1851 Franchise recently named Larkin Hoffman shareholders Joe Fittante and James Susag to its 2026 list of “Top Franchise Lawyers You Should Know,” recognizing leading attorneys shaping the future of franchise law.

The annual recognition highlights franchise lawyers who advise franchisors on growth, compliance, litigation risk and the evolving legal issues facing franchise systems. In a series of interviews, the publication spoke in depth with both Larkin Hoffman attorneys about common legal challenges in franchising, what emerging franchisors often overlook and what continues to keep them engaged in their work.

Fittante, who also serves as Larkin Hoffman’s president, has advised emerging and established franchisors for nearly 30 years. He counts among his clients some of the largest and most well-known brands in the world. His practice includes counseling franchise brands on system structure, registration and disclosure, compliance, brand integrity, securitizations, acquisitions and other issues arising in the life-cycle of a brand. Fittante is also a former chair of the American Bar Association Forum on Franchising and a frequent author and lecturer on issues important to the franchise industry.

He talked with the publication about the importance of ensuring that the franchise system the franchisor envisioned matches what’s on paper from the outset. “I have been witness to too many franchise documents written for one type of business being used for a much different type of business and the enforcement and regulatory issues that can cause,” Fittante told 1851 Franchise.

When asked what sets his franchise practice apart, Fittante told the publication he has mastered the art of getting things done over the years. “I think in a world where it seems harder and harder to actually get things done, those who have the skill are miles ahead of those who do not,” Fittante said. “I have that skill, and my clients appreciate it.”

Meanwhile, Susag represents franchisors in high-stakes franchise litigation and complex commercial disputes. His approach combines practical litigation strategy with an understanding of how legal decisions can affect the broader franchisor-franchisee relationship and the health of a franchise system.

When 1851 Franchise asked him about his unique approach to working with franchise litigation clients, Susag said difficult cases don’t worry him. “A matter wouldn’t be in dispute if it were clear-cut, and in fact I do my best work in complex and ambiguous situations.” Susag went on to tell the publication that his three decades of litigation experience results in tangible benefits for his clients. “I am able to give real-world advice because I’ve lived these experiences and can help clients understand what’s coming from a cost perspective, from a time perspective and from an outcome perspective,” said Susag.

You can read the full interviews with Joe Fittante and James Susag on 1851 Franchise.