Under what conditions is a release or waiver of rights void for an Angry Chickz franchisee in Washington?
Angry_Chickz Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
General Release.** A release or waiver of rights in the franchise agreement or related agreements purporting to bind the franchisee to waive compliance with any provision under the Washington Franchise Investment Protection Act or any rules or orders thereunder is void except when executed pursuant to a negotiated settlement after the agreement is in effect and where the parties are represented by independent counsel, in accordance with RCW 19.100.220(2).
In addition, any such release or waiver executed in connection with a renewal or transfer of a franchise is likewise void except as provided for in RCW 19.100.220(2).
Source: Item 23 — RECEIPTS (FDD pages 54–260)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to the 2025 Angry Chickz Franchise Disclosure Document, a release or waiver of rights in the franchise agreement or related agreements that requires a franchisee to waive compliance with any provision under the Washington Franchise Investment Protection Act, or any rules or orders, is generally void.
However, there is an exception: such a waiver is valid if it is executed as part of a negotiated settlement after the franchise agreement is already in effect. In this case, both parties must be represented by independent counsel, in accordance with RCW 19.100.220(2). This exception ensures that franchisees have the opportunity to seek legal advice and make informed decisions when resolving disputes after the franchise relationship has begun.
Additionally, any release or waiver executed in connection with a renewal or transfer of a franchise is also void, except under the same conditions specified in RCW 19.100.220(2). This means that franchisees cannot be compelled to waive their rights under the Washington Franchise Investment Protection Act when renewing or transferring their franchise unless it's part of a negotiated settlement with independent legal representation.