Plave Koch PLC: Individual And Firm Honors
We’ve Got A LOT To Be Proud Of
Plave Koch PLC has been recognized by our peers for several prestigious awards in franchising law. We are grateful for the recognition and for the team that makes it possible!
We are honored to announce that eight of our lawyers have been recognized in the 2022 Edition of The Best Lawyers in America® for Franchise Law, including Regina Amolsch, Leslie Curran, Marisa Faunce, Dave Koch, Michael Laidhold, Lee Plave, Ben Reed, and Jim Rubinger. The Best Lawyers in America results are based on surveys of thousands of lawyers who confidentially evaluate their peers.
Additionally, we are extremely proud of our partner, Marisa Faunce, who was named the 2022 Lawyer of the Year for Franchise Law in the Washington D.C., metropolitan area. This recognition is bestowed upon the lawyer with the highest overall peer recommendations in a specific practice area in the region. Marisa has been a partner with Plave Koch since 2009, earning many accolades for her work including inclusion in Chambers USA, Super Lawyers of Virginia and Washington D.C., and Who’s Who Legal – Franchising.
Lee Plave Awarded With 2019 Lewis G. Rudnick Award
Co-Owner Lee Plave was awarded by the American Bar Association Forum on Franchising’s with the Lewis G. Rudnick Award. The Lewis G. Rudnick Award is known as the highest and most prestigious award a franchise attorney can receive, recognizing his experience, professionalism, and leadership in franchising.
This award is in memory of Lew Rudnick, who was one of the founders of the Forum on Franchising. He served as the Forum’s second chair and trained and mentored several generations of franchise lawyers, therefore making a difference in the community. Lee was surprised and extremely honored to have received this award in the aspiration of Lew Rudnick.
Ten Partners Recognized By Who’s Who Legal 2019
All nine of the firm’s partners (Regina Amolsch, Leslie Curran, Marisa Faunce, David Koch, Michael Laidhold, Lee Plave, Leslie Pujo, Ben Reed, Jim Rubinger and David Worthen) were named by London-based Who’s Who Legal to WWL’s list of the top franchise lawyers in the world for 2019.
WWL is a leading publication based in London that annually identifies the foremost legal practitioners in various fields of law. WWL publishes findings based on its independent six-month research process, which encompasses feedback from private practitioners, clients and other experts in the sector around the world. Each year, WWL identifies leading experts and firms in each of its featured practice areas, including franchise law.
Plave Koch is proud to be one of few firms in the world to have WWL recognize 100% of its partners for their outstanding work and scholarship.
Lee Plave Named 2019 Global Franchise Lawyer of the Year
Lee Plave was named global Franchise Lawyer of the Year for the second consecutive year by WWL.
“In winning this award for the second time, Mr. Plave has once again showed his outstanding skill, expertise and reputation in the field of franchising, said Rupert Wilson, WWL’s editor. “Respondents to our research recommended him more than any other practitioner in the research for our 2018 edition and noted him as being ‘a great person to work with’ and someone who ‘lives and breathes franchising.’”
David Koch, Lee Plave, and Leslie Curran Recognized in Who’s Who Legal: Thought Leaders Global Elite 2020
Lee Plave, David Koch, and Leslie Curran were recognized in Who’s Who Legal: Thought Leaders – Global Elite 2020, which brings together the insight, expertise and wisdom of some of the world’s foremost lawyers and experts in a single book. Plave Koch is the only firm in the world with three franchise partners named to the list of top lawyers.
Eight Plave Koch Partners recognized by Who’s Who Legal
Our firm is honored to have eight Partners recognized by Who’s Who Legal, an independent London-based publishing group, which provides research, analysis and reports on international legal services.
- Regina Amolsch
- Leslie Curran
- Marisa Faunce
- Dave Koch
- Michael Laidhold
- Lee Plave
- Ben Reed
- Jim Rubinger
Who’s Who Legal ranks Plave Koch 4th internationally among all law firms in the franchise arena, boasting eight recognized experts who have been highlighted for their expertise in franchising law and their experience of assisting clients in the establishment, maintenance, and growth of their franchised businesses. WWL cited the firm as “the leading boutique for franchises.”
Lee Plave wins Franchise Lawyer of the Year 2018
Lee Plave was recognized as the Who’s Who Legal Franchise Lawyer of the Year 2018 at the WWL Awards in London on May 8th. Who’s Who Legal lists only the leading lawyers in each field, based exclusively on the findings of an independent six-month research process that encompasses feedback from private practitioners, clients and other experts in the sector.
Rupert Wilson, editor of Who’s Who Legal, said: “Mr. Plave has demonstrated exceptional capability in the franchising market, obtaining more recommendations than any other practitioner in our most recent research. This award is merely confirmation of his already pre-eminent position in the field.”
Lee Plave and Dave Koch recognized in Who’s Who Legal: Thought Leaders 2019 Global Elite
Lee Plave and David Koch were recognized in Who’s Who Legal: Thought Leaders 2019 Global Elite which brings together the insight, expertise and wisdom of some of the world’s foremost lawyers and experts in a single book.
Plave Koch Receives National and Regional Tier 1 Ranking in Best Law Firms
Our firm is honored to continue its string of “Tier 1” national and regional rankings for Franchise Law in the 2018 U.S. News – Best Lawyers “Best Law Firms” results. The rankings are determined through a peer review by other leading attorneys in the field and client evaluations.
Plave Koch ranks #4 Globally by Who’s Who Legal with #1 and #13 Lawyers in North America
Ranked #1 and #13 respectively in North America, Lee Plave and Dave Koch were recognized as Top Thought Leaders according to a recent analysis by London-based “Who’s Who Legal”. This marks the third time in recent years that Lee was ranked as the top franchise lawyer in North America.
Who’s Who Legal ranks Plave Koch 4th internationally among all law firms, boasting eight recognized experts who have been highlighted for their expertise in franchising law and their experience assisting clients in the establishment, maintenance and growth of their franchise businesses. The analysis states:
Lee Plave is a prominent figure at the forefront of the market. He has broad expertise in matters relating to franchising agreements, technology and private equity transactions. One client describes him as “a well-rounded operator in all areas of business. He thinks outside the box, is steeped in nuances and is well-versed in the intricacies of franchise law.”
David Koch comes highly recommended by peers and clients alike for his vast expertise in structured franchise programmes, transactional matters and licence agreements. According to one client, “David is one of the smartest and best attorneys I have ever worked with. He is very responsive and provides legal advice to make the business move forward.”
Leslie Curran impresses market sources with her expertise in franchise structuring and compliance matters. One client describes her as “extremely knowledgeable, down-to-earth and very pragmatic when it comes to the business realities of our company”.
James Rubinger and Lee Plave Rated AV Preeminent
Jim Rubinger and Lee Plave were, once again, rated by “Martindale-Hubbell” as 5.0/5.0 AV Preeminent (Highest Ethical Standing), reflecting a century-old “gold standard” of professional peer reviews for the highest levels of professional excellence.*
*AV®, AV Preeminent®, and Martindale-Hubbell are used under license in accordance with the Martindale-Hubbell® certification procedures, standards and policies.
U.S. News – Best Lawyers Again Names Plave Koch a National “Tier 1” Firm; Lee Plave is Washington D.C. Franchise “Lawyer of the Year” for Second Time
Our firm is honored to continue its string of “Tier 1” national rankings for Franchise Law in the 2017 U.S. News – Best Lawyers “Best Law Firms” results. Eight Plave Koch attorneys were named individually in the 2017 “Best Lawyers” rankings. Lee was named “Lawyer of the Year” for Franchise Law in Washington, D.C. for the second time (he previously received this honor in 2011).
According to Best Lawyers, its lists of outstanding attorneys are compiled by conducting exhaustive peer-review surveys in which thousands of leading lawyers confidentially evaluate their professional peers. The current edition is the 23rd edition of The Best Lawyers in America.
Jim Rubinger Named a “2016 Top Rated Litigator”
American Lawyer Media and Martindale-Hubbell™ recently selected Jim as a 2016 Top Rated Litigator. He will be recognized in a special section which will run in the December issues of American Lawyer, Corporate Counsel, and National Law Journal.
Eight Plave Kochies Named to Who’s Who Legal: Franchise 2016
Our firm received very nice mentions in the 2016 Who’s Who Legal.
“Falls Church-based boutique Plave Koch sees eight listings. Lee Plave and David Koch left their respective international firms and set up their joint practice in 2007, and have gone from strength to strength ever since. Lee Plave demonstrates “a wealth of experience and understanding” and has a particular expertise in counseling on the application of technology to franchising, including social networking and social media issues. David Koch’s practice focuses on franchising, licensing and supply chain transactions. One peer calls him “one of our best and brightest lawyers working in franchise today.” Leslie Curran advises start-up, mid-market and mature franchises, and her “market knowledge is outstanding.”
Also be sure to view WWL’s Franchise 2016: Roundtable, in which Lee and two other leading practitioners address current issues in franchising.
Chambers and Partners 2016: Plave Koch Once Again a Top Firm in Franchise Law
The 2016 edition of Chambers USA names our firm as one of the top 7 in franchise law in the USA, while the 2016 Chambers Global names us as one of the top 12 in franchise law globally. Lee Plave, Dave Koch, Leslie Curran, and Marisa Faunce are named individually in the USA edition, and Lee is highlighted in the Global edition. Feedback submitted to Chambers in its research included the following:
“They have a very modern approach to franchising, no shortage of talent or brains in that firm; they’re very affordable for most clients.”
“The preeminent boutique in the US, they have created a powerhouse on the franchisor’s side.”
We very much appreciate these comments and the recognition in the well-known Chambers & Partners publications.
U.S. News – Best Lawyers Again Names Plave Koch a National “Tier 1” Firm; Leslie Curran is “Lawyer of the Year” for Franchise Law in Washington D.C.
Plave Koch was honored to continue its string of “Tier 1” national rankings for Franchise Law in the 2016 U.S. News – Best Lawyers “Best Law Firms” results. Eight Plave Kochies were named individually in the 2016 “Best Lawyers” rankings, with Leslie named “Lawyer of the Year” for Franchise Law in Washington, D.C.
Chambers and Partners again select Plave Koch as a Top Firm in Franchise Law
The 2015 edition of Chambers USA names our firm as one of the top 7 in franchise law in the USA, while the 2015 Chambers Global names us as one of the top 11 in franchise law globally. Lee Plave, Dave Koch, Leslie Curran, and Marisa Faunce are named individually in the USA edition, and Lee is highlighted in the Global edition. This continues an annual string of recognition in the well-known Chambers & Partners publications.
Four Plave Kochies Named 2015 Franchise Times “Legal Eagles”; Two More Join Hall of Fame
Lee, Dave, Marisa and Leslie have been honored as “Legal Eagles” in the April 2015 issue of Franchise Times. Marisa and Lee joined Dave in the “Hall of Fame” of attorneys making the list for 10 years in a row.
Dave Koch Appointed Adjunct Clinical Assistant Professor at University of Michigan Law School
Dave has received an appointment from his alma mater, the University of Michigan Law School, as Adjunct Clinical Assistant Professor in the International Transactions Clinic. This volunteer faculty position formalizes the pro bono work that he has been doing with the ITC since the 2011-2012 academic year, serving as a supervising attorney for ITC student teams.
Leslie Curran Elected to Second Term on ABA Forum’s Governing Committee
Congratulations to our own Leslie Curran! Leslie has been elected to a second term on the Governing Committee of the ABA Forum on Franchising. The formal vote was held during the Forum’s Annual Meeting in Los Angeles in October 2012, for a term starting in August 2013.
We also congratulate Leslie on completing her service as Program Co-Chair for the 2012 Annual Meeting. The arduous process of planning and supervising the annual conference is a year-long challenge, which Leslie handled with grace and aplomb.
Lee Plave Named Director of ABA Forum’s International Division
The Governing Committee of the ABA Forum on Franchising recently appointed Lee to head the Forum’s International Division (formerly known as IFDI). Lee’s two-year appointment was effective in August 2012.
Plave Koch Highly Ranked in 2011-2012 U.S. News – Best Lawyers “Best Law Firms”
The 2011-2012 U.S. News – Best Lawyers “Best Law Firms” rankings are complete and Plave Koch has earned impressive placement. According to the publisher, “the rankings are based on a rigorous evaluation process that included thousands of clients, highly skilled lawyers and law firm representatives. An unprecedented amount of data was collected, emphasizing the scope of this endeavor and the significance of Plave Koch’s presence in this unparalleled guide to law firm expertise.”
Lee named “Washington, DC Best Lawyers Franchise Lawyer of the Year” for 2011
Best Lawyers, the oldest and most respected peer-review publication in the legal profession, has named Lee J. Plave as the “Washington, DC Best Lawyers Franchise Lawyer of the Year” for 2011.
After more than a quarter of a century in publication, Best Lawyers is designating “Lawyers of the Year” in high-profile legal specialties in large legal communities. Only a single lawyer in each specialty in each community is being honored as the “Lawyer of the Year.”
Best Lawyers compiles its lists of outstanding attorneys by conducting exhaustive peer-review surveys in which thousands of leading lawyers confidentially evaluate their professional peers. The current, 17th edition of The Best Lawyers in America (2011) is based on more than 3.1 million detailed evaluations of lawyers by other lawyers.
Leslie Curran Named President of National Association of Women Business Owners (NAWBO) Greater D.C.
Leslie Curran was named to serve as the President of NAWBO Greater D.C. (See NAWBO-DC website.)
Who’s Who Legal names Plave Koch a Global Leader in Franchise Law
Who’s Who Legal of London has named our firm as one of the global leaders in franchise law in its publication The International Who’s Who of Franchise Lawyers 2011. We are especially pleased that seven of our partners are included in the 2011 edition. The editors commented that:
Falls Church-based “franchise powerhouse” Plave Koch sees seven of its lawyers, including both name partners, listed in this edition. Lee Plave is internationally recognized for his drafting and negotiation work as well as his “leading” expertise in the application of new technology and social media to franchise programmes and his representation of clients before the FTC. The “fantastic” David Koch is known for his work in complex corporate and commercial franchise transactions, regulatory advice and antitrust counselling.
In previous editions, Who’s Who also noted:
Leslie Curran is recognized for her top-tier transactional work while James Rubinger is a “learned and experienced litigator” who was particularly commended for post-merger disputes.