Joe Donnini is an experienced attorney, entrepreneur, educator, and business consultant. He will teach a course called “Franchise Law“.

Having a diverse background has positioned Joe to gain perspective in multiple industries on many matters. Joe has assisted clients in key areas of business creation, development, operations, and finance. But you can learn more about him here.

Learn more about a new, innovative legal model – Legal Value Firm – by listening to a recent podcast with Joe hosted by Solo Practice University®.

Syllabus – Franchise Law

Franchise law is a specialized area of law that is fairly regulated by both federal law and various state laws. Knowing the intricacies of how franchising and franchise law work, can enhance the skill sets of a practitioner. In this module, we will cover not only the fundamentals of franchise law, but delve into some of the detail necessary to effectively represent clients in many areas of franchise law.

MODULE ONE: WHAT IS A FRANCHISE? (Estimated 30 minutes)

• Legal Definitions of “Franchise”
• Alternative Business Structures and Rationales for Use (Compare/Contrast)

MODULE TWO: REGULATORY ASPECTS OF A FRANCHISE (Estimated 30 minutes)

• Federal Trade Commission (FTC) Rule
• State Laws (Emphasis upon California and Department of Business Oversight)

MODULE THREE: WHAT IS A FRANCHISE DISCLOSURE DOCUMENT (FDD)? (Estimated 3 hours)

• Analysis of all 23 Required Items in the FDD by the FTC

MODULE FOUR: PROVISIONS OF A FRANCHISE AGREEMENT (Estimated 1 hour)

• Analysis of various provisions contained in a typical Franchise Agreement (which is an exhibit to the FDD)

MODULE FIVE: SELLING AND SERVICING FRANCHISES: RELATED LEGAL ISSUES (Estimated 1 hour)

• FDD compliance and options for negotiated term variations in the sale–(California Emphasis)
• Renewals and “Going Dark”
• Franchise Relations Act(s)–(California Emphasis)