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Portrait of Andrew J. Donovan
Attorney

Andrew J. Donovan

Andrew is a transactional attorney working to drive franchise success with smart, practical counsel on deals and compliance.

Andrew is a transactional attorney whose practice focuses on commercial and franchise compliance matters. He is experienced in drafting, negotiating, and counseling clients at all stages of business transactions including mergers and acquisitions and sales of distressed assets.

Andrew also advises clients on real estate matters, including property acquisitions and dispositions as well as leases on behalf of landlords and tenants. His practice includes assisting emerging and mature franchisors in franchise disclosure document preparation, renewal, and registrations, as well as day-to-day system management and regulatory compliance.

Prior to joining Cheng Cohen, Andrew practiced at the Chicago office of a large firm, where he focused on commercial real estate.

Did you know

Andrew learned how to ride bikes in his 30s.Andrew decided to move to Chicago after his first visit.Andrew’s favorite basketball team is whoever Luka Doncic plays for when you’re reading this.Andrew got over his fear of heights by hiking in the Dolomites.Growing up, Andrew played seven sports.  He stuck with rugby the longest.Andrew’s biggest pet peeve is poor sidewalk etiquette.Andrew plays too much chess to have such a low Elo rating.Andrew worked on a kitchen line during college.Andrew’s favorite football team is the Cowboys.  His least favorite team? Also the Cowboys.Andrew will never forgive Nico Harrison.

Credentials & Contributions

Education

  • Juris Doctor, magna cum laude, University of Illinois College of Law
  • Bachelor of Arts, cum laude, Loyola University Chicago

Associations

  • International Franchise Association
  • American Bar Association Forum on Franchising
  • Chicago Bar Association
  • Illinois State Bar Association

Awards & Recognition

Illinois Super Lawyers' Rising Star (2025)Franchise Times “Legal Eagle” (2024 & 2025)