What must a party submit if it initiates arbitration or files any counterclaim against Bft?

According to Bft's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, any party initiating arbitration or filing a counterclaim must submit a personally-signed verification along with it. This requirement ensures that the party is attesting to the truthfulness and accuracy of the claims being made in the arbitration or counterclaim.

This requirement is fairly standard in legal proceedings, including franchise disputes. The purpose of the verification is to discourage frivolous claims and to ensure that parties are taking their legal positions seriously. By requiring a personal signature, Bft aims to hold parties accountable for the accuracy of their submissions.

For a prospective Bft franchisee, this means that if a dispute arises and leads to arbitration, any initial claim or counterclaim they file must be personally verified. This verification adds a layer of responsibility to the process, requiring the franchisee to carefully review and confirm the accuracy of the information being presented. It is advisable for franchisees to consult with legal counsel to ensure compliance with this requirement and to understand the implications of verifying the claims made in any legal filings.