Franchise Litigation & Negotiations Lawyers

At DPA Attorneys at Law, we know the most important document you’ll sign as a franchisee is your franchise agreement. Whether you’re entering a hotel, restaurant, retail, gas station, gym, or other branded concept, this agreement controls nearly every aspect of your business. We represent franchisees across a range of industries, with particular depth in hospitality and quick-service restaurant franchises, including brands such as Choice Hotels, Wyndham, G6 Hospitality, IHG, Marriott, Hilton, as well as Wendy’s, KFC, Qdoba, Dunkin’, and similar systems where operational standards and brand control are especially demanding.

Franchise Agreements & Negotiation

Franchise agreements are typically drafted by franchisors to protect their interests — often at the expense of the franchisee. But that doesn’t mean these terms are beyond challenge. We provide strategic review and negotiation of franchise agreements, with particular insight into hotel franchise systems and QSR models, where issues such as property improvement plans (PIPs), site approval, operational compliance, and fee structures can significantly impact profitability. We help prospective franchisees push for better outcomes by:

Negotiating fees, royalties and territorial rights
Limiting exposure to liquidated damages
Removing one sided clauses like first right of refusal
Ensuring franchisee rights for renewal, transfer, or exit
Conducting full legal reviews of the Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD) and related contracts

Our clients span the hospitality, food and beverage, fuel, fitness, and retail industries. Whether you’re opening a branded hotel, a gas station with convenience store, a fast-casual or quick-service restaurant, or a national gym chain, we tailor our approach to your business model and franchise system.

Franchise Dispute Resolution & Litigation

Even well-drafted agreements can give rise to disputes. We represent franchisees in resolving disagreements with their franchisors, including matters involving hotel franchise systems and QSR brands, where compliance and performance metrics are strictly enforced. Our experience includes:

Breach of contract and wrongful termination
Territory encroachment or brand dilution
Unfair vendor requirements or pricing mandates
Royalty and fee disputes
Misrepresentations in the franchise sales process
Violations of Franchise Law

Whenever possible, we pursue efficient, informal resolution to preserve the relationship and reduce cost. When necessary, we are fully prepared to represent you in mediation, arbitration, or litigation.

Franchise Agreement Termination & Exit Strategy

We represent franchisees seeking to terminate or exit their franchise agreements early. Early termination can trigger significant financial exposure, including liquidated damages, ongoing fee obligations, and enforcement actions. We will communicate with franchisors on your behalf to negotiate exits, reduce liability, and develop strategies that limit financial and legal risk as much as possible.

We Know the Stakes. We Know the Playbook.

Whether you are negotiating a new franchise agreement, navigating compliance issues, or planning an exit, DPA Attorneys at Law is your trusted partner. With particular strength in hotel and QSR franchise agreements, we bring practical insight and strategic advocacy to help you protect your investment and maximize long-term opportunity.