Ravinder Sandhu Published in Hospitality Law
"Lack of Day-to-Day Involvement Protects Franchisor From Liability"

Ravinder Sandhu provides legal commentary for the article "Lack of Day-to-Day Involvement Protects Franchisor From Liability," in Hospitality Law's December 2008 issue. Ravinder comments on the Chrobak v. Hilton International,  et al. decision, where Hilton International was not found liable for a crime committed by an employee at Costa Caribe Coral, a resort in the Dominican Republic, which had a franchise relationship with a subsidiary of Hilton International. According to Ravinder, "The Chrobak case offers important advice to hotel franchisors on ways to avoid liability for their franchisee's actions, and provides guidance concerning their potential liability regarding criminal conduct and torts committed by their employees."  In his commentary, Ravinder advises franchisors on ways to avoid liability, such as limiting their involvement in their franchisee's day-to-day activities, hiring practices, and other matters that would subject them to liability for the conduct of the franchisee's employees. He concludes that "While it may not be possible for hotels to completely insulate themselves, they can significantly reduce the risk and amount of potential liability by taking appropriate precautions in dealing with job applicants and employees."