Akerman LLP, a top 100 U.S. law firm serving clients across the Americas, is pleased to announce that William Sentell has joined the firm’s Litigation Practice Group as a partner in the firm’s Houston office. Sentell focuses his practice on franchise dispute resolution and related corporate, regulatory, and compliance matters. He brings experience representing franchise clients, including franchisors, brand owners, distributors, licensors, manufacturers, and other industry stakeholders. Sentell joins from Baker & McKenzie LLP in Houston, where he served as counsel.

“William brings a valuable skillset that combines national litigation experience with a deep knowledge of the franchise regulatory environment,” said Litigation Practice Group Chair Lawrence Rochefort. “Our clients will benefit from his advocacy and devotion to the franchise community.”

Sentell’s addition in Texas further strengthens the firm’s capabilities in the franchise space. He follows the arrival of a three-person lawyer team led by Kevin Hein, who serves as co-chair of the firm’s Franchise and Licensing Practice, a highly experienced team that handles U.S. and international franchise and distribution matters.

With more than a decade of complex commercial litigation experience, including first- and second-chair trial and arbitration experience, Sentell provides support and clear risk assessment in all phases of litigation and arbitration. Avoiding risk in the area of franchise sales, and managing relationships throughout the franchise lifecycle, are a practice focus for Sentell.

In addition to helping clients anticipate and avoid costly disputes, he also advises on a variety of corporate and regulatory matters, including franchise disclosures, sales and acquisitions. His combination of litigation and transactional experience allows him to provide practical advice to clients.