Does the Maryland Franchise Registration and Disclosure Law permit a Mr. Sandless franchisee to enter into litigation with the Franchisor in Maryland?

According to Mr. Sandless's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, a franchisee in Maryland is permitted to enter into litigation with Mr. Sandless in the state of Maryland. This right exists regardless of any conflicting language that may be present in the franchise agreement. This provision is specifically allowed under Section 14-216(c)(25) of the Maryland Franchise Registration and Disclosure Law.

This amendment to the franchise agreement ensures that franchisees are not bound by clauses that might otherwise restrict their ability to pursue legal action against Mr. Sandless within Maryland. It also reinforces that acknowledgements or representations made by the franchisee, which might disclaim violations of the Franchise Law, will not act as a waiver of liability under the Maryland Franchise Registration and Disclosure Law.

Furthermore, the FDD states that any requirement for a general release as a condition of renewal, sale, or transfer of the franchise does not apply to liabilities arising under the Maryland Franchise Registration and Disclosure Law. This protection extends to prohibiting Mr. Sandless from requiring a prospective franchisee to waive liability as a condition of purchasing the franchise. The statute of limitations for claims arising under Maryland Franchise Registration and Disclosure Law is three years after the grant of the franchise.