Legal Counsel For Franchisers And Franchisees in Metro Atlanta

It goes without saying that the purchase of a franchise is a significant investment – one that should be protected.

If you are working on a franchise agreement, you must draft or agree upon a franchise disclosure document (FDD). This document is provided to franchisees before the agreement is legally binding. It defines information regarding the franchiser and franchisee concerning rights and obligations.

Because franchises are regulated by the Federal Trade Commission, it is critical to ensure that the franchise agreements are properly drafted with all state law compliance issues addressed. Working with an experienced attorney can help protect your business.

Franchise Agreements That Protect Your Interests

At Lerman Law Associates, P.C., lawyer Craig Lerman has a master’s degree in business administration. He writes franchise agreements for franchisers and franchisees. He will work directly with you to fully understand your business needs. From there, he will help you define and write agreements that address:

• Total investment amounts
• Personal guarantees
• Operations manual issues
• Renewal issues
  • Requirements
  • Additional fees

At Lerman Law Associates, P.C., we understand that while these issues are not core business issues, they need to be addressed and are the foundation upon which successful franchises thrive.

Real-World Business Solutions For Georgia Franchises

Franchise owners in Fulton and Cobb counties need contract terms that work in day-to-day business. Craig Lerman brings an MBA and practical FDD review experience to that work. His business training helps him assess how costs, guarantees, fees and renewal terms may affect food, retail and other Metro Atlanta franchises.

That business view matters because compliance has several layers. The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) requires an FDD with 23 numbered items covering fees, startup costs, past lawsuits, territory rules, earnings claims and duties under the deal. Federal rules are only part of the picture. Georgia contract and business laws also matter, while local zoning, permits, licenses and lease terms shape operations. Reviewing these issues can reveal conflicts before you sign.

As such, we offer high-caliber and cost-effective legal services to help organizations address these issues in the most efficient and effective way while protecting parties for years to come.

Frequently Asked Questions About Georgia Franchise Agreements

If you are considering a franchise in Fulton or Cobb County, the following answers explain issues that may affect your plans:

Do I need to worry about Georgia franchise laws or just FTC rules in Fulton County?

You should review federal and local rules. The FTC sets FDD disclosure rules, while Georgia law may affect the contract and business relationship. Your site may face zoning, license, permit and lease terms. Reviewing them together can show whether the franchise deal and location support your business plan.

Is a Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD) negotiable in Cobb County?

The FDD is a disclosure document, not the contract you sign with the franchiser. The franchise agreement may have terms you can ask to change, although the franchiser may not agree. Craig Lerman’s MBA gives him a business lens for reviewing investment amounts, guarantees, fees and renewal terms as you decide what changes to request.

What should I look for in the FTC’s “23 Items” before signing an Atlanta commercial lease?

Before signing an Atlanta commercial lease, review the FDD items addressing fees, territorial restrictions, litigation history and operational obligations. These disclosures may influence the location you select, the financial commitments you accept and the lease terms you negotiate. They may also identify mandatory purchases, continuing fees and requirements contained in the operations manual. Comparing these provisions with the proposed lease can help you recognize potential conflicts before making a long-term commitment.

How To Contact Lerman Law Associates, P.C.

We pride ourselves on building long-term relationships with clients in Fulton and Cobb counties, and beyond. After assisting you with franchising issues, we can help you with your ongoing legal needs. To set up an initial consultation, contact us online or call us at 678-888-5773.