When is a release or waiver void for a Hck Hot Chicken franchise agreement in Washington?
Hck_Hot_Chicken Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
ompliance with any provision under the Washington Franchise Investment Protection Act or any rules or orders thereunder is void except when executed pursuant to a negotiated settlement after the agreement is in effect and where the parties are represented by independent counsel, in accordance with
- RCW 19.100.220(2). In addition, any such release or waiver executed in connection with a renewal or transfer of a franchise is likewise void except as provided for in RCW 19.100.220(2).
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- Statute of Limitations and Waiver of Jury Trial. Provisions contained in the franchise agreement or related agreements that unreasonably restrict or limit the statute of limitations period for claims under the Washington Franchise Investment Protection Act, or rights or remedies under the Act such as a right to a jury trial, may not be enforceable.
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- Transfer Fees. Transfer fees are collectable only to the extent that they reflect the franchisor's reasonable estimated or actual costs in effecting a transfer.
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- Termination by Franchisee.
Source: Item 22 — CONTRACTS (FDD pages 54–55)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to the 2025 Hck Hot Chicken Franchise Disclosure Document, any release or waiver executed during a franchise renewal or transfer in Washington is void, unless it complies with RCW 19.100.220(2). This statute likely outlines specific conditions under which such releases or waivers can be considered valid. Provisions in the franchise agreement that unreasonably restrict the statute of limitations for claims under the Washington Franchise Investment Protection Act, or that limit rights or remedies under the Act, such as the right to a jury trial, may not be enforceable.
Additionally, any provisions requiring a Hck Hot Chicken franchisee to waive exemplary, punitive, or similar damages are void, unless the waiver is part of a negotiated settlement agreed to after the franchise agreement is already in effect. For this type of waiver to be valid, both parties must be represented by independent legal counsel, as stipulated by RCW 19.100.220(2).
These stipulations protect Hck Hot Chicken franchisees in Washington by ensuring they do not unknowingly or unfairly relinquish their rights. Franchisees should seek independent legal advice to fully understand their rights and obligations under Washington law before signing any releases or waivers, especially during renewals, transfers, or settlement negotiations.