Franchise and commercial disputes demand more than a legal response
A dispute can interrupt operations or put a valuable business relationship at risk. Law Works advises franchisors, master franchisees and businesses, as well as the lawyers and professionals advising them, on how to respond, with attention to the legal position and what the business needs to achieve.
Ben Hanuka brings almost three decades of franchise and commercial dispute expertise to his leadership of Law Works. The firm’s work includes franchise law, litigation, arbitration and mediation. From offices in Toronto, Calgary and Vancouver, Law Works serves Canadian and international clients on franchise and commercial matters across Canada.
Legal advice built around the business behind the dispute
A disagreement at one franchise location can raise questions across the system. A commercial claim may threaten a contract the business continues to value. Law Works examines those consequences before recommending a response.
Law Works advises clients where the risks and potential opportunities are. Law Works walks clients through the realistic options, and what each entails.
Commercial Dispute
Focused areas of practice
01
Franchise and commercial disputes
Law Works acts as counsel in complex franchise and commercial disputes, including litigation, arbitration, mediation, trials, injunction proceedings and appeals. The firm considers how each step may affect the client’s operations and other business relationships.
02
Franchise law and disclosure compliance
For emerging and established franchisors, disclosure compliance is an ongoing business responsibility. Law Works drafts franchise disclosure documents and related agreements, and helps franchisors correct, update or overhaul existing documentation when the business, the law or the franchise system has changed.
03
Arbitration and mediation services
Ben Hanuka accepts appointments as arbitrator and mediator in franchise and commercial disputes across Canada. He brings to each appointment expertise in how franchise systems operate, and in the disclosure, contractual and commercial issues that drive disputes within them.
Ben is a Fellow of the Chartered Institute of Arbitrators (FCIArb) and is active in domestic and international arbitration organizations. As counsel, he is a leading counsel in franchise disputes with a national practice, and is a member of the Bars of Ontario, Alberta and British Columbia.
Why clients and counsel
choose Law Works
The issues are understood in context
A response to one claim can affect other agreements or relationships. Law Works considers those effects when advising on enforcement, settlement and the next steps in a dispute.
Advice is direct and strategic
Clients need to know where their case is strong, where it is exposed and what pursuing it may involve. Law Works guides clients through those issues, including likely costs and timing, as a trusted advisor.
Courtroom, arbitration and boardroom experience
The firm acts in litigation and arbitration and advises on franchise law and commercial risk. That experience helps clients assess whether to pursue a proceeding or work towards a negotiated resolution.
A focused firm with a national perspective
Law Works is based in Ontario, Alberta and British Columbia and works on franchise and commercial matters across Canada. Clients benefit from senior attention, specialized experience and an understanding of the business and legal context in different provinces.
Experience across franchise sectors
Law Works has worked with franchise systems and businesses in food and restaurants, retail, hotels and accommodations, education, child care, health and wellness, home improvement services and many other sectors. Each matter starts with understanding the business and how the dispute arose.
Frequently asked questions
Who does Law Works represent in franchise matters?
Law Works acts as counsel for franchisors, master franchisees and area developers, as well as professionals advising them. The firm does not normally provide disclosure-document reviews for prospective individual or single-unit franchisees.
Does Law Works handle matters outside Ontario?
Yes. Law Works has offices in Toronto, Calgary and Vancouver and a national practice, with experience in franchise and commercial matters across Canada.
Does Law Works provide arbitration and mediation?
Yes. Ben Hanuka serves as an arbitrator and mediator in franchise disputes. This neutral role is distinct from the firm’s work as counsel.
How should a prospective client contact Law Works?
Prospective clients can email Ben Hanuka directly with a concise overview of the parties, the issue, the location and any immediate deadlines. Law Works can then determine whether the matter is within the firm’s practice and whether a discussion would be useful.
In our clients’ words
I can without hesitation recommend Ben and associates as: ethical, diligent, client focus, direct, and forthcoming to a fault. They allow the client to be aware of their options with realism: no sugar coating. Five stars in my book.
I have worked with many businesses, including law firms, and Law Works was one of those that offered exceptional service in a very efficient manner at all times. I have always been extremely satisfied with the work that has been completed and would not hesitate to recommend them to anyone.
I have been relying on Mr. Hanuka’s legal expertise for over 10 years for my corporate, professional and personal matters in Ontario. His attention to detail and knowledge of Ontario and Canadian laws are vast. His concept and execution of the law is clear, concise, and efficient, especially in areas of litigation.
Ben Hanuka and his team are professional and knowledgeable in franchise law. He has been instrumental in winning my case all the way to the Supreme Court of Canada.
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