Growing a Franchise
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.
Mike Drumm, Attorney at Drumm Law: Like most great businesses, Drumm Law was started in a basement (did you know Apple was started in Steve Jobs basement?). Drumm Law is not your typical law firm. We have lawyers with a personality that speak in plain English (if you want fancy legalese, you will have to go elsewhere).
1851: What are some must-ask questions when franchisors and franchisees are vetting potential franchise attorneys?
Drumm: Do you enjoy long walks on the beach and puppies?
1851: In broad terms, do you have a particular case that stands out to you as an industry learning experience
Drumm: Alfonso Ribeiro's (“Carlton" from Fresh Prince of Bel Air) lawsuit against Fortnite. It teaches you that the Carlton Dance is for everyone. No one person can own it.
1851: What is the most rewarding aspect of your work?
Drumm: The look on my clients’ faces when I tell them good news over the phone.
1851: What are your top concerns for the franchise industry in the next year?
Drumm: That the McRib sandwich will not be available long enough for me to get one.
1851: What are you most optimistic about in the franchise industry in the next year?
Drumm: Star Wars IX comes out in December.
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About the Author
Maddie has spent her career in the media industry, serving in various editorial roles before migrating into a hybrid content strategy and PR role with No Limit Agency. Her passion for storytelling and love of writing help her create meaningful content on behalf of her clients and fulfill No Limit Agency’s mission to tell people-driven stories.
Maddie is a graduate of Saint Louis University, where she studied Communications with a focus in journalism and media studies as well as Sports Business. In her spare time, Maddie can be found exploring Chicago’s food scene, watching an NBA game or lamenting over her middling fantasy baseball team.
