Jackson Hewitt, Inc. v. Kaman

WALLACE, Judge.

In this appeal, Jackson Hewitt, Inc., a franchisor, asks us to decide whether it can be held liable to Frank A. Kaman and Ellen M. Kaman, investors defrauded by an affiliate of one of its franchisees. On the facts presented, we hold that Jackson Hewitt is not liable to the Kamans. Accordingly, we reverse the final judgment entered on the jury’s verdict in the Ka-mans’ favor. On the Kamans’ cross-appeal, we affirm the partial summary judgment that dismissed one of their claims against Jackson Hewitt.

I. THE FACTS

A. Introduction

Frank A. Kaman, a dentist, and Ellen M. Kaman, his…