Where can legal actions to enforce the Note for Sonesta Select Sonesta Essential be brought?

According to the 2025 FDD, any legal action to enforce the terms of the Note for Sonesta Select Sonesta Essential may be brought by the Holder in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. The Maker, which is the franchisee, submits to the jurisdiction of any federal or state court in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. This means that Sonesta Select Sonesta Essential franchisees may be required to litigate in Massachusetts, regardless of where their hotel is located.

This requirement could increase costs for franchisees if they need to travel to Massachusetts for legal proceedings. It also means that the laws of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts will govern the interpretation and enforcement of the Note, potentially requiring franchisees to become familiar with Massachusetts law.

It is fairly common in franchising for the franchise agreement to specify a particular jurisdiction for dispute resolution. This allows the franchisor to manage legal proceedings more efficiently. Prospective franchisees should carefully consider the implications of the designated jurisdiction, including potential travel costs and the need to hire local counsel.