Franchise Legal Players: Harold Kestenbaum, President at HLK P.C. Law Firm
As part of its annual Franchise Legal Players issue, 1851 profiled the top franchise attorneys in the field to shine a spotlight on the work they do for the franchise industry.
1851: Tell us about your background and your firm.
Harold Kestenbaum, President at HLK P.C. Law Firm: I have been a franchise attorney for 42 years, representing only franchisors. I sat on the Board of Directors of Sbarro for 23 years and was also the CEO of a 95-unit franchise chain. I also wrote a book called “So You Want to Franchise Your Business”. HLK P.C. law firm has a staff of 10 and is based in Melville, New York.
1851: What are some must-ask questions when franchisors and franchisees are vetting potential franchise attorneys?
Kestenbaum: How long have you been representing franchise companies? What type of franchise companies have you represented? Do you practice in all 50 states?
1851: In broad terms, do you have a particular case that stands out to you as an industry learning experience?
Kestenbaum: I’ve seen so much in my 42 years in the industry, there’s not one case in particular that stands out.
1851: What is the most rewarding aspect of your work?
Kestenbaum: Watching new franchisors become giants in their areas. I derive great satisfaction from helping a single-unit chain grow to hundreds of franchised outlets.
1851: What are your top concerns for the franchise industry in the next year?
Kestenbaum: Having the National Labor Review Board reverse the joint employment decisions.
1851: What are you most optimistic about in the franchise industry in the next year?
Kestenbaum: The franchise industry continues to grow and prosper, both in good economic times and bad. It is a wonderful industry to be in.