Which section of the Sonesta Select Sonesta Essential Franchise Agreement addresses dispute resolution?
Sonesta_Select_Sonesta_Essential Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
| PROVISION | SECTION IN | SUMMARY |
|---|---|---|
| u. Dispute | Section 17.F | We and you must arbitrate all disputes (except for claims to collect amounts |
| resolution by | owed) at a location within 50 miles of our or, as applicable, our successor’s | |
| arbitration or | or assign’s then-current principal place of business (currently, Newton, | |
| mediation | Massachusetts) (subject to state law). | |
| v. Choice of forum | Sections 17.H and 17.J | Subject to the arbitration requirement, litigation must be brought in the court nearest to our or, as applicable, our successor’s or assign’s then current principal place of business (currently, Newton, Massachusetts) (subject to state law). However, we may seek injunctive relief in any court of competent jurisdiction. |
| w. Choice of law | Section 17.G | Except for the U.S. Trademark Act, the Federal Arbitration Act and other federal laws, Massachusetts law applies (subject to state law). |
Source: Item 9 — FRANCHISEE'S OBLIGATIONS (FDD pages 50–51)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to Sonesta Select Sonesta Essential's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, Section 17.F of the Franchise Agreement outlines the dispute resolution process. Specifically, it states that all disputes between Sonesta Select Sonesta Essential and the franchisee must be resolved through arbitration, except for claims related to collecting amounts owed to Sonesta Select Sonesta Essential.
The arbitration proceedings must take place within 50 miles of Sonesta Select Sonesta Essential's principal place of business, which is currently in Newton, Massachusetts, or within 50 miles of their successor's or assignee's principal place of business. This is subject to state law, which may provide additional regulations or protections for franchisees in dispute resolution.
Sections 17.H and 17.J address the choice of forum. Subject to the arbitration requirement, any litigation must be brought in the court nearest to Sonesta Select Sonesta Essential's principal place of business (Newton, Massachusetts). However, Sonesta Select Sonesta Essential retains the right to seek injunctive relief in any court with competent jurisdiction. Section 17.G states that Massachusetts law governs the Franchise Agreement, except for matters covered by the U.S. Trademark Act, the Federal Arbitration Act, and other federal laws, and is also subject to state law.