How long should the mediation proceedings be completed for Bhc?
Bhc Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
- (b) If the parties are unable to settle the Dispute at the Settlement Conference, then within 10 business days after the date the Settlement Conference took place (or should have taken place), Franchisee and Franchisor may submit the dispute to non-binding mediation conducted by and before a mediator who is a State Bar of California Board of Legal Specialization Certified Specialist in Franchise and Distribution Law at a location in California mutually agreeable to both parties.
If the Dispute is not referred to mediation within 10 business days after the Settlement Conference took place (or should have taken place), the Dispute may be immediately submitted to binding resolution through arbitration proceedings pursuant to section 14.2 below.
Any mediation proceedings should be completed within 60 days following the date either party first gives notice of mediation.
Source: Item 23 — Receipts (FDD pages 52–230)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to Bhc's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, any mediation proceedings should be completed within 60 days following the date either party first gives notice of mediation. This means that once either Bhc or the franchisee initiates the mediation process by providing notice, the proceedings must conclude within this timeframe.
This requirement ensures a relatively quick resolution process, preventing disputes from dragging on indefinitely. It also encourages both parties to actively participate and work towards a resolution within a reasonable period. The FDD also specifies that if a dispute is not referred to mediation within 10 business days after the settlement conference took place (or should have taken place), the dispute may be immediately submitted to binding resolution through arbitration proceedings.
Prospective Bhc franchisees should understand this timeline and be prepared to engage in mediation promptly if a dispute arises. Failing to adhere to these timeframes could result in the dispute moving to arbitration, which may have different implications in terms of cost and outcome.