In the world of franchising, every contract signed and every document exchanged can have long-lasting legal and financial consequences. Whether you’re a franchisee investing in a new opportunity or a franchisor expanding your brand, one of the smartest decisions you can make is hiring an experienced franchise lawyer.
Franchise law is more than just contracts—it involves federal regulations, state-specific requirements, complex disclosure obligations, and often, litigation. Without the right legal guidance, both franchisors and franchisees face serious risks. That’s why working with a franchise lawyer who understands the entire legal landscape is essential to building and protecting a successful business.
What Does a Franchise Lawyer Do?
A franchise lawyer specializes in legal issues unique to franchising, such as drafting and reviewing Franchise Disclosure Documents (FDDs), negotiating franchise agreements, resolving disputes, ensuring regulatory compliance, and more.
For franchisees, a franchise lawyer can:
- Review the FDD to identify potential red flags
- Explain obligations, restrictions, and risks
- Negotiate more favorable contract terms
- Identify areas of potential legal exposure
- Assist in disputes, exits, or threats of termination
For franchisors, a franchise lawyer helps:
- Draft and register compliant FDDs
- Structure franchise systems and agreements
- Ensure FTC and state law compliance
- Handle franchisee disputes or litigation
- Maintain proper disclosure and renewal procedures
Franchising is a highly regulated field, and mistakes—even unintentional ones—can lead to lawsuits, fines, or the collapse of your business. That’s why having the right legal counsel is not just helpful—it’s necessary.
The Importance of Franchise Law Compliance
One of the core responsibilities of a franchise lawyer is ensuring compliance with both federal and state franchise laws. The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) requires that franchisors provide a legally mandated FDD to prospective franchisees at least 14 days before any agreement is signed or payment is made.
In addition to federal law, states like Ohio have their own franchise statutes, which may impose additional requirements or offer more protection to franchisees. For example, Ohio’s franchise law—known as the Business Opportunity Purchasers Protection Act—offers broader remedies than many states, particularly when it comes to misrepresentation or disclosure violations.
A seasoned franchise lawyer will not only ensure that documents are accurate and delivered properly, but will also help enforce your rights if those standards are not met. Inaccurate, misleading, or late disclosures are common reasons franchisees seek legal help—and in some cases, can result in full or partial recovery of an investment.
Real-World Experience Matters
It’s not enough to hire a general business attorney who occasionally works on franchise-related cases. Franchising involves a distinct body of law, and your legal representative must have deep, practical experience in the field.
With over 35 years of experience focused almost exclusively on franchise law, Attorney Stanley Dub has become one of Ohio’s most respected voices in the field. His legal practice is built around helping both franchisors and franchisees navigate the complex legal terrain of franchising.
Stanley Dub has:
- Represented clients in dozens of franchise-related lawsuits
- Drafted and reviewed hundreds of FDDs and franchise agreements
- Served as Adjunct Professor of Franchise Law at Case Western Reserve University Law School since 2016—the only law school course of its kind in Ohio
- Participated in drafting the 2012 amendments to Ohio’s franchise law
- Published articles in the nationally respected Franchise Law Journal
- Presented workshops at the American Bar Association’s Forum on Franchising
His successful handling of the 2017 case Zounds Hearing Franchising, LLC v. Bower in Arizona federal court helped establish that Ohio franchise law applies to Ohio franchisees, even when the franchise agreement selects another state’s law. This critical legal precedent has helped many Ohio-based franchisees assert their rights more effectively.
When it comes to franchise law, Franchise Attorney Cleveland stands out for its unmatched depth of knowledge and courtroom-tested experience.
Common Legal Pitfalls in Franchising
Franchising can be incredibly rewarding—but it’s also full of traps for the unwary. A franchise lawyer helps clients avoid common mistakes, such as:
1. Misinterpreting the FDD
FDDs are dense legal documents often spanning over 200 pages. A franchise lawyer ensures that clients understand what they’re signing—including the fine print.
2. Improper FDD Delivery
Failing to deliver the FDD within the legally mandated timeframe can lead to contract rescission and other penalties.
3. Unenforceable Contract Terms
Many franchise agreements contain one-sided terms that a lawyer may be able to negotiate or challenge.
4. Territory and Non-Compete Disputes
Ambiguities around territory rights or post-termination restrictions are a common source of litigation—and are best addressed early.
5. Improper Termination
Franchisors sometimes terminate franchisees improperly or without sufficient notice. An experienced lawyer can help protect against wrongful termination and preserve the value of your business.
Final Thoughts:
Whether you’re about to sign your first franchise agreement or you’re planning to scale your brand nationwide, having the right franchise lawyer is a non-negotiable part of doing business. The costs of poor legal advice—or no legal advice at all—can be staggering.
From reviewing your FDD to enforcing your rights in court, an experienced franchise lawyer is your best defense against the many legal and financial risks that come with franchising.
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