Does the Canine Dimensions Franchise Agreement for Minnesota franchises allow litigation to be conducted outside of Minnesota?

According to Canine Dimensions's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, for franchises offered and sold in Minnesota, the Franchise Agreement cannot require litigation to be conducted outside of Minnesota. This protection is explicitly stated in the addendum for Minnesota franchises, which supersedes any conflicting provisions in the standard Franchise Agreement.

This means that if a Canine Dimensions franchisee in Minnesota has a legal dispute with the company related to the franchise agreement, they generally have the right to pursue litigation within the state of Minnesota. This provision is in place because Minnesota Statute Section 80C.21 and Minnesota Rule 2860.4400J explicitly prohibit franchisors from requiring litigation to occur outside of Minnesota.

This stipulation provides a significant benefit to Minnesota franchisees, as it ensures they will not be forced to travel to another state (like Florida, where Canine Dimensions has its principal place of business) to resolve legal disputes. Litigating within Minnesota can reduce costs and logistical challenges for the franchisee.

It is important for prospective Canine Dimensions franchisees in Minnesota to understand this protection, as the standard Franchise Agreement might contain clauses suggesting out-of-state jurisdiction. The Minnesota addendum clarifies that state law takes precedence, ensuring franchisees' rights to a local legal forum.