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Who We Are

Nationwide Franchise Attorneys

FortmanSpann is a Missouri-based law firm focused on franchise and trademark law. Our firm’s franchise lawyers have a national presence representing franchisees in matters including, but not limited to, breach of contract, fraud, franchise disclosure document (FDD) disclosure violations, and encroachment, but also purchases, renewals, sales, and transfers.

Our Team

Your Trusted Legal Team

Jonathan E. Fortman

Attorney

Jon is married to his wife Laura and is a father of three, Stephen, 29, Noel, 22, and Carter, 18. Jon graduated from the University of Missouri in 1989 with a Bachelor of Arts in psychology. He then attended the St. Louis University School of Law where he graduated with his Juris Doctorate in 1992. After working a couple of years in a big firm, Jon branched out on his own and started his solo practice in 1995.

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Kelly Spann

Attorney

Kelly is married to her husband Todd and is the proud mom of Kyle, 19, Kinley, 12, and Kane, 7. She began working for Jon in 2004 as his legal assistant and paralegal. She graduated from Western Governors University in 2016 with a Bachelor of Science in business management. After gaining years of experience and encouragement from numerous other legal professionals, Kelly obtained her Juris Doctorate from St. Louis University School of Law in 2021 with a concentration in intellectual property law.

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Why Choose Us?

Effective Legal Representation Is Just a Phone Call Away

Legal matters require intricate knowledge and experience working through the details of law and regulations along with the practical realities of life. When you confront a situation that calls for informed counsel – either personally or professionally – your best move is to consult with a knowledgeable attorney to help you with your case. Trusted legal assistance is only a phone call away. You can have confidence as you lean on our skill and proficiency in numerous areas of law to guide you through your complicated legal issue.

Personalized Service

You and your case are unique. That’s why you will receive customized attention and service that puts you in a position to pursue a favorable outcome.

Flexible Appointments

We understand that you have a busy schedule, so we will work with you to help make meetings and appointments fit into your timetable with ease.

Clear Communication

It is our top priority to be available to listen to your concerns, answer your questions, and keep you updated regarding the details of your case every step of the way.

Testimonials

What Our Clients Say

EXCELLENT

Based on 65 reviews

Deryck Whiteley

As a franchise business owner, I was looking to leave the franchise and Kelly Spann helped to make that happen. Kelly is an experienced franchise lawyer with good practical legal advice. If you're looking to get into a franchise business, before finalizing anything, I highly recommend you speak to Kelly first to understand the franchise agreement and determine exit plan options.

Will Eggimann

Kelly was fantastic to work with throughout my case. She was knowledgeable, responsive, and explained everything in a clear and straightforward way. What could have been a complicated process felt simple because of her guidance and attention to detail. I really appreciated how efficient and professional she was, and I would highly recommend Kelly to anyone needing help with trademark disputes and other.

Josh Carter

Kelly is an exceptional attorney — incredibly knowledgeable, responsive, and committed to her clients. From the very beginning, she brought clarity, confidence, and strategic guidance to a complex situation. She takes the time to explain every step, answers questions thoroughly, and truly advocates for her clients’ best interests. Her professionalism, communication, and expertise stand out in a big way. I’m grateful for her support and would recommend her without hesitation to anyone seeking a strong, trustworthy attorney who genuinely cares.

Timothy Silver

Kelly was amazing to work with. Very professional and incredibly knowledgeable on franchise law. She provided insight that I had never thought about. I highly recommend her and her law office to any other franchisee seeking advice.

LipDog Ventures

Kelly and the Fortman & Spann team were incredible to work with. They guided us through a complex business transition with professionalism, compassion, and deep franchise knowledge. I only wish we had found them before we signed our original agreement—having their insight early on would have saved us years of stress and expense.

Robert Fulton

I had a great experience with FortmanSpann, LLC. I went into the meeting not knowing much about the subject of our meeting, and I came out much more informed and I was provided additional resources associated with the project as well. A great experience! Thank you!

Kerry-ann Stewart

She helped us tremendously with reviewing our Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD) and explained everything clearly so we could make an informed decision. She was professional, responsive, and patient with all our questions throughout the process. We felt confident moving forward thanks to her guidance.If you’re thinking about buying a franchise, I’d definitely recommend Kelly. She really knows her stuff and makes sure you feel confident before moving forward.

Michael Rose

Kelly Registered the Trademark for my business. She is very knowledgeable and easy to work with. Highly recommend!

Zachary Bradford

Kelly was great to work with! She was proactive and kept me up to date the whole time. I never had to check in. She explained everything very well from the beginning and was honest the entire time. Highly recommend her and FortmanSpann!

Nancy Finke

I was referred to Kelly Spann of FortmanSpann LLC to help me navigate contracts for my business I was starting. Not only was she very knowledgeable, she looked at it from all angles not just from a legal stand point, meaning would she do this personally, did it make sense, and what could be issues down the road. I highly recommend Kelly.

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Blog

Recent Blogs and News

Arbitration Clauses: A Risky Waiver of Rights
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Item 20 Disclosures: Surprising Facts for Franchisees
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