Are there any restrictions on limiting rights or remedies under the Washington Franchise Investment Protection Act, such as the right to a jury trial, for a Crave Cookies franchise?
Crave_Cookies Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
A release or waiver of rights executed by a franchisee may not include rights under the Washington Franchise Investment Protection Act or any rule or order thereunder except when executed pursuant to a negotiated settlement after the agreement is in effect and where the parties are represented by independent counsel. Provisions such as those which unreasonably restrict or limit the statute of limitations period for claims under the Act, or rights or remedies under the Act such as a right to a jury trial, may not be enforceable.
Source: Item 23 — RECEIPTS (FDD pages 47–194)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to Crave Cookies's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, there are restrictions regarding the limitation of rights or remedies under the Washington Franchise Investment Protection Act. Specifically, any release or waiver of rights by a Crave Cookies franchisee cannot include rights under this Act, unless it's part of a negotiated settlement reached after the franchise agreement is already in effect, and both parties have independent legal representation.
Provisions that unreasonably restrict or limit the statute of limitations for claims under the Act, or rights or remedies such as the right to a jury trial, may not be enforceable for Crave Cookies franchises in Washington. This means that Crave Cookies cannot enforce terms in the franchise agreement that would prevent a franchisee from pursuing their rights under the Washington Franchise Investment Protection Act.
This protection ensures that Crave Cookies franchisees in Washington retain their legal rights and remedies under state law, preventing them from being unfairly disadvantaged by the franchise agreement. Franchisees should be aware of these protections and consult with legal counsel to fully understand their rights under the Washington Franchise Investment Protection Act.