Top Franchise Legal Players: Leonard Vines, UB Greensfelder Council

Honoree: Leonard Vines
Role: UB Greensfelder Council

Leonard Vines, UB Greensfelder council, is a nationally recognized legal expert in franchising. For eight consecutive years, Chambers USA has ranked Vines nationally in franchise law, commending his skills as a creative thinker and strong communicator. He has represented national, regional and local franchisors, providing advice on a wide array of matters including franchise structuring, regulatory compliance and dispute resolution.

A frequent lecturer and writer on franchise topics, Vines has spoken for the American Bar Association Forum Committee on Franchising and the International Franchise Association. His writings have appeared in The Franchise Law Journal and the ABA Journal. Vines is also a certified mediator and former municipal judge, bringing a wealth of knowledge and experience to his practice.

1851 Franchise reached out to Vines to learn about how franchisors can protect their brand and avoid legal mistakes. Check out his insights below.

1851 Franchise: What do you see as the most important things a franchisor should do to protect their brand?

Leonard Vines: Monitor franchisees’ compliance with standards and take prompt action against franchisees who fail to comply with brand standards. Document incidents of non-compliance in writing and get prompt legal advice.

1851: How important is the information in Item 19?

Vines: For most franchisees, the information in Item 19 is the most important information in the FDD [Franchise Disclosure Document]. The first question most franchisees ask is, “How much can I make?”

1851: What is the single largest legal mistake brands make?

Vines: Failing to listen to concerns expressed by their franchisees and allowing discontent to fester.

1851: How do you stand out as a franchise law firm?

Vines: We have a cohesive group of seasoned, nationally recognized franchise attorneys, many of whom are selected for inclusion in the top lawyer rating resources. We have extensive expertise in transactional, litigation and trademark matters. One of our franchise attorneys was former in-house counsel for an international brand, and his unique perspective is very valuable. We work closely together and share information among ourselves. We actively participate in the American Bar Association Forum on Franchise and International Franchise Association and frequently write and lecture on franchise topics. We have particular experience in handling franchise due diligence on behalf of lenders and private equity firms who are considering multi-million dollar loans to or investments in a franchisor. 

In addition, the vast resources of our firm give us the ability to handle matters that other firms might not be equipped to handle. For example, our highly respected health care group helps us in our representation of franchisors in the health care field. We also have excellent relationships with other franchise attorneys both nationally and internationally.

1851: What is the best business advice you have received in your career?

Vines: Treat each client like they are your only client — let them know you care about them and keep them posted on developments that affect their business. Promptly return phone calls and emails, and if you don’t have an answer immediately, let the client know that you received their inquiry and will get back to them as soon as possible.

Every great franchisee had help buying a franchise. Want to learn more about how 1851 helps franchisees find the right franchise opportunity? Visit www.1851growthclub.com and start your journey.