Where can a Dryject franchisee in Maryland bring a lawsuit for claims arising under the Maryland Franchise Registration and Disclosure Law?
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 the 2025 Dryject FDD, a franchisee may bring a lawsuit in Maryland for claims arising under the Maryland Franchise Registration and Disclosure Law. This stipulation ensures that Dryject franchisees operating in Maryland have the right to seek legal recourse within the state for any violations of the state's franchise laws. This provision is included in an addendum to the standard franchise agreement specifically for Maryland.
This addendum also clarifies that any claims arising under the Maryland Franchise Registration and Disclosure Law must be brought within three years after the franchise is granted. This statute of limitations sets a clear timeframe for franchisees to take legal action, ensuring timely resolution of disputes.
Furthermore, the addendum emphasizes that no statement, questionnaire, or acknowledgment signed by a franchisee can waive claims under Maryland franchise law, including fraud in the inducement, or disclaim reliance on statements made by Dryject or its representatives. This protects franchisees from inadvertently relinquishing their legal rights through standard paperwork. This provision supersedes any conflicting terms in other documents related to the franchise agreement, reinforcing the franchisee's protections under Maryland law.