Firm Overview

American Franchise Law Attorney

As a solo practitioner in the area of international and domestic U.S. franchise law, I work closely with prospective franchise owners. I have more than 33 years of experience representing franchisees affiliated with more than 115 franchise systems in the U.S. and abroad. If you are interested in buying a franchise, or if you are a franchise owner involved in a dispute, I can help.

Contact me, Mario L. Herman (American Franchise Attorney), today to arrange your consultation.

Experienced

I have a broad range of American and international experience as a franchise lawyer that I put to work for my clients. I have lectured on franchise law before the American Bar Association Forum and at international symposiums in Shanghai, China, and Costa Rica. I speak fluent Spanish. I also frequently contribute to articles on franchise law in the Wall Street Journal, and I have been recognized for my leadership skills as chairman of the Amicus Committee of the American Association of Franchisees and Dealers.

A note about franchising

There are primarily two forms of franchising: product/trade name franchising and business format franchising.

• Product/trade name franchising: Think petroleum distributors and soft drink bottlers such as Coke and Pepsi. The franchisor owns the right to the name or trademark and sells that right to a franchisee.
• Business format franchising: Think fast food restaurants such as McDonald’s and Burger King. A broad and ongoing relationship exists between the franchisee and franchisor. The franchisee essentially purchases the franchisor’s expertise, experience, and method of doing business. Business format franchisors provide a full range of services, including site selection, training, product supply, marketing plans, and assistance in obtaining financing.Key elements of a business format franchise include a marketing strategy and plan, operating manuals, and a uniform business concept. The franchisee pays an up-front franchisee fee and ongoing royalty fees which enable the franchisor to provide training, research and development, and ongoing support to its franchisees.

To learn more about franchise law, visit my franchising law overview page.

Contact me to arrange your consultation and obtain legal advice about franchise opportunities.