What is the choice of forum for dispute resolution related to the Canine Dimensions franchise?
Canine_Dimensions Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
| v. Choice of forum | Article 24 | | Florida (subject to applicable state law). | | w. Choice of law | Article 24 | | Florida law applies subject to applicable state law). | | u. Dispute resolution by arbitration or mediation | Article 23 | | Subject to federal and your state’s law, all disputes, except as explicitly listed in the Franchise Agreement, must be submitted to non-binding mediation in accordance with the commercial arbitration rules of the American Arbitration Association. If unsuccessful, the dispute must be submitted to arbitration within five miles of our headquarters in Florida.
Source: Item 19 — FINANCIAL PERFORMANCE REPRESENTATIONS (FDD pages 30–32)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to Canine Dimensions's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, the choice of forum for dispute resolution is Florida, although this is subject to applicable state law. This means that if a franchisee has a legal dispute with Canine Dimensions, the case would likely be heard in a Florida court, unless state law dictates otherwise.
The FDD also states that disputes are subject to non-binding mediation in accordance with the commercial arbitration rules of the American Arbitration Association. If mediation is unsuccessful, the dispute must be submitted to arbitration within five miles of Canine Dimensions' headquarters in Florida.
It is important for prospective franchisees to understand that the franchise agreement specifies Florida law will govern the agreement, potentially requiring them to travel to Florida for dispute resolution. Franchisees should consult with a legal professional to understand the implications of these clauses, especially if they are located outside of Florida, as it could increase the cost and complexity of resolving any disputes with Canine Dimensions.