by Julie Lusthaus | Jan 22, 2026 | Blog
Why? Because federal and New York rules impose hard deadlines tied to a business’s fiscal year-end. January is widely considered the start of “tax season” (largely for personal finances). Franchisors who also consider the month the start of “FDD season” will benefit...
by Julie Lusthaus | Dec 23, 2025 | Blog
As you set goals for 2026, one task deserves early attention: checking your renewal dates. Franchisees do not have automatic or indefinite rights to operate under a brand. Renewal windows can open and close quickly, and missing one can have significant consequences...
by Julie Lusthaus | Dec 15, 2025 | Blog
Legislative developments in federal and state governments impacted NY franchisors and franchisees in 2025. These changes can help or hinder franchises system-wide and at the unit level, with one guideline change approaching a deadline of Dec. 31, 2025. That is why...
by Julie Lusthaus | Dec 10, 2025 | Blog
One of the highlights of my career as a New York franchise lawyer has been my involvement with the American Bar Association’s (ABA) Forum on Franchising—especially serving on its Governing Committee and co-editing the book Franchise Relationship Laws: A Practical...
by Julie Lusthaus | Nov 17, 2025 | Blog
During the ABA Forum on Franchising in Florida, I attended a session on managing regulatory mistakes. While reflecting on the session, I briefly commented on regulatory misstep that is not unusual—creating an “accidental” or “inadvertent franchise.” This inspired...
