What must a City Wide franchisee do to cooperate with City Wide in the defense or prosecution of any litigation relating to the Marks?

According to the 2025 City Wide Franchise Disclosure Document, a franchisee is obligated to cooperate with City Wide in any legal proceedings concerning the brand's trademarks or components of the City Wide system. This cooperation includes executing documents and taking actions deemed desirable or necessary by City Wide's legal counsel to aid in the defense or prosecution of such litigation. This requirement ensures that City Wide can effectively protect its brand and system-wide interests.

This obligation extends to any litigation related to the Marks, meaning the franchisee must assist City Wide regardless of whether the legal action is initiated by or against City Wide. The franchisee's cooperation is not optional; it is a mandatory requirement under the franchise agreement. Failure to comply could potentially lead to a breach of contract and possible legal repercussions.

For a prospective City Wide franchisee, this means being prepared to actively participate in any trademark-related legal matters, which may involve providing documentation, testimony, or other forms of assistance as directed by City Wide's counsel. While City Wide bears the primary responsibility for managing the litigation, the franchisee's cooperation is essential for a robust defense or prosecution. This clause highlights the importance of maintaining open communication with City Wide and promptly responding to any requests for assistance in legal matters to protect the brand's integrity and legal standing.