Maryland
A Maryland franchise attorney helps you register your Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD) with the state and keep it current as the rules change. And they just changed. New Maryland franchise law updates took effect on October 1, 2026. If you sell franchises in Maryland, your FDD and franchise agreement likely need edits. The Franchise and Business Law Group helps franchisors register in Maryland, renew on time, and stay compliant.
Named a U.S. News Best Law Firm for Franchise Law since 2014.
Under the Maryland Franchise Registration and Disclosure Law, you must register your FDD before you offer or sell a franchise in the state. The filing goes to the Securities Division of the Maryland Attorney General's office. Registration applies when the buyer lives in Maryland, when the franchise will operate in Maryland, or when the offer or acceptance happens there.
Your registration must be renewed every year. You also have to file an amendment when something material changes. Maryland gives examples, such as a change of control, a reorganization, or ending a large share of your franchisees in a short period. Learn more in our guide to material changes and FDD updates.
Maryland passed several updates that affect every franchisor selling there. Here is what is new:
The good news: you do not have to stop selling or file an amendment just because of these changes. But FDDs and agreements used on or after October 1, 2026 should match the new law, and the state will check at your next renewal or amendment. We can review your documents now so your next filing goes smoothly.
Maryland's new claim rules make clean records and clear agreements more important than ever. Our franchise dispute team helps you handle problems with franchisees before they turn into lawsuits.
We have helped launch more than 100 franchise brands over about 20 years, including Crumbl Cookies, Westside Pizza, and Sno Shack. We know what startup franchisors need, and we know what examiners look for.
You work directly with our partners. Expect email and phone contact two to three times a week while we build or update your documents, plus a free 10 to 15 minute monthly check-in for franchisor clients.
Your FDD is not a one-time document. A dedicated renewal team sends you a questionnaire each year, finds what changed, and updates your FDD for new laws so every state renewal goes in on time.
Yes, unless you qualify for an exemption. Maryland requires registration before you offer or sell a franchise to a Maryland resident, for a franchise that will operate in Maryland, or when the offer or acceptance happens there.
Most franchisors selling in Maryland will. FDDs and agreements used on or after October 1, 2026 should reflect the new law, including the new statement about the franchisee claims deadline. The state will review this at your next renewal or amendment.
It is an option that lets franchisors file renewals early in a two-step process. It began as a pilot and is now part of Maryland law. We can tell you if your system qualifies and help you hit its early cutoff.
Yes. If your financial statements show low capital, Maryland may ask for fee deferral, escrow, or a surety bond. We help you choose the best fit and get your registration approved.
Headquartered in Salt Lake City · Serving Maryland Franchisors
