Franchise Legal Players: John R. Gotaskie Jr. of Fox Rothschild LLP

Name: John R. Gotaskie

Firm: Fox Rothschild LLP

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/16349/ || https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-gotaskie-8a77065/

About Your Firm: Fox Rothschild LLP is a national law firm that delivers strategic, practical solutions for clients ranging from family-run businesses to multinational corporations. Home to more than 800 attorneys in 21 offices coast to coast, Fox offers clients a team of bright, creative, accomplished professionals in 60 practice areas who appreciate the changing nature of today’s competitive business environment. Fox attorneys excel at crafting legal solutions using a service-oriented, can-do approach that hinges on one common principle: an unwavering commitment to client satisfaction.

Website: http://www.foxrothschild.com/

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.