What does the Canine Dimensions Virginia addendum supersede?
Canine_Dimensions Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
No statement, questionnaire, or acknowledgment signed or agreed to by a franchisee in connection with the commencement of the franchise relationship shall have the effect of (i) waiving any claims under any applicable state franchise law, including fraud in the inducement, or (ii) disclaiming reliance on any statement made by any franchisor, franchise seller, or other person acting on behalf of the franchisor. This provision supersedes any other term of any document executed in connection with the franchise.
Source: Item 22 — CONTRACTS (FDD page 36)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to Canine Dimensions' 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, the Virginia addendum includes a provision that addresses statements, questionnaires, or acknowledgments signed by a franchisee at the start of their franchise relationship. Specifically, this provision ensures that such documents do not waive any claims under state franchise law, including claims related to fraud in the inducement, or disclaim reliance on statements made by Canine Dimensions or its representatives. This particular aspect of the Virginia addendum supersedes any other conflicting terms within any document associated with the franchise agreement.
In practical terms, this means that even if a franchisee signs a document that appears to limit their rights or ability to bring claims against Canine Dimensions, this provision in the Virginia addendum takes precedence. It protects the franchisee's right to pursue legal claims under Virginia franchise law, regardless of any potentially conflicting language in other documents. This is particularly relevant for claims of fraud, where a franchisee might argue they were misled into entering the franchise agreement.
This type of addendum is common in franchise agreements to ensure compliance with state-specific franchise laws, which often aim to protect franchisees. The provision helps to create a fairer balance of power between the franchisor and franchisee, preventing the franchisor from using standard contract language to inadvertently or intentionally circumvent state law protections. Prospective Canine Dimensions franchisees in Virginia should carefully review this addendum and understand their rights under Virginia's franchise laws.