Jessica Dempsey

Jessica Dempsey

[email protected]
Phone: 215.525.1165 x142

Education:

  • J.D. Widener University Delaware School of Law, Wilmington, DE; Dean’s List, Member of the Journal of Law, Economics, and Race
  • B.A. University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA; History; Mayor’s Scholarship recipient

Experience:

Jessica Dempsey comes to the Spadea Lignana team with a background in transactional law. After graduating from law school at Widener University, she clerked for a judge in the Philadelphia Court of Common Pleas and then went on to work as general counsel to the liquidation trustee for several failed banks. She also worked with the liquidation trustee to form a new entity to provide financial advice and restructuring services for distressed institutions.

Focus:

If you need help drafting your FDD and franchise agreement, Jessica has you covered. She previously worked with franchisees to review these documents and negotiate leases.

Passion:

Many of our new clients have no previous experience hiring an attorney, which means they come into the process feeling wary. Jessica’s goal is to change her clients’ perceptions of lawyers. She takes extra time to walk them through the legalese. Most recently, she has helped clients navigate the new post-COVID world and ensure their businesses are protected.

Approach:

Jessica takes a proactive approach when it comes to communicating with her clients. Reviewing FDDs and franchise agreements can be daunting, but she takes the time to ensure her clients fully understand their documents from beginning to end and she’s ready to address any questions or concerns.

Jessica is a lifelong Philadelphian. She lives with her husband, two boys, and a rescue pup in South Philly and enjoys experiencing everything the city has to offer.


Read Articles from Jessica Dempsey


What Clients Have Said about Jessica Dempsey

island fin poke logo
March 2024

I have been a franchisor for 5 plus years now. the team at Spadea Lignana have been incredible. This was the quickest and easiest renewal process ever. Kim, Princess and Jessica have been just a pleasure to work with. Thank you so much for everything!


Mark Setterington Co-Founder and CEO, Island Fin Poke Company


District Taco logo
June 2023

I am a former franchise broker, multi-unit and multi-brand franchisee, and, yes, paralegal. Currently, I am the VP of Franchise Development for an emerging franchisor. I knew Tom Spadea from my broker days and was eager to introduce my new company to his firm Spadea Lignana. Their FDD compliance platform is an excellent tool to keep us up-to-date and compliant. And, our legal team, including attorney Jessica Dempsey and paralegal Margaret LaMura-Dara, works diligently and exceptionally hard to meet our needs. I have complete confidence in Spadea Lingana, Tom and the whole team. My highest recommendation!


Tina Gantz VP of Franchise Development, District Taco Franchising


Magnolia Soap and Bath Co Logo
May 2023

Franchise Attorney Superstars! Tom Spadea and Josh Lignana are the legal team you want in your corner if you have a franchise. But, the team of women behind Spadea Lignana are the best in the business. The client specialists Victoria and Sandee not only have decades of experience to the willingness to go above to assist you – this is the dream team! Everyone here treats you like you are the only franchise they represent – they are willing to get it done even if it means working all weekend long- specifically Margaret LaMura and Jessica Dempsey! For our franchise, Magnolia Soap and Bath Co they have gone above and beyond to give us white glove treatment. As an emerging brand, they have helped us so much. 100/10 cannot recommend enough.


Emily Burriss Franchise Director, Magnolia Soap and Bath Co


Atomic Wings Logo
May 2023

I have used Spadea Lignana for many years now and the level of support is unrivaled and unmatched. They treat you like family and not just like a client. It is a real partnership where they truly care about your business and do everything in their power to protect you. Margaret works tirelessly for our brand even working weekends to make sure we get our agreements in on time. Sandee, Jessica, and Margaret provide the greatest support to our brand on a daily basis. I wouldn’t go anywhere else!


Zak Omar CEO, Atomic Wings


MUTTS canine cantina logo
January 2023

Spadea Lignana is a great firm to have represent you as a franchisor. Harold, Josh and their team are extremely responsive to any and all requests, be it in writing or via phone. Jessica Dempsey is our current counsel, and she is great. Kim Marie Klee rocks and can move faster than most of us can react.

I would highly recommend engaging this team for your franchise needs, even if you are not in Pennsylvania!


Michelle Boggs Managing Partner, MUTTS Canine Cantina