Two franchise lawyers in Washington, D.C., Mario L Herman and Gregory O Herman, run their practice as The Partnership of Mario L Herman and Gregory O Herman. The firm works with people who own or plan to open a franchised restaurant, as well as owners in other franchise systems.A [URL=https://www.franchise-law.com/restaurant-franchise.shtml/] restaurant franchise agreement/URL] sets out what the owner pays each month and what the franchisor controls. The partners review this agreement before the client signs and highlight the clauses that shape long-term costs. Royalty rates and advertising fund contributions are two of the first terms they check. Other clauses cover required suppliers, equipment upgrades, remodel schedules, and the size of the protected territory around the restaurant. When the franchisor is open to changes, the firm negotiates those terms before the deal closes. It also assists owners with renewals and with the sale of a restaurant to a new buyer.
"We like to sit down with a new restaurant owner and go through the agreement one section at a time," a spokesperson for the firm said. "Each section carries its own cost or duty, and it helps to see them in order. Once the owner knows what the franchisor expects, it becomes much easier to plan a budget and hire staff. Our clients can then focus on running the kitchen and serving their guests."
Mario L. Herman has lectured on franchise law in Shanghai and in San Jose, Costa Rica. He is a member of the American Bar Association Forum on Franchising and speaks Spanish with clients who prefer it. Gregory O. Herman handles franchise litigation and arbitration for the partnership. He is licensed in the District of Columbia and speaks English and Finnish.
The firm also takes on cross-border work. Foreign restaurant brands that want to sell franchises in the United States can seek advice on U.S. disclosure rules. U.S. operators planning to open locations in another country can also have their international agreements reviewed.
About The Partnership of Mario L Herman and Gregory O Herman
The Partnership of Mario L Herman and Gregory O Herman is a law practice devoted only to franchising. It advises single-unit franchise owners and people who want to become a master franchisee for a region or country. Its services include reviewing agreements and disclosure documents, negotiating contracts, providing compliance support, and handling arbitration and litigation of franchise disputes. Every prospective client can start with a free consultation. For more information, visit https://www.franchise-law.com/