Raynia Theodore is acknowledged as one of Australia’s leading franchise lawyers, having focused her practice in the franchise sector for more than 25 years. She is a principal at MST Lawyers (one of Australia’s leading franchising and commercial law firms) and has expertise in franchising, commercial and leasing law. She leads a specialist franchise team at the Melbourne-based law firm.
Raynia’s extensive practice is dedicated to advising franchisors, franchisees and suppliers to the franchise sector on all aspects of franchising. She acts for many new and emerging systems and a multitude of business entrepreneurs who have invested in franchise businesses. Her clients seek advice on matters pertaining to franchising code compliance, franchise documentation, sales, purchases and restructuring of franchised systems/businesses and dispute resolution both in Australian and international jurisdictions. Raynia acts for clients (including franchisees and master franchisees) looking to acquire or dispose of franchise networks and franchises. She also advises on matters involving competition and consumer law compliance specifically in relation to pricing and supply issues, misleading or deceptive conduct and unconscionable conduct claims and dealing with the ACCC.
Raynia is a member of the legal committee of the Franchise Council of Australia and is a regular presenter at Legal Symposia at the Franchise Council Australia’s national annual conventions.