Atlanta Employment & Franchise Lawyer - Business Litigators
At Cantrell Schuette, P.A., our Atlanta Employment & Franchise Lawyers are dedicated to providing exceptional representation in employment, franchise, and business law. As trusted advocates, we handle a wide range of cases, including non-compete agreements, wrongful termination, discrimination claims, franchise agreements, and other complex matters.
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Practice Group Leaders
Non-Compete, Franchise, and Employment Lawyers in Atlanta
Cantrell Schuette, P.A. provides experienced legal representation to clients throughout Atlanta and the surrounding areas. Our attorneys focus on employment law, franchise law, non-compete agreements, and personal injury matters.
Business Litigation
High-stakes business disputes require precision, leverage, and a litigation team that understands risk from day one. Nationwide, Cantrell Schuette is regularly requested to handle high-stakes business litigation, especially including disputes involving breach of contracts, shareholder and partnership conflicts, business defamation, restrictive covenants, trade secrets, and other business torts.
Non-Compete & Non-Solicit Agreements
Non-competes are contracts that protect employers from unfair competition.
Business Owner Disputes
Partners and shareholders must comply with their agreements and Florida business laws.
Breach of Contract
Partners and shareholders must comply with their agreements and Florida business laws.
Personal Injury Law
When serious injuries disrupt your life, you need an attorney who understands both the law and the long-term impact of your case. Our personal injury attorneys represent clients in auto accidents, catastrophic injuries, medical malpractice, product defects, and dangerous property conditions. We’ve secured millions in compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
Auto Accidents
Car crashes can cause serious injuries and expenses. We help victims recover fair compensation for their losses.
Worker's Compensation
Compensation for Workplace Injuries
Bicycle Accidents
Defend Cyclists’ Rights
Medical Malpractice
Hold Negligent Providers Accountable
Motorcycle Accidents
Stand Up for Riders’ Safety
Nursing Home Abuse
Protect the Most Vulnerable
Slip & Fall Injuries
Demand Safe Premises
Truck Accidents
Challenge Negligent Trucking Companies
Uber & Lyft Accidents
Fight for Fair Rideshare Settlements
Dog Bites
Hold Irresponsible Owners Accountable
Boating Accidents
Seek Justice After Waterway Injuries
Employment Law
Employees and c-suite executives turn to Cantrell Schuette for representation for important employment law matters, including wrongful termination, retaliation, discrimination, whistleblowing, unpaid compensation, and non-compete disputes. We help clients protect their careers, reputations, and financial futures.
Employee Agreements
Employment contracts outline the terms and conductions of the employment relationship.
Wrongful Termination
Workplace discrimination laws protect employees from unlawful termination.
Family & Medical Leave
Helps employees balance their work and family responsibilities while protecting their job.
Sexual Harassment
Title VII and Florida laws prohibit workplace sexual harassment.
Unpaid Bonuses or Commissions
Florida law requires earned bonuses and commissions must be paid.
Retaliation
Workplace retaliation can take many forms, including termination, demotion, and harassment.
Discrimination
Employment discrimination laws ensure equal treatment for employees.
Breach of Contract
Contract law governs the creation and enforcement of agreements.
Hostile Work Environment
Workplace harassment is prohibited by federal and state anti-discrimination laws.
Non-Compete & Non-Solicit Agreements
Non-competes are contracts that protect employers from unfair competition.
Franchise Law
Franchise disputes are complex, document-heavy, and high-risk. Our franchise attorneys are exceptional in FDD reviews and franchisee-franchisor disputes. We represent franchisees with purchases, negotiations, and litigation nationwide. We also represent groups of franchisees and franchisee associations.
Experienced Atlanta Employment & Franchise Lawyer
At Cantrell Schuette, P.A., our Atlanta Employment & Franchise Lawyers provide tailored legal solutions that give executives, professionals, entrepreneurs, and high-profile individuals the confidence and peace of mind they need. With our deep understanding of the local legal landscape—including courts, judges, and opposing counsel—we streamline the legal process to maximize your chances of success, no matter how complex your case.
We specialize in employment, franchise, non-compete, and business litigation, proudly serving a diverse range of clients with a personal, results-driven approach. What sets us apart is our commitment to partner-led representation—ensuring that every aspect of your case is handled by an experienced attorney who understands the nuances of your legal needs.
Our team brings over a decade of experience, impressive credentials, and a genuine commitment to excellence. Many of us have clerked for federal judges, earned peer-reviewed awards, and graduated in the top 10% of our law class. Beyond legal expertise, we value compassion, sound judgment, and customized legal strategies that help you feel confident in every decision.
We’re proud of our track record in securing favorable outcomes—whether you’re resolving a high-stakes business dispute or navigating complex employment law. Let a trusted Atlanta Employment & Franchise Lawyer help you move forward with confidence.
Contact us today for a consultation at (404) 474-7924, email coordinator@lawcantrell.com.
What Our Clients Say
Representing Franchisors and Franchisees in Atlanta
At Cantrell Schuette, we are committed to providing top-tier legal representation to franchisors and franchisees in Atlanta. Our experienced team of franchise attorneys understands the complexities of franchising law and is equipped to offer customized solutions that meet your specific needs.
Whether you’re drafting or negotiating franchise agreements, resolving disputes, or navigating regulatory compliance, we focus on protecting your interests and positioning your business for long-term success. With a proven track record of favorable outcomes, we have built a reputation for our expertise, strategic approach, and unwavering dedication to our clients.
Trust us to guide you through the challenges of franchising with confidence, ensuring that your business is well-protected and prepared for growth.
Your Partner in Complex Employment and Business Law
At Cantrell Schuette, P.A., we use our extensive experience and unwavering commitment to deliver clear, results-driven legal solutions tailored to your unique needs. Whether you need help with non-compete agreements, franchise law, employment disputes, or complex business litigation, we are here to guide you through the legal landscape and secure the best possible outcome.
We understand that your situation is unique, and we’re here to help in the following areas:
Atlanta Employment Lawyers
We protect your rights and interests in matters such as:
High-stakes wage disputes
Discrimination and harassment claims
Wrongful termination
Non-compete agreements
Employment contract negotiations
Franchise Lawyers In Atlanta
We help you safeguard your business and resolve disputes efficiently, including:
Franchise agreements and contract disputes
Trade secret misappropriation claims
Partnership and shareholder disputes
Deceptive business practices
Business defamation
Whether your case requires litigation, arbitration, or mediation, we are committed to helping you achieve a successful outcome.
Contact us today for a consultation at (404) 474-7924 or email coordinator@lawcantrell.com to find out how we can help you resolve your legal challenges.
At Cantrell Schuette, P.A., we are a trusted resource for businesses and individuals in Atlanta seeking guidance on non-compete, non-solicit, and non-disclosure agreements. As a leading law firm dedicated to competition law, we have extensive experience navigating Atlanta’s non-compete statute. Few firms in Atlanta—or nationwide—have the depth of knowledge we bring to these areas.
Our team provides comprehensive counseling and litigation services focused on restrictive covenants, including non-compete, non-solicit, and non-disclosure agreements.
For businesses, we:
- Draft restrictive covenants that comply with Atlanta’s non-compete laws
- Offer strategic advice to multi-state employers to ensure enforceability across jurisdictions
- Manage disputes involving non-competes, non-solicits, trade secrets, and unfair competition in both state and federal courts
- Represent clients in obtaining or defending against temporary and preliminary injunctions
For individuals, we:
- Assist in understanding and navigating non-compete and non-solicit agreements
- Assess the enforceability of these agreements in your specific case
- Defend against non-compete enforcement and represent clients at injunction hearings
Whether you’re looking to protect your business or defend your rights, we offer legal guidance and strategic insight to help you achieve the best outcome.
Contact us today at (404) 474-7924 or email coordinator@lawcantrell.com to schedule a consultation.
Business Litigation Attorneys in Atlanta
Cantrell Schuette, P.A. is your trusted partner for business litigation in Atlanta. Our law firm specializes in handling complex business disputes, including breach of contract, shareholder disagreements, partnership disputes, and more. With a team of experienced business litigation attorneys, we have a proven track record of success, having participated in over 50 trials and arbitrations. Our attorneys consistently achieve favorable outcomes for clients, often securing significant financial recoveries in high-stakes business conflicts.
Our extensive industry knowledge sets us apart across a wide range of sectors, including healthcare, technology, financial services, franchises, insurance, recruiting/staffing, and professional services. We are dedicated to understanding the unique aspects of each case and delivering personalized legal strategies tailored to your business’s needs. Whether defending or prosecuting claims, we relentlessly protect your interests and help you navigate the complexities of business litigation.
William Cantrell
Will graduated from FSU Law (J.D., magna cum laude, 2008), in the top 5% of his law class. He has substantial experience in employment law, franchise law, and business disputes.
Atlanta Office Frequently Asked Questions
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Where is your Atlanta Office Located?
Our Atlanta office is conveniently located at:
Cantrell Schuette, P.A.
3379 Peachtree Rd. NE, Suite 555 Atlanta, GA 30326
Atlanta is not only the location of our office but also serves as the capital of Georgia and the largest city in the southeastern United States. Situated in Fulton County, Atlanta is a vibrant and bustling metropolis within the state. The Atlanta metropolitan area boasts a population of approximately 6 million residents, making it a major economic and cultural hub in the region.
Atlanta’s economic landscape is diverse, with primary industries encompassing international trade, utilities, education, healthcare, hospitality, manufacturing, and financial services. The city is home to several Fortune 500 companies, including Coca-Cola, Home Depot, UPS, Delta, AT&T, Newell Rubbermaid, and Waffle House, which contribute significantly to its economic vitality.
Beyond its economic prowess, Atlanta is celebrated for its diversity and numerous popular neighborhoods, offering a wide range of living options. The city also hosts a plethora of attractions and institutions, including the world’s busiest airport, professional sports teams, the iconic Mercedes-Benz Stadium, the historic Fox Theater, the renowned High Museum of Art, prestigious academic institutions like Georgia Tech and Emory University, proximity to the University of Georgia, the captivating Georgia Aquarium, Centennial Olympic Park, and the picturesque Piedmont Park, among others.
In terms of legal matters, the courts in Georgia encompass both state and federal systems. The primary trial courts in Georgia are the superior courts, and in Atlanta, the superior court is known as the Fulton County Superior Court. Additionally, the federal court system has a presence in the Atlanta Division of the U.S. Northern District of Georgia. Cantrell Schuette, P.A. has a strong presence in the legal landscape of Georgia, practicing in virtually every court, including the superior court and federal court in Atlanta.
What type of clients do you typically represent?
Cantrell Schuette, P.A. is known for its expertise in employment law and high-stakes business disputes. Executives, independent contractors, entrepreneurs, professionals, businesses, franchisees/franchisors, sales producers, and more all hire Cantrell Schuette, P.A. for legal assistance.
Cantrell Schuette, P.A. represents partners, shareholders, and LLC members, including those in closely held companies. Disputes often arise over the direction of a company, compensation, allocation of assets, valuation, and unlawful conduct by individual partners, directors, or officers. We understand the sensitivity of many of these situations and, when prudent, work to discreetly resolve disputes.
Cantrell Schuette, P.A. also represents all levels of employees. We specialize in non-compete and non-solicit disputes (including injunction hearings), unpaid bonuses and commissions, independent contractor misclassification, improperly treating positions as exempt from overtime pay, sexual harassment and gender discrimination, and representing all types of whistleblowers (e.g., reporting fraud, abuse, corruption, or danger to public health or safety), and non-compete and non-solicit defense.
Do I need to make an appointment?
Yes. To ensure that we can provide you with the highest level of personalized legal service, we request that you schedule an appointment in advance of your visit to our Atlanta office. Making an appointment allows us to allocate dedicated time to thoroughly understand your legal needs, gather necessary documentation, and provide you with the focused attention you deserve.
Can I consult with an attorney virtually or over the phone?
Yes, we understand that flexibility and convenience are essential when seeking legal advice or representation. To better serve our clients, Cantrell Schuette, P.A.’s Atlanta office offers the option of virtual consultations and consultations over the phone.
How should I prepare for my consultation after hiring the firm and what should I provide?
After hiring the firm, to ensure that our attorneys can provide you with the best guidance and representation, it’s essential to provide specific questions, documents and information relevant to your case.
Dispute Resolution Process
Latest Atlanta Articles
Frequently Asked Questions
Contact us 24/7.
Is Atlanta an “at-will” employment city?
In Georgia, including Atlanta, most employment relationships are considered “at-will,” which means that either the employer or the employee can terminate the employment relationship at any time, for any reason, or no reason at all, as long as it’s not for an illegal reason. However, exceptions to at-will employment may exist depending on the terms of an employment agreement or other contractual arrangements.
At Cantrell Schuette, P.A., we can help you navigate the complexities of at-will employment in Atlanta and determine if any exceptions apply to your situation.
What is workplace discrimination, and what are the protected classes in Atlanta?
Workplace discrimination occurs when an employee is treated unfairly based on certain protected characteristics, such as race, gender, age, disability, religion, or national origin. In Atlanta, protected classes are aligned with federal laws, including Title VII of the Civil Rights Act, the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), and the Age Discrimination in Employment Act (ADEA).
If you believe you’ve been discriminated against at work, our legal team can guide you through the steps to address the issue and protect your rights.
Can my employer in Atlanta fire me for filing a workers' compensation claim?
No, it’s illegal for your employer in Atlanta (or anywhere in Georgia) to terminate your employment as retaliation for filing a workers’ compensation claim. You have the right to seek compensation for work-related injuries without fear of losing your job.
If you believe you’ve been retaliated against for filing a claim, our attorneys can help protect your rights and ensure fair treatment.
How do I report workplace harassment or discrimination in Atlanta?
If you are experiencing workplace harassment or discrimination in Atlanta, start by reporting it to your employer’s HR department or following your company’s internal reporting procedures. If the issue isn’t resolved internally, you can file a complaint with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) or the Georgia Commission on Equal Opportunity (GCEO).
Our experienced attorneys are here to offer guidance and help you protect your rights throughout the process.
Can I be fired in Atlanta for being absent due to a serious health condition or family medical leave?
Employees in Atlanta who are eligible under the federal Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) are entitled to take up to 12 weeks of unpaid leave per year for certain family or medical reasons. During this time, your job is protected, and your employer cannot legally fire you for taking FMLA leave.
If you face challenges or retaliation for taking FMLA leave, our legal team can provide the guidance and advocacy you need.
What should I do if I believe I've been wrongfully terminated in Atlanta?
If you think you’ve been wrongfully terminated in Atlanta, it’s important to know that Georgia law provides protections against illegal terminations. You don’t have to accept unfair treatment due to prejudice, retaliation, or other unlawful reasons. You may be entitled to compensation for lost wages, emotional distress, and other damages.
To take action, follow these steps:
- Understand the Reasons: Review the reasons behind your termination to determine if any illegal actions occurred.
- Gather Evidence: Collect any documentation that supports your claim, such as discriminatory or retaliatory actions from your employer.
- Seek Legal Guidance: Contact an employment attorney to ensure your rights are protected and to explore your options.
At Cantrell Schuette, P.A., our attorneys have extensive experience handling wrongful termination cases in Atlanta. We are here to safeguard your rights and help you seek compensation. Contact us today for a consultation at (404) 474-7924 or email coordinator@lawcantrell.com.
Have You Been Wrongfully Terminated? Retaliated Against?
At Cantrell Schuette, P.A., our services encompass a wide range of FMLA-related matters. If you’re an employee whose FMLA rights have been infringed upon, we’re here to advocate on your behalf, pursuing remedies and compensation where appropriate. For employers, we provide essential guidance in ensuring your policies and practices align with FMLA regulations, reducing the risk of legal disputes. We also offer employer defense services, protecting your business interests in the face of FMLA-related claims. Additionally, our team conducts seminars and training sessions to educate both employees and employers on their rights and responsibilities under FMLA.
What should I expect from an Atlanta FMLA Attorney?
In the heart of this vibrant city, our legal team stands ready to assist in navigating the intricate landscape of the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA). At Cantrell Schuette, P.A., we bring a wealth of experience to the table, with a proven track record of success in handling FMLA-related cases. We understand that FMLA matters can be sensitive and complex.