Under what circumstances can additional depositions be scheduled in an arbitration with Beverly Anns Cookie?

According to Beverly Anns Cookie's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, during arbitration, the standard deposition limit is five per party. However, additional depositions may be scheduled if the arbitrator grants permission and there is good cause shown. This means that if a franchisee believes additional information is needed through depositions beyond the initial five, they must convince the arbitrator that there is a valid and justifiable reason to allow more.

This condition places a degree of control in the hands of the arbitrator, who will weigh the necessity of further discovery against potential burdens or delays to the arbitration process. A franchisee seeking additional depositions will need to present a compelling argument as to why the standard limit is insufficient and how the additional depositions will contribute to a fair resolution of the dispute.

It is also noted that all discovery must be completed within 60 days following the appointment of an arbitrator, unless the parties agree otherwise. Each deposition is limited to a maximum of six hours. Should a dispute arise over the extent of or propriety of any discovery request, the arbitrator will make a final determination after hearing each party's position.