Christina Fugate Selected as a Franchise Times Legal Eagle

Ice Miller partner Christina Fugate has been selected as a 2023 Legal Eagle by Franchise Times. Legal Eagles have “a keen mind for both the legalese and business, they understand the gravitas of every single legal battle, every transaction and the importance of every document. That engenders a spirit of collaboration and efficiency among this tight-knit group of legal professionals,” according to Franchise Times.

As a member of the newest class of Legal Eagles, Fugate shared her thoughts on a legal topic that more people in franchising need to know about in the April 2023 edition of the Franchise Times. Specifically, she spoke about the use of franchisee questionnaires in franchise disclosure documents.

“Last September, NASAA issued a statement of policy regarding the use of franchisee questionnaires in franchise disclosure documents, effective January 1, 2023,” Fugate said in Franchise Times. “Although this is not a rule adopted by the FTC, some states such as California and Maryland have issued opinions regarding the statement of policy, stating that they intend to follow it and implement comments to FDDs consistent with NASAA’s policy. Thus, franchisors should be aware of the statement of policy and consult with their legal advisers on whether any changes need to be made to their FDDs.”

Fugate co-chairs Ice Miller’s Franchise and Distribution team. She advises entrepreneurs and emerging franchisors in determining whether franchising is the right model to grow and maintain their brands and whether they are ready to franchise.

Fugate also counsels clients on compliance with state and federal regulatory issues. With more than a decade of experience representing franchise clients in a variety of commercial litigation matters, she advises on resolving disputes pertaining to contracts, non-competition covenants, protection of trademarks and trade secrets, among others.

An active member of the International Franchise Association, Christina completed the Association’s Certified Franchise Executive designation. She is also an active member of the ABA Forum on Franchising, has written several articles for the ABA Franchise Journal and has been a featured speaker at the Forum’s annual meeting.
 

About Ice Miller LLP

Ice Miller LLP is a full-service law firm dedicated to helping our clients stay ahead in a changing world. With more than 340 legal professionals across seven offices, we advise clients on all aspects of the complex legal issues impacting businesses each day. We serve emerging growth companies, FORTUNE 500 corporations, municipal entities and nonprofits. To learn more, visit us at icemiller.com.