Akerman adds Robert Smith to its Franchise and Licensing Practice

Akerman LLP, a top 100 U.S. law firm with more than 700 lawyers and business professionals serving enterprises across the Americas, has expanded its growing Franchise and Licensing Practice even further with the appointment of Robert Smith in Washington, D.C.

This news comes after Akerman added the trio of Kevin Hein, Trish MacAskill, and Leilani Argersinger back in September 2020 in Denver, as well as William Sentell in Houston.

Smith focuses his practice on representing U.S. franchisors expanding internationally and serving as franchise counsel in a variety of complex transactions, including mergers and acquisitions, revising and re-branding franchise programs, regulatory Franchise Disclosure Document compliance, workouts, dispute resolution, master franchise and development agent programs and refranchising.

He is ranked among the nation’s leading franchise lawyers by Chambers USA, which cites clients who commented that he “has a tremendous amount of experience and has a great business mind. The value he brings to our company is extraordinary.” Clients appreciate that “he makes himself available – it almost feels like he’s our in-house counsel and he’s in the office down the hall.”

“Bob is a renowned franchise lawyer, with a specialty in outbound international franchising programs,” said Warren Lewis, co-chair of the Franchise and Licensing Practice. “Bob has implemented international programs for U.S. franchisors in over 80 countries worldwide, making him a leading expert for clients who need help establishing the necessary registrations and compliance programs in foreign jurisdictions.

“He is an excellent addition to our Franchise and Licensing Practice and he extends our corporate bench strength in Washington, D.C.”