For a Ledgers franchise in Washington, can the mediation site be determined by the mediator at the time of mediation?
Ledgers Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
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 or mediation, or as determined by the arbitrator or mediator at the time of arbitration or mediation.
Source: Item 22 — CONTRACTS (FDD page 46)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to Ledgers' 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, the mediation site for a franchise purchased in Washington can be determined by the mediator at the time of mediation. The Washington Addendum to the Franchise Disclosure Document modifies the standard franchise agreement to comply with Washington law.
Specifically, in any arbitration or mediation involving a Ledgers franchise purchased in Washington, the site will be either in the state of Washington, or in a place mutually agreed upon at the time of the arbitration or mediation, or as determined by the arbitrator or mediator at the time of arbitration or mediation. This ensures that Washington franchisees are not forced to mediate or arbitrate disputes in a distant or inconvenient location.
This provision offers a significant benefit to prospective Ledgers franchisees in Washington, as it provides flexibility and protection regarding the location of dispute resolution proceedings. Franchisees should be aware of this addendum and how it modifies the standard franchise agreement, particularly concerning dispute resolution.