What qualifications must the arbitrator have in a dispute involving Caption By Hyatt?
Caption_By_Hyatt Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
The arbitration proceedings will be conducted by one (1) arbitrator and, except as this Section 14.1 otherwise provides, according to the AAA's then current commercial arbitration rules. The arbitrator must be a licensed attorney, have hotel industry experience, and be listed on the AAA's National Roster of Neutrals (or such other equivalent replacement roster of experienced arbitrators that the AAA designates).
Source: Item 22 — Contracts (FDD page 85)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to Caption By Hyatt's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, any disputes between Hyatt and a franchisee will be settled through binding arbitration administered by the American Arbitration Association (AAA). The arbitrator selected to preside over these proceedings must meet specific qualifications to ensure impartiality and expertise.
Specifically, the arbitrator must be a licensed attorney, demonstrating a legal background. They must also possess experience in the hotel industry, indicating familiarity with the specific challenges and nuances of the hospitality sector. Furthermore, the arbitrator must be listed on the AAA's National Roster of Neutrals, or an equivalent roster designated by the AAA, ensuring they are recognized as an experienced and impartial arbitrator.
These qualifications aim to ensure that the arbitrator has the necessary legal expertise, industry knowledge, and impartiality to fairly resolve disputes between Caption By Hyatt and its franchisees. This process helps to provide a structured and equitable means of resolving conflicts, which is a common practice in franchising to avoid costly and time-consuming litigation.