Judge Removes Willkie Farr From Franchise Group Bankruptcy (2)

The powerful law firm helping Franchise Group Inc. navigate bankruptcy was removed from the case after federal officials and creditors complained to a judge about the firm’s ties to beleaguered investment adviser B. Riley Financial Inc. and controversial executive Brian Kahn.

Willkie Farr & Gallagher has represented Kahn and B. Riley on various matters over the years, which critics alleged was a conflict of interest since both were involved in the soured 2023 buyout that’s at the heart of Franchise Group’s bankruptcy.

US Bankruptcy Judge Laurie S. Silverstein denied FRG’s request to allow Willkie to continue working on the ...