Where will arbitration hearings and proceedings take place for disputes involving Cilantro Taco Grill?

According to Cilantro Taco Grill's 2024 Franchise Disclosure Document, arbitration hearings and proceedings will take place in one of three locations. The default location is Cook County, Illinois. Alternatively, the hearings may be held at the offices of the American Arbitration Association. However, Cilantro Taco Grill has the option to choose the county where the franchisee's principal place of business is located as the location for hearings and proceedings.

This means that a franchisee could potentially be required to travel to Cook County, Illinois for arbitration, or to the American Arbitration Association offices, regardless of where their franchise is located, unless Cilantro Taco Grill elects to hold the proceedings in the franchisee's county. This could significantly increase the franchisee's costs associated with resolving disputes, as they would need to factor in travel and accommodation expenses in addition to legal fees.

It is important for prospective franchisees to consider this when evaluating the franchise opportunity. Franchisees should also be aware that the Federal Arbitration Act governs issues relating to arbitrability or the enforcement of the arbitration agreement. Franchisees should carefully consider the potential costs and inconvenience associated with arbitration, especially if they are located far from Cook County, Illinois.