If a Focus Cfo franchisee locates their franchise in Maryland, does the Maryland notice apply?

According to Focus Cfo's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, the Maryland notice applies to franchisees who are residents of Maryland or locate their franchises in Maryland. This means that if a franchisee chooses to operate their Focus Cfo franchise within the state of Maryland, they are subject to the specific legal considerations and amendments outlined in the Maryland notice within the FDD. This ensures that Focus Cfo complies with Maryland's franchise laws and provides franchisees with the protections afforded by those laws.

Several provisions in the standard franchise agreement are modified by the Maryland notice to comply with Maryland law. For example, the Maryland notice specifies that franchisees may sue in Maryland for claims arising under the Maryland Franchise Registration and Disclosure Law, regardless of any provisions requiring lawsuits to be filed in Ohio. Additionally, any limitation periods of less than three years do not apply to claims arising under Maryland law. The notice also ensures that franchisees do not waive any claims under applicable state law, including fraud in the inducement, or disclaim reliance on statements made by Focus Cfo.

Furthermore, due to Focus Cfo's financial condition, the Maryland Securities Commission requires a financial assurance. As a result, all initial fees and payments owed by Focus Cfo franchisees in Maryland are deferred until Focus Cfo has met all of its pre-opening obligations under the franchise agreement. This deferral provides an added layer of protection for franchisees, ensuring that they are not required to pay initial fees until Focus Cfo has fulfilled its initial responsibilities. Prospective franchisees should carefully review the Maryland notice and understand how it modifies the standard franchise agreement to ensure compliance with Maryland law.