Is the cancellation right for Canine Dimensions franchisees in Ohio applicable at any time before the specified deadline?
Canine_Dimensions Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
Subject to, and without affecting any other provisions of this Agreement, including the provisions regarding dispute resolution and arbitration in this Agreement, any cause of action, claim, suit or demand allegedly arising from or related to the terms of this Agreement or the relationship of the parties must be brought in a court of competent jurisdiction in the State of Florida in the judicial district in which Franchisor has its principal place of business. Both parties irrevocably submit themselves to, and consent to, the exclusive jurisdiction of said courts. Franchisee expressly waives the right to seek a transfer of venue to a forum other than the one stated in this Agreement. The provisions of this Section will survive the termination of this Agreement. Franchisee is aware of the business purposes and needs underlying the language of this Paragraph, and with complete understanding, agrees to be bound in the manner set forth.
Source: Item 22 — CONTRACTS (FDD page 36)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
Based on the 2025 Canine Dimensions Franchise Disclosure Document, there is no addendum for Ohio that would allow a franchisee to cancel the agreement at any time before a specified deadline. However, the agreement does state that any cause of action, claim, suit, or demand arising from the terms of the agreement must be brought in a court of competent jurisdiction in the State of Florida.
Several states have specific addenda that address franchise law. For example, the Illinois addendum states that any provision in a franchise agreement that designates jurisdiction and venue in a forum outside of the State of Illinois is void. The Iowa addendum states that any provision in the Franchise Agreement or Franchisee Disclosure Acknowledgement Statement which would require you to prospectively assent to a release, assignment, novation, waiver or estoppel which purports to relieve any person from liability imposed by the Iowa Business Opportunity Promotions Law (Iowa Code Ch. 551A) is void to the extent that such provision violates such law.
Prospective franchisees in Ohio should consult with a legal professional to fully understand their rights and obligations under the franchise agreement, as the FDD does not provide specific cancellation rights for Ohio.