Kenneth Costello is a partner with Bryan Cave LLP in Los Angeles specializing in U.S. and international franchising law and product and service distribution. Mr. Costello's expertise includes licensing and branding; structuring franchising programs; franchise regulatory compliance programs; multi level distributorships; and antitrust counseling. His expertise also includes intellectual property law including internet, e-commerce, domestic and international trademark, service mark, copyright, know how, and technology transfers and licensing. Mr. Costello represents clients in general business transactions, including mergers and acquisitions, advice and counsel with respect to unique intellectual property issues involved in acquisitions of franchising companies, lending, employment agreements and formation and capitalization of business organizations. He received his B.A. from Loyola University and his J.D., (magna cum laude), from the University of Santa Clara.
Mr. Costello is co-author for Bloomberg BNA Corporate Practice Portfolio Series No. 102, Franchising. This portfolio volume begins with an overview of the use of the franchise business arrangement. It then continues on to discuss federal and state definitions of a franchise, alternatives to franchising, the structure of the franchise relationship and drafting considerations for franchise agreements.