Robert Zarco
Top rated Franchise & Dealership attorney in Miami, Florida
Zarco Einhorn Salkowski, P.A.Practice Areas: Franchise & Dealership, Business Litigation
Licensed in Florida since: 1985
Education: University of Miami School of Law
Languages Spoken: English, Spanish
Call today:
888-580-7844
Zarco Einhorn Salkowski, P.A.
2 S. Biscayne Blvd.34th Floor
Miami, FL 33131 Visit website
Details
Complex Commercial Litigation and Business Trial Lawyer in a variety of industries and matters, including nationally renowned and awarded leader in Franchise Law. Represent Franchisees and franchise associations from over 500 brands in 40 states and 20 countries. Awarded "Best Law Firms" National Tier 1 by Best Lawyers © in U.S. News & World Report. Robert Zarco, Founding Partner of Zarco Einhorn Salkowski, P.A., has been at the forefront of protecting the legal rights and interests of business clients in the USA and internationally for over 35 years, handling complex commercial trials, legal transactions, disputes and other litigation in Federal and State Courts, as well as Arbitration and Mediation.
A very well-known and experienced aggressive and creative Trial Lawyer and negotiator, Zarco is frequently awarded legal industry distinctions including “Lawyer of the Year” in 2020 for Franchise by Best Lawyers of America©, “Top Dealmakers of the Year” for Commercial Real Estate by Daily Business Review, Most Effective Real Estate Lawyer in S. Florida, Lifetime Achievement Award for Total Quality Franchising by the American Association of Franchisees & Dealers (AAFD), “Legal Eagle” by Franchise Times, “South Florida’s Top Lawyers” by Miami Herald, “Top Attorneys in Florida”, and one of Florida’s “Super Lawyers”. The Firm is repeatedly listed in U.S. News and World Report among “Best Law Firms” by Best Lawyers of America ©, listed in the Bar Register of Preeminent Lawyers and has an AV Preeminent Rating from Martindale-Hubbell.
Mr. Zarco leads a team of experienced attorneys who have a long track record of helping franchises and other businesses resolve complex disputes, form, manage, grow, restructure and exit, as well as handle their legal transactions, including but not limited to commercial real estate disagreements, insurance claims disputes, intellectual property infringement, C-suite employment disputes, and so much more. Robert Zarco is especially renowned by the legal world nationwide as a commercial trial lawyer with a leadership niche in advocating for franchisees in all aspects of franchise law, and argues for clients nationally in many state and federal courts. He also actively lobbies federal congresspersons and state legislators representing the franchisees’ interests and promoting the enactment of “Fair Franchising” legislation among their other business interests. National Landmark and Precedent-Setting Cases in Franchise Law and Commercial Litigation, including Steven Scheck vs Burger King Corp., a legal case that invoked the implied covenant of good faith and fair dealing as it relates to protecting the territory rights of franchisees. Janice P. Handlers-Bryman and Michael Bryman v. El Pollo Loco, Inc. also became a game-changer for franchisees and Zarco Law in that the court upheld the idea that a franchisor’s duty to act in good faith and to deal fairly with franchisees overrides explicit, yet legally and factually unconscionable terms and provisions laid out in the franchise disclosure document (FDD) including in the franchise agreement.
Mr. Zarco travels extensively lecturing and teaching seminars on vital legal business issues and topics to attorneys, business organizations, franchisee associations, franchisees and franchisors, universities, the American Bar Association (ABA), the International Franchise Association (IFA), the Coalition of Franchisees Association (CFA), the Academy of Florida Trial Lawyers, the Association of Trial Lawyers of America, and many others. Broadly recognized as one of the nation’s top franchise trial lawyers, Robert Zarco has provided professional testimony before various state legislatures including California (“Why Venue Provisions in Franchise Agreements Must be Void as a Matter of Law”), Maryland (“The Way to Bring Fairness to Franchising”), Arizona (“The Necessity of Franchise Legislation”), Connecticut (“The Benefits of Enacting Franchise Legislation”), and New York (“From Litigation to Legislation – Leveling the Playing Field Between Franchisees and Franchisors”). Additionally, Mr. Zarco travels nationwide presenting lectures on topics vital to franchisees and has appeared on radio and television programs, including CNBC “Minding Your Business,” CNBC “How To Succeed In Business,” PBS “Nightly Business Report,” “Your Financial Future with Jonathon Pond,” “The Judy Jarvis Show,” and CBS “Eye To Eye with Connie Chung,” to provide expert commentary on specific franchise cases, and franchising in general. Mr. Zarco has also published articles including “Practical Aspects of Franchisee Representation; Alternative Dispute Resolution: Which Method is Best for Your Client,” “Know Your Legal Rights,” and “Tips for the Franchisee in Pursuit of the American Dream.” He has authored and been quoted in a multitude of magazine and newspaper articles and videos and has appeared on several radio and television programs, throughout the United States and internationally, in order to provide professional commentary on a variety of business issues and trends in general, as well as on specific legal cases which the firm has handled in which the rulings have served as important legal precedents for the franchise community.
Robert Zarco graduated from Harvard University with a Bachelor’s degree in Economics. He further developed his extensive background in business, accounting and finance during his employment at General Motors Corp in New York as a management level Financial Analyst, while simultaneously attending Pace University Graduate School of Business MBA Finance program in New York. Zarco developed a great curiosity for the Law and ultimately graduated from the University of Miami School of Law. Mr. Zarco is admitted to practice before the U.S. Supreme Court, the Florida Supreme Court, the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Florida, the U.S. District Court for the District of Arizona, U.S. Court of Appeals for the Eleventh Judicial Circuit and federal courts in many other jurisdictions on a special appearance basis, just to name a few.
With Zarco as Founder and Senior partner, the firm has earned significant victories for clients, and has established legal precedents which have paved the way for courts to understand the complexities of the franchise relationship in particular. Zarco Einhorn Salkowski, P.A. has been repeatedly in the forefront of important legal issues, such as encroachment/cannibalization, breach of the implied covenant of good faith and fair dealing, fraud in the inducement, fraudulent concealment, and breach of contract, in addition to statutory violations of state and federal franchise laws.
Zarco Einhorn Salkowski, P.A. represents franchisees from over 500 brands in more than 40 states and 20 countries on disputes against major franchise systems in the hotel, restaurant, dealership, and other service industries. Past and present clients include franchisees of Holiday Inn, Days Inn, Howard Johnson, Best Western, Ramada, Quality Inn, Planet Fitness, Harley Davidson, McDonald’s, Burger King, Subway, Wendy’s, Dunkin’ Donuts, Arby’s, Kentucky Fried Chicken, Tony Roma’s, Miami Subs, Pizza Hut, Johnny Rockets, T.C.B.Y., Haagen Dazs, Checkers, Rally’s, TGI Friday’s, Hard Rock Café, Fat Tuesdays, Little Caesars’, Jack-in-the- Box, Denny’s, Bonanza, Manhattan Bagel, Subway, Blimpie, Schlotzsky’s, 7-Eleven, Coca-Cola, PepsiCo, Decorating Den, Oil Express, Corner Bakery, Moe’s Southwest Grille, Coldstone Creamery, Carl’s Jr., Camp Bow Wow, Carvel, Chevron, Hair Club for Men, Domino’s, Papa John’s. Golden Corral, Naked Pizza, Papa Murphy’s, Red Brick Pizza, Payless Car Rental, Remax, Sotheby’s, Smoothie King, Steak & Shake, Tutor Time, Wolfgang Puck and ServPro, among many many others. Mr. Zarco and the Firm have also represented Franchisee Associations including 7-Eleven, TCBY, Johnny Rockets, Little Caesars, Wood You Furniture, Roto-Rooter, Papa John’s, Massage Envy, Edible Arrangements, among many others.
Fluent in the Spanish language, Robert was born in Cuba and came to New York with his parents in 1961 at the age of 2, fleeing Communism and leaving all material possessions behind. The sacrifices of his parents combined with Robert’s personal drive, determination, and hard work led him to great achievements. Beginning at the age of 7 as an entrepreneur in the landscape business, he converted his substantial earnings into a real estate investment to buy his first rental property as a college freshman. As a Community Leader and Philanthropist, Zarco believes in giving back and paying it forward by having served on the Board of Trustees for the Public Health Trust/Jackson Health System, as well as in the University of Maryland Board of Trustees. He also supports many charitable causes that are dear to his heart such as The Jewish Federation, AIPAC, Rambam Hospital in Israel, Israel Bonds, Temple Menorah, The Embrace Girls Foundation, among many others.
Robert is an avid yachtsman who loves the outdoors, boating, and being out in the open water; he is also an amateur Chef, hosting parties and fund-raisers for many great causes. Zarco loves to collect automobiles and displays his new art collection at the law firm’s luxurious new offices in Downtown Miami. Together with his family and three grown children, Robert loves to travel and lives his life to the fullest. He truly lives by the mottos he cherishes most: “Work hard, Play hard” and “Live, Learn, Love, and Laugh”.
Practice areas
Franchise/Dealership, Business Litigation- 60% Franchise/Dealership
- 40% Business Litigation
First Admitted: 1985, Florida
Professional Webpage: https://www.zarcolaw.com/attorney/zarco-robert/
- Florida Bar Association
- U.S. Supreme Court
- Florida Supreme Court
- U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Florida
- U.S. District Court for the Middle District of Florida
- U.S. District Court for the District of Colorado
- U.S. District Court Western District of Michigan
- U.S. District Court Eastern District of Michigan
- U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Wisconsin
- U.S. Court of Appeals for the First Circuit
- U.S. Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit
- U.S. Court of Appeals for the Eighth Circuit
- U.S. Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit
- U.S. Court of Appeals for the Eleventh Circuit
- American Bar Association Franchise Forum
- American Franchisee Association
- American Bar Association
- Federal Bar Association
- Fellow and Order of the Centurions, Trial Lawyers Honorary Society, Litigation Counsel of America
- Academy of Florida Trial Lawyers
- Dade County Bar Association
- Cuban American Bar Association
- Federal Trial Bar Association
- Florida Justice Association
- Association of Trial Lawyers of America
- Dade Country Trial Lawyers Association
- Can a franchisee get out of a franchise agreement early?, Commercial Litigation And Franchise Law, 2023
- What type of issues give rise to commercial real estate disputes and litigation?, Commercial Litigation And Business And Real Estate Law, 2023
- Should we sell our business to a Private Equity Fund?, Commercial Litigation, Business And Franchise Law, 2023
- What issues and disputes commonly give rise to franchise litigation?, Commercial Litigation And Franchise Law, 2023
- What factors do you consider in deciding whether to file suit for breach of contract?, Commercial Litigation, Business And Franchise Law, 2023
- What remedies are available to franchisees for Wrongful Termination of the Franchise Agreement?, Commercial Litigation, Business And Franchise Law, 2023
- What advice would you give clients with regard to Arbitration versus Mediation?, Commercial Litigation, Business And Franchise Law, 2023
- How can I get around a Non-Compete in my franchise agreement?, Commercial Litigation And Franchise Law, 2023
- What are the benefits of joining a Franchisee Association?, Commercial Litigation And Franchise Law, 2023
- What common trends do you see in Intellectual Property, Trademark disputes and litigation?, Commercial Litigation, Business And Intellectual Property Law, 2023
- Can a franchisee get out of a franchise agreement early?, Commercial Litigation And Franchise Law, 2023
- What are the common mistakes made when opening and operating a new franchise?, Commercial Litigation And Franchise Law, 2023
- Can I sue over a violation of the spirit and good-faith purpose of a contract?, Commercial Litigation, Business And Franchise Law, 2023
- What is a franchise disclosure document (FDD)?, Commercial Litigation And Franchise Law, 2023
- How can franchisees protect their market territory against Encroachment and Cannibalization?, Commercial Litigation And Franchise Law, 2023
- What types of fraud cases have you seen in your law practice?, Commercial Litigation, Business And Franchise Law, 2023
- Attorney Robert Zarco on Landlord/Tenant Disputes and Force Majeure, Commercial Litigation And Business And Real Estate Law, 2023
- Complex Commercial Litigation, Franchise Litigation and Business Disputes Resolution, Commercial Litigation, Business And Franchise Law, 2023
- The Remarkable Four Seasons Surf Club Commercial Real Estate Deal in Miami Beach, Florida, Commercial Litigation And Business And Real Estate Law, 2023
- A large variety of new Videos on YouTube and ReelLawyers.com from 2023. , VIDEOS - See YouTube Channel, Commercial Litigation And Franchise Law, 2023
- Zarco Law Takes the Lead in Brito vs Apple Lawsuit, 2015
- Robert Zarco and Zarco Einhorn Salkowski, P.A. are proud to support the mission of The Embrace Girls Foundation, Inc. with empowering exposure, experiences, and investment in the future of these young smart and beautiful ladies. Please join us in Giving Back by developing the leaders of tomorrow! "What a great blessing it has been to meet and learn from these young amazing ladies, first at their school and then at my home. The privilege is mine, my family's, and my law firm's. We invite you to help make an important difference and learn more about how you can help give back and pay it forward," says Robert Zarco. The Embrace Girls Foundation posted this on social media: “EXPERIENCES AND EXPOSURE MATTER...IT JUST DOES! We're recapping our amazing year all week showcasing special moments, empowering experiences and the powerful impact of our mission. https://drive.google.com/.../1bQEpHTP4E7nc6i84D5f.../view... Join our Legal Eagle Guru, ROBERT ZARCO, President and Founding Partner of Zarco Einhorn Salkowski, P.A., in supporting The Embrace Girls Foundation's educational, social, emotional and life skills programs. Your investment powers their future. , Robert Zarco Gives Back and hosts a Holiday Food 'Court' for The Embrace Girls Foundation, 2023
- 2022 marks the 30th year that the law firm of Zarco, Einhorn, Salkowski & Brito, P.A. made its name as a national boutique law firm representing the business and legal interests of franchisees, the little guy, in disputes and negotiations against the much larger franchisors, like in David vs. Goliath. Over the three decades, our team of attorneys grew to represent franchisees, franchise associations, dealers, licensees and distributors in over 500 different systems throughout most of the United States and as far away as Australia, South America, Europe, the Caribbean and the Middle East. A grand gala celebration, arguably known as the ‘Party of the Year’, was held at the residence of the law firm’s founder, Robert Zarco, on February 26, 2022 at his spectacular renaissance estate by the bay in central Miami Beach. Invited guests of the gala event included many distinguished clients and colleagues, friends and family from all over the country and locally. Miami-Dade Mayor Daniella Levine Cava attended and presented a certificate of proclamation to the firm marking the date as Zarco Einhorn Salkowski & Brito, P.A Day! The celebration was themed “Tropicana in Havana” after the Latin roots of its founder and the people that have largely influenced Miami in the flavor of its music, food, and ambiance. Nearly 500 attendees feasted their eyes with tropical beauty at the outdoor event, entertained by an 8-piece live band and DJ, as well as numerous and extraordinary interactive entertainers cascading upon the venue throughout the evening. Zarco Einhorn Salkowski & Brito, P.A. is a full-service business law and commercial litigation firm that is nationally recognized as a leader in protecting and enforcing the rights of franchisees, dealers, licensees and distributors. Our experienced team of heavyweight attorneys including former economists, bankers, and accountants have been at the forefront of important legal and operational issues and precedent-setting cases in franchise law in both U.S. federal and state courts., Zarco Law 30th Anniversary ‘Party of the Year’ Celebration, 2022
- As a result of the law firm’s 30th Anniversary ‘Party of the Year’ Celebration, Robert Zarco was recently invited to learn about and experience the work of The Embrace Girls Foundation. In Zarco’s words, “it was a privilege, a real eye-opening and recalibrating experience.” “Embrace” widely promoted the entertaining and uniquely important 'Tea Party' in a Press Release that has gone viral. https://www.einnews.com/pr_news/570595207/miami-attorney-robert-zarco-is-honoree-at-embrace-girls-foundation-tea-party Velma Lawrence, Founder of The Embrace Girls Foundation thanked Robert “once again for embracing this little charity making a big difference in the lives of many.” That always feels good…it also feels good to spread positive messages and encourage more!, Robert Zarco shares Life Lessons with 'Embrace Girls Foundation' at Tea Party that Recalibrated his Life, 2022
- Jim Fried of Fried on Business interviews Robert Zarco on a variety of topics, including how he got into the business of law to become a national leader in Franchise Law and Litigation, and how the current economic climate surrounding the COVID pandemic is affecting Franchises., Attorney Robert Zarco Interview in Fried on Business on over 30 years of helping Franchisees, Full Episode, 2022
- The CFA, Coalition of Franchisee Associations, hosted this very informative webinar surrounding this increasingly important subject affecting franchisees about ‘Encroachment and Cannibalization.', ‘Encroachment and Cannibalization in Franchising’ by Attorney Robert Zarco, 2022
- American Association of Franchisees and Dealers (AAFD) Interviews Attorney Robert Zarco, Founding Partner of Zarco, Einhorn, Salkowski & Brito, P.A., on the Federal Trade Commission's Unfair Practices Authority. This Q&A is very informative for Franchisees in the world of Franchise and Dealership Law. Great information for those with interest on the balance of power between franchisees and franchisors. , AAFD's Keith Miller Speaks with Attorney Robert Zarco on the FTC Unfair Practices Authority in 2021, 2021
- American Association of Franchisees & Dealers (AAFD) Lifetime Achievement in Total Quality Franchising (TQF) Awarded to Robert Zarco in 2021 Robert Purvin of the AAFD, and Ronald Gardner of Dady & Gardner P.A., present national franchise law and commercial trial Attorney Robert Zarco with this very high honor in the world of franchising., American Association of Franchisees & Dealers (AAFD) Lifetime Achievement Awarded to Robert Zarco, 2021
- Haute Lawyer Robert Zarco was the featured Speaker in the 1st inaugural Haute Living leaders dinner series. Haute Media Group Senior VP, April Donelson, described Zarco’s impassioned and inspiring speech as an absolute highlight, and thanked him for his long tenure, deep ties and commitment to the Haute Living luxury brand. , Attorney Robert Zarco Speaks on Making a Difference, 2021
- Haute Living and Haute Lawyer interviews nationally renowned Franchise Law Attorney, Robert Zarco as some call the 'Franchise King', to share his insights on how Franchises are Weathering and Navigating the 2020 Business and Legal Climate from COVID-19 and Government Shutdowns. Zarco reviews his current experience regarding the main concerns for franchises, including the kinds of disputes and litigation, what factors are cause some to thrive while others suffer or fail, any legal precedents that may be ripe to be set, what protections are needed now more than ever and where the franchise model may go from here., 'Franchise King' Attorney Robert Zarco discusses the Climate of Franchise Law during COVID-19, 2020
- An Inspirational Interview with Game-Changing Attorney Robert Zarco on Living the American Dream, Defending his Under-Dog Clients against Giant Adversaries David vs Goliath-style in Commercial Litigation and Franchise Law, and Life for Businesses during and after COVID-19. A Truly Remarkable and Informative Interview., Game-Changer Attorney Robert Zarco in an Inspirational and Informative Interview, 2020
- Attorney Robert Zarco Interview on Nightly Business Report about Chrysler Bankruptcy, 2009
- Attorney Robert Zarco opens his home to Jewish Community Services of South Florida (JCS) and invites panelists to share their Holocaust experiences and keep their important stories alive. The event raised awareness and funds for those elderly survivors with financial needs. , Attorney Robert Zarco hosts Holocaust Survivors at his home, 2020
- Attorney Robert Zarco on Fox Business to discuss Chrysler Bankruptcy, 2009
- Attorney Robert Zarco on Landlord/Tenant Disputes and Force Majeure, 2020
- Zarco: Handling Business Interruption/Loss Insurance Claims Due to Civil Authority Mandates/COVID-19, 2020
- Delegate to White House Conference on Small Business
- University of Maryland Board of Trustees
- Board of Directors of Temple Menorah
- Florida International University Graduation Commencement Speaker
- City of Miami Beach Budget Advisory Committee
- Several committees for Greater Miami Jewish Federation
- Jackson Memorial Hospital/Public Health Trust Governing Board of Trustees
- Affiliate of American Franchisee Association Member of Beacon Council
- Fellow and Order of the Centurions, Trial Lawyers Honorary Society, Litigation Counsel of America (LCA), Since 2021 Lifetime Achievement Award in Total Quality Franchising by the American Association of Franchisees and Dealers (AAFD) Lawyer of the Year; by Best Lawyer's, Franchise Law, 2020 Best Lawyers of America – Franchise Law and Commercial Litigation, Since 2013 “AV Pre-Eminent” Rating, Martindale-Hubbell/LexisNexis, Highest peer review rating for legal ability and ethical standards, Since 1995 Chambers USA National Ranking in Franchising (mainly Franchisee) Super Lawyers, Franchise/Dealership and Business Litigation, Florida, 2006 to the present Legal Eagles Hall of Fame – Franchise Times, Since 2015 Legal Eagles – Franchise Litigation, Franchise Times, Since 2008 “Top Dealmakers of the Year”, Real Estate Development – Daily Business Review, 2013 (Four Seasons Surf Club) ‘Franchise Advocate of the Year’ SWAG™ Award - Ask April Porter, 2023 “Top 1% of America’s Most Honored Lawyers” - The American Registry “Top Lawyer” Franchisees & Automotive Dealerships, South Florida Legal Guide “Florida’s Legal Elite” - Florida Trend Magazine’s Haute Living Magazine’s Haute 100 List of Most Influential Names in Miami Haute Lawyer- Franchise Law, Commercial Litigation & Trial Lawyer “Men of Influence” – Lifestyle Magazine, 2022 Who’s Who Legal (WWL) ‘Thought Leaders’ and ‘Global Leaders’ in Franchise Law South Florida’s Top Lawyers - Miami Herald Top Attorneys - Best in Class, Franchise Times Top Attorneys in Florida – “Franchise/Dealership Law” Biggest Restaurant Newsmakers – Restaurant Business Online, 2018 “High- Flying Franchise Attorneys”, Franchise Times Magazine “Top Franchise Attorneys’ – Top Legal Minds in the Business”, Franchise Times Power Player, South Florida Business Leader Magazine “Top Lawyers in Franchise” - South Florida Legal Guide, Since 2009 Key Partners Award - South Florida Business Journal Magazine The International Who’s Who of Franchise Lawyers, Since 2011 National Register’s Who’s Who in Executives & Professionals “South Florida’s Top Lawyers”, Miami Metro Magazine, Summary of Awards, Summary of Awards from Website, 2023
- Who’s Who Legal (WWL) ‘Thought Leaders’ and ‘Global Leaders’ in Franchise Law, ‘Thought Leaders’ and ‘Global Leaders’ in Franchise Law, Who’s Who Legal (WWL), 2023
- Fellow and Order of the Centurions, Trial Lawyers Honorary Society, Litigation Counsel of America (LCA), Since 2021, Fellow and Order of the Centurions, Trial Lawyers Honorary Society, Litigation Counsel of America (LCA), 2023
- AAFD Total Quality Franchising Award for Lifetime Achievement, AAFD Total Quality Franchising Award for Lifetime Achievement, American Association of Franchisees & Dealers, 2021
- National Ranking in Franchising (mainly Franchisee), Chambers USA, 2023
- "LAWYER OF THE YEAR" in Franchise law , "LAWYER OF THE YEAR" in Franchise law , Best Lawyers of America, 2020
- Florida Super Lawyers – Since 2006, Florida Super Lawyers in Franchise and Business Litigation, SuperLawyers, 2023
- Top Deal Maker of the Year – Commercial Real Estate Dispute Resolution , Top Deal Maker of the Year - Real Estate Land Development, Daily Business Review, 2013
- “AV Preeminent Rating, Martindale-Hubbell, Since 1995 “Highest Rating in Legal Professional Ability & Ethical Standards” - including Lexis Nexis, AV Rated Preeminent Lawyers, Martindale-Hubbell, 2023
- “Best Lawyers in Franchise and Commercial Litigation” – South Florida’s Best Lawyers, Best Lawyers in Franchise and Commercial Litigation, Best Lawyers in America, 2023
- Legal Eagle – Litigation, Franchise Times, Since 2008, Legal Eagle and Legal Eagles Hall of Fame, Franchise Times, 2023
- “Top Franchise Attorneys’ – Top Legal Minds in the Business”, Franchise Times, Top Franchise Attorneys, Franchise Times
- “Top Lawyers in Franchise”, South Florida Legal Guide, 2009-Current “The only Franchise Lawyer listed as one of “South Florida’s Top lawyers”, South Florida Legal Guide, Top Lawyers in Franchise, South Florida Business & Wealth Magazine, 2022
- Legal Elite, Florida Trend Magazine, Legal Elite, Florida Trend Magazine
- ‘Franchise Advocate of the Year’ SWAG™ Award, Ask April Porter, 2023
- Key Partners Award, South Florida Business Journal Magazine
- Florida’s Top Lawyers – Franchise Law
- National Register’s Who’s Who in Executives & Professionals 2005-2006 Edition
- Top IMPACT Legal Leaders
- Top Attorneys in Florida – “Franchise/Dealership Law”
- Power Player, South Florida Business Leader Magazine
- Most Effective Lawyers of South Florida- Real Estate
- “Top Franchisees and Automotive Dealerships Lawyer”, South Florida Legal Guide, Top Franchisees and Automotive Dealerships Lawyer, South Florida Legal Guide
- “South Florida’s Top Lawyers”, Miami Metro Magazine
- The International Who’s Who of Franchise Lawyers, 2011-2015
- Top Attorneys- Best in Class, Franchise Times
- Deal Maker End of Year “Franchise Law” – Annual Award, 2013
- “High- Flying Franchise Attorneys”, Franchise Times Magazine
- Harvard University, B.A., 1980
- UNIVERSITY OF MIAMI SCHOOL OF LAW, 1985
- Attended Pace University Graduate School of Business
- 2000, Fairness and Good Faith and McDonald’s Remodeling Requirements, Consortium Members Inc. Equity Forum, A Publication for McDonald’s Franchisees
- Speaker: American Bar Association- 39th Annual Forum on Franchising- “Where to Draw the Line - Is Your Franchise Agreement an Unconscionable, Illusory Contract?” (Miami, Florida, November 2016) Keynote Speaker: 7-Eleven Franchisee National Coalition Conference- “NLRB Decision: Joint Employer” (Fort Lauderdale, Florida, May 2016) Speaker: Dade County Bar Association Bench & Bar Conference - “Arbitration Best Practices & Useful Tools for Effectively Resolving Your Client’s Disputes” (Miami, Florida February 26, 2016), Speaker, ABA, Franchisee Association, Dade County Bar Assoc., 2016
- Speaker: Coalition of Franchisee Associations Day Forum - “Excess Control by Franchisor Over Franchisee and its Impact on Joint Employer Liability and Vicarious Liability” (Washington,DC, October 2017) Speaker: North American Association of Subway Franchisees- “Joint Employer: Good for Franchisees?” (Orlando, FL, July 28, 2017) Speaker: American Association of Franchisees and Dealers- “Threat of NLRB to Joint Employer Doctrine” (Indian Wells, CA, May 2017) Speaker/Moderator: Miami-Dade FAWL Corporate Counsel Summit- “Alternative Fee Arrangements” (Coral Gables, Florida, February 2017), Speaker, CFA, AAFD, Franchisee Association, Fla. Association of Women Lawyers, 2017
- Speaker: Superstars in Trial – “Defense Counsel” (Miami, FL, September 2018); Speaker: Dunkin Donuts International Franchise Owner National Conference – “Enchoachment” (New Orleans, LA, June 2018), Speaker, 2018
- Speaker: Coalition of Franchisee Associations Legal Symposium - “Encroachment” (Las Vegas, NV, November 2019); Speaker: American Association of Franchisees & Dealers - “Protecting Franchisee Equity/Goodwill Value” (Phoenix, AZ, September 2019); Speaker: Jack in The Box 2019 Franchise Convention (Scottsdale, AZ, June 2019); Speaker: International Franchise Association’s Legal Symposium - “Excess Control by Franchisor Over Franchisee and its Impact on Joint Employer Liability and Vicarious Liability” (Washington DC, May 2019); Speaker: Judicial Luminaries Program (Miami, FL, May 2019); Speaker: SuperStars in Trial - Bench & Bar Conference (Miami, FL, March 2019); Speaker: American Association of Franchisees & Dealers - “Marketing and Territorial Protection” (Phoenix, AZ, September 2019) , Speaker, CFA, AAFD, IFA, Bench and Bar, Franchisee Associations, 2019
- Webinar Interview: “How to Evaluate a Franchise Opportunity” by Legal Franchise King Robert Zarco - Haute Living (October 2020); Webinar Interview: “How Franchisees are Weathering and Navigating the Business and Legal Climate from COVID 19” - Haute Living/Haute Lawyer (September 2020); Webinar Interview: “Education, From Immigrant to Achieving the American Dream, Business during Shutdowns from COVID-19” – Haute Lawyer (June 2020); Webinar Interview: “Defending Under-dog Clients against Larger Adversaries like David vs. Goliath” – Haute Living (June 2020); Webinar Interview: “Business’ Attempt to Recoup Substantial Losses in Income from Government Shutdowns during COVID-19” – Haute Living (May 2020); Webinar Speaker:15 for 15 Series “Business Recovery Options form COVID-19” (May 2020); Webinar Speaker: RKW Residential: “Landlord/Tenant Disputes and Force Majeure” (April 2020), Speaker and Webinar, 2020
- Closing Speaker: Coalition of Franchisee Associations (CFA) “Legal Issues during the Pandemic World” – (November 2021); Panelist: “Ask us Anything on Franchise Law” Coalition of Franchisee Associations (CFA) – ( Las Vegas, NV, November 2021); Webinar Interview: Haute Lawyer’s Webinar Series Featuring a Conversation about the “Personal and Professional Life of Robert Zarco” – (September 2021); Webinar Interview: 2 Part Series Attorney Talk on “Unfair Trade Practices in Franchise Law between Franchisor and Franchisee” and “Crucial Advice for Franchise Owners in America” - Haute Living Magazine (September 2021) , Speaker, Panelist and Webinar, 2021
- Keynote Speaker: “It’s Our Time-Partner for Success” American Association of Franchisees & Dealers - (Mesa, AZ, September 2022); Webinar Speaker: “Encroachment and Cannibalization in Franchising” Coalition of Franchisee Associations (CFA) – (April 2022) , Speaker, AAFD and CFA, 2022
- 2015, September 21-22. “Joint- Employer: What it really Means for You and Franchisors”, 2015 DDIFO National Conference, Las Vegas, NV
- 2000, Convention. Fairness and Good Faith and McDonald’s Remodeling Requirements.
- 2015, March 24-25. The CFA, Washington, DC
- 2000, April. Alternatives in Resolving Franchisor– Franchisee Disputes— Part One: The Mediation Option
- 2015, February 26. “Affordable Care Act – The Employer Mandate in Summary”, DDIFO District Member Meeting, Orlando, FL
- 2000, March. “Liquidated Damages Clauses – Do You Always Have to Pay?”
- 2014, October 15-17. “The 7 Most Significant Franchise Cases of all Time”, 37th Annual ABA Forum on Franchising, Seattle, WA
- 2000, February. The American with Disabilities Act–An Overview for Franchisees in the Lodging Sector
- 2014, October 9-12. “Hawaii’s Motor Vehicle Industry Licensing Act” , 55th Annual HADA Convention, Wailea, HI
- 2000, January. Premises Liability– Is the Franchisor or Franchisee Responsible When a Guest is Injured on Hotel Property
- 2013, May 5-9. “Alternatives to Default: Managing Underperforming Franchisees”, 46th Annual IFA Legal Symposium
- 1999, November. Part II of the Most Potentially Dangerous Contract Clauses in Your Franchise Agreement
- 2010, November. Lecture: University of Maryland
- 1999, September. Ten of the Most Dangerous Contract Clauses Which May Be in Your Franchise Agreement
- 2009, October. “Franchise Litigation”, ABA Forum on Franchising, Toronto, ON, Canada
- 2009, May 30-31. “Tips for Franchisees in Pursuit of the American Dream”, Franchise & Business Opportunities Expo, Ft. Lauderdale, FL
- 1999, August. Legal Aspects of Franchisees in the Lodging Sector
- 2009, June. “Tips for the Franchisee In Pursuit of the American Dream”
- 1999, Buyers. Risky Business: Pursuing the American Dream With A Franchise.: What to look for before you invest in a franchise system
- 2009, March. “Guest satisfaction Still First Priority for hospitality Industry in Weathering Challenging Economic Times”
- Know Your Legal Rights.
- 2009, February. “Creative Strategies for Franchise Businesses to Navigate Challenging Economic Times”
- Practical Aspects of Franchisee Representation Alternative Dispute Resolution: Which Method is Best for Your Client
- 2008, October. “Franchisees: Cutting Service & Quality Not the Answer During Challenging Times”
- The Sounds of Silence in the Franchise Agreement, co-author with Lawrence V. Ashe, Franchise Law Journal, vol. 19, no. 1, American Bar Association
- 2006, October 11-13. “The Practical Considerations on Litigation Franchise Disputes” ABA 29th Annual Forum on Franchising, Boston, MA
- 2006, February 9-12. “Investing in a Hotel Franchise”, National Society of Minorities in Hospitality, Dallas, TX
- 2005, March 24-25. “Maximizing your Franchise Agreement”, 2005 AAHOA Annual Convention & Trade Show, Ft. Lauderdale, FL
- 2005, February 3-4. “Getting the Most Out of the Franchisor/Franchisee Relationship”, 3rd Annual Hospitality Law Conference, Houston, TX
- 2004, November 5. “Understanding the UFOC and Franchise Laws”, Hampton Roads Franchise Roads Expo 2004, Hampton, VA
- 2004, September 8. “Getting the Most of the Franchisor/Franchisee Relationships”, Tennessee Hospitality Alliance Exposition with Tennessee Restaurant Association, Nashville, TN
- 2004, August 6. “Benefits of a Franchise Association & Medicine Shoppe Franchise”, Pharmacy Franchise Owner Association, Anaheim, CA
- 2004, January 22. “Hospitality Franchising Issues”, Conrad N. Hilton College, University of Houston, Houston, TX
- 2003, September 22. “Lawsuit Trends and Thoughts on Avoiding Litigation”, Multi-Unit Food Service Operators Conference, Atlanta, GA
- 2003, June 12. Nova’s Fast Track MBA Training in Franchise Management – International Institute of Franchise Education, H. Wayne Huizenga School of Business & Entrepreneurship, Nova Southeastern University, Davie, FL
- 2003, June 3. “Franchising Today UFOC Night”, U.S. Hispanic Chamber of Commerce’s “Franchise Today”, Orientation Seminar, New York, NY
- 2003, April 9. “Franchising Today UFOC Night”, U.S. Hispanic Chamber of Commerce’s “Franchising Today”, Orientation Seminar, Orlando, FL
- 2003, January 22. “Franchise Relationship Laws In US Territories”, U.S. Hispanic Chamber of Commerce’s “Franchising Today” Orientation Seminar, Caguas, Puerto Rico
- 2016, November 10. “Where to Draw the Line – Is your Franchise Agreement an Unconscionable, Illusory Contract?”, 39th Annual ABA Forum on Franchising, Miami Beach, FL
- 2003, January 17. “The Ten Most Dangerous Provisions In A Franchise Agreement”, Florida Bar Franchise Seminar, Miami, FL
- 2016, May 4. “NLRB Decision: Joint Employer”, 7-Eleven Franchisee National Coalition Conference, Fort Lauderdale, FL.
- 2002, October 30. “Financial Management Of A Franchised Business And The Role Of The CPA”, The Cuban American CPA Association, Miami, FL
- 2002, October 19. “Franchising Today: Exploring New Markets & New Opportunities”, The United States Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, Los Angeles, CA
- 2017, February 24. “Alternative Fee Arrangements”, Inaugural Corporate Counsel Summit, Coral Gables, FL.
- 2002, October 6. “The 10 Most Dangerous Contract Clauses In The Hardee’s Franchise Agreement”, The Hardee’s Convention, Miami, FL
- 2016, February 26. “Arbitration – An overview as to matters that should be considered by a practitioner when determining whether to arbitrate a case, as well as practice tips on effective ways to handle different aspects litigation.”, Bench & Bar Arbitration Panel Presentation, Miami, FL.
- 2000, January. Five of the Most Dangerous Contract Clauses Which May Exist in Your Franchise Agreement
- 2015, December 14. “Launching into the World”, Florida International University Commencement Ceremony, Miami FL.
- 2000, April. “The Top Ten Issues Facing Hotel Counsel”
- 2015, October 8-11. “Legal implications of the recent National Labor Relations Board decision on franchisors, franchisees and franchising in general”, 56th Annual HADA convention, Maui, HI
- Commercial Real Estate Disputes
- Dealerships
- Distributorship
- Etc.
- Franchise Litigation
- General Franchise Law
- Hospitality
- Licensing
- Restaurants
- Service
Selections
- Super Lawyers: 2006 - 2024