Expert Franchise Attorney Tim Bryant Offers Insights

Tim Bryant is a highly accomplished attorney specializing in business, construction and franchise law, currently serving as co-chair of Preti Flaherty’s Litigation Practice Group and chair of the Franchising and Distribution Services practice group. With his extensive experience, he has successfully represented numerous clients in complex civil and commercial litigation and has been nationally recognized by Benchmark Litigation, Chambers USA and The Best Lawyers in America. Bryant’s significant contributions to franchise law have earned him a place in the Franchise Times Legal Eagle Hall of Fame.

His notable achievements include representing franchisors in enforcing their rights and assisting franchise businesses with regional and international expansion.

1851 Franchise recently spoke with Bryant to find out more about his experience in the franchise legal field and for some insights into strategies franchisors can use to navigate legal challenges effectively.

1851 Franchise: What do you see as the most important things franchisors should do to protect their brand?

Tim Bryant: From a business perspective, the most important thing franchisors should do to protect their brand is to create, foster and maintain a system of profitable franchisees. Those franchisees will, in turn, create a multitude of positive interactions and relationships with their clients. The result will be a well-known and respected franchise brand.

From a legal perspective, the most important things they can do is vigilantly track and rebuff others who infringe on their brand for their own purposes and regularly communicate with their franchisees about the value of maintaining high quality standards in the operation of their franchised businesses.

1851: How important is the information in Item 19?

Bryant: Item 19 can be a valuable tool in the franchise sales process if the franchise system has a host of profitable franchisees and the information contained therein is done in accordance with applicable law. The reason for this is that Item 19 speaks to the most common question posed by prospective franchisees: Can I make money as a franchisee? Obviously, these goals are undermined in a franchise system with unprofitable franchisees.

1851: What is the single largest legal mistake brands make?

Bryant: When start-up franchise systems launch before taking the time to build a strong foundation, including multiple profitable businesses using an identifiable federally registered trademark, well drafted operations/training manuals and franchise disclosure documents and related agreements. Failing to do these things commonly leads to a host of legal issues and disputes that can easily be avoided.

1851: How do you stand out as a franchise law firm?

Bryant: By providing responsive and high-quality advice and legal counsel to our clients.

1851: What is the best business advice you have received in your career?

Bryant: Don’t listen to criticism from people from whom you wouldn’t take advice.