Does the release agreement require Angry Chickz franchisees and guarantors to acknowledge they were represented by independent counsel?

According to Angry Chickz's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, the release agreement requires franchisees and any guarantors to acknowledge that they were represented by their own independent legal counsel during all negotiations leading up to the execution of the release. They must also agree that they are executing the release with the consent and upon the advice of their independent counsel.

This acknowledgement is significant because it reinforces that the franchisee (and any guarantors) entered into the release agreement knowingly and voluntarily, with the benefit of legal advice. This can help protect Angry Chickz from potential future claims that the franchisee did not understand the terms of the release or was pressured into signing it. It is a common practice in franchising to ensure franchisees have independent counsel review agreements to protect both parties.

For a prospective Angry Chickz franchisee, this means that before signing any release agreement (such as during a renewal or transfer), they should consult with their own attorney. The attorney can review the release, explain the implications, and ensure that the franchisee understands what rights they are giving up. While franchisees are always advised to seek legal counsel before signing any franchise agreement, this clause makes it a requirement for the release agreement to be valid.

It is important for franchisees to understand that by signing the release, they are giving up certain rights and potential claims against Angry Chickz. Therefore, it is crucial to have competent legal advice to make an informed decision. This requirement aims to ensure fairness and protect the franchisee's interests, while also providing legal protection for Angry Chickz.