Arnall Golden Gregory LLP's attorneys frequently assist clients in making complex business decisions regarding the growth and expansion of their businesses. The firm has always prided itself on its entrepreneurial outlook on the law. Its expanding franchise law practice is a natural outgrowth of this approach. Some clients have found that there are advantages for the rapid development of their businesses by franchising. Franchising allows businesses to achieve rapid market penetration with less capital investment. Franchising may be one of the best ways for a businessperson with a successful concept, but limited resources, to expand. Moreover, franchisees gain comfort by entering a business which has a good reputation, successful track record and a well-developed business plan.

The firm provides services to both franchisors and franchisees to help them meet the extensive and complex legal requirements imposed upon franchisees by both federal and state laws. Support is given by the firm's Trademark Practice Group which provides searching and trademark registration services -- services that are central to the franchise concept. The firm also advises franchisors in controlling their franchisees and thereby maintaining the quality and consistency of the franchised product or service. If necessary, the firm has experience in franchise related litigation. The firm has represented franchisors and franchisees in the food service, fast food, household goods, industrial, chemical, travel and hotel industries.

AGG's attorneys are equipped to handle all aspects of representation of the franchisee or franchisor relationship. These services include:

• Preparation of Franchise Disclosure Documents in compliance with state franchising laws and the Federal Trade Commission's rules of franchising.
• Development of franchising and antitrust compliance programs.
• Preparation and negotiation of development and franchise agreements.
• Handling of corporate and business mergers and acquisitions.
• Preparing and negotiating transactions involving the leasing, acquisition and financing of real estate for franchise locations.
• Representation in raising capital through both private placements and public offerings.
• General corporate and business legal counseling.
• Advice regarding trademarks, copyrights and other proprietary protection available to franchisors.
• Assisting in business planning for the establishment of franchisor or franchisee relationships.
• Employment law advice.
• Pension plans and employee benefits counseling.
• Tax planning.
• Resolving disputes in franchise relationships, including negotiation, arbitration, litigation and termination.

For more information on this practice area, contact

• Donald I. Hackney, Jr., Practice Leader