Within what timeframe must claims be brought under the Maryland Franchise Registration and Disclosure Law for a Bft franchise?

According to Bft's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, any claims arising under the Maryland Franchise Registration and Disclosure Law must be brought within 3 years after the grant of the franchise. This limitation on actions is specified in Item 17 of the FDD, which addresses renewal, termination, transfer, and dispute resolution. This requirement is added to the end of the "Summary" section of Item 17.

This means that if a Bft franchisee in Maryland believes that Bft has violated the Maryland Franchise Registration and Disclosure Law, they have a limited time to take legal action. Specifically, the franchisee must initiate any legal proceedings within three years from the date the franchise was granted. Failure to do so within this timeframe could result in the claim being time-barred, meaning the franchisee would lose their right to sue.

This limitation is a critical consideration for prospective Bft franchisees in Maryland. It highlights the importance of promptly identifying and addressing any potential violations of franchise law. Franchisees should be diligent in monitoring their franchise relationship and seeking legal advice if they suspect any wrongdoing by Bft. Understanding and adhering to this three-year limitation period is essential to protect their legal rights under the Maryland Franchise Registration and Disclosure Law.