Austin Franchise Attorney

Are you considering buying a franchise?

In simplest terms, a franchise is a method that a company uses to sell its products or services through independently-owned retail businesses. There are many hundreds of types of franchises in the U.S. today. They run the gamut from fast food restaurants to children's learning centers to fitness clubs to health and medical spas. The franchisee purchases the right to do business using the trademarked goods or services, and the name recognition and branding developed by the company. In exchange, the independent operator pays an initial franchise fee and ongoing royalties based on a percentage of the gross income to the owner of the franchise company, called a franchisor.

The obligations and responsibilities of the franchisee are outlined in detail in the written franchise agreement. If you are considering buying a franchise, selling a franchise or franchising a business in Texas, it is important to understand the financial risks and legal obligations you will encounter by speaking with an experienced Austin business lawyer, D. Scott Heselmeyer, PC. He has helped many clients who are franchisors craft effective, "loophole free" franchise agreements, and those who are franchisees negotiate changes to these documents before they are finalized, so that their legal interests are protected.

Protecting Your Rights as a Franchisee

The franchise industry and business model continue to grow in this country. Many entrepreneurial individuals who have made the decision to purchase a business start out by buying a franchise. They have determined that working with an experienced franchisor will provide them with the guidance and expertise they need to help their business grow, and are willing to pay royalties to the franchisor for their assistance. It is crucial for a prospective franchisee to fully understand the details of the franchise agreement before agreeing to its terms, since once they have signed this document, they are legally bound by its provisions.

If you are considering purchasing a franchise, he will walk you through every section of the franchise agreement, explain to you clearly what it means, and how it will impact your business and your bottom line. If you want to change the terms of your agreement, such as negotiating a larger territory, or changing the amount of royalties to be paid, he can help you do that. His has an excellent understanding of how these agreements are written, and the potential pitfalls to look out for. He will make sure that you fully understand the document you will be signing so there are no surprises after the fact, and your best interests are protected.

Contact an Austin Franchise Lawyer today to look out for your best interests as a franchisee or as a franchisor.