Protecting Franchised Businesses Throughout Tennessee

Comprehensive care for entrepreneurs, franchisors, and franchisees

Growing a business through franchising is an excellent way to increase your brand recognition and assets. It’s also a terrific way for entrepreneurs to see their investments increase. The laws regarding franchising can be complicated, however, and it takes a dedicated business attorney to move forward with your plans. The Law Office of Perry A. Craft, PLLC provides comprehensive counsel for owners looking to franchise their business, and for individuals seeking investment opportunities through purchasing a franchise.

The Franchise Disclosure Document

Before making a purchase, prospective owners are given a “Franchise Disclosure Document” (FDD) to read; it can be almost 200 pages long. The FDD is required by the Federal Trade Commission, and often contains complex legal jargon that may be difficult to understand for the average business owner. Furthermore, there are franchise owners out there who claim that you cannot negotiate anything in the FDD.

This is categorically untrue. Attorney Craft has read and reviewed FDDs on behalf of his clients to ensure that they:

  • Understand what they’re signing
  • Don’t agree to anything they don’t understand
  • Make changes to the document that are both legal and suit their needs
  • Are represented during negotiations

Because the FDD is a legally binding document, it is critical that you allow a business law attorney to review it before you sign it. The “deal” you agree to verbally may not be the same as what the document says, and you have little to no legal recourse if you purchase a franchise that does not live up to expectations. Attorney Craft reviews all FDDs thoroughly to ensure that you know exactly what you can expect.

Help for franchise owners

If you already own a franchise, the Law Office of Perry A. Craft, PLLC protects your rights during franchise agreement negotiations with outside buyers. Attorney Craft reviews and drafts franchise agreements as well as termination agreements, and handles all relevant aspects of your business. If litigation becomes a necessity, we put the full force of our firm’s resources behind our clients to ensure that their interests are protected.

Serious protection for franchisors and investors

The Law Office of Perry A. Craft, PLLC understands the complicated natures of franchising. We offer clear, concise counsel to help you move forward. Please call 615-953-3808 or fill out our contact form to schedule an appointment at our Nashville-based office.