In Michigan, can a Deck Medic franchisee settle claims after entering into a Franchise Agreement?
Deck_Medic Franchise · 2024 FDDAnswer from 2024 FDD Document
- B. A requirement that you assent to a release, assignment, novation, waiver or estoppel that deprives you of rights and protections provided in this act. This shall not preclude you, after entering into a Franchise Agreement, from settling any and all claims.
Source: Item 23 — RECEIPTS (FDD pages 43–228)
What This Means (2024 FDD)
According to Deck Medic's 2024 Franchise Disclosure Document, a Michigan franchisee is not prohibited from settling claims after entering into a Franchise Agreement. The FDD includes a Michigan FDD Amendment that addresses unfair provisions sometimes found in franchise documents.
Specifically, the amendment states that any requirement for a franchisee to assent to a release, assignment, novation, waiver, or estoppel that deprives them of rights and protections is void and unenforceable. However, this does not prevent a franchisee from settling claims after the Franchise Agreement has been signed.
This provision ensures that Deck Medic franchisees in Michigan retain the ability to resolve disputes and legal matters even after becoming a franchisee, which is a protection under Michigan state law.