Department profile
Haynes and Boone, LLP

Franchising

USA Guide 2026 : USA - Nationwide


Haynes and Boone, LLP

Rankings

About

Provided by Haynes and Boone, LLP

Our team represents companies of all sizes — from startups with a few locations to global name brands with 10,000-plus locations — and across all industries, including hotels, restaurants, health clubs, tax preparation services, and product and service-based franchise and distribution networks.

With experience as in-house counsel in companies and holding leadership positions in the ABA’s Forum on Franchising and the International Franchise Association, our lawyers have the insight to merge business skill and legal knowledge to balance our clients’ objectives and economic expectations and to provide practical advice specific to each situation. We handle the entire range of matters faced by our clients, including developing and maintaining domestic and/or international franchise and distribution networks. We assist with: master, area, and direct franchising; supply chain matters; product distribution and licensing; joint ventures; food quality and labeling; and legal issues involving sweepstakes, advertising, marketing, and promotions.

We handle and resolve claims in federal and state courts and in domestic and international arbitrations. We work with clients in mediations and other settlement proceedings to achieve the best results in the most efficient manner. But when litigation is inevitable, we’re fully prepared to go to trial or arbitration and to fight for a company. With an aggressive, results-oriented attitude, we are committed to meeting our clients’ business goals.

Chambers Review

Provided by Chambers

Franchising - USA - Nationwide

Band 3

Band 3


What the Team is Known For

Haynes and Boone is respected firm in the market, offering counsel and representation to a broad range of international and domestic clients. It has a strong bench of lawyers providing notable expertise and experience in franchising litigation, arbitration and alternative dispute resolution. It is particularly well versed in helping businesses with international expansion and distribution. The firm is recognized for expertise in representing clients from the food, drink, hospitality, retail and travel sectors.

Work Highlights

Provided by Chambers

  • Haynes and Boone assisted Bloomin’ Brands on the sale of its majority stake in the Outback Steakhouse restaurant chain.

Strengths

Provided by Chambers

  • Haynes and Boone has experience in every portion of the franchise business, and is able to bring not only litigation experience but also business advisory services on related questions.

    Franchising respondentUSA
  • Its lawyers are practical, reliable and enjoyable to work with.

    Franchising respondentUSA
  • The team provides responsiveness and direct answers.

    Franchising respondentUSA

Notable Practitioners

Provided by Chambers

  • Band 1Deborah S Coldwell
    Band 1Deborah S Coldwell

    Deborah S Coldwell

    Deborah Coldwell is held in exceptionally high regard due to her experience in disputes concerning issues such as breach of contract, fraud and franchise terminations. Her clients include franchisors, distributors, joint ventures and partnerships.

  • Band 2Robert A Lauer
    Band 2Robert A Lauer

    Robert A Lauer

    Robert Lauer focuses on franchise law, advising on domestic and international matters. He works on transactional issues and is particularly skilled in working with those in the hospitality and restaurant sectors.

    • Robert is a talented attorney with practical solutions.

      Franchising respondentUSA

Ranked Individuals at Haynes and Boone, LLP (2)

USA - Nationwide

Members

Provided by Haynes and Boone, LLP

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