Auto Dealership Franchise Law Attorneys

Protecting dealers from unfair franchise terms and manufacturer overreach.
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What Is Auto Dealership Franchise Law?

Franchise law is what governs the relationship between a dealer and a manufacturer. It covers the contract, your territory, and the rules that control how you run your store.

If you run an auto dealership franchise, these laws decide whether you stay in charge or get pushed around. At Bass Sox Mercer, we make sure the power remains with you.

Auto Dealership Franchise

Common Dealership Franchise Issues We Handle

Your dealership is one of your most valuable assets. Experienced franchise counsel helps protect its profits, stability, and future from manufacturer challenges.

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Add Point & Relocation Protests

Stop manufacturers from invading your protected territory. Secure your market, safeguard customers, and preserve the profits that keep your dealership thriving.

Transfer of Ownership & Change of Management Turndowns

Protect control of your dealership from unfair manufacturer interference. Get deals approved, keep leadership decisions in your hands, and ensure smooth transitions.

Dealership Successions

Preserve your legacy by passing the dealership to family or a trusted successor. Defend succession rights so your hard work continues for generations.

Terminations

Block unjust terminations that threaten your livelihood. Keep doors open, jobs intact, and your dealership operating without interruption.

Litigation

Secure aggressive courtroom representation when disputes escalate. Receive the firepower needed to protect profits, defend reputation, and safeguard your future.

Legislative Work

Benefit from protections shaped beyond the courtroom. Bass Sox Mercer advocates for laws that strengthen dealer rights and limit manufacturer overreach.

Why Dealers Trust Our Franchise Law Attorneys

Years of Combined experience
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Exclusively representing franchised motor vehicle dealers with unmatched legal experience.

STATES & BEYOND
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Represented dealers in every U.S. state, plus Puerto Rico, Canada, and across Asia.

Secured in settlements
$ 0 B

Secured in settlements for U.S. Volkswagen dealers in the Dieselgate class action.

CLOSED TRANSACTIONS
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Dealership transactions in 2024.

Protecting Dealer Rights Under Franchise Law

Many auto dealers underestimate the protections available under state and federal franchise laws, protections manufacturers often exploit. Strong legal guidance clarifies those rights and enforces them when challenged.

With the right legal protection, dealers gain:

  • Guidance through ownership changes and succession planning
  • Protection in relocation and add-point protests
  • Representation in manufacturer disputes or termination threats

Your rights as a dealer are only as effective as the team defending them. With experienced auto dealership franchise attorneys, those rights remain a powerful shield against manufacturer overreach.

Dealership Lawyers

Talk to an Auto Dealership Franchise Lawyer Today

Every move a manufacturer makes can put your dealership at risk. Gain the legal protection needed to defend your rights and safeguard your investment.

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Frequently Asked Questions About Auto Dealership Franchise Law

Why do dealers need a lawyer for franchise law issues?

Franchise agreements are written by manufacturers and often favor their interests. A franchise lawyer who understands auto dealership franchise law can help level the playing field, protecting dealers from unfair demands or unlawful practices.

What protections do state franchise laws provide to auto dealers?

State franchise laws are designed to keep manufacturers from overreaching. They protect dealers against unfair terminations, unreasonable facility upgrade demands, and new add-points that threaten their market. These laws give dealers the ability to push back and defend the stability of their business.

Can a manufacturer terminate my dealership without cause?

Manufacturers may try, but most state franchise laws require “good cause” to terminate or not renew a franchise. That means they must prove valid business reasons, not just preference or pressure.

If you receive a termination notice, an auto dealer franchise lawyer will review it and fight to protect your dealership.

What role do franchise laws play in dealer succession planning?

Franchise laws give dealers the right to plan for the future of their business. Whether passing the store to family or selling to a new owner, these laws help prevent manufacturers from unfairly blocking succession plans.

With the right legal support, your dealership can transition smoothly and stay protected for the next generation.

Offices in Florida & North Carolina, Serving Dealers Nationwide

Based in Florida and North Carolina, our team protects auto dealership franchises nationwide and internationally.

Tallahassee

Raleigh

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