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Christy Reuter demonstrates a deep commitment to her clients, engaging with them far beyond the surface level typical in professional relationships. Her approach involves an unwavering dedication, often responding to client inquiries at unconventional hours.
“My clients are a little eccentric,” acknowledges Reuter, a partner and chair of the hospitality practice at Blank Rome LLP. “But that’s part of what makes this industry exciting. A bit of craziness is essential in this field.”
This passion for hospitality law fuels Reuter’s success. The restaurant sector is characterized by its dynamic nature, demanding quick thinking and decisive action. Whether it’s a time-sensitive lease negotiation, a licensing agreement, or a trademark issue, operators turn to Reuter when they require a staunch advocate.
In the restaurant industry, securing the right legal advice is critical. Reuter emphasizes that while passion drives many restaurant owners, it can’t substitute for sound legal protections.
“I can instantly tell when someone lacks industry knowledge,” Reuter shares with Shawn Walchef, the host of the Restaurant Influencers podcast. “They often focus on the wrong aspects, overlook key details, and ultimately make poor decisions.”
She likens it to seeking medical advice from an inappropriate specialist: “You wouldn’t visit a cardiologist for a foot issue. It’s vital to have an attorney who specializes in hospitality law and understands the intricacies involved in restaurant operations.”
The Importance of Legal Protection
Many restaurant operators miscalculated the significance of legal branding protections, considering it a secondary concern once their concept and menu gain traction. They often realize too late the importance of safeguarding their establishment’s name.
“Operators frequently overlook, or delay, trademarking their brand,” Reuter points out. “Failing to protect your name opens the door for someone else to claim it. Once that happens, regaining control over your brand can be nearly impossible.”
A robust trademark is not merely a legal formality; it is crucial for a restaurant’s enduring prosperity. With proper protections in place, businesses can seize licensing opportunities, expand confidently, and safeguard themselves against competitors appropriating their names.
Ultimately, Reuter’s work transcends mere contract reviews and negotiations. Her mission revolves around safeguarding the interests and aspirations of her clients.
“My role is not limited to examining contracts,” she emphasizes. “I aim to ensure that my clients are not inadvertently agreeing to terms that could pose significant risks in the future.”
With this commitment, she advocates for her clients as if their businesses were her own. Within the hospitality realm, an effective lawyer serves not just as an advisor but as an essential collaborator in the business’s journey.
About Restaurant Influencers
Restaurant Influencers is a platform supported by Toast, a comprehensive restaurant point-of-sale and management system designed to enhance restaurant operations, boost sales, and enrich guest experiences.
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