What section of the Cicis Franchise Agreement addresses 'Waiver of Damages; Waiver of Jury Trial; Limitation of Liability' and how is it modified by the Maryland Rider?

According to the 2025 Cicis Franchise Disclosure Document, Section 17.G.(3) of the Franchise Agreement addresses "Waiver of Damages; Waiver of Jury Trial; Limitation of Liability". The Maryland Rider modifies this section. Specifically, the rider adds language that allows franchisees to bring claims arising under the Maryland Franchise Registration and Disclosure Law within 3 years after Cicis grants the franchise.

This modification is significant for prospective Cicis franchisees in Maryland because it ensures that they retain their rights under Maryland franchise law, despite any general waivers or limitations of liability in the franchise agreement. This means that if a franchisee believes Cicis has violated the Maryland Franchise Registration and Disclosure Law, they have a three-year window to bring a claim.

Without this modification, the standard terms of the Cicis franchise agreement might limit a franchisee's ability to pursue legal action, potentially waiving certain damages or requiring disputes to be resolved outside of Maryland. The Maryland Rider ensures that franchisees in Maryland are protected by their state's franchise laws and have a reasonable timeframe to assert their rights.