by Robert T. Stephan

At every ACN International Training Event, the ACN Legal Review Team emphasizes the importance of the Independent Representative Agreement and the Policies and Procedures. An Independent Representative must be knowledgeable about his or her obligations and the role of ACN.

In addition to the emphasis placed on the obligations in the two documents, ACN President and Co-Founder Greg Provenzano makes it clear that to be successful, it takes hard work. No one can succeed just by signing the Independent Representative Agreement.

It is my purpose in this article to point out some of the relevant information all representatives must have in order to be fully informed as to their role as an independent contractor.

The very first paragraph of the Independent Representative Agreement states that the advancement to higher levels in the compensation plan is based on the acquisition of customers and telecommunications/Internet usage. You cannot advance by simply recruiting other Independent Representatives. That recruitment must be accompanied by acquiring customers.

ACN Representative is an Independent Contractor

The Independent Representative Agreement makes it clear that a representative is an independent contractor and not an agent, legal representative, or employee of ACN. An Independent Representative is not to represent directly or indirectly that any person may, can, or will earn a gross or net amount of income.

During the term of the Independent Representative Agreement, representatives are not permitted to sell services or products offered by ACN through any person or entity other than that specifically approved in writing by ACN. An Independent Representative shall not, during their relationship with ACN and for a period of one (1) year thereafter in any way call upon, sell or solicit, take away or move any customer of ACN. During the term of the agreement and for a period of one (1) year thereafter, an ACN Independent Representative may not solicit an ACN Independent Representative to participate in a network marketing program offered by any other company.

In the event a dispute develops between an Independent Representative and ACN arising out of the Independent Representative Agreement or the Policies and Procedures, such a dispute must be resolved through binding arbitration before the American Arbitration Association pursuant to Commercial Rules of Arbitration. All claims must be brought within two (2) years of the date on which the facts or circumstances giving rise to the claim are alleged to have happened. Michigan law will apply. ACN is not restricted from seeking preliminary or permanent injunctive relief in any court of competent jurisdiction.

ACN Independent Representative Agreement Plays an Important Role

This article does not contain each and every provision in the Independent Representative Agreement but is meant to point out how important the Independent Representative Agreement is in regard to the role of ACN and each Independent Representative. It is important that an Independent Representative read and understand the Independent Representative Agreement fully.

Adherence to the rule of law is the cornerstone of the ACN Opportunity. Compliance with all federal, state and local laws is a must for all ACN Independent Representatives.