Retail & E-Commerce Contract Attorneys 

One Bad Contract Could Sink Your Retail or Online Business 

Running a retail or e-commerce business is full of risks—are your contracts actually protecting you? From supplier disputes to unexpected customer complaints, the wrong agreement can cost you big time. Without solid legal protections, you could face inventory shortages, refund nightmares, or financial hits from chargebacks. A well-crafted contract does more than spell out terms—it prevents costly disputes, ensures compliance, and keeps your business running smoothly. 

• A supplier dispute could leave your shelves empty. 
• Weak return policies might mean a flood of chargebacks. 
• Bad franchise terms could trap you in an unfair deal. 

Too many business owners assume vendor agreements, franchise contracts, or website policies are just formalities. That’s a dangerous mistake. At Horn Wright, LLP, our transaction attorneys help retailers and e-commerce businesses create legally sound contracts that provide long-term protection. Whether it’s securing fair supplier agreements, negotiating franchise terms, or making sure your e-commerce policies comply with consumer laws, we ensure your business avoids costly disputes.  

Every transaction, partnership, and service agreement carries legal weight. Whether you sell in-store, online, or through fulfillment centers, the right legal strategy helps you stay secure, profitable, and ready for growth. 

Suppliers & Wholesalers: Are Your Contracts Protecting Your Profits? 

If your supplier raises prices out of nowhere or misses deliveries, your entire operation suffers. Without strong contract terms, you could end up paying for defective products, dealing with unreliable stock, or facing costly delays. 

Your agreements with suppliers and wholesalers should clearly define: 

• Pricing structures 
• Quality standards 
• Delivery expectations 

Without these protections, you’re at the mercy of vendors, which can lead to customer dissatisfaction and revenue loss. A solid contract ensures you're not stuck in an unfair deal and gives you options if your supplier fails to deliver. 

Franchise Agreements: The Fine Print That Can Trap You 

Franchising can be a great way to expand, but only if the contract is fair. Many franchisees sign agreements without fully understanding royalty payments, branding restrictions, or territorial limits—only to regret it later. 

• Confusing branding rules could mean expensive violations. 
• High franchise fees might eat into your margins fast. 

A well-structured franchise agreement balances the needs of both parties. It should cover revenue-sharing, marketing costs, and operational independence. Reviewing and negotiating franchise disclosure documents before signing can save you from future legal battles. 

E-Commerce Terms & Privacy Policies: Is Your Online Store Legally Covered? 

Every online sale carries risks—chargebacks, data breaches, and customer disputes can spiral out of control fast. E-commerce businesses need clear, enforceable terms of service and privacy policies that spell out refund rules, customer rights, and dispute processes. 

Consumer protection laws like GDPR and CCPA require transparency in data collection. Ignoring them could mean hefty fines and lost customer trust. Ensuring your policies comply with these regulations protects your business and keeps your reputation strong. 

Payment Processing: Are Hidden Fees & Fraud Draining Your Revenue? 

Your contract with a payment processor can make or break your bottom line. If you’re not careful, you could be overpaying in fees or absorbing fraud-related losses. 

• Hidden fees can quietly cut into your profits. 
• Chargeback fraud can cost thousands in lost sales. 

Your merchant agreement should clearly define processing fees, fraud liability, and security responsibilities. Too many businesses sign without negotiating, only to face unexpected restrictions and costs later. A well-negotiated contract minimizes financial risk and ensures compliance with payment security standards like PCI DSS. 

Warehousing & Fulfillment: The Agreements That Control Your Inventory 

Retailers rely on third-party logistics (3PL) providers to store and ship inventory. But if your contract isn’t airtight, you could be on the hook for missing products, delayed shipments, or surprise fees. 

Your fulfillment contract should cover: 

• Liability for lost or damaged goods 
• Storage and handling fees 
• Delivery time guarantees 

Without these protections, warehouse issues could turn into major financial losses. A strong agreement keeps operations running smoothly and ensures customer satisfaction. 

Hiring in Retail: The Employment Contracts You Can’t Ignore 

Retail hiring comes with unique challenges—seasonal workers, commission-based pay, and part-time roles all require careful contract structuring. Misclassifying employees or using vague agreements can lead to fines and costly disputes. 

A well-drafted employment contract should outline: 

• Job expectations and pay structures 
• Confidentiality clauses 
• Non-compete agreements 

Ensuring your contracts comply with federal and state labor laws helps you avoid wrongful termination claims and other legal headaches. 

Consumer Protection & Liability: The Laws That Could Shut You Down 

Retailers rely on customer trust, but one misleading ad, defective product, or unclear return policy could land you in legal trouble. Staying compliant with advertising laws, product liability rules, and refund policies is essential. 

• Class-action lawsuits can stem from misleading claims. 
• Vague return policies can frustrate customers and lead to disputes. 

Proactive legal planning helps retailers set clear expectations with customers, reduce liability, and avoid costly lawsuits. Strong warranties, disclaimers, and compliance measures keep your business protected. 

The Legal Team That Shields Your Retail & E-Commerce Business 

Retail and e-commerce businesses face a complex legal landscape. Without the right contracts and compliance strategies, you risk financial losses, regulatory fines, and customer disputes that can damage your reputation and bottom line. 

At Horn Wright, LLP, we help businesses like yours secure their operations through expert legal services, including: 

• Drafting and Negotiating Supplier & Vendor Contracts 
• Ensuring E-Commerce Compliance with Privacy & Consumer Laws 
• Structuring Franchise Agreements for Business Protection 
• Managing Employment Contracts & Workforce Compliance 
• Handling Dispute Resolution & Litigation Support 

With our experienced legal team in your corner, you can prevent problems before they arise and focus on growing your business with confidence.  

Contact our office today to make sure your retail or e-commerce business is legally secure and built for long-term success.