In Minnesota, can Dryject require a waiver of a jury trial?
Dryject Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
Minn. Stat. Sec. 80C.21 and Minn. Rule 2860.4400J prohibit us from requiring litigation to be conducted outside Minnesota, requiring waiver of a jury trial, or requiring the franchisee to consent to liquidated damages, termination penalties or judgment notes. In addition, nothing in this Disclosure Document or agreement can abrogate or reduce any of your rights as provided for in Minnesota Statues, Chapter 80C, or your rights to any procedure, forum, or remedies provided for by the laws of the jurisdiction.
Source: Item 8 — BUSINESS RELATIONSHIP (FDD pages 68–229)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to Dryject's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, Minnesota law prohibits Dryject from requiring a franchisee to waive their right to a jury trial. Specifically, Minn. Stat. Sec. 80C.21 and Minn. Rule 2860.4400J prevent Dryject from including any clause in the franchise agreement that mandates litigation to occur outside of Minnesota, demands a waiver of jury trial rights, or requires the franchisee to consent to liquidated damages, termination penalties, or judgment notes.
This protection ensures that Dryject franchisees in Minnesota retain their full legal rights within the state. The FDD explicitly states that nothing within the disclosure document or the franchise agreement can diminish or nullify any rights granted to the franchisee under Minnesota Statutes, Chapter 80C, or their entitlement to any legal procedure, forum, or remedies as provided by Minnesota law.
This provision offers a significant benefit to prospective Dryject franchisees in Minnesota, as it prevents the franchisor from imposing unfair or restrictive legal conditions. Franchisees maintain their right to a jury trial and other legal protections under Minnesota law, ensuring a fairer balance of power in any potential legal disputes.