How soon after the Mediator is appointed will City Publications mediation hearings be held?
City_Publications Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
Any controversy or claim, other than those arising from falsification of reports, abandonment, those regarding trademark infringement, and non-compete provisions, arising out of or relating to this contract, or the breach thereof, shall be subject to non-binding mediation. The Mediator will be appointed in accordance with the Rules and Regulations of the American Arbitration Association unless the parties agree on a Mediator in writing within ten (10) days after either party gives written notice of Mediation. If either party alleges a dispute or controversy against the other party for any reason, except for those specified above, then that party will have the right to demand non-binding Mediation within the (10) days after the complaining party provides the other party with written notice describing the dispute or controversy. All Mediation hearings will take place exclusively in Cobb County Georgia, and will be held within twenty (20) days after the Mediator has been appointed. The cost of the Mediator will be shared equally by the parties. The parties agree that they will act in good faith to settle any dispute or controversy between them either prior to or during Mediation. All matters, testimony, arguments, evidence, allegations, documents and memorandums will be confidential in all respects and will not be disclosed to any other person or entity by either party.
Source: Item 23 — RECEIPT (FDD pages 39–129)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to City Publications' 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, if mediation is required, hearings will be held within a specific timeframe. All mediation hearings will take place in Cobb County, Georgia. These hearings are scheduled to occur within twenty (20) days after the mediator has been officially appointed.
This timeline is important for prospective franchisees to consider, as it sets expectations for how quickly disputes can be addressed through mediation. The location of the hearings in Cobb County, Georgia, may present a logistical or financial burden for franchisees located elsewhere. Franchisees should factor in potential travel costs and time when evaluating the franchise opportunity.
The cost of the mediator is to be shared equally between City Publications and the franchisee, which is a fairly standard practice in mediation proceedings. Both parties are expected to engage in good faith efforts to resolve the dispute, indicating a commitment to the mediation process. Confidentiality is also emphasized, as all information shared during mediation must remain private.
It is important for potential franchisees to understand the mediation process and its implications, including the location, timeline, cost-sharing, and confidentiality aspects. Franchisees should also be aware of the types of disputes that are subject to mediation, as some exceptions apply, such as those involving trademark infringement.