John R. Gotaskie Jr.

What makes your firm stand out as a resource for the franchise industry?

Fox Rothschild brings a nimble, interdisciplinary approach to addressing issues in the franchise industry. We not only can handle the standard franchising regulatory issues on a national and even international basis, we also have a deep bench of subject matter experts who understand the franchise industry and its unique opportunities and challenges.

What is the No. 1 thing a franchisor/franchisee should look for when identifying the right franchise attorney?

Experience and approach. Fox Rothschild brings a unique, entrepreneurial approach to its practice.

When it comes to your work, what makes you happiest?

Helping my clients solve problems. While I’m a litigator who is not afraid to fight, the adversarial process is a drain on human and financial capital. Solving problems in a way that avoids such a drain but still results in successes for clients—that’s very satisfying.

What are your top concerns for the franchise industry in the next year?

I am concerned that a lot of the formerly national issues respecting various liability, minimum wage, and joint employer are just going to get pushed from the national arena to the states, with a concomitant proliferation of complexity. At the same time, tightening credit markets may make brand expansion more difficult.

What are you most optimistic about in the franchise industry in the next year?

I believe in the franchise model, and its ability to continue to grow. I see innovative concepts on the horizon in the fitness, health and healthy foods areas, and expect growth in all three. In a world where things can seem unsettled, trusted brands will always have a place.

Cassie has over five years of digital and traditional media experience. She joined NLA after working as a television news producer in both Milwaukee and Chicago, and now specializes in aligning strategies across the board for her clients, ultimately building buzz and telling compelling stories through content marketing, social media, digital campaigns and traditional PR. Cassie has a Bachelor of Arts in Broadcast and Electronic Communications from Marquette University.

In her spare time, Cassie enjoys traveling and exploring what new cities have to offer in addition to spending time with her friends and family.