Helen Fotinos is a partner in our Corporate group in Toronto and lead of the Firm's National Franchising and Distribution group in Canada. Her practice focuses on all aspects of franchise/distribution law and related corporate/commercial contracts and disputes.

Prior to returning to private practice, Helen served as General Counsel to domestic and international franchisors, manufacturers and distributors in the quick-service/casual dining, food and beverage, hospitality and automotive industries. She has extensive experience developing integrated risk management strategies and practical business solutions that assist clients in managing both their day-to-day operations as well as the strategic long-term growth of their businesses.

Helen regularly advises domestic and international franchisors, manufacturers and distributors on wide variety of issues, including: Canadian market entry, exit and expansion strategies; franchise disclosure obligations; unit, area development and master franchise agreements; system changes; default enforcement; franchise terminations; renewals and transfers; the standardization of key operating documents; the implementation and enforcement of financial reporting, training and performance improvement programs; vendor, distribution and employment agreements; consumer grievances and litigation management.

Helen is also a legal service innovator, and has introduced several client focused file management and pricing structures that offer clients a full suite of services on an in-house counsel model, at fixed fee rates in order to provide clients with greater transparency and budget certainty.