What rights do Hydrodog franchisees waive regarding venue and jurisdiction by agreeing to the franchise agreement?
Hydrodog Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
Section 21 of the Franchise Agreement will be subject to the Washington Franchise Investment Protection Act, RCW 19.100, and the rules adopted thereunder.
RCW 19.100.180 may supersede the franchise agreement in your relationship with the franchisor including the areas of termination and renewal of your franchise. There may also be court decisions which may supersede the franchise agreement in your relationship with the franchisor including the areas of termination and renewal of your franchise.
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
Source: Item 23 — RECEIPTS (FDD pages 43–166)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to the 2025 Hydrodog Franchise Disclosure Document, Section 21 of the Franchise Agreement will be subject to the Washington Franchise Investment Protection Act, RCW 19.100, and the rules adopted thereunder. This means that the laws of Washington State will govern the franchise agreement.
Additionally, RCW 19.100.180 may supersede the franchise agreement in the franchisee's relationship with Hydrodog, particularly in areas of termination and renewal. Court decisions may also supersede the franchise agreement in these areas. This indicates that certain provisions of the franchise agreement may not be enforceable if they conflict with Washington state law or court rulings.
For any arbitration or mediation involving a franchise purchased in Washington, the venue will be either in Washington State or a location mutually agreed upon at the time of arbitration. This means franchisees may have to travel to Washington for dispute resolution, unless an alternative location is agreed upon. This could increase costs for franchisees located outside of Washington. Franchisees should consult with a legal professional to understand the implications of these venue and jurisdiction provisions.