Every NHADA member benefits from the work of the Legal Defense Fund, whether they realize it or not.

The Legal Defense Fund exists to help protect motor vehicle dealers, repair shops and body shops when legal challenges arise that could impact our entire industry. Through voluntary contributions from members, the fund provides resources to support cases, legal analysis, and advocacy efforts that strengthen dealers’ rights and protections across the state.

Real Results for New Hampshire Dealers 

The fund’s impact is evident in several significant victories.

When John Deere, AGCO and CNH challenged New Hampshire’s equipment dealer protection laws, NHADA helped defend the rights of equipment dealers throughout the state. The manufacturers argued that the law unlawfully interfered with their franchise agreements and sought to overturn important dealer protections. After years of litigation, the case reached the U.S. Supreme Court. Ultimately, the manufacturers were unsuccessful, preserving critical protections that equipment dealers across New Hampshire continue to rely on today.

The fund also helped support the landmark Keene Auto Body case. The New Hampshire Supreme Court ultimately ruled in favor of the body shop, establishing an important precedent that helps repair facilities recover legitimate repair costs from insurance carriers. That decision continues to benefit collision repair businesses throughout New Hampshire.

Beyond courtroom victories, the fund has supported legal research and analysis on emerging issues, including direct vehicle sales models and other challenges that could impact New Hampshire dealers. Not every battle ends in victory, but every battle requires preparation. For several years, the Legal Defense Fund helped support NHADA’s efforts to oppose legislation repealing New Hampshire’s vehicle inspection program. Although the repeal ultimately became law, the fund ensured the association had the resources necessary to advocate for members, educate policymakers and make the strongest possible case on behalf of the industry.

These successes share a common theme: One case, one issue or one challenge can have consequences for every business in our industry.

Preparing for Tomorrow’s Challenges 

As our industry continues to evolve, new legal and regulatory challenges will inevitably emerge. Franchise protections, direct sales, vehicle technology, consumer regulations and other issues will require strong advocacy and, at times, legal action.

The Legal Defense Fund ensures NHADA is prepared when those moments arrive.

The victories of the past were possible because members before us invested in protecting our industry. Today, we have the same responsibility.

Strength in Numbers 

The Legal Defense Fund is one of the most important tools NHADA has to protect the interests of motor vehicle businesses across New Hampshire. Whether supporting a member facing a precedent-setting legal challenge, funding critical legal analysis or defending our industry’s interests before policymakers, the fund allows us to act when it matters most.

I encourage every member to consider making a voluntary contribution to the NHADA Legal Defense Fund. Most contributions range from $100 to $500, and each helps protect the businesses, employees and communities that depend on a strong and united network. Donations can be made online at nhada.com/ldf.

The challenges ahead are uncertain, but our commitment to one another should not be.