Foley & Lardner LLP: Michael J. Lockerby

In the dynamic and often intricate legal landscape of Washington D.C., finding an attorney with a precise blend of experience, dedication, and strategic insight is crucial for businesses, manufacturers, and franchisors alike. For those navigating complex commercial disputes, intellectual property challenges, or the intricacies of distribution and franchise agreements, Michael J. Lockerby, a prominent partner at Foley & Lardner LLP, stands out as a highly respected and impactful legal professional. With a career spanning over four decades, Mr. Lockerby has consistently been at the forefront of critical legal issues affecting a wide array of industries. His presence in the District of Columbia offers local businesses and entities direct access to a national caliber of legal counsel, making Foley & Lardner LLP, through professionals like Mr. Lockerby, an essential resource for those seeking robust legal representation and proactive guidance.

Michael J. Lockerby’s extensive experience as a trial lawyer has seen him successfully represent clients across the country in various state and federal trial courts, as well as before arbitrators and other alternative dispute resolution (ADR) providers. He has a particular knack for handling nationwide litigation concerning system-wide issues for manufacturers and suppliers whose products are sold through independent dealers, distributors, and franchisees. This includes complex matters such as consolidating distribution networks, rebranding trademarked products, enforcing exclusive dealing requirements, and addressing "encroachment claims" arising from direct sales and internet marketing. His deep understanding of these nuanced areas allows him to not only litigate effectively but also to help clients proactively minimize litigation exposure by skillfully negotiating and drafting license, franchise, and distribution agreements, both domestically and internationally. For businesses in Washington D.C. involved in these sectors, Mr. Lockerby's expertise offers a significant advantage in safeguarding their interests and fostering sustainable growth.

Beyond his litigation prowess, Mr. Lockerby also assists numerous clients in complying with the intricate web of federal and state franchise disclosure and registration laws in the United States, as well as their overseas counterparts. This comprehensive approach underscores his commitment to providing full-spectrum legal support, from proactive compliance to aggressive litigation when necessary. His background as a legislative assistant to a U.S. Senator and a research assistant to the Joint Economic Committee of the U.S. Congress prior to law school provides him with a unique perspective on the intersection of law and public policy, an invaluable asset in the nation’s capital.

Location and Accessibility

Foley & Lardner LLP's Washington D.C. office, where Michael J. Lockerby is based, is conveniently located at 3000 K St NW Washington Harbour, Washington, DC 20007, USA. This prestigious address in the Georgetown waterfront area places the firm in a prime, accessible location for businesses and individuals throughout the District of Columbia. The Washington Harbour is a well-known and easily navigable landmark, making it simple for clients to find the office.

The office's proximity to various modes of public transportation, including several bus routes and a reasonable distance from Foggy Bottom-GWU Metro station (Blue, Orange, Silver lines), ensures ease of access for those relying on public transit. For clients traveling by car, parking facilities are available in the vicinity, adding to the convenience. This strategic location reflects Foley & Lardner LLP’s dedication to serving their D.C. clientele efficiently and effectively, providing a professional and welcoming environment for consultations and legal proceedings.

Services Offered

• Business Litigation: Michael J. Lockerby specializes in a broad range of business litigation matters, representing clients in disputes involving contracts, business torts, and complex commercial issues.
• Franchise & Dealership Law: As co-chair of Foley & Lardner LLP’s Distribution & Franchise Practice, Mr. Lockerby provides comprehensive counsel to manufacturers, franchisors, dealers, and distributors on a wide array of issues, including agreement drafting, regulatory compliance, and litigation defense.
• Intellectual Property Litigation: He handles disputes involving trademarks, trade secrets, and other intellectual property rights, ensuring the protection of clients' valuable assets.
• Antitrust & Competition Law: Mr. Lockerby advises on antitrust matters and litigates cases related to competition, ensuring fair market practices and defending clients against anticompetitive claims.
• Appellate Law: With extensive experience, he represents clients in appellate proceedings, seeking to overturn unfavorable lower court decisions or defend favorable rulings.
• Distribution Law: Expertise in issues facing manufacturers and suppliers whose products are sold through independent dealers and distributors, including consolidation of networks and enforcement of agreements.
• Business Torts: Representation in cases involving interference with contractual relations, fraud, and other business tort claims.
• Privacy, Security & Information Management: As a member of this practice, he addresses legal issues related to data privacy, information security, and compliance in an increasingly digital landscape.
• Contract Negotiation & Drafting: Provides proactive legal services by negotiating and drafting various commercial agreements, including license, franchise, and distribution agreements, to minimize future disputes.
• Regulatory Compliance: Guides clients through complex federal and state regulatory requirements, particularly concerning franchise disclosure and registration laws.

Features / Highlights

• Highly Experienced Trial Lawyer: Michael J. Lockerby boasts over 40 years of experience as a trial lawyer, with a proven track record of success in state and federal courts nationwide.
• Recognized Industry Leader: He is consistently recognized by prestigious legal directories like Super Lawyers and Chambers USA for his expertise in business litigation, franchise, and antitrust law. He has been selected to Super Lawyers multiple times (2013-2016, 2018-2020, 2024).
• Co-Chair of Distribution & Franchise Practice: His leadership role within Foley & Lardner LLP’s national Distribution & Franchise Practice underscores his deep knowledge and influence in this specialized field.
• Comprehensive Approach to Client Needs: Mr. Lockerby not only excels in litigation but also proactively helps clients minimize legal exposure through careful contract drafting and compliance guidance.
• Diverse Industry Experience: His litigation experience spans numerous industries, including computer hardware and software, telecommunications, alcoholic beverages, construction and farm equipment, motor vehicles, petroleum marketing, and various franchised businesses.
• Strategic Problem Solver: Known for his ability to effectively and succinctly present complex evidence and for leading nationwide litigation on system-wide issues.
• Strong Academic and Professional Background: A graduate of the University of Virginia School of Law and with prior experience in legislative roles on Capitol Hill, providing a unique blend of legal and policy insight.
• National and Local Reach: While based in D.C., his practice has a national scope, allowing him to leverage local counsel effectively across different jurisdictions while providing top-tier service to D.C. clients.

Promotions or Special Offers

As a highly reputable and specialized law firm, Foley & Lardner LLP, and attorneys like Michael J. Lockerby, do not typically engage in consumer-style promotions or discounts. The value they offer clients stems from their extensive experience, deep legal knowledge, and proven track record in complex legal matters. Their services are tailored to sophisticated business clients, manufacturers, and franchisors who require top-tier legal counsel to navigate high-stakes litigation, intricate regulatory compliance, and strategic business agreements.

Instead of promotions, clients benefit from the firm's unparalleled expertise, efficient problem-solving capabilities, and a commitment to achieving favorable outcomes. The investment in legal services from a firm of this caliber is seen as a strategic business decision, providing long-term value through risk mitigation, dispute resolution, and robust legal frameworks. For any business considering engaging with Mr. Lockerby or Foley & Lardner LLP, the focus is on the bespoke legal solutions and the significant return on investment through successful legal navigation and protection of business interests.

Contact Information

For businesses and organizations in the District of Columbia seeking expert legal counsel in business litigation, franchise, intellectual property, or antitrust law, Michael J. Lockerby and the team at Foley & Lardner LLP are readily available.

Address: 3000 K St NW Washington Harbour, Washington, DC 20007, USA

Phone: (202) 945-6079

Mobile Phone: +1 202-945-6079

Reaching out to their Washington D.C. office will connect you with a team ready to discuss your specific legal challenges and provide the strategic guidance necessary to protect and advance your business interests.

Conclusion: Why this place is suitable for locals

For businesses, manufacturers, and franchisors in the District of Columbia, Michael J. Lockerby at Foley & Lardner LLP offers an exceptional and highly suitable legal partnership. The presence of such a distinguished attorney within a globally recognized firm, right in the heart of D.C., provides an invaluable local resource for addressing complex and often high-stakes legal challenges.

Mr. Lockerby's specialization in areas like business litigation, franchise and distribution law, intellectual property, and antitrust is particularly relevant to the diverse economic landscape of Washington D.C. Many local businesses, from innovative tech startups to established retail chains and service providers, frequently encounter issues in these precise areas. Whether it's a dispute with a distributor, a challenge to intellectual property, or the need to navigate complex franchise regulations, Mr. Lockerby's extensive experience and deep understanding of these fields mean that D.C. businesses do not have to look far for top-tier legal representation.

His ability to handle both proactive legal structuring (like drafting agreements) and reactive litigation (representing clients in court) ensures comprehensive support. Furthermore, his background in legislative affairs provides a unique advantage in understanding the regulatory environment, which is particularly beneficial in a city that is the epicenter of U.S. law and policy. For local businesses in the District of Columbia, engaging with Michael J. Lockerby means gaining a strategic legal partner who can not only navigate the intricacies of their specific industry but also leverage a national network of resources provided by Foley & Lardner LLP. This combination of local accessibility and global expertise makes him and his firm an ideal choice for ensuring legal resilience and success in the competitive D.C. market.