What is the limit on the number of interrogatories allowed for each side in a Degree Wellness arbitration?
Degree_Wellness Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
Discovery under the arbitration will be limited to the following for each side: (i) three depositions totaling 12 hours; (ii) six interrogatories each consisting of no more than 12 questions (with no subparts); and (iii) three document requests.
The discovery may also be limited in any other manner as specified by the arbitrator, who will limit discovery to the greatest extent possible consistent with basic fairness.
Source: Item 23 — Receipts (FDD pages 66–257)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to Degree Wellness's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, during arbitration, each side is limited to six interrogatories. Each interrogatory can consist of no more than 12 questions, and subparts are not allowed within those questions.
This limitation on interrogatories, along with the restrictions on depositions and document requests, aims to streamline the arbitration process and control costs. By limiting the scope of discovery, Degree Wellness seeks to ensure that arbitration remains an efficient and cost-effective method for resolving disputes.
For a prospective franchisee, this means that pre-trial information gathering is restricted. If a dispute arises that leads to arbitration, franchisees must be strategic and focused in their discovery requests, as they will only have a limited number of interrogatories and other discovery tools available. Franchisees should consult with an experienced franchise attorney to make the most of these limited discovery opportunities.