Are there any restrictions on statute of limitations periods for claims under the Washington Franchise Investment Protection Act related to a City Wide franchise?
City_Wide Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
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- Statute of Limitations and Waiver of Jury Trial. Provision contained int eh franchise agreement or related agreements that unreasonably restrict or limit the statute of limitations period for claims under the Washington Franchise Investment Protection Act, or rights or remedies under the Act such as a right to a jury trial, may not be enforceable.
Source: Item 22 — CONTRACTS (FDD page 65)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to City Wide's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, provisions in the franchise agreement or related documents that unreasonably restrict or limit the statute of limitations period for claims under the Washington Franchise Investment Protection Act may not be enforceable. This also applies to rights or remedies under the Act, such as the right to a jury trial.
In practical terms, this means that City Wide franchisees in Washington are afforded certain protections under state law regarding the time frame they have to bring legal claims. City Wide cannot enforce contract terms that unduly shorten the statutory period for franchisees to pursue claims under the Washington Franchise Investment Protection Act.
This provision aims to protect franchisees from being unfairly limited in their ability to seek legal recourse for violations of the Act. Prospective franchisees should consult with an attorney to fully understand their rights and the applicable statute of limitations under Washington law.