National Franchise Law Attorneys | Complex Commercial Litigation Firm |

Best Law Firms | Ranked By Best Lawyers | United States | Franchise law | Tier 1 | 2025

National Leading Franchise Law And Commercial Litigation Firm

Powerhouse Trial Lawyers And Strategic Problem-Solvers In Complex Business Disputes And Transactions

National Leading Franchise Law And Commercial Litigation Firm

Powerhouse Trial Lawyers And Strategic Problem-Solvers In Complex Business Disputes And Transactions

Providing World-Class Legal Advocacy

Franchising, Licensing, Dealership, Distribution

Zarco Einhorn Salkowski, P.A. is a distinguished boutique Commercial Litigation Firm and Trial Lawyers specializing in resolving complex business disputes nationwide. With over three decades in business, our talented team, led by founder Robert Zarco, has earned a national reputation in their sub-specialty of franchise law. They have secured significant victories for franchisees and contributed to the establishment of crucial legal principles and precedents that have influenced the interpretation of complex franchise and business contracts in state and federal courts across the United States.

The firm’s vast client base includes franchisees and franchisee associations from more than 500 franchise systems spanning 44 states and 20 countries in the hospitality and other industries. Zarco Einhorn Salkowski, P.A. has played a pivotal role in leveling the balance of power for franchisees and other businesses, providing an affordable key to the courthouse when necessary. This is achieved with the use of partial contingency fee arrangements, helping clients navigate complex legal challenges while ensuring fair access in the legal system with highly skilled representation.

Beyond litigation, the firm is actively involved in critical transactions and negotiations to support the success of clients’ businesses from entry to exit by aiming to provide them with the leverage needed to establish healthy and well-balanced relationships with major stakeholders. We take pride in the many awards and accolades recognizing the achievements of our firm and its attorneys, as well as the positive outcomes and testimonials from our clients.

Our Practice Areas



Franchise And Dealership Law

From evaluating a new franchise opportunity to exiting a franchise relationship, our lawyers have decades of experience providing guidance and advice with respect to all aspects of the franchise relationship.



Business And Corporate Law

Formation of business entities, business legal counsel and transaction services for business owners and entrepreneurs.



Commercial Trial Litigation, Arbitration And Dispute Resolution

Our firm offers strategic solutions for complex business disputes. Our lawyers have a long track record of successfully resolving the largest and most complex franchise and commercial litigation cases.



Commercial Real Estate Disputes

Our focus is in dispute resolution and litigation on large high-rise projects and other commercial developments, including construction defects, Owner/Developer or Joint Venture disagreements, resolving impasses in complex negotiations, breaches of contract, and more.



Intellectual Property And Trademark Disputes

Protecting and preventing unauthorized use or infringement of concepts, designs, ideas, trademarks, names or slogans.



Franchise And Dealership Law



Business And Corporate Law

Formation of business entities, business legal counsel and transaction services for business owners and entrepreneurs.



Commercial Trial Litigation, Arbitration And Dispute Resolution



Commercial Real Estate Disputes



Intellectual Property And Trademark Disputes

Protecting and preventing unauthorized use or infringement of concepts, designs, ideas, trademarks, names or slogans.

Hear From Our Clients

“On behalf of the Independent Association of Home Instead Franchisees (IAOHIF), I’d like to thank you [Robert Zarco] and your firm for your excellent counsel during your continuing representation of our franchisees after a takeover by a private equity-backed technology company (Honor).

There were many challenges along the way. Our association could not get the franchisor to speak or acknowledge us until you came on the scene. Your strategies, counsel, availability, and friendship have been invaluable.

You and your partners, Himanshu Patel and Alec Shelowitz, continuously kept in contact, as well as communicating with our board of directors and franchisees to explain the nuances, your strategy, and predicting the end result. We received many concessions from the franchisor that only occurred because of your involvement through mediation.

We originally used another franchisee legal firm to represent us. They could not get us any traction, and as soon as you engaged with us, the franchisor had to pay attention. Your excellent reputation got us a seat at the table.

You are honest, honorable, and have been a good friend during a difficult time. IAOHIF will continue to engage you and your firm for the indefinite future.

I highly recommend you and your firm to any franchise association. Feel free to have anyone contact me if they need a reference.”

–Bill Mishkin, President, Independent Association of Home Instead Franchisees (IAOHIF), [email protected]

Working with the Zarco Einhorn Salkowski law firm has been an absolute game-changer for me. From the moment I contacted them, I knew I was in good hands. The team’s level of expertise, professionalism, and dedication to my needs exceeded all my expectations. They not only provided expert legal advice and guidance but also showed genuine care. They took the time to thoroughly explain the process, answer all my questions, and address any concerns I had along the way. Their attention to detail and strategic approach to my needs were truly impressive. Thanks to their hard work and unwavering support, we were able to achieve the results I was looking for. I am beyond grateful for the exceptional service and results I received from Zarco Einhorn Salkowski, P.A. I highly recommend them to anyone in need of legal assistance.
–Ismar Herrera – GoldenTrust Insurance, Testimonial collected from Best Lawyers® during their Best Law Firms® research process.

“For over thirty years, Robert Zarco and his firm, Zarco Einhorn Salkowski, P.A., have been a beacon of resilience and determination, fighting against unfair practices by franchisors and emerging victorious in numerous battles on behalf of franchisees. As a franchisee for nearly forty years, I first encountered Robert Zarco about three decades ago during a complex franchise legal dispute. It was a true David versus Goliath situation. Without his unwavering assistance, I would not have withstood the legal onslaught from the franchisor. His help was my lifeline, preventing me from being crushed by the franchisor’s aggression. With his sharp intellect and skill in assessing complex legal issues, Robert Zarco has earned my respect and trust over our long-standing relationship.”
–Leighton Hull – Church’s Franchisee, Testimonial collected from Best Lawyers® during their Best Law Firms® research process.

“Zarco Einhorn Salkowski has been instrumental in our association’s efforts to inform and educate our membership on franchise law and franchisee rights. Robert Zarco of Zarco Einhorn Salkowski is a master in franchise law, but is equally knowledgeable in labor, contract, real estate, and other laws. This allows Zarco Einhorn Salkowski to provide comprehensive legal and strategic counsel. The team at Zarco Einhorn Salkowski, P.A. is leveling the playing field between the powerful and well capitalized franchisors, and the less powerful franchisees who are loyal to their brand.”
–David Bear – McDonald’s National Owners Association, Testimonial collected from the Best Lawyers® website for the Best Law Firms® research process.

“My experience with all the professionals at Zarco Einhorn Salkowski was extremely positive. I worked closely with Michael Braunstein and Robert Einhorn throughout my legal matter and interacted with other members of their staff as well. They truly cared about me both personally and professionally. The level of professionalism and follow-through from their entire team contributes heavily to their terrific professional reputation. They are fantastic attorneys and are extremely knowledgeable. They helped me to understand all elements of my business matter, provided guidance, and were able to articulate all necessary elements. Not only do I respect and trust the judgement of this legal team, but I also felt comfortable during all my communications with them. They truly dedicated themselves and their resources to my needs and made sure I was fully informed along the way. This firm is, no doubt, one of top law firms in their field of expertise nationally. I would happily refer others to the law firm of Zarco Einhorn Salkowski!”
–John Zelenika – Capstone franchise, Testimonial collected from the Best Lawyers® website for the Best Law Firms® research process.

For nearly five years, our independent owners’ association has relied on the exceptional services of Zarco Einhorn Salkowski, P.A. and they have consistently exceeded our expectations. Their team possesses a deep understanding of franchise law, which has been invaluable for our members. They demonstrate a unique ability to navigate complex legal landscapes, ensuring that franchisees are not only heard but also protected. Their creative approaches to resolving tough situations have proven effective, especially when dealing with an aggressive franchisor, and franchisor-friendly law firms. The reputation of Zarco Einhorn Salkowski, P.A. precedes them, giving us a strategic advantage in negotiations and legal proceedings. We wholeheartedly recommend them for their professionalism, expertise, and the tangible results they deliver. Working with this firm has been a game-changer for our association.

–Jim Mellon – Massage Envy Owner’s Association, Testimonial collected from Best Lawyers® during their Best Law Firms® research process.

“Zarco kept a packed-room audience of 220 Hawaii Automobile Dealer Association (HADA) members and guests spellbound for his one-and-a-half-hour remarks on franchise law. ‘He spoke in terms everyone could understand,’ said Sky Stewar, guest of husband Tom Stewart, who works with a HADA associate member firm. ‘He brought 36 pages of law to life,’ and another in the audience – a TV station manager and a HADA associate member… How was he able to hold a big diverse audience like that for nearly two hours? The answer was in his ability to simplify complex legal matters so that people are able to easily understand all of their rights under Hawaii’s laws.”
– Review of Robert Zarco’s remarks to the HADA

“Zarco Einhorn Salkowski, P.A. took over a difficult case on contingency when we could no longer afford the hourly rates of the previous law firm. Our experience with Zarco Einhorn Salkowski exceeded all of our expectations. They were passionate, involved, and made us feel protected. They also won a large judgment for us. Even the judge noted that the outcome would probably have been different with the original lawyer.”
– Anonymous, Testimonial collected from research process by U.S. News — Best Lawyers® “Best Law Firms”

“This is the best law firm that a Franchise owner can hire for a difficult problem. Robert Zarco is a businessman and engages his clients as business owners, on their level. He understands the particular needs of a Franchise business and then applies a unique expertise that is the best you can possibly get for this highly specialized area of the law. His team is totally professional on every level and if your case has any prospect of success, Zarco and Company will attain it for their clients. I also recommend this firm because I believe they are positive and very decent people who actually care about their clients and empathize with the stress and anxiety that litigation brings. Finally, I would only call this team if your problem is severe and your situation is complex. They are the industry’s best in the Franchise area.”
– Ralph Flannery Fuddruckers, Testimonial collected from research process by U.S. News — Best Lawyers® “Best Law Firms”

“Robert Zarco and his Team are truly in a league of their own. I experienced a wrongful termination scenario with my former franchise where it appeared all was lost. Not only was my case complex, but discovering the correct details in the correct order at the correct time, was absolutely essential. No detail was too small.

Mr. Zarco is a true master at his craft, his memory and ability to devour large bandwidths of data while engaged in simultaneous activities was astounding to me, yet seemed effortless for him! I was constantly in awe, particularly during mediation. The discovery timeframe for my case spanned over one year, yet his recall and timing were ninja-level. I witnessed Mr. Zarco carrying a telephone conversation with our mediator while his Team entered/exited the room, handed him other phones for a quick listen, documents for signature/quick glance, Cuban coffee/guava pastry, etc., yet their sync and flow mirrored a well-oiled machine. Meanwhile, Mr. Zarco never once missed a beat. I also felt the mutual respect this man shared with his entire Team.

In the end, his mastery afforded us a win. I will never forget his leadership skills, command of room, and his “above and beyond” take-charge attitude. It was an honor to witness firsthand a sliver of how he built such an impeccable reputation that earned his firm international recognition. Even now (and years later), I text him to say hello and he always texts back with genuine engagement. His secret weapon? A heart of pure gold.”
– Kelly Worley, Franchisee for European Wax Center

“My experience with the law firm of Zarco Einhorn Salkowski, P.A. was extremely positive. I worked primarily with attorneys Robert Einhorn and Michael Braunstein, but I also had interaction with other members of their staff as well. Robert Zarco even reached-out to us to make sure all was going well, and to let us know that we should feel comfortable that all of the resources of the entire firm were at our disposal. They truly cared! The level of professionalism & follow-through from everyone in the firm contributes heavily to their terrific reputation in the legal world. Attorneys Robert Einhorn and Michael Braunstein are outstanding attorneys and are extremely knowledgeable. They helped me to understand all elements of my legal matter, provided guidance from multiple different angles and were able to articulate my critical decision points. Not only did I respect and trust their judgement, but I also felt comfortable during all of my communications with them. They truly dedicated themselves and their resources to my needs, and made sure I was fully informed along the way. In my opinion, they are no doubt, one of the top firms in their field nationally. I would definitely refer others to this firm.”
– John Zelenika, President of Capstone Franchise Advisors

“On behalf of the National Franchisee Association for Jack in the Box and the nearly 1,800 restaurants we represent, I want to personally thank you for your advocacy, legal representation and nearly perfect resolution to our matter. In our minds, our case was unique in that we wanted peace and transparency with our franchisor and an engaging advisory council. We simply wanted our franchisor to understand and appreciate the benefits a happy healthy franchise community bring to a brand. Although it seems logical that any franchisor would understand this, it took engaging you guys to get their attention. Your reputation, influence and counsel were critical in affecting management and cultural change at Jack in the Box. We are excited about our future with the new leadership team.”
– F. Michael Norwich, Jr. Chairman Jack in the Box – NFA

“I cannot tell you how much I appreciate specifically these three lawyers (Robert Einhorn, Mary Nikezic, and Michael Braunstein) and their immediate team, but also the absolute professionalism of your entire law firm starting with your receptionist all the way down to the people making copies and doing your billing.

You represented a beacon of light during the darkest and most terrifying storm that I have encountered in my entire life. Although we don’t yet know the final outcome of our case, all three of you are winners!

Your integrity and your professionalism that I got to personally witness during this entire case is what truly separates you and the rest of the Zarco team from any other law firm that I’ve ever worked with. The attention to detail, and the prompt responses I received from your attorneys engaged in the case as well as the paralegals who assisted, was absolutely amazing.”

– Carl Dissette
Jimmy John Sub Franchisee

You are honest, honorable, and have been a good friend during a difficult time. IAOHIF will continue to engage you and your firm for the indefinite future.

I highly recommend you and your firm to any franchise association. Feel free to have anyone contact me if they need a reference.”

–Bill Mishkin, President, Independent Association of Home Instead Franchisees (IAOHIF), [email protected]

“Zarco Einhorn Salkowski has been instrumental in our association’s efforts to inform and educate our membership on franchise law and franchisee rights. Robert Zarco of Zarco Einhorn Salkowski is a master in franchise law, but is equally knowledgeable in labor, contract, real estate, and other laws. This allows Zarco Einhorn Salkowski to provide comprehensive legal and strategic counsel. The team at Zarco Einhorn Salkowski, P.A. is leveling the playing field between the powerful and well capitalized franchisors, and the less powerful franchisees who are loyal to their brand.” –David Bear – McDonald’s National Owners Association, Testimonial collected from the Best Lawyers® website for the Best Law Firms® research process.

“My experience with all the professionals at Zarco Einhorn Salkowski was extremely positive. I worked closely with Michael Braunstein and Robert Einhorn throughout my legal matter and interacted with other members of their staff as well. They truly cared about me both personally and professionally. The level of professionalism and follow-through from their entire team contributes heavily to their terrific professional reputation. They are fantastic attorneys and are extremely knowledgeable. They helped me to understand all elements of my business matter, provided guidance, and were able to articulate all necessary elements. Not only do I respect and trust the judgement of this legal team, but I also felt comfortable during all my communications with them. They truly dedicated themselves and their resources to my needs and made sure I was fully informed along the way. This firm is, no doubt, one of top law firms in their field of expertise nationally. I would happily refer others to the law firm of Zarco Einhorn Salkowski!” –John Zelenika – Capstone franchise, Testimonial collected from the Best Lawyers® website for the Best Law Firms® research process.

“The board of the Envy Owners’ Association (EOA) hired Robert Zarco and team at Zarco Einhorn Salkowski in 2019 and have had them on retainer since that time. We work very closely with Robert Zarco, Bob Einhorn, and Brenda Phang, enlisting their guidance and assistance with any number of franchise issues. They have provided great service and are truly part of our team as our outsourced general counsel.” –Jim Mellon – Massage Envy Owner’s Association, Testimonial collected from the Best Lawyers® website for the Best Law Firms® research process.

“Zarco kept a packed-room audience of 220 Hawaii Automobile Dealer Association (HADA) members and guests spellbound for his one-and-a-half-hour remarks on franchise law. ‘He spoke in terms everyone could understand,’ said Sky Stewar, guest of husband Tom Stewart, who works with a HADA associate member firm. ‘He brought 36 pages of law to life,’ and another in the audience – a TV station manager and a HADA associate member… How was he able to hold a big diverse audience like that for nearly two hours? The answer was in his ability to simplify complex legal matters so that people are able to easily understand all of their rights under Hawaii’s laws.” – Review of Robert Zarco’s remarks to the HADA

“Zarco Einhorn Salkowski, P.A. took over a difficult case on contingency when we could no longer afford the hourly rates of the previous law firm. Our experience with Zarco Einhorn Salkowski exceeded all of our expectations. They were passionate, involved, and made us feel protected. They also won a large judgment for us. Even the judge noted that the outcome would probably have been different with the original lawyer.” – Anonymous, Testimonial collected from research process by U.S. News — Best Lawyers® “Best Law Firms”

“This is the best law firm that a Franchise owner can hire for a difficult problem. Robert Zarco is a businessman and engages his clients as business owners, on their level. He understands the particular needs of a Franchise business and then applies a unique expertise that is the best you can possibly get for this highly specialized area of the law. His team is totally professional on every level and if your case has any prospect of success, Zarco and Company will attain it for their clients. I also recommend this firm because I believe they are positive and very decent people who actually care about their clients and empathize with the stress and anxiety that litigation brings. Finally, I would only call this team if your problem is severe and your situation is complex. They are the industry’s best in the Franchise area.” – Ralph Flannery Fuddruckers, Testimonial collected from research process by U.S. News — Best Lawyers® “Best Law Firms”

In the end, his mastery afforded us a win. I will never forget his leadership skills, command of room, and his “above and beyond” take-charge attitude. It was an honor to witness firsthand a sliver of how he built such an impeccable reputation that earned his firm international recognition. Even now (and years later), I text him to say hello and he always texts back with genuine engagement. His secret weapon? A heart of pure gold.” – Kelly Worley, Franchisee for European Wax Center

“My experience with the law firm of Zarco Einhorn Salkowski, P.A. was extremely positive. I worked primarily with attorneys Robert Einhorn and Michael Braunstein, but I also had interaction with other members of their staff as well. Robert Zarco even reached-out to us to make sure all was going well, and to let us know that we should feel comfortable that all of the resources of the entire firm were at our disposal. They truly cared! The level of professionalism & follow-through from everyone in the firm contributes heavily to their terrific reputation in the legal world. Attorneys Robert Einhorn and Michael Braunstein are outstanding attorneys and are extremely knowledgeable. They helped me to understand all elements of my legal matter, provided guidance from multiple different angles and were able to articulate my critical decision points. Not only did I respect and trust their judgement, but I also felt comfortable during all of my communications with them. They truly dedicated themselves and their resources to my needs, and made sure I was fully informed along the way. In my opinion, they are no doubt, one of the top firms in their field nationally. I would definitely refer others to this firm.” – John Zelenika, President of Capstone Franchise Advisors

“On behalf of the National Franchisee Association for Jack in the Box and the nearly 1,800 restaurants we represent, I want to personally thank you for your advocacy, legal representation and nearly perfect resolution to our matter. In our minds, our case was unique in that we wanted peace and transparency with our franchisor and an engaging advisory council. We simply wanted our franchisor to understand and appreciate the benefits a happy healthy franchise community bring to a brand. Although it seems logical that any franchisor would understand this, it took engaging you guys to get their attention. Your reputation, influence and counsel were critical in affecting management and cultural change at Jack in the Box. We are excited about our future with the new leadership team.” – F. Michael Norwich, Jr. Chairman Jack in the Box – NFA

– Carl Dissette
Jimmy John Sub Franchisee

More Testimonials

Commercial Trial Lawyers

‒‒

Business & Franchise Law

Meet Our Team Of Attorneys

Our experienced team of heavyweight attorneys includes former economists, bankers and accountants who will stand by your side to negotiate difficult transactions, handle the toughest cases and the most complicated business disputes, including litigation, arbitration and mediation.

Robert Zarco

Robert M. Einhorn

Robert F. Salkowski

Himanshu M. Patel

Kaari-Lynn S. Gagnon

Mary Nikezic

Michael D. Braunstein

Jacky Beda

Brenda Phang

Alec Shelowitz

Victoria Diaz

National Leaders

In Business Litigation And Franchise Law

Our reputation for assisting individual businesses in triumphing over even the largest organizations is founded on our ability to deliver practical, effective, and creative solutions to complex business issues – from launching or exiting a business to safeguarding your firm’s assets and goodwill. We are renowned for our assertive litigation style, employed when necessary to achieve your goals. In fact, we often secure favorable solutions for clients whose cases have been deemed hopeless by attorneys at other law firms.

When you entrust your crucial legal matter to Zarco Einhorn Salkowski, P.A., you gain the advantage of decades of experience and the legal expertise of our entire team of attorneys. Your case will be managed by a group of legal professionals with diverse business and legal backgrounds, ensuring you receive the knowledge, time, resources, and attention to detail necessary to help resolve your case. Our attorneys handle litigation, mediation, and arbitration matters both domestically throughout the United States and internationally.

We take pride in being passionate, relentless and creative problem-solvers for our clients … our stellar track record and reputation of over 30 years in practice speaks for itself.” – Founding Partner Robert Zarco

“We provide our clients with dedicated and skilled representation, no matter where they are located in the United States or internationally.” – Firm Partner Robert Einhorn