Franchise Agreements: Structuring, Drafting, and Dispute Management

Course Objectives:

• To understand the key components of franchise agreements.
• To learn the process of structuring a franchise agreement to protect both parties.
• To gain the skills necessary to draft comprehensive franchise agreements.
• To understand common disputes in franchise relationships and how to manage them effectively.

Introduction to Franchise Agreements

• Overview of franchising: definition, types, and key players.
• Legal framework of franchise agreements: International vs. national regulations.
• Key components of a franchise agreement.
  • Franchisee’s rights and obligations.
  • Franchisor’s rights and obligations.
  • Territorial and exclusivity clauses.
  • Duration and termination provisions.

Structuring a Franchise Agreement

• Factors to consider when structuring a franchise agreement.
  • Market analysis and selecting the right franchise model.
  • Risk allocation: franchisor and franchisee perspectives.
• Franchise fees and financial arrangements.
  • Initial franchise fee vs. ongoing royalties.
  • Payment terms, auditing, and transparency.
• Confidentiality, intellectual property, and trademark protection.
  • Non-compete clauses.
  • Use of franchisor’s trademarks and proprietary systems.

Drafting Franchise Agreements

• Practical steps in drafting a franchise agreement.
  • Customization of templates.
  • Clear and enforceable language.
  • Legal and regulatory compliance (including disclosure documents).
• Dispute resolution provisions in franchise agreements.
  • Mediation, arbitration, and litigation options.
  • Governing law and jurisdiction clauses.
• Risk management through strong contract clauses.
  • Breach of contract and remedies.
  • Indemnity and liability clauses.

Dispute Management and Resolution in Franchise Relationships

• Common franchise disputes: causes and prevention.
  • Financial disagreements.
  • Breach of terms or obligations.
  • Non-compliance with operational standards.
• Methods of resolving franchise disputes.
  • Alternative dispute resolution (ADR) mechanisms.
  • Role of mediation and arbitration in franchise relationships.
• Case studies and examples of franchise disputes.
  • How courts interpret and enforce franchise agreements.
  • Best practices for preventing legal conflicts in franchising.

DATE:

1ST BATCH: 20th – 23rd Jan, 2026    

2ND BATCH: 12th – 15th May, 2026

3RD BATCH: 8th – 11th Sep, 2026