If a Focus Cfo franchisee is a resident of Maryland, does the Maryland notice apply?

According to the 2025 Focus Cfo Franchise Disclosure Document, the Maryland notice applies to franchisees who are residents of Maryland or who locate their franchises in Maryland. This means that if a Focus Cfo franchisee resides in Maryland, the specific stipulations and legal protections outlined in the Maryland notice within the FDD are applicable to their franchise agreement.

This notice addresses specific legal considerations relevant to Maryland franchise law, such as the franchisee's right to sue in Maryland for claims arising under the Maryland Franchise Registration and Disclosure Law, regardless of any provisions in the franchise agreement that might require lawsuits to be filed in Ohio. It also modifies the franchise agreement to ensure that franchisees benefit from the state's legal protections.

For a prospective Focus Cfo franchisee in Maryland, this is a beneficial provision. It ensures that their rights under Maryland franchise law are protected, and it overrides certain standard clauses in the franchise agreement that might be less favorable under Maryland law. This includes aspects like the statute of limitations for claims and the enforceability of termination clauses related to bankruptcy.