Deborah Coldwell represents franchisors, distributors, joint ventures, limited liability companies, partnerships and the individuals who run those companies in jury trials, bench trials and arbitrations. She has litigated across several industries - from hotels and restaurants to health clubs and tax preparation services to product and service-based franchise and distribution networks.

Deb will help bring a business solution to a dispute when possible and is skilled in representing clients in mediations and other settlement proceedings. But when litigation is inevitable, she is fully prepared to go to trial or arbitration and to fight for a company and its officers. To that end, she litigated a successful six week jury trial in Texas state court in a joint venture dispute. Nationally-ranked by Chambers USA, (Chambers and Partners, 2009-2019) in the franchise law category, clients have described her as an "outstanding trial lawyer," "very poised, thoughtful and smart," and as "an especially good advocate."

Deb loves to organize and motivate teams to accomplish short and long term goals. She is a past chair of the 2,000-plus member American Bar Association Forum on Franchising. She also served the Forum as the editor-in-chief of the Franchise Law Journal and as its publications officer. Deb channels her love of sports by litigating sports law-related matters and serving as co-chair of Haynes and Boone's Sports Law Practice Group. She is also a passionate member of the Food, Beverage and Restaurant Practice Group.

Prior to attending law school, Deb worked in restaurants and taught junior high and college. Deb's unique background helps her bring a practical approach to problem solving and allows her to assist clients to find an individual workable strategy in each case she handles. As a skilled and creative trial lawyer, Deb has the experience and flexibility to provide clients with quality representation on a "one size does not fit all" basis.

Bar Admissions
Texas

Education
J.D., University of Texas School of Law, 1990
M.A.T., Colorado College, 1979
B.A., Colorado State University, 1974

• What Franchise and Hospitality Companies Should Know! A Guide to CARES and Other Relief Programs

  By Deborah Coldwell |April 2020

• Potential Government Relief for Hospitality Industry - Including Franchised Businesses

  By Deborah Coldwell |March 2020

• Hurricane Harvey and Price Gouging: Considerations for Franchisors

  By Deborah Coldwell |August 2017

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