What is the effect of the Maryland Addendum on a Dryject franchisee's ability to bring a lawsuit in Maryland?
Dryject Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
Section 4-216(c)(25) of the Maryland Franchise Registration and Disclosure Law requires a franchisor to file an irrevocable consent to be sued in Maryland. A franchisee may bring a lawsuit in Maryland for claims arising under the Maryland Franchise Registration and Disclosure Law.
Any claims arising under the Maryland Franchise Registration and Disclosure law must be brought within three years after the franchise is granted.
No statement, questionnaire, or acknowledgment signed or agreed to by a franchisee in connection with the commencement of the franchise relationship shall have the effect of (i) waiving any claims under any applicable state franchise law, including fraud in the inducement, or (ii) disclaiming reliance on any statement made by any franchisor, franchise seller, or other person acting on behalf of the franchisor. This provision supersedes any other term of any document executed in connection with the franchise.
Source: Item 8 — BUSINESS RELATIONSHIP (FDD pages 68–229)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to Dryject's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, the Maryland Addendum specifically addresses a franchisee's right to bring a lawsuit in Maryland. The addendum states that a Dryject franchisee may bring a lawsuit in Maryland for claims arising under the Maryland Franchise Registration and Disclosure Law. This provision ensures that Dryject franchisees are able to seek legal recourse within their own state for violations of Maryland franchise law.
Furthermore, the Maryland Addendum stipulates that any claims arising under the Maryland Franchise Registration and Disclosure Law must be brought within three years after the franchise is granted. This establishes a statute of limitations for such claims, meaning a franchisee must act within this timeframe to pursue legal action. This is a standard inclusion to ensure legal claims are addressed in a timely manner.
Additionally, the addendum protects franchisees by stating that no statement, questionnaire, or acknowledgment signed by a franchisee can waive claims under any applicable state franchise law, including fraud in the inducement, or disclaim reliance on statements made by Dryject or its representatives. This provision supersedes any other conflicting terms in any document executed in connection with the franchise, reinforcing the franchisee's rights under Maryland law. This ensures that franchisees cannot inadvertently forfeit their legal rights through standard paperwork.