Keri A. McWilliams

Keri A. McWilliams

Washington, DC recognized lawyers icon Recognized in Best Lawyers since 2019
Nixon Peabody LLP

199 Best Lawyers awards

Nixon Peabody LLP logo

Awarded Practice Areas

Franchise Law

Biography

Keri McWilliams is a co-leader of the Franchise & Distribution team. She represents start-ups and mid-size companies across numerous industries, including restaurants, retailers, fitness centers, health concepts, and luxury brands, in all aspects of their corporate relationships. Keri is also a member of the Health and Wellness initiative, and the Food, Beverage and Agribusiness team.

What do you focus on?

Franchising
I represent franchise systems ranging from 3 units to more than 1000 units with domestic compliance as well as expansion into more than 25 countries around the world. I work with clients to prepare and update franchise agreements and disclosure documents. I obtain and manage franchise registrations in the United States and advise clients regarding compliance with state, federal, and international franchise laws. I am well-versed in international procedures, with a particular focus in the Latin America market. I have a trusted networking of local counsel with whom I regularly collaborate. I provide franchise counsel regarding expansion and system issues such as franchisee relationships, system evolution, joint employer liability, franchisee defaults, and international development.

Nixon Peabody LLP

199 Best Lawyers awards

Nixon Peabody LLP logo

Overview

  • Georgetown University, J.D., graduated 2007
  • Washington University in St. Louis, B.F.A.

  • District of Columbia, DC Bar Association
  • Minnesota, MN Bar Association
  • District of Columbia, DC Bar Association
  • Minnesota, MN Bar Association
  • Georgetown University, J.D., graduated 2007
  • Washington University in St. Louis, B.F.A.

Client Testimonials

Keri has been a key resource in the development, launch and continued success of our franchise.

Jerel Registre (Curio Franchise Services (Far & Dotter))

Awards & Focus

Recognized in The Best Lawyers in America® 2026 for work in:
  • Franchise Law
Additional Areas of Practice:
  • Food and Beverage Law

Your browser is not fully compatible with our automatic printer friendly formatting.

Please use the print button to print this profile page.

Spinning circle Big letter B