Where will arbitration proceedings for Casiola disputes be conducted if suitable AAA facilities are unavailable in Orange County, Florida?

According to Casiola's 2024 Franchise Disclosure Document, arbitration proceedings will generally occur in Orange County, Florida. However, if suitable facilities of the American Arbitration Association (AAA) are not available there, the proceedings will take place at a suitable AAA location selected by the arbitrator that is located closest to Orange County, Florida.

This means that as a prospective Casiola franchisee, you can expect that any arbitration related to disputes with the franchisor will primarily be held in Orange County, Florida. However, the exact location could shift to another AAA facility nearby if the arbitrator determines that suitable facilities are not available in Orange County. This ensures that arbitration can proceed efficiently while remaining geographically convenient to the primary location.

It is important to note that the arbitrator has the discretion to select the alternative location. While the FDD specifies that the alternative location must be as close as possible to Orange County, Florida, it does not define what constitutes a 'suitable' AAA facility. A prospective franchisee should consider the potential costs and logistical challenges of arbitration taking place outside of Orange County, even if it is nearby.