Brandon

Bury St Edmunds

Norwich

Thetford

Franchise Law

Helping you build a strong, secure franchise business

Franchising is a powerful way to grow a business, contributing over £19 billion to the UK economy every year – but it comes with legal complexities. Whether you’re a franchisor expanding a franchise network or a franchisee starting your journey, our franchising solicitors are on hand so you can feel confident at every step.

At Rudlings, we offer personal, reliable, and expert legal advice to franchisors, franchisees, and multi-franchise owners. And because every franchise business is unique, we take the time to listen to your interests, understand your needs, and focus on your goals – so you get the legal support that works for you.

Franchise agreements – the foundation of your business

What is a franchise agreement?

A franchise agreement is the backbone of your franchise business and the legal framework governing the relationship between franchisors and franchisees.

It sets out any immediate actions required to effect the transaction, your rights, and the obligations, liabilities, and responsibilities each party will be bound by throughout the duration of the relationship – so it's important to get them right.

Why work with a franchise solicitor?

These agreements aren’t always straightforward. They're often long, filled with clauses that may limit your flexibility, and can be difficult to understand. That’s why getting expert legal advice before signing is crucial. With support from our franchise lawyers, you'll fully understand the terms of the agreement from the outset.

It’s also worth remembering that franchise agreements can often be negotiated. Taking the time to agree on terms that align with both your immediate needs and long-term business goals can make a significant difference to your success.

Key contacts

Steven Mcgrath

Head of Department &

Partner Solicitor

William Firrell

Solicitor

View all contacts

Jade Westhead

Commercial

Our franchising solicitors help you:

Draft franchise agreements. Your agreements will be fair, transparent, and protect your business.

Review existing agreements. You’ll understand exactly what you're signing up for.
Negotiate better terms. If something doesn’t work for you, we'll find a solution.

Handle confidentiality agreements. Your business will stay protected.

The length of your franchise agreement is key. While a long-term contract may seem appealing, it could become restrictive if circumstances change. A shorter initial term with a renewal clause often provides more flexibility.

Your agreement also defines where you can trade. Territory restrictions and non-compete clauses can impact your business both during and after the franchise term. Understanding these terms from the outset is essential.

The right franchise agreement gives you stability and security, so you can focus on growing your business with confidence.

Franchise agreement reviews – clarity before you commit

For prospective franchisees, signing a new franchise agreement is a big commitment. You need to be sure it aligns with your business plans, financial situation, and long-term goals.

Our franchise agreement solicitors provide franchise agreement reviews, giving you clear legal advice on key areas, including:

Financial obligations

From upfront fees to ongoing royalties.

Operational rules

So you understand what’s required.

Alternative dispute resolution clauses

Avoid costly litigation if issues arise.

Restrictions on trade

So you know where and how you can operate

Exit terms

Help with selling your business

Franchise disputes – resolving issues, protecting your business

Even with a strong franchise agreement, disputes can happen. Whether it’s about misrepresentation issues, financial disputes, or contract breaches, resolving disputes quickly and fairly is crucial.

Our franchise dispute solicitors act for both franchisors and franchisees, helping you:
Resolve disputes through mediation, arbitration, and litigation.
Protect your rights if a franchisor isn’t upholding their obligations.
Defend against restrictive clauses that limit your business unfairly.
Enforce intellectual property rights, safeguarding your brand.
Advise on competition law to keep your franchise compliant.

We know that disputes can be stressful, but we’re here to make the process as smooth and cost-effective as possible, giving you more time to focus on what you do best.

Why choose Rudlings?

The franchise sector is expanding each year, attracting both established businesses and individuals seeking an alternative to starting a business from scratch.

To give our clients the best possible service, we've partnered with The Franchising Centre, combining their 25+ years of experience in developing, recruiting, supporting, and educating franchisors and franchisees with our experience in franchise law.

Our partnership means you get the right support at the right time – whether it’s legal advice, tailored services, or essential documentation. Every franchisor is different, which is why we take the time to understand your business first.

The result is legal and commercial guidance that truly works for you.

Trusted experts. We pair our legal expertise with The Franchising Centre's experience.
People-focused. We listen, understand, and tailor our advice to you.
Clear communication. We give practical, straightforward advice.
End-to-end service. We support you at every stage.

Supporting your franchise every step of the way

Your franchise’s success is about more than legal contracts. It’s about having the right support at the right time.

If you're a new or prospective franchisor, we can offer guidance on setting up your franchise, along with tailored advice on the legal documents needed to support its operation.

We'll support you with a complete legal service that includes expert support for all aspects of running a franchise, including:

Business structure and incorporation. Making sure your franchise is set up correctly.
Commercial property and leases. Negotiating fair terms for your premises.
Employment law and HR support. From hiring staff to handling disputes.
Intellectual property rights. Protecting your brand, trademarks, and assets.
Franchise resale assistance. Help if you exit or sell your franchise.
Regulatory compliance. Keeping your business legally sound.

Start your franchise journey with confidence

Franchising is a great opportunity, but it’s important to get the legal details right. Whether you’re launching a new franchise, buying into a franchise network, or resolving a dispute, our solicitors are here to help.

At Rudlings, we don’t just provide legal advice. We build lasting relationships, helping you navigate the franchise industry with clarity and confidence.

Find us across Norfolk and Suffolk, with offices in Norwich, Brandon, Thetford, and Bury St Edmunds. Speak with an experienced member of our franchising team today.

What types of businesses do we work with?

We work with businesses of all sizes and across various sectors, from start-ups to established corporations. We’ve helped small, family-owned businesses grow through strategic acquisitions and bespoke franchising agreements, and we’ve supported national businesses with supplier contracts, terms and conditions, company law, and compliance needs.

Whatever the size and scope of your business, our commercial teams will provide dedicated, hands-on legal expertise at every stage of your business journey – from acquisition through to disposal.

We are all about building relationships

We work with businesses of all sizes and across various sectors, from start-ups to established corporations. We’ve helped small, family-owned businesses grow through strategic acquisitions and bespoke franchising agreements, and we’ve supported national businesses with supplier contracts, terms and conditions, company law, and compliance needs.

Whatever the size and scope of your business, our commercial teams will provide dedicated, hands-on legal expertise at every stage of your business journey – from acquisition through to disposal.