Franchise Paralegal- Chicago

Job Description

Job Description

Franchise Paralegal

Location: Multiple locations in U.S. (Hybrid)

Direct Counsel is representing an Am Law 100 firm seeking a Franchise Paralegal to join its Corporate & Transactional Practice Group. This position offers the to work alongside attorneys advising national and international clients on franchise, regulatory, and transactional matters.

The Franchise Paralegal will play a critical role in supporting the firm’s franchise practice by managing franchise disclosures, state registrations, renewals, and filings, as well as maintaining direct client communication throughout the process. This position requires excellent organizational skills, attention to detail, and the ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment.

Core Responsibilities

• Prepare, review, and transmit franchise disclosure documents (FDDs) and state franchise registrations and renewals , including calculation of filing fees and annual updates.
• Draft and edit franchise registration and disclosure documents, gathering necessary information and supporting materials.
• Maintain close communication with clients throughout the registration, renewal, and compliance process.
• Monitor franchise agreement expiration and renewal dates , process renewal applications, and prepare renewal franchise agreements.
• Verify trademark registration status with the USPTO and coordinate updates as necessary.
• Support attorneys in drafting and finalizing various franchise and transactional agreements , ensuring compliance and consistency across jurisdictions.
• Manage and update the firm’s precedent database , including templates, custom-drafted clauses, and contract forms.
• Draft legal documents for attorney review, ensuring accuracy, proper formatting, and version control.
• Conduct research, compile supporting documentation, and prepare summaries and reports as requested.
• Manage competing priorities, deliver work product under tight deadlines, and proactively communicate project status and potential challenges.
• Maintain accurate and detailed billable time entries (minimum 1,600 hours annually).
• Remain proficient in Microsoft Office Suite, iManage, InTapp, and relevant franchise registration portals , such as NASAA’s EFD portal and state-specific systems (e.g., FRANSES, CARDS, and Wisconsin DFI).

Qualifications

• Paralegal Certificate or related degree preferred.
• Minimum of 5 years of paralegal experience , with a strong preference for prior franchise law experience.
• Strong understanding of franchise practice, including disclosures, agreements, renewals, and state-specific filings.
• Excellent drafting, proofreading, and analytical skills, with the ability to synthesize and organize complex information.
• Demonstrated ability to manage multiple projects with minimal supervision while maintaining high accuracy.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills with professional client interaction experience.
• Highly organized, adaptable, and detail-oriented, with the ability to perform effectively under pressure.
• Familiarity with Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, Outlook, PowerPoint) , iManage , and Kofax required.
• Commitment to reliable and consistent attendance during assigned work hours, maintaining availability via Zoom, email, voicemail, and phone.

Compensation and Benefits

This position offers a competitive annual salary of $100,000 – $115,000 , commensurate with experience, along with a comprehensive benefits package , including:

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance
• Paid time off and sick leave
• 401(k) retirement plan with employer contribution
• PTO

Work Arrangement: Hybrid (3 days onsite, 2 remote)