LEGAL & EDITORIAL DISCLAIMER

Last Updated: May 2025

Franchise Reality Check™ (“FRC”) is an independent investigative publication based in Oklahoma that analyzes franchise systems, disclosure documents, and related business practices for public awareness and education.

All content published by FRC, including investigative reports, franchise analyses, commentary, and supporting materials, is protected under the Oklahoma Constitution, the First Amendment of the United States Constitution, and applicable state and federal law.

1. Public-Interest Reporting

FRC’s work constitutes journalistic activity on matters of public concern. Our reports are based on:

  • Information contained in public filings, such as Franchise Disclosure Documents (FDDs), SEC records, and state franchise registrations;

  • Court documents and other official proceedings;

  • Interviews and statements provided by current and former franchisees; and

  • Independent research and financial analysis.

All opinions and interpretations expressed are made in good faith for purposes of public education, consumer protection, and policy transparency.

Pursuant to Oklahoma Constitution, Article II, Section 22, and 12 O.S. § 2506 (News Media Privilege), FRC exercises the right to freely publish commentary and analysis on subjects affecting the public interest.

2. Accuracy and Source Integrity

Every effort is made to ensure the accuracy of our reporting. Information is verified against public records or corroborated by multiple sources whenever possible.

Because franchise data often changes over time, readers are encouraged to verify all financial and operational information directly with franchisors and official regulatory agencies before making any investment decision.

If any factual inaccuracies are identified, we welcome correction requests sent to:
justfacts@franchiserealitycheck.com

3. No Legal, Financial, or Investment Advice

Nothing contained in any Reality Report or Reality Check Report should be construed as legal, financial, or investment advice.

Readers should consult with qualified professionals including attorneys, accountants, or franchise advisors before entering into any business relationship or franchise agreement.

4. Fair Comment and Opinion

FRC reports may include editorial opinions, interpretive analysis, and commentary on publicly available information.

Such content represents the publisher’s and contributors’ honest opinions based on disclosed facts and is protected under the doctrine of fair comment.

Any commentary concerning litigation, FDD disclosures, or franchise system operations is made solely for the purpose of public education and franchise transparency.

5. No Affiliation or Compensation

Franchise Reality Check™ is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or compensated by any franchisor, franchise broker, or franchisee organization.

We do not accept paid placements, sponsored content, or franchisor advertising in connection with any published material.

6. Legal Protections and Applicable Law

As an Oklahoma-based publisher, FRC’s journalistic activities and source materials are protected under:

  • Oklahoma Constitution, Article II § 22 — guaranteeing freedom of speech and press;

  • 12 O.S. § 2506 — Oklahoma’s News Media Privilege, protecting journalistic sources and unpublished materials; and

  • 12 O.S. § 1430 et seq. — the Oklahoma Citizens Participation Act (anti-SLAPP statute), protecting individuals and organizations against meritless lawsuits intended to suppress public participation.

Any attempt to suppress or intimidate FRC through threats, cease-and-desist demands, or unfounded legal action may be treated as a violation of these statutory protections.

7. Reservation of Rights

Franchise Reality Check™ expressly reserves all rights and privileges under Oklahoma and U.S. law, including those relating to freedom of expression, public-interest reporting, and source confidentiality.

All works are published under FRC’s editorial and intellectual property rights. Unauthorized republication or commercial use of FRC’s proprietary content is prohibited.

Franchise Reality Check™

Public-interest journalism for franchise transparency and accountability.