Rich focuses on domestic and cross-border transactions, entity structuring, investments, commercial contracts, real estate, manufacturing, franchising, and agency and distribution agreements. Rich began his professional career abroad in the Ivory Coast and then practiced in Paris, France. Since 1989, he has been helping U.S. companies and Chinese companies form joint ventures with entities all over the world, and has done the same for businesses in Africa and France. He enjoys making connections and finding the most efficient, cost-effective and creative way to get the deal done.
He knows that his clients don’t want a lawyer who tells them no, they want a lawyer that tells them how. Astute and keenly attuned to the energy in the room, Rich can ably steer the deal negotiation to effectuate his client’s goals.
Rich handles complex acquisitions, dispositions, investments, real estate transactions, franchise development and regulation, and construction matters for businesses in the U.S. and abroad. Once an international company establishes U.S. operations, the resulting entity often calls upon him to be its outside general counsel, where he manages a wide variety of their legal needs.
He also regularly advises on certifications, joint ventures and participation arrangements relating to certified entities (Mentor-Protégé), including disadvantaged business enterprises (DBEs), women-owned small businesses (WOSBs) and disabled veteran business enterprises (DVBEs).
Rich is a registered lobbyist and advocates for his clients at the state and federal levels.
Professional and Community Involvement
Advisory board member, Metro Atlanta Chamber
Member, Georgia Economic Developers Association
Former board member, French American Chamber of Commerce
Former board member, Construction Financial Management Association
Former chair, American Bar Association International Commercial Transactions, Franchising and Distribution Committee
Former chair, Atlanta Bar Association International Section
