Franchise agreements can impose onerous responsibilities on a franchisee. In addition, related areas such as commercial property and employment can expose you to extensive obligations. It is essential to take legal advice before entering into a franchise agreement.
Expert advice for franchisees
At Hutchinson Thomas our franchise team has extensive experience in franchising across a range of sectors. We can advise you if you are considering entering into a franchise agreement as well as throughout the term of your franchise.
Our advice is practical and commercially-focused. We are known for providing an outstanding service and we are always happy to speak to you and answer any questions you may have.
As accredited members of the British Franchise Association we adhere to their high standards of excellence in ethical British franchising.
Legal advice on franchise agreements
The franchise agreement will set out all of the terms and conditions by which you will be bound during the period of your franchise. It is usually a lengthy and complex document and you should take legal advice before signing it.
It will include details of the responsibilities you will be taking on and the payments that you will be expected to make, both upfront and during the operation of the business, for example, by way of profit-sharing.
The agreement should also contain information about how you can end the agreement and leave the franchise and a procedure for resolving any disputes that may arise.
As well as advising you in respect of the liabilities, we can negotiate on your behalf with the franchisor and their legal representatives to agree amendments to the franchise agreement to ensure that your interests are protected as far as possible.
We can call on colleagues in adjacent areas of law such as commercial property, business and commercial law, employment law and dispute resolution where necessary so that we can provide you with a full service. We also work closely with experts in other sectors such as accountants, lenders, marketers and franchise recruitment specialists.
Starting a new business is an exciting undertaking. Buying a franchise gives you the opportunity to follow a proven business model and benefit from the franchisor’s experience, advice and support. You should still carry out proper due diligence before signing however, to ensure that you fully understand the market, the financial position of the business and the risks involved as well as the extent of any help and guidance that will be offered by your franchisor.
Contact us
Hutchinson Thomas is the first law firm in Wales to be awarded the Law Society Mark of Excellence. The firm and many of our lawyers are recognised year on year in the Legal 500 publication as leading individuals in their field.
We have in-depth experience of the franchise industry and as well as leading expertise we provide excellent service to our franchisee clients. We will take the time to understand your business needs and make sure we are always available to speak to you when needed to answer any questions you may have.
If you are considering taking on a franchise and you would like advice from one of our expert franchise solicitors, call us on the following numbers or fill in our contact form.