During Kitchen Solvers mediation, can additional persons be brought to contribute information?
Kitchen_Solvers Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
In addition, each party may, with permission of the mediator, bring with him, her, or it any additional persons who are needed to respond to questions, contribute information, and participate in the negotiations.
Source: Item 22 — Contracts (FDD page 49)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to the 2025 Kitchen Solvers Franchise Disclosure Document, during mediation, each party must be represented by a person with the authority to settle the dispute and may be represented by counsel. Additionally, with the mediator's permission, a party can bring additional people to respond to questions, contribute information, and participate in negotiations.
This means that if a dispute arises and mediation is pursued, a Kitchen Solvers franchisee is not limited to only their legal counsel or themselves. They can bring in experts, employees, or other individuals who can provide relevant information or assist in resolving the issue, provided the mediator approves. This flexibility can be beneficial in complex disputes where specific knowledge or expertise is required to reach a resolution.
It is important to note that the mediator has the final say on who can participate in the mediation process beyond the authorized representative and counsel. A Kitchen Solvers franchisee should be prepared to justify the need for any additional participants and how they will contribute to the mediation process. This ensures that the mediation remains focused and productive.