In Minnesota, can a Canine Dimensions franchisee waive their right to a jury trial?
Canine_Dimensions Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
Minn.
Rule Part 2860.4400J. prohibits a franchisee from waiving his rights to a jury trial or waiving his rights to any procedure, forum, or remedies provided for by the laws of the jurisdiction, or consenting to liquidated damages, termination penalties or judgment notes.
Any provision in the Agreement which would require you to waive your rights to any procedure, forum or remedies provided for by the laws of the State of Minnesota is deleted from any Agreement relating to franchises offered and sold in the State of Minnesota; provided, however, that this paragraph will not affect the obligation in the Agreement relating to arbitration.
Source: Item 22 — CONTRACTS (FDD page 36)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to Canine Dimensions' 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, a franchisee in Minnesota cannot waive their right to a jury trial. The FDD includes an addendum specific to Minnesota that addresses provisions within the standard franchise agreement.
Specifically, Minnesota Rule Part 2860.4400J prohibits a franchisee from waiving their right to a jury trial. The addendum explicitly states that any provision in the agreement that would require a franchisee to waive their rights to any procedure, forum, or remedies provided by Minnesota law is deleted from the agreement, ensuring franchisees retain these rights.
However, this protection does not affect any obligations related to arbitration, meaning that while a Canine Dimensions franchisee cannot waive their right to a jury trial in general, they may still be subject to arbitration agreements as outlined in the franchise agreement.