The professionals at Zarco Einhorn Salkowski, P.A.

Zarco Einhorn Salkowski | Attorneys at law

National Leading Franchise Law And Commercial Litigation Firm

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

Best Law Firms Ranked By Best Lawyers | United States | Franchise Law | Tier 1 | 2026

Martindale-Hubbell AV Preeminent For Ethical Standards and Legal Ability

Zarco Einhorn Salkowski, P.A. | 2026 | Recognized By Best Lawyers

Best Lawyers | Ones To Watch | Zarco Einhorn Salkowski, P.A. | 2026

LCA | Proven Trial Lawyers | Litigation Counsel of America Fellow

TopVerdict.com | Top 50 Bench Awards All Practice Areas | Zarco Einhorn Salkowski, P.A. | United States | 2023

The Great Equalizers: Providing World-Class Legal Advocacy

Franchising • Licensing • Dealership • Distribution

Zarco Einhorn Salkowski, P.A. is a nationally recognized boutique trial law and commercial litigation firm devoted to protecting the rights of business owners, entrepreneurs, franchisees, and franchisee associations across the United States and internationally.

For over 35 years, our team of accomplished attorneys—led by Founding Partner Robert Zarco and his partners, including former accountants, bankers, and economists—has combined legal excellence with deep business acumen to level the playing field between business owners and powerful adversaries. It’s a modern-day David vs. Goliath approach to justice that lies at the core of our DNA.

The firm has earned national leadership in its sub-specialty of franchise law, achieving landmark victories and precedent-setting decisions that have shaped the interpretation of franchise, licensing, and commercial contracts in both state and federal courts.

Our attorneys have represented clients from more than 500 brands spanning 44 states, 20 countries, and 40 franchisee associations, handling complex business disputes, contract litigation, and all areas of franchise law across industries including hospitality, retail, manufacturing, and services.

Driven by our mission to empower clients with the leverage to build healthy, balanced business relationships, we promote fair access to justice through creative and flexible fee structures, including partial contingency arrangements in appropriate cases.

Beyond litigation, our attorneys provide strategic counsel and negotiation support grounded in both legal and business insight, guiding clients from entry to exit with forward-thinking, results-driven solutions. Our awards, accolades, and client testimonials reflect an unwavering commitment to excellence, integrity, and justice in every case we handle.

A vast client base

Including franchisees and franchisee associations in hospitality and other industries.

Brands

States

Countries

Franchisee Associations

View Areas Served

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.

In The Media

Robert Zarco is quoted on the front page of the Wall Street Journal.

Publication: The Wall Street Journal
Partner Robert Einhorn Quoted in Major New York Times Investigative Article into Dickey’s Barbecue Questionable Franchise Sales Practices.

Publication: New York Times
New York Post Article Highlights the Contrasts in Leadership Shifts at the Fast-Food Sandwich Franchises.

Publication: New York Post
Attorney Robert Zarco on the front page of The New York Times Business Advocating for Franchisees.

Publication: New York Times

Hear From Our Clients

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”

“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

More Testimonials

Commercial Trial Lawyers

Business & Franchise Law

Meet our Team of Attorneys

Our experienced team of powerhouse trial lawyers, skilled litigators, and business-minded professionals—including former economists, bankers, and accountants—stands by your side to negotiate complex transactions, resolve high-stakes disputes, and manage litigation, arbitration, and mediation with precision and strength.

Robert Zarco

Robert M. Einhorn

Robert F. Salkowski

Himanshu M. Patel

Kaari-Lynn S. Gagnon

Mary Nikezic

Michael D. Braunstein

Jacky Beda

Sabrina Zarco

Alec Shelowitz

Robert M. Gallinar

Victoria Diaz

Taylor Duncker

Alaina Rodriguez

Robert Zarco

Robert M. Einhorn

Robert F. Salkowski

Himanshu M. Patel

Kaari-Lynn S. Gagnon

Mary Nikezic

Michael D. Braunstein

Jacky Beda

Sabrina Zarco

Alec Shelowitz

Robert Gallinar

Victoria Diaz

Taylor Duncker

Alaina Rodriguez

National Leaders

In Franchise Law and Business Litigation

Our firm’s national reputation is built on delivering experienced, practical, and creative solutions to complex business and franchise disputes—from launching or exiting a business to protecting valuable assets, contracts, and goodwill.

Our attorneys are strategic negotiators and skilled litigators who focus on what best serves our clients’ interests, achieving success through negotiation, mediation, arbitration, or trial when necessary. We avoid unnecessary risk and cost when settlement is the smarter path, yet remain fully prepared to pursue justice without hesitation when principles or fairness demand it. In many instances, we have secured favorable outcomes for clients whose cases were considered hopeless by other law firms.

When you entrust your legal matter to Zarco Einhorn Salkowski, P.A., you gain the strength of a collaborative team of powerhouse attorneys with decades of legal experience and business acumen. Each case is managed by professionals with diverse legal and business backgrounds, ensuring you receive the insight, attention, and resources needed to achieve the best possible resolution—and peace of mind knowing your interests are protected.

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