Legal Services

Company Snapshot

• Year Founded: 1954
• Headquarters Location: 3605 Glenwood Avenue, Suite 500, Raleigh, NC 27612
• Ownership: Private
• Key Executives: Barry D. Mann (Co-Managing Partner), Judson A. Welborn (Co-Managing Partner), Ritchie Taylor (Franchise Practice Leader)[^5][^6]
• Number of Locations: 2 (Raleigh and Durham, North Carolina)
• Public Contact: Phone: (919) 787-8880 | Website Contact Form

Company Overview

Manning Fulton is a mid-size, privately held law firm based in North Carolina providing comprehensive legal services to businesses and individuals, with a significant focus on supporting franchise systems and multi-unit operators. The firm leverages deep experience and a client-focused approach to help franchise clients navigate the complex regulatory and operational challenges unique to franchising.

Services Offered

• Franchise law counsel, including regulatory compliance, Franchise Disclosure Document preparation and maintenance
• Mergers \& acquisitions, business law, intellectual property (including trademark registration), and commercial litigation
• Support for franchise sales, transfers, and terminations, risk management, and dispute resolution
• Full-service legal offering for franchisors covering tax, real estate, employment, government relations, and operational needs

Value Proposition

• Industry Specialization: Manning Fulton has a dedicated franchise practice and is recognized as one of North Carolina’s leading law firms for franchise law, serving over 50 brands across QSR, retail, home services, emerging concepts, and more.
• Key Benefits:
  • Delivers franchise-specific legal solutions and guidance for brand growth and regulatory compliance
  • Offers efficient service with senior-level expertise and a focus on cost-effectiveness for franchise systems
  • Supports the full lifecycle of a franchise system, from launch to exit, with tailored legal and operational counsel
• Franchise Expertise: The firm’s franchise team includes Certified Franchise Executives and leaders with active roles in the International Franchise Association and state bar franchise law committees. Manning Fulton has published franchise law resources and maintains visible case studies relevant to franchise system challenges