Where will the arbitration or mediation site be located for a Hck Hot Chicken franchise purchased in Washington?
Hck_Hot_Chicken Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
- Site of Arbitration, Mediation, and/or Litigation. In any arbitration or mediation involving a franchise purchased in Washington, the arbitration or mediation site will be either in the state of
Washington, or in a place mutually agreed upon at the time of the arbitration or mediation, or as determined by the arbitrator or mediator at the time of arbitration or mediation. In addition, if litigation is not precluded by the franchise agreement, a franchisee may bring an action or proceeding arising out of or in connection with the sale of franchises, or a violation of the Washington Franchise Investment Protection Act, in Washington.
Source: Item 22 — CONTRACTS (FDD pages 54–55)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to the 2025 Hck Hot Chicken Franchise Disclosure Document, for any Hck Hot Chicken franchise purchased in Washington, the arbitration or mediation site will be located in the state of Washington. However, the location may also be a place mutually agreed upon at the time of the arbitration or mediation. Alternatively, the arbitrator or mediator can determine the location at the time of arbitration or mediation.
Additionally, if the franchise agreement does not preclude litigation, a franchisee can initiate an action or proceeding in Washington if it arises from the sale of franchises or a violation of the Washington Franchise Investment Protection Act.
This clause ensures that franchisees in Washington are not forced to travel to a distant location for dispute resolution, which could significantly increase their costs and inconvenience. It also provides an option for flexibility, allowing the parties to agree on a more convenient location or to have the arbitrator or mediator decide based on the specific circumstances of the dispute. This is a beneficial term for franchisees as it provides a local forum for resolving disputes and protects their rights under Washington law.