What is the maximum timeframe for holding arbitration hearings after the arbitrators are selected for a Hydrodog franchise dispute?
Hydrodog Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
All arbitration hearings will take place exclusively in Hillsborough County, Florida, or at such other location as we may designate in our sole discretion, and will be held no later than ninety (90) days after the Arbitrators have been selected.
You, we, and our respective officers, directors, Owners and the Personal Guarantors, unconditionally agree and submit to personal jurisdiction in the State of Florida in connection with any arbitration hearings under this Agreement and any suits brought to enforce the decision of the Arbitrators.
You, we, and our respective officers, directors, Owners and the Personal Guarantors, expressly waive any rights to contest venue and jurisdiction in the State of Florida and any claims that venue and jurisdiction are invalid.
Source: Item 23 — RECEIPTS (FDD pages 43–166)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to Hydrodog's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, if a dispute goes to arbitration, the arbitration hearings must be held no later than ninety (90) days after the arbitrators have been selected. This timeframe is designed to ensure that disputes are resolved in a timely manner.
All arbitration hearings will take place exclusively in Hillsborough County, Florida, unless Hydrodog designates another location at its sole discretion. Franchisees, along with their officers, directors, owners, and personal guarantors, must agree to personal jurisdiction in Florida for any arbitration hearings or suits to enforce the arbitrator's decisions. They also waive any rights to contest venue and jurisdiction in Florida.
This requirement means a Hydrodog franchisee could be required to travel to Florida for arbitration, regardless of where their franchise is located. Franchisees should factor in potential travel costs and legal representation in Florida when considering the franchise agreement. The relatively short 90-day window to hold the hearings once arbitrators are selected suggests Hydrodog aims for quick resolution of disputes through arbitration.