Paul F. Woody

Paul advises franchisors in a variety of industries to help ensure their compliance with federal and state laws and proactively avoid disputes. An experienced business attorney and litigator, he has deep knowledge of the compliance and business concerns affecting franchisors across a wide range of industries. He is well-versed in all aspects of the franchisor-franchisee relationship and the agreements that govern those relationships, and he has managed franchise litigation and directed litigation avoidance and prevention efforts.

In addition to his work with franchisors, Paul advises growing businesses across a variety of industries on matters related to compliance, dispute resolution, and corporate governance. He has handled corporate and employment litigation at every stage, including presenting arguments before appellate courts.

Paul previously served as general counsel for a large sports and recreation franchisor with over 300 franchises throughout the U.S., Canada, and Japan. In that role, he provided legal guidance, contributed to strategic planning and key decisions, oversaw compliance and litigation strategies, and managed franchisee relationships, including franchise transfers, rectifying compliance issues, and franchise terminations. This previous in-house experience enables him to anticipate and relate to his clients’ business needs and priorities.

Before practicing law, Paul worked in state and local government and political communications. He understands that effective legal counsel and advocacy starts with effective communications. Clients value his ability to translate legalese into plain English and to make legal concepts and strategy accessible and understandable, skills he has honed while working in the Capitol, classroom, and courtroom. He is a Certified Franchise Executive and an adjunct professor at Saint Louis University School of Law, where he teaches franchise law.

Outside of his legal practice, Paul is a youth baseball coach and an avid fan of the game. He is also an amateur photographer and history buff.