How many depositions is each party limited to in arbitration involving All Team?

According to All Team's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, in the event of arbitration, each party is generally limited to one deposition. This limitation can be altered if both parties agree to a different number. The document also specifies that each party is limited to 25 document requests and 15 interrogatories, further defining the scope of discovery during arbitration. This restriction on depositions, along with the limits on other discovery methods, aims to streamline the arbitration process, potentially reducing the time and costs associated with resolving disputes.

For a prospective All Team franchisee, this means that if a dispute arises that leads to arbitration, the opportunity to gather information through depositions will be significantly limited unless both parties agree to expand it. This could impact the franchisee's ability to build a strong case, as depositions are a key tool for uncovering critical information and assessing the credibility of witnesses. The franchisee should be prepared to make the most of the single deposition allowed or negotiate for additional depositions if necessary.

It's important to note that the arbitration proceedings will be conducted in accordance with the commercial arbitration rules of the American Arbitration Association (AAA), except where those rules conflict with the terms outlined in the All Team franchise agreement. The arbitrator selected must have at least 5 years of experience in franchise law, ensuring a level of expertise in the specific legal context of the franchise agreement. The arbitration will take place in Tampa, FL, unless both parties agree to a different location, which could add travel costs for the franchisee depending on their location.

This limitation on depositions is a factor to consider when evaluating the dispute resolution process outlined in the All Team franchise agreement. While it aims to make arbitration more efficient, it could also place a greater emphasis on other forms of evidence and legal arguments. A prospective franchisee should carefully weigh the potential benefits and drawbacks of this provision and consider discussing it with a legal professional before signing the franchise agreement.