Christina Fugate chairs Ice Miller’s Franchise and Distribution team. More than just an advocate for her clients, Christina is dedicated to serving as a trusted advisor who helps clients solve problems and expand their businesses. Responsive, thoughtful and strategic, Christina is a counsellor who remains focused on her client’s end game.

An understandable, diplomatic communicator who takes the time to really listen to what each client needs to succeed, Christina 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. Christina counsels clients on compliance with state and federal regulatory issues and offers extensive skill in advising growing and experienced franchise systems. With more than a decade of experience representing franchise clients in a variety of commercial litigation matters, Christina advises on resolving disputes pertaining to contracts, non-competition covenants, protection of trademarks and trade secrets, among others.

A smart and practical advocate, Christina provides litigation counsel to a number of different clients in a variety of industries. She regularly defends Fortune 500 manufacturers, distributors and retailers against product liability, warranty and indemnification claims. She also frequently counsels clients with respect to real estate disputes and general competitive business litigation, as well as assists clients in conducting internal investigations.

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. In the community, Christina serves as President of Butler University’s Central Indiana Alumni Chapter and a member of the Dean’s Advisory Council for Butler University’s Lacy School of Business. She is also a member of the IndyCREW Board of Directors, President of Heritage Place of Indianapolis, Inc., and Secretary of Project 44, Inc. Notably, Christina is the co-founder of the Women’s Network Forum.