|
Litigation and Dispute Resolution Representation
Since founding, our franchising lawyers have represented numerous clients in litigation, arbitration and/or mediation concerning franchise sales and relationships and other business matters. A substantial number of our clients have been franchisees, including franchises operating in industries such as automotive services, auto rental, child day care, coffee shops, hotels, and retail ice cream. The Principals of Franchise and Business Law Group have represented or assisted with representing numerous franchisors and franchisees in litigation, arbitration and mediation with their franchisees/franchisors.
Most of these cases, for both franchisees and franchisors, have included claims of fraud or misrepresentation in violation of the Maryland Franchise Registration and Disclosure Law, the FTC Franchise Rule, or other state franchise sales laws. Some cases have included claims of wrongful termination of the franchise and/or violation of antitrust laws with regard to required purchases by franchisees. We also handle significant construction litigation matters and represent creditors in bankruptcy matters and other commercial collection disputes.
The attorneys of Franchise & Business Law Group, including practice leader Harry M. Rifkin can represent you in a wide array of other business disputess through mediation, arbitration or court proceedings. Our franchising lawyershave experience with disputes concerning franchise sales and relationships, construction defects, securities law, antitrust law and other commercial disputes.
CONTACT US about arranging a consultation so we can help you decide what course of action might be best in your particular circumstances.
SAMPLE DECISIONS IN WHICH OUR PARTNERS WERE COUNSEL:
• WW, LLC v. The Coffee Beanery, Ltd., No. 07-1830, 2008 WL 4899478 (6th Cir. Nov. 14, 2008)
• Goodwin and Boone v. Choice Hotels International, Inc., 346 Md. 153 (1997)
• Choice Hotels International, Inc. v. Palm-Aire Oceanside, Inc., 1996 WL 49063 (4th Cir. 1996)
• Choice Hotels International, Inc. v. Goodwin & Boone, 11 F.3d 469 (1993)
• G&R Moojestic Treats, Inc. v. MaggieMoo s International, LLC, Civil Action No. WMN-04-CV 1694, Bus. Franchise Guide (CCH) 13,066 (D. Md., Mar. 10, 2005)
• Jiffy Lube International, Inc. v. Morgan, 1991 WL 107862 (D. Md. 1991) (aff d.) 1993 WL 366330 (4th Cir. 1993)
• Federal Savings and Loan Ins. Corp. v. Quality Inns, Inc., 876 F.2d 353 (4th Cir. 1989)
• Quality Inns International, Inc.v. Dollar Inns of America, Inc., CCH Bus. Franchise Guide, 10,007 (D. Md. February 10, 1989)
| |
“When my husband and I came to you last year, we were devastated that we had been misled by the franchise that we had purchased. We admitted that we had a lack of sound legal advice, resulting in the possibility of losing thousands of dollars. The franchise had stopped returning our calls and we were at a financial standstill, not able to move forward with our venture. 10 days after you took our case and communicated with the franchisor, they offered a satisfactory settlement. Through your representation, we learned what to look for when negotiating deals and how to filter through, “the sell”. Your expertise and legal reviews helped us as we moved towards a more reputable deal within another industry. Thank you, David! You saved our investment and we have seen great results with our current venture.”
Valerie R. Hicks, M.Ed.
Vice President
Knowledgepoints Learning Center
Ellicott City, MD |
|
|
