Franchise Legal Players: Earsa Jackson of Clark Hill Strasburger
1851 Interviews the Highest Profile Attorneys in Franchising for the 2018 Franchise Legal Player Awards
Name: Earsa Jackson
Firm: Clark Hill Strasburger
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/clark-hill-plc/?trk=cp_followed_name_clark-hill-plc
About Your Firm: Clark Hill Strasburger is a multidisciplinary, international law firm that draws on our attorneys’ comprehensive industry and policy knowledge and a global network of industry advisors and subject-matter experts to provide innovative legal solutions and client-service excellence worldwide. Our work is guided by our deeply held shared values, including practicality, entrepreneurship, mutual respect, diversity, ethical behavior and a commitment to client and community service. Through the recent merger of Clark Hill—a multidisciplinary international law firm providing business, government and public affairs, and personal legal services—and Strasburger & Price—a premier Texas law firm providing the full range of legal needs for Texas-based, middle-market companies, as well as national and international clients—Clark Hill Strasburger is now one of the top 100 firms in the United States. With more than 600 attorneys and professionals in 25 offices in 11 states, the District of Columbia, Ireland and Mexico, we are a committed partner to a diverse range of leading brands, forward-thinking businesses, public entities, nonprofit organizations and individuals.
Website: http://www.clarkhill.com/
What makes your firm stand out as a resource for the franchise industry?
We take a holistic approach to assisting our clients and really invest time learning the client’s industry. We take that knowledge and apply it to the specific needs of the franchise. Depending on the type of franchise, a variety of legal issues may need to be addressed. We are prepared to help the franchise client address any of these, including system development, regulatory compliance, contracts, intellectual property, dispute resolution, antitrust, international and administrative matters.
What is the No. 1 thing a franchisor/franchisee should look for when identifying the right franchise attorney?
A deep command of the substantive legal area as well as strong negotiation skills, whether on a deal or litigation. From franchise renewals to resale terms to licensing agreements, franchises need to have a strong negotiator on their side to make sure the terms work for them.
When it comes to your work, what makes you happiest?
Achieving my client’s desired business goals makes me happiest. Franchising offers a wonderful opportunity for entrepreneurs to become business owners and achieve financial success and independence. Playing a part in my client’s accomplishments is very satisfying. When franchising is at its best, it’s a win-win for all involved.
What are your top concerns for the franchise industry in the next year?
Making sure the industry is prepared for data privacy and security issues. These topics are in the headlines almost daily because the threats are real. Franchisees and franchisors must be aware of how to protect and secure data, especially that of their customers. Breaches can leave them vulnerable to lawsuits and can irreparably damage their reputation. Fortunately, there are steps that can be taken to prevent an incident, so it behooves franchises to know how to protect themselves and what to do if a breech occurs.
What are you most optimistic about in the franchise industry in the next year?
The industry is positioned for continued growth. We are living in a global economy and many concepts are finding opportunities internationally. This presents amazing new opportunities for those willing to explore the possibilities.