Are there any limitations on a Hck Hot Chicken franchisee's right to a jury trial in Washington?
Hck_Hot_Chicken Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
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.
Source: Item 22 — CONTRACTS (FDD pages 54–55)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to the 2025 Hck Hot Chicken FDD, provisions in the franchise agreement that restrict a franchisee's right to a jury trial under the Washington Franchise Investment Protection Act may not be enforceable in Washington state. This protection is provided under Washington law.
This means that while the standard Hck Hot Chicken franchise agreement might contain clauses that appear to limit or waive a franchisee's right to a jury trial, these clauses may not hold up in a Washington court if a franchisee brings a claim under the Washington Franchise Investment Protection Act. The purpose of this provision is to protect franchisees in Washington from unknowingly giving up their legal rights.
For a prospective Hck Hot Chicken franchisee in Washington, this is a beneficial protection. It ensures that they retain the right to a jury trial for claims arising under the Washington Franchise Investment Protection Act, regardless of what the franchise agreement might state. Franchisees should consult with a legal professional to fully understand their rights and obligations under Washington law and the franchise agreement.