In Minnesota, can a franchisee consent to Azal Coffee obtaining injunctive relief?

According to Azal Coffee's 2024 Franchise Disclosure Document, if you are an Azal Coffee franchisee in Minnesota, you cannot consent to Azal Coffee obtaining injunctive relief. This is explicitly prohibited by Minnesota Rules 2860.4400(D). However, Azal Coffee retains the right to seek injunctive relief in Minnesota, but a court will determine if a bond is required.

This means that any clause in the franchise agreement that might suggest you automatically consent to Azal Coffee seeking an injunction against you is unenforceable in Minnesota. An injunction is a court order that requires a party to do or cease doing a specific action.

This protection is in place due to Minnesota Statute Section 80C.21 and Minnesota Rules 2860.4400(J), which aim to protect franchisees' rights within the state. These regulations also prevent Azal Coffee from requiring litigation to occur outside of Minnesota, mandating jury trial waivers, or compelling consent to liquidated damages, termination penalties, or judgment notes.