Does Minnesota law allow Crave Cookies to require a franchisee to waive a jury trial?
Crave_Cookies Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
In the State of Minnesota only, this Disclosure Document is amended as follows:
- Minnesota Statutes, Section 80C.21 and Minnesota Rules 2860.4400(J) prohibit the franchisor 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 (1) any of the franchisee's rights as provided for in Minnesota Statutes, Chapter 80C or (2) franchisee's rights to any procedure, forum, or remedies provided for by the laws of the jurisdiction.
Source: Item 23 — RECEIPTS (FDD pages 47–194)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to Crave Cookies' 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, Minnesota law specifically prohibits Crave Cookies from requiring franchisees to waive their right to a jury trial. This protection is outlined in Minnesota Statutes, Section 80C.21 and Minnesota Rules 2860.4400(J).
This means that any clause within the franchise agreement that attempts to force a franchisee to give up their right to a jury trial in the event of a dispute is unenforceable in Minnesota. The Minnesota Addendum to the disclosure document explicitly states that nothing in the Franchise Disclosure Document or agreements can reduce any of the 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.
This provision offers significant protection to Crave Cookies franchisees in Minnesota, ensuring they retain their full legal rights within the state. It prevents Crave Cookies from imposing unfair or restrictive conditions regarding dispute resolution, aligning with Minnesota's franchise laws designed to protect franchisees.