Where will arbitration or mediation take place for a Deck Medic franchise purchased in Washington?
Deck_Medic Franchise · 2024 FDDAnswer from 2024 FDD Document
In any arbitration or mediation involving a franchise purchased in Washington, the arbitration or mediation site will be either in the state of Washington, or in a place mutually agreed upon at the time of the arbitration or mediation, or as determined by the arbitrator or mediator at the time of arbitration or mediation. In addition, if litigation is not precluded by the Franchise Agreement, a franchisee may bring an action or proceeding arising out of or in connection with the sale of franchises, or a violation of the Washington Franchise Investment Protection Act, in Washington.
Source: Item 23 — RECEIPTS (FDD pages 43–228)
What This Means (2024 FDD)
According to Deck Medic's 2024 Franchise Disclosure Document, if a franchisee purchases a Deck Medic franchise in Washington, the arbitration or mediation site will be either in the state of Washington, or in a place mutually agreed upon at the time of the arbitration or mediation, or as determined by the arbitrator or mediator at the time of arbitration or mediation.
This amendment ensures that Washington franchisees are not forced to travel to a distant location for dispute resolution, which could be a significant financial and logistical burden. It provides flexibility by allowing the parties to agree on a location or for the arbitrator/mediator to determine the site, potentially making the process more accessible and fair for the franchisee.
Additionally, the amendment states that if litigation is not precluded by the Franchise Agreement, a franchisee may bring an action or proceeding arising out of or in connection with the sale of franchises, or a violation of the Washington Franchise Investment Protection Act, in Washington. This provision reinforces the franchisee's right to pursue legal action within their home state under specific circumstances, offering further protection under Washington law.