In Minnesota, can Zoomin Groomin require the franchisee to consent to judgment notes?
Zoomin_Groomin Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
MINNESOTA ADDENDUM TO THE FRANCHISE AGREEMENT
- Minn.
Stat. §80C.21 and Minn.
Rule 2860.4400(J) prohibit the franchisor from requiring litigation to be conducted outside Minnesota, requiring waiver of a jury trial, or requiring the franchisee to consent to liquidated damages, termination penalties or judgment notes.
In addition, nothing in the Franchise Disclosure Document or agreements can abrogate or reduce (1) any of the franchisee's rights as provided for in Minnesota Statutes, Chapter 80C, or (2) franchisee's rights to any procedure, forum, or remedies provided for by the laws of the jurisdiction.
Source: Item 9 — 01. Financial Statements and Exhibits. (FDD pages 68–156)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to Zoomin Groomin's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, Minnesota law offers specific protections to franchisees. The Minnesota Addendum to the Franchise Agreement explicitly states that Zoomin Groomin is prohibited from requiring franchisees to consent to judgment notes. This protection is enshrined in Minn. Stat. §80C.21 and Minn. Rule 2860.4400(J).
This means that Zoomin Groomin cannot include any clause in its franchise agreement that forces a Minnesota franchisee to agree in advance to a judgment against them in case of a dispute. This provision aims to protect franchisees from potentially unfair or overreaching legal tactics by the franchisor. It ensures that any legal proceedings must follow due process and that the franchisee retains their right to defend themselves in court without having pre-agreed to an unfavorable outcome.
Furthermore, the addendum reinforces that nothing in the Franchise Disclosure Document or related agreements can diminish any rights granted to the franchisee under Minnesota Statutes, Chapter 80C, or any legal procedures, forums, or remedies available under Minnesota law. This comprehensive protection underscores Minnesota's commitment to safeguarding franchisee rights and ensuring a fair franchising environment. Prospective Zoomin Groomin franchisees in Minnesota can be assured that they cannot be compelled to consent to judgment notes, and their legal rights are robustly protected under state law.