Other Practice Areas
The brand reaches beyond the franchise agreement.
The rights, transactions and relationships around a brand need the same practical attention as the franchise system itself.
Trademarks & Intellectual Property
A brand’s rights need attention before launch and throughout growth. We research and clear marks, handle USPTO filings and responses, manage portfolios, and address enforcement, defense, trade dress, copyrights and licensing.
Work can start with clearance and a filing strategy, then continue through USPTO examination, maintenance, monitoring and portfolio decisions. We also address TTAB matters, enforcement and defense, trade dress, copyright filings, ownership and permissions to use the brand.
Discuss this workCorporate Counsel
From formation and governing documents to supplier, partner and intercompany agreements, we connect the legal structure to the way the business makes decisions and works with others.
We prepare governing documents and partner, supplier and intercompany agreements, then revisit them as ownership, funding or the operating model changes.
Discuss this workDispute Resolution
We prepare default and termination notices, help establish internal processes for non-compliance, and negotiate exits or settlements. When needed, we represent clients in mediation and appropriate proceedings.
We connect notices and negotiations to an internal process for non-compliance, and document the terms of a cure, exit or settlement. Formal proceedings remain an option when the circumstances call for them.
Discuss this workInternational Expansion
Cross-border growth starts with local rules and a clear allocation of rights and control. We coordinate market diligence, disclosure, agreements, filings and trademark protection with local counsel where needed.
The work may include market-specific diligence, pre-sale disclosure, agreement terms, local filings and trademark strategy. We coordinate with counsel licensed or experienced in the relevant jurisdiction where needed.
Discuss this workMergers, Acquisitions & Investment
A deal can affect every agreement and mark in a system. We examine those rights in diligence, negotiate transaction documents and carry obligations through closing and the transition that follows.
We examine franchise and license agreements, trademarks, consent rights and system obligations during diligence; shape the agreement and schedules; and track deliverables, notices and compliance after closing.
Discuss this workMulti-Brand & Portfolio Representation
Related brands may share resources but carry distinct rights and obligations. We help organize ownership, licensing and operating relationships across the portfolio.
We clarify which entity owns a mark, which entity may use it, and how shared services and contracts work across the group.
Discuss this workLicensing, Distribution & Dealerships
We draft and revisit channel agreements with attention to territory, exclusivity, trademark control and how the arrangement works in practice—including whether it may cross into franchise regulation.
We address territory, exclusivity, standards, trademark use and termination, and monitor whether the operational relationship remains within its intended structure.
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