Does the Angry Chickz general release apply to liability under the Maryland Franchise Registration and Disclosure Law?

According to the 2025 Angry Chickz Franchise Disclosure Document, the general release does not apply to liability under the Maryland Franchise Registration and Disclosure Law. Specifically, the addendum to the Angry Chickz Franchise Agreement for the state of Maryland clarifies that any release required as a condition of assignment or renewal will not waive liability under the Maryland Franchise Law. This protection ensures that franchisees in Maryland retain their rights and remedies under state franchise law, regardless of any general releases they may sign.

This provision is further reinforced by stating that representations made within the agreement are not intended to act as a release, estoppel, or waiver of any liability incurred under the Maryland Franchise Registration and Disclosure Law. This means that Angry Chickz franchisees in Maryland cannot unintentionally forfeit their rights through standard acknowledgments or representations made during the franchise relationship. The explicit mention of the Maryland Franchise Law ensures that franchisees are aware of their protections under this specific statute.

Moreover, any statement, questionnaire, or acknowledgment signed by a franchisee in connection with starting the franchise cannot waive claims under any applicable state franchise law, including fraud in the inducement, or disclaim reliance on statements made by Angry Chickz or its representatives. This clause supersedes any other conflicting terms in any document related to the franchise, providing a strong safeguard for franchisees' rights under Maryland law. This ensures that franchisees maintain their legal recourse and protections afforded by the Maryland Franchise Registration and Disclosure Law.