Lawyers may be familiar with a line of criticism which suggests that certain global law firms are akin to franchises practising a "McDonalds" brand of law. One Melbourne firm, however, seems to have taken to the franchise concept rather more literally, seeking to build a national franchise network of associated firms. Specialist firm Franchise Legal has decided to practice what it preaches with the launch of its first franchisee, Sydney-based Adams & Partners Lawyers. The deal will see Adams & Partners carry the Franchise Legal brand name to cover its operations in the franchise area.
Founder of Franchise Legal, Ilya Furman, who has worked in franchising for the past 10 years, is aiming to position Franchise Legal as a new way to expand within the legal industry. “From my point of view, lawyers are very independent people and they are difficult to control, particularly from afar. So in order for me to expand my firm into other states, I thought that franchising would be a better method,” he said.
After acting as in-house legal counsel for some of Australia’s largest franchisors, Furman launched Franchise Legal in 2009. “My clients have received the franchise well,” said Furman. “Because most of the franchises are national or want to be national, it’s important for them to have a law firm they can deal with locally. The geographical coverage is useful, and they see us now as being in the same business as them. It adds credibility to the advice we give them.”
Furman said he would look to spread the franchise into the Brisbane market, once the Sydney operation was well established and running smoothly.