James A. Ullman

Jim is recognized as one of the leading attorneys in the United States specializing in franchise and intellectual property law. He brings to the table a common sense approach for his clients. Jim learned franchising early in his career as an in-house counsel to an international transportation company that commenced franchise activities in the early 1980s. Subsequently, Jim spent many years practicing in large law firm environments acquiring expertise and ultimately mentoring newer franchise attorneys. Throughout the years, he has worked on a number of significant deals for national and multi-national corporations, including private equity and venture capital groups. He has served as Special Counsel to prominent law firms seeking his advice relative to the franchise aspects of complicated merger and acquisition transactions. In addition, Jim acts as a catalyst to nurture start-ups and help successful businesses that desire to expand through franchising.

In the capacity of representing a start-up franchise, Jim fully comprehends the needs of his clients. He acts as a business advisor and counselor who will guide them cost-efficiently and expeditiously. Jim’s early in-house experience with a high-profile entrepreneurial company provides him the insight to understand and solve the challenges that new franchisors face when launching a new licensing system. Jim has franchised clients in a vast array of industries, businesses and professional endeavors including: restaurants, cosmetics and beauty supply stores, electronics, hotels and casinos, daycare facilities, med spas, yoga studios, senior living placement, sleep apnea clinics, dental practices, bakeries and gourmet pastries and vision apparel retailers.

A key ingredient of any franchise or licensing system is the intellectual property that has been developed and needs to be protected. Over the years, Jim has worked collaboratively with his clients and their management and marketing personnel to brand products and services.

These services include trademark clearance and prosecution at the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office, ongoing maintenance and policing of Marks and brand protection activities. Jim serves as outside counsel to several clients maintaining multi-national trademark portfolios and liaises with foreign counsel in virtually every jurisdiction throughout the world.

Copyright protection is also a key aspect of IP law and Jim is able to guide clients to maintain these valuable rights. In the franchise context, Jim often reviews operational manuals. His role is to ensure they accurately and comprehensively reflect the licensed businesses, enabling new franchisee training to proceed smoothly.