Elizabeth Dillon

Career

My role as a lawyer is problem-solving, finding solutions, navigating challenges and listening to clients’ needs. One client said, “Liz has been vital to our growth. She’s responsive, has extensive franchising knowledge and understands our business and strategy. When other attorneys are involved in our matters, Liz ensures everyone is aligned and working towards our business goals.”

With over 20 years of experience, Elizabeth “Liz” Dillon is a trusted advisor to franchisors at every growth stage. She is a member of the firm’s Executive Committee and heads the firm’s Franchise & Distribution Practice Group. Liz helps franchisors navigate the complexities of franchise development, registration and expansion, positioning their systems for domestic and international success. Her deep understanding of legal and business dynamics makes her an essential partner for companies of all sizes.

Liz concentrates on helping emerging and established brands grow their systems domestically and internationally. She aims to create opportunities for small business owners while seeking practical solutions. Liz states, “Balancing risk according to each client’s risk tolerance is essential, as the best solution may not always be explicitly outlined in a contract.” She focuses on the following industries:

Fitness

Food and beverage

Health care

Home services

Hotels

Restaurants

Manufacturing and distribution

Liz oversees franchise registration for diverse established and emerging brands, drawing on her experience in preparing and registering disclosure documents and franchise agreements. She also advises on the distribution and international sale of goods and helps clients avoid accidental franchises. In mergers and acquisitions, she provides critical franchise, licensing and distribution counsel to ensure seamless transitions. Her global reach includes facilitating franchise expansions across Latin America, the Caribbean, Asia, Europe and the Middle East.

Clients appreciate Liz’s ability to simplify complex legal matters and provide practical, actionable solutions. Her responsive and pragmatic approach has been essential in helping franchisors navigate difficult challenges with clarity and creativity. Her determination and skill have earned her recognition from Chambers USA and Chambers Global. As a Certified Franchise Executive through the Institute of Certified Franchise Executives, Liz is committed to supporting clients’ success, whether they are local startups or multinational franchise brands.

Practice Areas

Corporate & Business

Franchise & Distribution

Distribution

Franchise M&A

Franchise Registration & Compliance

Multi-Unit Franchising

Start-Up Systems

International Development

Emerging & Mature Systems