In Minnesota, can Craters & Freighters require a franchisee to waive their right to a jury trial?
Craters_Freighters Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
ITEM 17.
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- Minn. Stat. § 80C.21 and Minn. Rule 2860.4400J prohibit us from requiring litigation to be conducted outside Minnesota, requiring waiver of a jury trial, or requiring the franchisee to consent to liquidated damages, termination penalties or judgment notes. In addition, nothing in the Franchise Disclosure Document or agreement(s) can abrogate or reduce any of franchisee's rights as provided for in Minnesota Statutes, Chapter 80C, or franchisee's rights to any procedure, forum, or remedies provided for by the laws of the jurisdiction.
Source: Item 22 — CONTRACTS (FDD pages 49–50)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to Craters & Freighters's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, Minnesota franchisees are protected from being required to waive their right to a jury trial.
The FDD specifies that Minnesota law prohibits Craters & Freighters from mandating that litigation be conducted outside of Minnesota, requiring a waiver of a jury trial, or requiring consent to liquidated damages, termination penalties, or judgment notes. This ensures that franchisees in Minnesota retain their legal rights and are not forced into unfair contractual terms.
This protection is significant for prospective franchisees in Minnesota, as it ensures they have access to a fair legal process should disputes arise with Craters & Freighters. It prevents the franchisor from imposing conditions that could limit the franchisee's ability to seek justice through a jury trial in their home state.