What happens to issues not decided by arbitration related to the Canine Dimensions Franchise Agreement?
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)
According to Canine Dimensions' 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, any cause of action, claim, suit, or demand allegedly arising from or related to the terms of the Franchise Agreement or the relationship of the parties must be brought in a court of competent jurisdiction in the State of Florida, specifically in the judicial district where Canine Dimensions has its principal place of business. Both parties irrevocably submit themselves to, and consent to, the exclusive jurisdiction of said courts. The Franchisee expressly waives the right to seek a transfer of venue to a forum other than the one stated in the Agreement. These provisions will remain in effect even after the termination of the Franchise Agreement.
This means that if a Canine Dimensions franchisee has a dispute with the franchisor that is not subject to arbitration, they must pursue legal action in the Florida court that has jurisdiction over Canine Dimensions' principal place of business. The franchisee cannot request the case be moved to a different location. This clause ensures that Canine Dimensions can manage legal disputes in its home jurisdiction.
For a prospective Canine Dimensions franchisee, this clause has significant implications. It means that regardless of where the franchisee's business is located, any legal proceedings outside of arbitration must be pursued in Florida. This could increase legal costs for the franchisee, who may need to hire Florida-based counsel and travel to Florida for court appearances. Franchisees should consider this potential burden when evaluating the franchise opportunity.