factual

Under what conditions will Gold Star indemnify a franchisee against damages for infringement?

Gold_Star Franchise · 2025 FDD

Answer from 2025 FDD Document

  • 6.8 Notice of Infringement.

FRANCHISEE agrees to advise the COMPANY promptly in writing of any potentially infringing uses of the Marks, or colorable imitations or variations thereof, by others, and of any suits brought, or claims or demands made or threatened against FRANCHISEE involving the Marks.

In the event a third party commences a legal action against FRANCHISEE challenging FRANCHISEE's right to use the Marks as authorized herein, the COMPANY (a) may, in its sole discretion, assume the defense of FRANCHISEE, utilizing counsel of the COMPANY's choice, against such legal action, and (b) shall indemnify FRANCHISEE against all damages for infringement for which FRANCHISEE is held liable in such action resulting from FRANCHISEE's authorized use of the Marks pursuant to and in compliance with the Agreement, provided that:

  • 6.8.1 FRANCHISEE provides the COMPANY with timely notice of the institution of the action;

  • 6.8.2 FRANCHISEE cooperates fully with the COMPANY's counsel in defending against the action; and

  • 6.8.3 The COMPANY retains ultimate control over the strategy involved in defending against and/or resolving the action.

  • 6.9 Franchisee's Cooperation.

If the COMPANY undertakes the defense or prosecution of any litigation pertaining to the right to use the Marks, FRANCHISEE agrees to execute any and all documents and to do such acts and things as may be necessary, in the opinion of counsel for the COMPANY, to carry out such defense or prosecution, whether the action is in the name of the COMPANY or in the name of FRANCHISEE.

Subject to Section 6.8, above, FRANCHISEE shall be entitled to retain independent legal counsel, provided that the COMPANY shall not be responsible for the cost of any such legal counsel.

  • 6.10 Franchisee's Failure to Cooperate.

Section 6.7 notwithstanding, if FRANCHISEE fails to meet its obligations under Sections 6.8 and 6.9 with respect to any particular event, the COMPANY's warranties and obligations under Sections 6.7 and 6.8 shall become void with respect to such particular event, and the COMPANY shall have no liability for costs incurred or damages awarded against FRANCHISEE. EXCEPT AS SPECIFICALLY SET FORTH IN SECTION 6.8, ABOVE, THE COMPANY SHALL NOT BE LIABLE TO FRANCHISEE FOR ANY DAMAGES, COSTS, OR EXPENSES WHATSOEVER, INCLUDING BUT NOT LIMITED TO, ANY LOSS OF PROFITS OR BUSINESS OPPORTUNITIES, OR INCIDENTAL OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES OF ANY KIND WHATSOEVER RELATING TO ANY ACTION OR OTHER MATTER INVOLVING THE MARKS OR GOODWILL ASSOCIATED THEREWITH.

Source: Item 23 — Receipts (FDD pages 53–163)

What This Means (2025 FDD)

According to Gold Star's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, Gold Star may assume the defense of a franchisee in a legal action challenging the franchisee's right to use the Gold Star marks. If Gold Star assumes the defense, Gold Star will indemnify the franchisee against infringement damages if the franchisee is held liable in the action. This protection applies only if the franchisee's use of the marks was authorized and in compliance with the franchise agreement.

However, this indemnification is conditional. The franchisee must provide Gold Star with timely notice of the legal action, fully cooperate with Gold Star's counsel in defending the action, and allow Gold Star to retain ultimate control over the defense strategy and resolution. If the franchisee fails to meet these obligations, Gold Star's warranties and obligations become void, and Gold Star will not be liable for any costs or damages awarded against the franchisee.

In practical terms, a Gold Star franchisee should promptly inform Gold Star of any potential infringement claims or lawsuits. Maintaining open communication and cooperation with Gold Star's legal team is crucial to ensure the franchisor's support and potential indemnification. Failure to do so could leave the franchisee responsible for all legal costs and damages.

Disclaimer: This information is extracted from the 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document and is provided for research purposes only. It does not constitute legal or financial advice. Consult with a franchise attorney before making any investment decisions.