Franchise or distribution agreements are cornerstones of many businesses, allowing companies to spread their products wide and giving small businesses an established brand to rely on. But when there is trouble between the two businesses, the deck is often stacked against the franchisee or distributor. Many of these smaller businesses have successfully challenged the termination of their agreements, but it takes a thorough reading of their contracts -- and smart, aggressive legal representation -- to succeed.

Not every termination of a franchise or distribution agreement is legally valid. Companies may not breach their contractual obligations and hold distributors or franchisors responsible for complying with their own. Contracts, or their provisions, may also be declared invalid if they constitute retaliation, false pretenses or violations of the laws of your state, including the Illinois Franchise Act. Our Chicago wrongful termination of distribution lawyers can act right away to stop a pending termination from going through. We can also hold companies legally responsible for the financial consequences of a wrongful termination, especially the loss of years of future profits.

DiTommaso-Lubin has decades of experience representing companies involved in business disputes or breach of contract litigation, especially complex or high-stakes lawsuits. We handle cases in federal courts and state courts in Illinois, Indiana and Wisconsin. We also represent clients in alternative dispute resolution methods such as arbitration and mediation. If necessary, we’re not afraid to challenge contractual provisions forcing you into courts in other states or unfair arbitration agreements. Our past clients have included business structures from closely held private or family businesses to large corporations, in all types of businesses:

• Fast food
• Coffee shops and casual dining
• Retailers
• Alcoholic beverage and soft drink companies
• Auto products and services
• Vending machines
• Cosmetics and personal care
• Hotels and motels
• Hair salons
• Gyms and fitness centers

If you’re part of a distributor or franchisee and you believe your contract was illegally terminated, our Illinois wrongful termination of franchise attorneys want to help. From our offices in Chicago and Oakbrook Terrace, Illinois, we offer free, confidential consultations to potential clients. To speak with us about your claim, please Contact Us via email or call us toll-free at 1-877-990-4990.