Addressing Franchise Law Matters In Buffalo & New York state
The term “franchising” refers to adopting a proven business model. For a portion of the profits and other fees, the franchisee is granted the right to use the techniques, trademarks, and products of the franchisor.
As in any business relationship, disputes are common. If you face a legal problem, it’s critical to speak with a franchise lawyer.
The knowledgeable franchise attorneys at Lawyer for Business serve both franchisors and franchisees. We handle the following issues:
- Business acquisition
- Franchise disclosure document (FDD) review and consultation
- Beginning your own franchise
- Obtaining regulatory approval
- Licensing products and services
- Developing franchise products and services
These are only a few examples. Whatever your franchise law issue is, we’ll gladly review the facts of your case. Lawyer for Business serves New Yorkers in Buffalo, Grand Island, and Niagara Falls.
Legal Services for Franchisees in New York State
It’s crucial to protect your interests as a franchisee in the state of New York. If difficulties arise, an attorney can help you explore legal remedies.
The knowledgeable professionals at Lawyer for Business can help franchisees with any of the following legal actions:
- Forming a new entity for your business
- Drafting, reviewing, and negotiating franchise contracts
- FDD and franchise agreement reviews
- Partnership/employment agreements
- Confidentiality, nondisclosure, and non-compete agreements
- Independent contractor/work-for-hire agreements
- Regulatory compliance with federal and state laws
- Trademark registration
- Licensing agreement
When you need legal advice regarding your business, consult a professional with plenty of experience in New York franchise law. When you contact Lawyer for Business we’ll gladly schedule a legal consultation to discuss the facts of your case.
Registering a Franchise in New York
Each state regulates the establishment of a franchise business. The state of New York relies on franchise registration.
Under New York franchise law, you are required to file and register your Franchise Disclosure Document (the FDD). This important paperwork must be filed with the Investor Protection Bureau of the New York Attorney General.
The Federal Trade Commission also mandates all U.S. franchisors to issue FDDs to franchisees. FDDs must be provided to possible franchisees at least two weeks before relevant contracts are signed.
This important paperwork contains information, including:
- Other franchisees
- History of litigation
- Business earning potential
While the Franchise Disclosure Document is important, there are many other necessary documents for establishing a franchise in the state of New York. Some examples include:
- Form of Consent to Service of Process
- Sales Agent Disclosure form
- Guarantee of Performance form
For help registering a franchise in the state of New York, make sure to speak with the team at Lawyer for Business.
Renewal of Franchise Registration in New York
Franchise registrations must be renewed annually in the state of New York. You must submit the renewal within 120 days of the end of your fiscal year. Applications must include all of the forms included on the Franchise Registration Information Sheet.
A filing fee of $150 is also required to renew a franchise. Failing to renew a franchise registration could have dire financial consequences. Fortunately, a New York franchise lawyer can assist with registration renewal.
Why Choose Us as Your Trusted Franchise Attorney in Buffalo and New York State?
Effective franchise attorneys need certain skills and a wide knowledge base. The lawyers at Lawyer for Business have a thorough understanding of New York franchise law.
At Lawyer for Business, our attorneys:
Our team will work directly with your business to seize legal opportunities and implement solutions. The team at Lawyer for Business knows how to solve problems for franchisors and franchisees. Whatever the size of your business, our attorneys can help you resolve disputes and protect your interests.
Legal Services for Franchisors in New York State
When you are a franchisor, it’s important to adhere to both state and federal regulations to prevent possible penalties or other negative consequences.
Preparing a Franchise Plan
A franchise agreement attorney will make sure that your business plan can scale into a profitable franchise.
Franchising Your Business
An attorney will help with drafting and filing franchise agreements and applications. This can be a complex legal process.
Drafting a Franchise Disclosure Document
Skilled franchise lawyers can assist you in drafting a Franchise Disclosure Document (the FDD) for your business.
Compliance for Franchisors
As a franchisor, you will need to secure FDD updates, execution of franchise agreements, and regulation compliance.
Have experience with startups
Prioritize the interests of our clients
Navigate common business challenges
Mitigate our clients’ risks
New York Franchise Lawyer
Our NY LLC Formation
Packages
- Gold Legal Plan$1,500/month*
- Recurring 1-hour monthly meeting to perform legal audit, discuss concerns, create plan
- Up-front, flat-fee pricing for legal entity formation and trademark filing
- Review of up to 2 commercial documents
- Priority turnarounds, typically 1-3 days
- Diamond Legal Plan$4,000/month*
- Recurring 1-hour monthly meeting to perform legal audit, discuss concerns, create plan
- Up-front, flat-fee pricing for legal entity formation and trademark filing
- Review of up to 2 commercial documents
- Priority turnarounds, typically 1-3 days
- Review of up to 5 contracts or commercial leases
- Bi-weekly 30-minute client conference to discuss legal concerns and create plan
- On-Demand General Counsel$7,500/month*
- Recurring 1-hour monthly meeting to perform legal audit, discuss concerns, create plan
- Up-front, flat-fee pricing for legal entity formation and trademark filing
- Review of up to 2 commercial documents
- Priority turnarounds, typically 1-3 days
- Review of up to 5 contracts or commercial leases
- Bi-weekly 30-minute client conference to discuss legal concerns and create plan
- Review and revise up to 10 contracts or commercial leases
- Weekly 30-minute client conference to discuss legal concerns and create plan
- Unlimited emails with a New York State licensed attorney
- Dedicated phone line for priority calling
*12-month annual commitment required for pricing shown. Month-to-month pricing available at additional charge of 20%. Cancel at any time. 30 days’ notice required to cancel month-to-month plans.
Testimonials
Contact Your Franchise Lawyer in Buffalo, NY
Our Buffalo business startup attorneys have assisted many companies with reliable legal guidance regarding issues of contracts, intellectual property, fundraising, and employment.
Don’t hesitate to contact the friendly staff at Lawyer for Business to discuss your New York startup.
FAQs About New York LLC
In the state of New York, who regulates franchise businesses?
Franchises in New York are regulated under the New York State Franchise Act and Franchise Regulations. These regulatory structures detail issues related to disclosures, exemptions, and other requirements. The New York Attorney General oversees the implementation and enforcement of these regulations.
Where are New York FDD registration and renewal applications filed?
In the state of New York, franchise disclosure documents, franchise renewal applications, and amendments must be filed through the New York State Department of Law, located at:
Investor Protection Bureau
28 Liberty Street, 21st Floor
New York, NY 10005
If you need help registering or renewing a franchise, contact one of our skilled legal professionals.
How long will it take for my franchise registration application to be approved?
The application approval timeline depends on the quality of the registration and FDD paperwork. Within two weeks of submission, you should receive a letter acknowledging your application.
While you may receive a request for updates or changes within 30 days of submission, a skilled lawyer can ensure that your application is complete and accurate.
What are the fees for franchise registration applications in New York?
The initial FDD filing fee in the state of New York is $850. To renew a franchise annually requires $250. Renewals must be completed within 120 days of the completion of the fiscal year. When material changes occur in FDD disclosures, the renewal may be due earlier.