Partner-level Franchise Attorney - Income Principal

Job Overview

A nationally recognized law firm is seeking a Principal Attorney with extensive experience in franchise law to join its Business Practice Group. This opportunity is ideal for an experienced attorney with a portable book of business who is looking to advise a diverse portfolio of franchise clients across a wide range of industries. The position offers collaboration across multiple offices with a dynamic team of seasoned attorneys.

Location

• Seattle, WA

Duties

• Counsel franchisors, franchisees, manufacturers, and distributors on all aspects of franchise law

• Prepare and review Franchise Disclosure Documents (FDDs) and related offering documentation

• Draft and negotiate Franchise Agreements and ancillary documents

• Advise clients on federal and state franchise registration, disclosure, and compliance requirements

• Provide strategic guidance on franchise relationship management and regulatory inquiries

• Address issues related to franchise renewals, terminations, and transfers

• Assist with licensing, distribution, and other business arrangements that may involve franchise implications

• Represent clients in governmental investigations and enforcement actions related to franchise law

• Collaborate with attorneys across practice areas on multidisciplinary client needs

• Engage in client development initiatives and relationship management activities

Requirements

• Minimum of 7 years of experience in franchise law, including:

  • Representation of franchisors and franchisees

  • Drafting FDDs and Franchise Agreements

  • Compliance counseling and regulatory advice

  • Handling franchise relationship issues and governmental inquiries

• Portable book of business (partial or full) required

• Strong ability to manage complex projects independently and collaboratively

• Client-focused approach with outstanding service skills

• Excellent written and verbal communication abilities

• Organizational excellence and attention to detail

Education

• Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree from an ABA-accredited law school

Certifications

• Active license to practice law

Skills

• Expertise in franchise regulatory compliance and documentation

• Skilled in negotiating complex franchise and distribution agreements

• Strong analytical and strategic advisory skills

• Ability to effectively manage multiple transactions and client matters

• Proactive approach to client counseling and risk management

• Capable of building and maintaining strong client relationships

Benefits

• Eligibility for performance bonuses

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance

• 401(k) retirement plan with employer contributions

• Commuter allowance

• Disability and life insurance coverage

• Paid parental leave

• Billable credit hours for approved Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Pro Bono work

• Career development, leadership training, and mentorship opportunities

• Collaborative and inclusive professional environment

Time for a change? Come up to the Pacific Northwest and really thrive within a diverse group of lawyers and a power pack of national and international clients. This is a long-established firm with an enthusiastic commitment to community endeavors. Here is a real opportunity for professional growth and civic satisfaction for highly qualified, motivated candidates. This is a powerful Pacific Northwest firm and offers associates working here the opportunity to participate in some of the more significant litigation and corporate work in the Pacific Northwest. They are well known for their strong real estate and land use practice, and many of the firm's attorneys who practice in these disciplines are considered recognized leaders in their fields. This firm also has an exceptional bankruptcy practice. This firm also has a diverse client base including large publicly traded corporations as well as closely held businesses and individuals. This firm is considered to have good management, and its management structure is fairly well integrated throughout the firm's offices.