Franchise Non-Compete Clause: Understanding Legal Requirements and Best Practices

The regulatory landscape for franchise non compete clause provisions has undergone significant transformation following the Federal Trade Commission’s 2024 ruling and subsequent legal challenges. While the FTC’s final rule banned most employment contracts containing non compete agreements, franchise relationships remain expressly excluded from these restrictions, creating a complex compliance environment that franchisors and franchisees must … Read more

How Negotiable is a Franchise Agreement?

How negotiable is a franchise agreement? The answer depends on the franchisor’s flexibility and the terms in question. This article will explore key factors like the size and age of the franchise system, commonly negotiated terms, and tips for negotiating effectively. Dive in to learn what you can and cannot change in your franchise agreement. … Read more

Exiting a Franchise Agreement

Exiting a franchise agreement can be tough, but knowing your options and what’s in your contract is crucial. This guide helps you understand your rights and navigate the best exit strategies. We’ll cover how to communicate with your franchisor and handle legal aspects for a smooth exit. Key Takeaways Exiting a franchise agreement requires careful … Read more

How to Craft a Franchise Compliance Program

When it comes to running a franchise, compliance is key to your brand’s integrity and success. This concise guide cuts straight to the chase. We’ll show you how to craft a franchise compliance program that not only adheres to legal requirements but also supports a strong, consistent brand across all locations. Expect practical steps and … Read more

Do I Need My FDD Reviewed?

If you’re on the brink of signing a franchise agreement, you might be asking: do I need my FDD reviewed? The answer is unequivocally yes. The Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD) is a crucial legal document that details every aspect of a franchise opportunity, and overlooking its complexities can lead to unforeseen legal and financial pitfalls. … Read more

What is a Franchise Operations Manual?

What is a franchise operations manual? Simply put, it’s the essential playbook that ensures every franchisee replicates the franchisor’s brand, processes, and standards across all franchise locations. This critical document lays out everything from daily operations to branding guidelines and legal requirements, emphasizing its role in ensuring consistency, quality, and compliance across all franchise locations. … Read more

What Is a Customs Notice of Seizure and How to Respond

What does receiving a “what is a customs notice of seizure” mean for you? This urgent communication from US Customs and Border Protection indicates that your goods have been seized due to suspected customs violations. You’ve got a narrow window of time to act and potentially reverse the seizure. In this article, we outline what … Read more

What’s the Big Deal with General Releases?

Introduction to Release of Claims A release of claims agreement is a legally binding contract that prevents disputes after a settlement, allowing parties to resolve conflicts quickly and efficiently. This agreement is essential for managing liabilities and facilitating compensation to claimants. For instance, in the aftermath of the 2010 Deepwater Horizon oil spill, thousands of … Read more