What claims are excluded from the general release in Washington for Christies International Real Estate?
Christies_International_Real_Estate Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
[Note for Washington Release – add the following to Section 1, at the end of the first sentence: "excluding only such claims arising under the Washington Franchise Investment Protection Act."]
Source: Item 23 — RECEIPT (FDD pages 54–177)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to the 2025 Christies International Real Estate Franchise Disclosure Document, the general release in Washington state excludes claims arising under the Washington Franchise Investment Protection Act. This means that while franchisees typically sign a general release to waive certain claims against Christies International Real Estate, those claims specifically protected under Washington's franchise law remain valid and enforceable.
For a prospective Christies International Real Estate franchisee in Washington, this exclusion is significant. It ensures that the franchisee retains the right to pursue legal action under the Washington Franchise Investment Protection Act, which provides specific protections to franchisees. These protections might cover areas such as misrepresentation during the franchise sales process or unfair termination practices.
This clause offers a degree of security to franchisees in Washington, as it prevents them from inadvertently waiving their rights under state franchise law through a general release. Franchisees should consult with an attorney to fully understand their rights and obligations under both the franchise agreement and the Washington Franchise Investment Protection Act.