Legal Eagles Special Section Recognizes Top Franchise Attorneys
Franchise Times has released its annual Legal Eagles list, highlighting top attorneys in franchising for 2025. The piece includes insights on regulatory changes and current legal issues facing franchisors and franchisees, gathered from a survey of leading legal professionals.
Understanding the legal landscape is crucial for franchise investors and multi-unit operators as it informs compliance standards and risk assessment related to franchise operations. This article provides valuable insights into potential regulatory shifts that could impact the franchise model.
Franchise Times has released its annual "Legal Eagles" list, recognizing top franchise attorneys in North America, aimed at franchisors and franchisees seeking legal expertise in 2025. This year's compilation features lawyers from various firms across the United States and Canada, showcasing their broad experience specifically related to franchise law. The "Legal Eagles" section addresses several pressing franchise-related issues, including regulatory changes and mergers and acquisitions (M&A).
Legal experts provided insights on how franchisees can manage the complexities of brand acquisitions and the potential challenges related to contract terminations during a brand's transition. They also offered forecasts on legislative impacts from both state and federal governments, reflecting on President Donald Trump’s potential influence on franchise regulations. Should he return to the presidency, the Federal Trade Commission and National Labor Relations Board might adopt a more lenient regulatory stance, particularly concerning the joint employer standard.
Additionally, various state legislatures are contemplating new measures that could significantly affect the franchise landscape, including additional protections for franchisees. The annual survey within the "Legal Eagles" special section included attorneys' perspectives on topics like California's broker registration law, best practices for complying with franchise disclosure documents, and navigating the bankruptcy process. The "Legal Eagles" list consists of both new members—the New Class—and longstanding honorees from the Hall of Fame, who have been recognized for a decade.
This initiative is based on nominations from clients and fellow legal professionals, ensuring a well-curated selection of practitioners. Nomination processes for the 2027 list are set to open in December. Overall, the "Legal Eagles" list serves as a valuable resource for franchise investors and operators, highlighting legal professionals who can guide them through the evolving challenges and opportunities within the franchise sector.