A franchise is a time-tested approach to operating a business. It allows people the opportunity to manage and run a business without the risk of investing their own money. In that way it is a valuable way for people to get experience should they ever decide to start their own business. As with every other type of business, franchisors and their franchisees are governed by a set of laws that each needs to follow in order to maintain their partnership.
That is why a franchise lawyer is necessary to help both parties get a clear understanding of their mutual responsibilities. The relationship between a franchisor and a franchisee can get very complicated, which is why a franchise lawyer is important when it comes to untangling those complications and letting each party know where they stand. Once their relationship is clear, each party can perform their duties to the best of their abilities. If you are a franchisor or franchisee in the Orlando area, then contact attorney Rahul Parek if any disputes arise.
What is a Franchise?
A franchise is a business relationship between two parties; a third party called a franchisee operates a branded institution with the permission of the owner of that institution, called a franchisor. This type of relationship can be lucrative for both parties because the franchisee can operate a business without worrying about having to put up their own money. Meanwhile the franchisor can offset the day to day operations of the business.
The relationship between the franchisor and the franchisee is characterized by the following three elements:
- The franchisor gives the franchisee the right to operate a business or to distribute goods and services associated with their trademark.
- The franchisor has the authority to exert control over the way that the franchisee operates their business.
- Federal law dictates that the franchisee must make a payment to the franchisor or affiliate as a condition of opening their business.
What Is Regulated by Franchise Law?
Franchise law is divided into the following different categories:
Disclosure Laws - These are dictated by the FTC (Federal Trade Commission) and they are about the information that the franchisor is allowed to reveal before the sale of the franchise, as well as prohibited sales practices, and other necessary information.
Registration Laws - These are regulated by the state rather than the FTC and are used to regulate any official registrations of the franchise system.
Relationship Laws - These are also regulated by the state and as the name suggests, they are all about the relationship between the franchisee and the franchisor.
Franchise Disputes
The relationship between the franchisee and and the franchisor can break down if a dispute occurs between them. If that happens, then legal intervention is required to resolve the dispute. A dispute can occur if the franchisor fails to uphold one of the franchise laws outlined above. There can also be problems if the franchisee believes that they are not getting enough support from the franchisor. There can also be distrust and dissension if either party believes that the other is violating the franchise agreement.
Since some of the franchise laws are controlled by the federal government, a violation of them could result in heavy penalties. Those could include fines, assets getting freezed, and even a ban on the franchisor's ability to franchise their business. If the franchisor violates a law that is controlled by the state, then that could be considered a misdemeanor or a felony and the business owner will have to face the corresponding punishment.
Consult a Business Attorney Before Entering a Franchise Relationship
Regardless of whether you plan to become a franchisee or a franchisor, it is important that you consult a business attorney before entering such a relationship. Franchise law can be lucrative for both parties, but it can also be very complex. That is why each party should be well versed in their legal obligations before going into business with each other. That way they can focus on running the franchise and making it the best that it can be instead of worrying about any legal issues.
