As Canada's most experienced franchise law firm, Sotos LLP is dedicated to helping entrepreneurs develop, grow and protect their business in franchising, licensing, distribution and almost every other commercial activity. Our strength lies in understanding business problems and solving them with outstanding, timely results.

Franchising works best when it works for both parties
The franchise relationship is, at its root, a legal relationship governed by contracts. We believe that lawyers have a role to play, and a responsibility to bear, in how a franchise system is developed and how it responds in times of stress as well as success. We openly praise franchisors for promoting positive franchise relations while being outspoken critics of those who disregard their franchisees’ interests when enforcing discretionary rights or making system changes. Successful systems must be structured to ensure risks and rewards are shared fairly between the franchisor and its franchisees.

Leaders in franchise fairness initiatives
Sotos LLP has been a pioneer in advocating the benefits of balanced franchise relationships. We have been strong advocates of franchise fairness legislation in Canada and have played a key role in many precedent-setting cases. We provide counsel to governments, business institutions and trade associations on processes to ensure that franchising remains a secure and prosperous business vehicle.

Franchise law is the cornerstone of our practice
Sotos LLP is counted upon to assist clients in turning franchise opportunities into ongoing successes. Our legal advice covers every aspect of franchising - from start-up to national and international systems.

For start-up companies, we assist in:
  • Advising on business formation
  • Developing business and organization plans
  • Drafting franchise agreements and disclosure documents

For mature franchisors we assist in:
  • Mergers and acquisitions
  • Competition Act matters particular to franchising
  • Marketing and advertising issues
  • Domestic and international trade mark and copyright
  • Trade secret protection
  • Technology arrangements
  • General corporate, leasing and financing work
  • International expansion