What is the timeframe for resolving a dispute through mediation with All Dogs Unleashed before legal proceedings can be initiated?
All_Dogs_Unleashed Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
- 19.2.3. If the parties are unable to resolve the claim, controversy or dispute within 90 days after the mediator has been chosen, then, unless such time period is extended by written agreement of the parties, either party may bring a legal proceeding pursuant to Section 19.3. The parties agree that statements made during such mediation proceeding will not be admissible for any purpose in any subsequent legal proceeding.
- 19.2.4. Notwithstanding the foregoing provisions of this Section 19.2, the parties' agreement to mediate shall not apply to controversies, disputes or claims related to or based on amounts owed to Franchisor pursuant to this Agreement, your misuse or infringement of the Marks or Copyrighted Works, or your misuse of Franchisor's Confidential Information. Moreover, regardless of this mediation agreement, Franchisor and you each have the right in a proper case to seek temporary restraining orders and temporary or preliminary injunctive relief in any court of competent jurisdiction.
Source: Item 23 — RECEIPTS (FDD pages 49–158)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to All Dogs Unleashed's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, if a dispute arises that cannot be resolved through private negotiation, the franchisee and All Dogs Unleashed must submit to mediation. After a party notifies the other of their desire to seek mediation, both parties must agree on a mediator within 15 days. If they cannot agree on a mediator, the American Arbitration Association (AAA) will appoint one.
The FDD states that if the parties are unable to resolve the dispute within 90 days after the mediator is chosen, either party may initiate legal proceedings, unless both parties agree to extend this period in writing. However, this mediation agreement does not apply to disputes regarding amounts owed to All Dogs Unleashed, misuse or infringement of trademarks or copyrighted works, or misuse of confidential information.
It's important to note that even with the mediation agreement, both All Dogs Unleashed and the franchisee retain the right to seek temporary restraining orders and temporary or preliminary injunctive relief in a court of competent jurisdiction if necessary.