Maynard Nexsen Welcomes Franchise Law Firm Duell Law, Expanding National Franchise and Corporate Capabilities

08.10.2026

Maynard Nexsen is pleased to announce that Duell Law has joined the firm, bringing with it a nationally recognized franchise law practice led by veteran attorney Richard Duell and associate Lauren Boyd. The addition enhances Maynard Nexsen's ability to serve franchisors, franchisees, and businesses across the country with sophisticated legal counsel in franchise, corporate, commercial litigation, and dispute resolution matters.

With more than three decades of experience, Duell has built a distinguished national reputation representing both franchisors and franchisees. His unique perspective, shaped by decades of advising clients on both sides of franchise relationships, enables him to provide practical counsel informed by the legal and business considerations that drive the franchise industry.

Prior to joining Maynard Nexsen, Duell operated his own firm, where he concentrated his practice on franchise law. Throughout his career, he has advised clients on franchise formation, regulatory compliance, franchise disclosure documents, expansion strategies, transactions, dispute resolution, and a broad range of franchise-related business matters.

A recognized thought leader in the franchise community, Duell is committed to educating and supporting both emerging and established franchisors. He authors the monthly Franchisor Alert® newsletter, which provides timely guidance and insights on developments affecting the franchise industry. He is also a frequent speaker on franchise law topics and has participated in programs sponsored by the International Franchise Association and Franchise Times.

"Joining Maynard Nexsen creates an exciting opportunity for our clients and our practice," said Duell. "The firm's national platform, broad range of complementary practices, and commitment to client service make it an ideal fit. We look forward to helping clients navigate the complex legal and business issues facing today's franchise industry while drawing on the depth of resources Maynard Nexsen offers."

Duell's professional accomplishments have earned widespread recognition throughout his career. He has maintained an AV Preeminent® rating from Martindale-Hubbell for more than 25 years and has been recognized by numerous respected legal ranking organizations, including The Best Lawyers in America®. These honors reflect his longstanding dedication to client service, professional excellence, and leadership in the franchise law field.

Duell has been involved in numerous professional organizations, including the International Bar Association's Franchise Committee, the American Bar Association's Forum on Franchising and Franchising Committee, and the Alabama Franchise Alliance, which he co-founded. He has also served in multiple leadership roles within the Birmingham Bar Association.

Joining Duell is Lauren Boyd, who becomes an associate in the firm's Complex & Commercial Litigation and Appellate & Post-Verdict practice groups. A registered mediator with the Alabama Center for Dispute Resolution, Boyd brings exceptional academic credentials and litigation experience.

Boyd earned her J.D., summa cum laude, from the University of Alabama School of Law, where she served as Editor-in-Chief of the Alabama Law Review. She also earned a Bachelor of Science in Environmental Engineering, summa cum laude, from the University of Alabama.

The addition of Duell Law further expands Maynard Nexsen's capabilities in franchise, corporate, and commercial matters, providing clients with access to an experienced team that understands the evolving opportunities and challenges facing franchise businesses nationwide.

About Maynard Nexsen

Maynard Nexsen is a nationally ranked, full-service law firm with more than 600 attorneys nationwide, representing public and private clients across diverse industries. The firm fosters entrepreneurial growth and delivers innovative, high-quality legal solutions to support client success.

Media Contact

Tina Emerson

Chief Marketing Officer
TEmerson@maynardnexsen.com 

Direct: 803.540.2105

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