What is the impact of Christies International Real Estate offering advice or assistance on the employer relationship?

According to the 2025 Christies International Real Estate Franchise Disclosure Document, if Christies International Real Estate offers advice or assistance to a franchisee, it will not be deemed a joint employer with the franchisee for any reason. This is important for franchisees as it clarifies the relationship between the franchisor and franchisee in terms of employment responsibilities.

This clause protects Christies International Real Estate from being held liable as a joint employer for the franchisee's employees. As a result, the franchisee maintains full control over their employees, including hiring, firing, and managing their staff. This arrangement is typical in franchising, where franchisees are considered independent business owners.

This clarification helps to ensure that Christies International Real Estate can provide guidance and support to franchisees without incurring additional legal or financial obligations related to employment. Franchisees should understand this distinction and their responsibilities as the sole employer of their staff.