If a franchisee brings a copyright matter to All Team's attention, who controls the action?
All_Team Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
We need not protect or defend copyrights, although we intend to do so if in the system's best interest. We may control any action we choose to bring, even if you voluntarily bring the matter to our attention. We need not participate in your defense and/or indemnify you for damages or expenses in a proceeding involving a copyright.
Source: Item 14 — PATENTS, COPYRIGHTS AND PROPRIETARY INFORMATION (FDD page 27)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to All Team's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, All Team maintains control over any copyright actions, even if a franchisee brings the matter to their attention. Specifically, All Team states that while they "intend" to protect and defend copyrights if it is in the system's best interest, they are not obligated to do so.
This means that if a franchisee discovers a potential copyright infringement related to All Team's materials, All Team has the sole discretion to decide whether or not to pursue legal action. The franchisee cannot force All Team to take action, even if the infringement is negatively impacting their specific All Team agency.
Furthermore, All Team is not required to participate in the franchisee's defense or indemnify them for damages or expenses if the franchisee becomes involved in a copyright-related legal proceeding. This could leave the franchisee vulnerable to legal costs and liabilities, even if the issue stems from All Team's copyrighted materials. Prospective franchisees should carefully consider this allocation of control and risk before investing in an All Team franchise.