Missouri Franchise Laws Overview
Missouri operates as a “non-registration” state for franchises, meaning it does not have a specific state law requiring franchisors to register or file their disclosure documents with a state agency. But, all Aspiring Missouri franchisees need to hire Missouri Franchise Attorneys to protect their new businesses.
Now, non-registration states like Missouri are governed by federal regulations. Franchisors looking to sell in Missouri must comply with the Federal Trade Commission’s (FTC) Franchise Rule. This federal law mandates that franchisors provide prospective buyers with a detailed Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD) well before any sale is completed, ensuring a standardized level of pre-investment transparency.
Unlike states with comprehensive franchise acts, Missouri does not have a general franchise relationship law that regulates the ongoing dynamics between franchisors and franchisees.
This means that for most franchise systems, critical issues such as contract termination, renewal, and transfer of ownership are governed primarily by the terms written in the franchise agreement itself. This places a heavy emphasis on the contract, as it becomes the primary source of rights and obligations for both parties after the sale.
And while a broad relationship law is absent, franchisees are not without legal recourse. They can rely on common law principles like breach of contract and fraud.
More importantly, franchisees may find protection under the Missouri Merchandising Practices Act (MMPA). This powerful consumer protection statute prohibits deceptive and unfair practices in connection with the sale of merchandise and services.
Finally, Missouri franchisees have successfully used the MPA to bring claims against franchisors for misrepresentations made during the sales process or for other unfair conduct, providing a significant legal avenue for seeking damages and other remedies in the absence of a dedicated franchise statute.
Here is a list of franchise lawyers you can hire in Missouri
Lance Formwalt / Seigfreid Bingham, P.C.
2323 Grand Blvd., Suite 1000
Kansas City, Missouri
David M. Duree / David M. Duree and Associates, P.C.
120 Lincoln Street
O’Fallon, Illinois
Leonard D. Vines / Greensfelder, Hemker & Gale, P.C.
10 S. Broadway, Suite 2000
St. Louis, Missouri
This Directory is owned and operated by Franchise Selection Specialists Inc., Cleveland, Ohio 44143
Joel Libava, President.
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