In the Jersey Mikes Development Agreement, what is the Developer acknowledging regarding disputes between the Franchisor and Developer?

According to Jersey Mikes' 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, the Developer acknowledges and agrees that any disputes arising between the Franchisor and the Developer will be submitted to trial without a jury. This agreement is made as provided in Section 17.8 of the Development Agreement.

This acknowledgement means that the Developer is waiving their right to a jury trial in the event of a dispute with Jersey Mikes. Instead, any legal proceedings will be decided by a judge. This can have significant implications for the outcome of a dispute, as a judge may have a different perspective than a jury.

For a prospective Jersey Mikes developer, this clause highlights the importance of carefully considering the legal implications of the Development Agreement and understanding the potential ramifications of waiving the right to a jury trial. It is advisable to consult with legal counsel to fully understand the implications of this provision before signing the agreement.