Michael D. Braunstein

Michael D. Braunstein is a partner at Zarco Einhorn Salkowski, P.A., where he focuses his practice on complex commercial litigation with an emphasis on franchise law. He represents franchisees, area developers, and independent franchisee associations across hundreds of franchise systems nationwide, advising clients in a broad range of industries, including quick-service restaurants, pet care, health and wellness, home services, and other consumer-facing brands.

Michael regularly handles high-stakes franchise and commercial disputes in state and federal courts throughout the country, as well as before domestic and international arbitration tribunals. His experience spans a wide array of franchise-related matters, including breach of contract claims, wrongful termination and nonrenewal disputes, fraud and misrepresentation claims, encroachment and territory disputes, supply chain and vendor issues, fiduciary duty claims, and complex business tort litigation. He is frequently retained in bet-the-company disputes involving franchise termination, system-wide operational conflicts, and multi-party commercial litigation, and has substantial experience in pursuing and defending matters requiring immediate attention—including emergency injunction proceedings and business-critical disputes. He has secured numerous multimillion-dollar jury verdicts, bench judgments, and arbitration awards on behalf of his clients.

In addition to his trial practice, Michael frequently handles appellate matters and is admitted to practice before numerous federal district and appellate courts nationwide, including the Supreme Court of the United States. He also advises clients on complex business transactions and strategic dispute avoidance.

Recognized for his results-driven advocacy and professionalism, Mr. Braunstein is a frequent author and speaker on franchise law topics, including presentations at programs hosted by the American Bar Association Forum on Franchising and the International Franchise Association Legal Symposium. He also serves as an editor of the Franchise Law Journal. He maintains the highest available ratings through Martindale-Hubbell in both peer and client reviewed categories.

Mr. Braunstein earned his B.S.B.A. from University of Miami and graduated magna cum laude from the University of Miami School of Law. He also serves as a professor at the University of Miami School of Law, where he teaches Litigation Skills and coaches the law school’s nationally recognized Trial Team in competitions throughout the United States.