Haynes Boone Partners Deb Coldwell and Maral Kilejian have once again been recognized as Legal Eagles by Franchise Times in its 2026 ranking, placing them among the leading franchise attorneys in the United States who demonstrate exceptional skill, deep industry knowledge and commitment to the franchise industry.
Coldwell, co-chair of the firm’s Franchise and Distribution Practice Group, continues her long-running streak on the list reflecting more than two decades of excellence representing franchisors, distributors, joint ventures and clients in complex disputes. Known for her ability to blend strategic business insights with litigation experience, she is a trusted advocate in jury trials and bench trials, arbitrations and other settlement negotiations.
Kilejian focuses her practice on franchise and distribution law as well as advertising, marketing and promotional law. She is nationally recognized for counselling franchisors on domestic franchise programs, international expansion, the implementation of marketing and advertising campaigns and representing franchisors in the full lifecycle of franchise developments.
Franchise Times selects its Legal Eagles through a nomination process that considers recent case work and various trends. The honorees represent top franchise lawyers across the United States and Canada, advising franchisors and franchisees on litigation, transactions and general counsel matters.
Haynes Boone’s Franchise and Distribution Practice Group, recognized as a top group in the nation by Chambers USA, advises companies on all aspects of domestic and international franchising and distribution, including program development, disputes, licensing and joint ventures. The team combines practical industry experience with a global network of advisors to help clients achieve their business goals efficiently and effectively.
