Under what conditions is a release or waiver of rights void for a Dryject franchise in Washington?
Dryject Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
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- General Release. A release or waiver of rights in the franchise agreement or related agreements purporting to bind the franchisee to waive compliance with any provision under the Washington Franchise Investment Protection Act or any rules or orders thereunder is void except when executed pursuant to a negotiated settlement after the agreement is in effect and where the parties are represented by independent counsel, in accordance with RCW 19.100.220(2). In addition, any such release or waiver executed in connection with a renewal or transfer of a franchise is likewise void except as provided for in RCW 19.100.220(2).
Source: Item 8 — BUSINESS RELATIONSHIP (FDD pages 68–229)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to Dryject's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, a release or waiver of rights within the franchise agreement or related documents is generally void in Washington under certain circumstances. Specifically, if the release or waiver attempts to waive compliance with any provision of the Washington Franchise Investment Protection Act or its rules, it is void.
However, there are exceptions. A release or waiver is permissible if it's part of a negotiated settlement reached after the franchise agreement is already in effect. In this case, both parties must be represented by independent legal counsel. Furthermore, any release or waiver connected to the renewal or transfer of a Dryject franchise is also void unless it meets the conditions of a negotiated settlement with independent counsel as described in RCW 19.100.220(2).
This means that Dryject franchisees in Washington have significant protection against unknowingly or unfairly relinquishing their rights under franchise law. The requirement for independent counsel ensures franchisees have proper legal advice when making such agreements, safeguarding their interests. This protection is particularly important during franchise renewal or transfer, major transition points where franchisors might otherwise exert pressure to obtain waivers.