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Franchisors have numerous obligations under the Franchising Code of Conduct (‘The Code’) and a failure to comply with them can risk fines and penalties under The Code by the ACCC. Here are key issues for Franchisors to be aware of to avoid compliance risk. End of Term Notice Clause 18 of the Franchising Code requires franchisors to give written notice at least 6 months prior to the end of the franchise term to franchisees as to whether the franchisor will agree to: Extend the existing franchise agreement, or Renew the agreement,...

Confused about valuing a business? Read on for some top tips and advice on different methods from our Special Counsel Robert Toth. Tangible v Intangible Assets It’s important to understand the distinction between tangible and intangible assets to accurately value a business. Tangible assets such as property, office equipment, machinery or stock-in-hand can be readily valued. Intangible assets such as a brand, goodwill, intellectual property and future potential are more difficult to value. The longer the business has been ...

Ever heard a sweeping statement about contract law, and been not quite sure if it was true? We’re here to help. Here’s a list of some common misconceptions about contracts that we hear all the time at Sanicki. 1. A contract has to be in writing Contrary to popular belief, contracts don’t have to be written to be legally binding. They can be made orally, via text messages, or even through conduct, as long as some basic elements are satisfied:  Offer and Acceptance: One party must make an offer, and the other party ...

Introduction While Eminem’s music, including iconic tracks like “Lose Yourself” and “Without Me,” is widely known and celebrated globally, few are aware of the complex legal battle surrounding the royalties from these songs. This legal conflict involved streaming giant Spotify and Eight Mile Style (“EMS”), Eminem’s co-publisher and copyright holder of 242 of his compositions. After five years of litigation, the case concluded on 15 August 2024, with Spotify successfully defending itself against claims of copyright ...

News broke on 17 September that Miley Cyrus—former incognito pop-star for Disney Channel turned Grammy-winning solo artist—is being sued. The dispute concerns similarities between Cyrus’ chart-topping song Flowers and Bruno Mars’ 2013 hit When I Was Your Man. The lawsuit was filed in Los Angeles’ federal court on 16 September by music rights investment firm Tempo Music—purchasers of a share of rights in Mars’ When I Was Your Man.  Who is involved in the suit? The defendants named in the lawsuit include Cyrus, her co...