What is the deadline for bringing claims against Fitstop arising under the Maryland Franchise Registration and Disclosure Law?
Fitstop Franchise · 2024 FDDAnswer from 2024 FDD Document
Item 17 of the Disclosure Document is supplemented by the following:
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- Any provisions requiring you to sign a general release of claims against us, including upon execution of the Franchise Agreement or a successor Franchise Agreement, refund of initial fees, or transfer, does not release any claim you may have under the Maryland Franchise Registration and Disclosure Law.
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- Any claims arising under the Maryland Franchise Registration and Disclosure Law must be brought within 3 years after the grant of the franchise.
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- A franchisee may bring a lawsuit in Maryland for claims arising under the Maryland Franchise Registration and Disclosure Law.
Source: Item 23 — RECEIPTS (FDD pages 50–135)
What This Means (2024 FDD)
According to Fitstop's 2024 Franchise Disclosure Document, if a franchisee in Maryland has a claim arising under the Maryland Franchise Registration and Disclosure Law, they must bring that claim within 3 years after the grant of the franchise. This disclosure supplements Item 17 of the FDD, which typically covers franchise termination, renewal, transfer, dispute resolution, and other legal matters.
This means a Fitstop franchisee in Maryland has a limited time to take legal action regarding any violations of the state's franchise laws. The clock starts ticking from the date the franchise is granted, not necessarily from when the issue occurred. This is a crucial detail, as waiting too long could mean losing the right to sue, regardless of the validity of the claim.
It is important for prospective Fitstop franchisees in Maryland to understand this limitation and consult with an attorney promptly if they believe they have a claim. This ensures they are aware of their rights and can take appropriate action within the specified timeframe. This type of statute of limitations is common in franchise law to provide both parties with legal certainty after a reasonable period.