Franchise Legal Players: Lynne Hanson of Moye White

Name: Lynne Hanson
Firm: Moye White
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lynnehanson/?
Website: http://www.moyewhite.com/default.aspx?

What makes your firm stand out as a resource for the franchise industry?

Moye White has built a franchise team that is capable of helping clients through a variety of legal issues that may face their business. We’ve established a team that has the depth and experience of a large, national practice while also preserving our ability to manage costs efficiently without sacrificing our commitment to client service. We have built a team around our franchise clients’ legal needs and, as a result, we help clients ranging from startups to household name restaurants, retailers and service franchises covering all aspects of their legal issues.

What is the No. 1 thing a franchisor/franchisee should look for when identifying the right franchise attorney?

Franchisors and franchisees should look for a firm that has the ability to help them throughout the life of their business from startup through their growth phases and beyond to succession planning.  Our team emphasizes this whenever we meet a new client given the efficiencies gained by having one law firm to help you across a range of regulatory, trademark and dispute resolution-related matters.

When it comes to your work, what makes you happiest?

The thing that I find most rewarding is applying my experience in ways that help my clients grow really remarkable brands.  I enjoy helping our franchise clients navigate challenges, pursue new opportunities and ultimately achieve the vision they have for their businesses.  

What are your top concerns for the franchise industry in the next year?

In the coming year, one of the issues that stands to have a significant impact across the board is the new revenue recognition rule.

The Financial Accounting Standards Board has announced a change in how initial fees will be recognized on annual financial statements – this change not only has the ability to dramatically impact numbers at the bottom line but also affect how a franchisor’s financial condition is perceived by prospective franchisees, franchisors, and state franchise examiners.

What are you most optimistic about in the franchise industry in the next year?

A big issue that has been lingering for nearly a decade, but is close to being resolved, is the joint employer issue.  Resolutions to long-pending court cases and changes in the make-up of the National Labor Relations Board will help clarify the standards for determining when a franchisor may be considered a joint employer of the franchisee’s employees.  It’s time to put this issue to rest.