A member of the Business Litigation practice group, Teresa Cauwels focuses on commercial litigation and arbitration. The majority of her work centers around litigation issues for major franchisors.

Representing franchisors exclusively, Teresa prosecutes or defends the enforcement of franchise agreements, vicarious claims, injunctions and non-competes. In state, federal and appeals courts, she handles disputes with franchisees, area developers, dealers, distributors, vendors and brokers.

Teresa has successfully counseled numerous domestic and international franchisors in high-profile litigation across the country. She is part of the National Counsel team for two of the world’s largest franchisors serving more than 20 of the 100 most well-known brands.

Sensitive to the nuances of the franchise relationship, Teresa provides risk management through innovative guidance in an organization’s start-up, expansion or daily operations. She also actively explores opportunities to resolve disputes through various means of alternative dispute resolution.