Do you need a franchise lawyer?
A franchise agreement runs for years and is largely non-negotiable. Here is why independent legal advice is one of the cheapest safeguards you can buy.
Do you need a lawyer to buy a franchise?
What a franchise lawyer does
- Reviews the franchise agreement and disclosure document against the Franchising Code 2025.
- Explains the term, renewal, territory, fee, restraint-of-trade and termination clauses in plain terms.
- Flags unusual or one-sided provisions and what they could mean for you.
- Confirms your obligations and your exit options before you are bound by them.
What it costs, and why it is worth it
A fixed-fee franchise agreement review is modest against a commitment that commonly runs into six figures all-in and lasts five years or more. Use a lawyer who specialises in franchising, a general commercial lawyer may miss Code-specific issues. Pair the legal review with an accountant checking the numbers.
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Frequently asked questions
Is a lawyer required to buy a franchise in Australia?
No, it is not legally required, but it is strongly advisable given the size and length of the commitment. The Franchising Code's 14-day disclosure period is designed to give you time to have the agreement reviewed before signing.
How much does a franchise lawyer cost?
Many franchise lawyers offer a fixed-fee agreement review, which is modest against an all-in investment that commonly runs into six figures. Use a specialist in franchising rather than a general commercial lawyer.
Can you negotiate a franchise agreement with a lawyer?
Major terms are usually kept standard across the network and are rarely negotiable, but a lawyer ensures you understand exactly what you are agreeing to, and can sometimes clarify or improve secondary terms. Understanding beats surprise.
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