to the way that the lawyer answers. Not only should you be looking for a lawyer with the right kind of experience, you should be looking for a lawyer that you trust.

Franchisors

Contact

Jeff Wheelock

Read what others have to say about our franchise expertise

I can not recommend Jeff highly enough. From the very first time I spoke to him on the phone, through to the very thorough line by line review of the franchise agreement he was very informative, explaining issues, both good and bad, in simple easy to understand language. In addition to line by line analysis, the amendments and negotiating points were invaluable. I will definitely use Jeff in the future and would recommend him to anyone thinking of starting a franchise.
Ralph T.
Jeff Wheelock has been great to work with and his knowledge of franchise law has been invaluable during the daunting task of our franchise acquisition. He is patient, thorough easy to get ahold of and explains things in easy to understand verbiage. We are very confident that with Jeff by our side regarding all franchise legal matters, we have a true team mate to help guide us! We highly recommend him.
Rachel S.
Like many others have stated, I felt instantly comfortable with Jeff Wheelock starting with the first phone call. He was up front about the pricing and scope of his services. He was ready to work with me right away. When it came time to review the FDD and contract, he gave his frank opinion along with patient teaching of what certain items meant. I'm pretty well educated and had lots of experience with contracts before, but there were still about 4 key sections that I had not noticed would leave me very vulnerable. I'm pretty tough to impress and my expectations were exceeded working with Jeff.
Will R.

Read all of our 5-Star Google reviews!

Copyright © 1997-2024 Dickinson & Wheelock, P.C. All rights reserved. TexasFranchiseAttorney.com, www.DWLegal.com