Back DISPUTE RESOLUTION (LITIGATION, ARBITRATION AND MEDIATION) We are committed to working with you, even when negotiations between franchisers and franchisees break down. We believe in mediation, if the parties agree that this is an option for them, then we will do our best at getting their dispute resolved through peaceful means of discussion without any fighting or angering one another along way. When disputes are not resolved, we will arbitrate or litigate on your behalf. Contact If you are in the US or planning to come to the US and would like to schedule a consultation, let's connect. CLICK HERE TO SCHEDULE INITIAL CONSULTATION OR EMAIL US ‬ CALL US

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Back SETTING UP A FRANCHISE SYSTEM Our team is dedicated to helping you explore and evaluate whether franchising would be the best means of establishing or expanding your business. We will review trademark issues, as well financial questions with commitments that both state-legal requirements are met while still meeting federal guidelines - all in order for us to provide clarity on what steps need taken next. We are excited to start the process of designing your new franchise program by looking into all aspects in detail. Let our team of experts help you set up a successful and profitable franchise program. We are happy to provide guidance on all aspects, from fees negotiations through development agreements so that your company can thrive long-term. The best structure for your entities is going to be a big part of what we do. We'll work with you and an accountant (or accountants) in determining the right way forward, so that everything falls into place seamlessly when its time start operations. We will draft each of the various agreements (franchise agreement, sublease, equipment lease, etc.) which are necessary to establish a solid foundation for your business. The advice we give is based on the latest industry insights and practical experience. You can trust us to provide you with sound Franchising Law legal counsel that will be tailored for your individual needs, whether it's entering or continuing in this field as well-being able just get started today. Contact If you are in the US or planning to come to the US and would like to schedule a consultation, let's connect. CLICK HERE TO SCHEDULE INITIAL CONSULTATION OR EMAIL US ‬ CALL US

Back WILLS We can assist you with drafting a Will and help your family to safeguard the interests of your beneficiaries during the probate process. HOW WE CAN HELP: Draft and maintain a Will that provides clear instructions on the disposition of your property Navigate through the maze of inheritance and intestacy laws A Will is the most basic instrument a person can use to bequeath property to her or his heirs. While state laws provide default rules for the disposition of an estate, it is often the case that those rules do not meet people’s requirements because they do not account for their individual circumstances. A properly drafted Will can become a useful tool, but, like any other part of your estate plan, it requires special attention to individual circumstances specific to you and your family, and continuous maintenance because circumstances do change. You can trust Buschkin Law Firm to steer you through the complexities of inheritance laws, including intestate succession laws. We can assist you with drafting a Will and handle the probate process in court with your loved ones when the unfortunate time comes for the disposition of your assets. Even with a Will, the probate process may be stressful and burdensome for a grieving family, and having an experienced attorney by their side can alleviate the burden and provide peace of mind during the trying time of mourning. Contact If you are in the US or planning to come to the US and would like to schedule a consultation, let's connect. CLICK HERE TO SCHEDULE INITIAL CONSULTATION OR EMAIL US ‬ CALL US

Back Immigrant Investor Program The EB5 visa offers US permanent residency in exchange for a minimum $900,000 investment in the United States. It is one of the fastest and most effective routes to a Green Card, which offers freedom to live, work, study or retire anywhere in America. The government makes 10,000 of these green cards available every year and, so far, the number of applicants has always been below the cap. The key advantage of this Visa is the speed with which you can get a green card. The downside is that it is a very complex legal area and the Visa petition requires extensive documentation. Also, the EB-5 Visa requires a substantial investment. Requirements & Eligibility There are 5 main criteria to get an EB-5 Visa. They are as follows: You must invest or be actively in the process of investing either $1,800,000 or $900,000 (the lower, $900,000 investment is permitted in rural or high unemployment settings, which are also known as “targeted employment areas,” or “TEA”) You must show that the funds come from a legitimate source The entire amount of the investment must be active or at risk (this means that you cannot just be thinking about buying a business, and you have to put up capital that could be lost) You must make the investment in a “new” or “existing business enterprise” (this allows you to create your own business or buy one); and You must demonstrate that the investment directly or indirectly results in the creation or preservation of ten full time jobs. If you can meet these criteria, you are well on your way to getting an EB-5 Visa. The process, though, is not simple, and you will need a qualified lawyer (and perhaps an accountant) to navigate through this complex area. When filing your petition you must apply to the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (“USCIS”) and submit a number of required documents including: immigration forms, personal financial information, business plans, a legal brief summarizing how you have met all of the elements of the statute, and other supporting evidence. CAPITAL INVESTMENT REQUIREMENTS Capital means cash, equipment, inventory, other tangible property, cash equivalents, and indebtedness secured by assets owned by immigrant investors, if they are personally and primarily liable and the assets of the new commercial enterprise upon which the petition is based are not used to secure any of the indebtedness. All capital will be valued at fair-market value in U.S. dollars. Assets acquired, directly or indirectly, by unlawful means (such as criminal activities) will not be considered capital. Immigrant investors must establish that they are the legal owner of the capital invested. Capital can include their promise to pay (a promissory note) under certain circumstances. The minimum investment amounts by filing date and investment location are: A targeted employment area can be, at the time of investment, either: A Rural Area: any area other than an area within a metropolitan statistical area (MSA) having a population of 20,000 or more An Area with high unemployment: Where the new commercial enterprise is principally doing business and the area has experienced an average unemployment rate of at least 150% of the national average unemployment rate. JOB CREATION REQUIREMENTS An EB-5 investor must invest the required amount of capital in a new commercial enterprise that will create full-time positions for at least 10 qualifying employees. Direct investment: not located within a regional center, must itself be the employer of the qualifying employees. Regional center: can directly or indirectly create full-time positions by creating: Direct jobs that establish an employer-employee relationship between the new commercial enterprise and the persons it employs. Indirect jobs created as a result of the new commercial enterprise. Troubled business: investors may rely on job maintenance. Must show that the number of existing employees is, or will be, no less than the pre-investment level for a period of at least two years. Application Process There are a number of steps that investors must complete to get a green card through the EB-5 visa program. The process is complicated, but if you have the funds, this is an excellent way for someone and their family to get green cards and ultimately become U.S. citizens. Here are the 5 (five) key steps to get an EB-5 Visa: Step 1: Find The Appropriate Investment “Project” Individual investor must locate an investment project or business on their own Investors can invest through “Regional Centers” Regional Center Pilot Program: investors can act more as passive investors and contribute funds to government-recognized entities Step 2: Make a Capital Investment and Your Attorney Files an I-526 Petition Invest the required investment amount in the project that they have chosen Often made into an escrow account I-526 Petition: Prove creation of 10 full time jobs, usually supported by a comprehensive business plan Prove that the funds came from a legitimate source Step 3: Request for Information An EB-5 Visa petition is an extremely complex and document-intensive petition New enterprise: the exact nature or basis of the financial data or strategy may not be apparent Government often requests additional information from applicants after the I-526 has been filed Step 4: Apply For A Conditional Green Card (Part 1) One of requirements for EB-5 is hiring 10 full-time U.S. workers Government will issue you a conditional green card for two years At the end of the two years: prove that you have hired the required employees Eligible for this conditional green card once their I-526 petition has been approved Step 5: Removal of Conditions on the Green Card (Part 2) File an I-829 petition 90 days prior to the anniversary of the date that the applicant first received their conditional residency Government usually issues a permanent green card around 6 months Wait for “USCIS” and Department of State to schedule an interview Before getting “official” green card, it has conditions imposed for a two-year period COMMON QUESTIONS WHAT ARE PHYSICAL PRESENCE REQUIREMENTS FOR EB-5 INVESTORS? There is no 180-day rule. If you have a green card, you are expected to live here and pay taxes. You are allowed to be abroad for a few months with good reason. If you out for more than one year, the green card is technically terminated. For this reason, you should apply for a re-entry permit which authorizes absences of up to two years, if approved. HOW CAN I TRAVEL WITH MY EB-5 I-829 RECEIPT NOTICE IN THE ABSENCE OF A GREEN CARD? The I-829 receipt extends your evidence of green card status for 18 months. Take a copy of the PR card, I-90 receipt and I-829 receipt. If you can get another passport stamp, get that, but they are hard to get these days. Contact If you are in the US or planning to come to the US and would like to schedule a consultation, let's connect. CLICK HERE TO SCHEDULE INITIAL CONSULTATION OR EMAIL US ‬ CALL US

Back Individuals with Extraordinary Ability or Achievement O-1 visa is a great visa for individuals who possess extraordinary ability in the sciences, arts, education, business, or athletics, or who has a demonstrated record of extraordinary achievement in the motion picture or television industry and has been recognized nationally or internationally for those achievements. One of the O-1 visa requirements is a consultation with a U.S. peer group, labor organization or management organization regarding the nature of the work you will be doing in the U.S. and your qualifications. Requirements and eligibility REQUIRED DOCUMENTATION FOR O-1 VISA Along with your passport, visa fee receipt, and the notice of decision by the USCIS, the following is a concise list of all the documents you need to apply for an O-1 visa: Written consultation from someone with expertise in your field. Ex: a peer group, as relevant to your area of expertise . Copy of the written work contract that must include a summary of the agreement under which you will be employed. Document explaining the activities and events you will participate in. Must include the nature, start and end dates. And an itinerary of these activities/events. Proof of your extraordinary abilities or achievements. Some examples are: Proof you have received an award; Published articles relevant to your field; Contributed original research to your field; You are a member of a highly distinguished association or organization; or Have been paid a high salary for your skills and contribution REQUIRED DOCUMENTATION FOR O-2 VISA Written consultation Support of an individual with extraordinary ability in athletics or the arts: must be from the appropriate labor organization. Support of an individual with extraordinary achievement in motion pictures or television: must come from an appropriate labor organization and a management organization with expertise in the skill area involved Proof of your extraordinary abilities or achievements Should establish that you have substantial experience performing the critical skills and essential support services for the O-1. For motion picture or television production, establish that significant production, including pre- and post-production, has taken place outside the United States and will take place inside the United States, and that your continuing participation is essential to the successful completion of the production. After petition is approved You can apply for your visa in the U.S. Embassy or Consulate Department of State (DOS) establishes visa application processing and issuance fees Application process APPLICATION PROCESS FOR AN O-1 VISA File Form I-129, Petition for Nonimmigrant Worker (U.S. employer, U.S. agent, or foreign employer through a U.S. agent). Include required evidence according to the form instructions. File it at least 45 days before the date of employment. In addition to Form I-129, the petitioner must submit the documentary evidence discussed in the previous item. APPLICATION PROCESS FOR AN O-2 VISA Employer or agent should file Form I-129, Petition for a Non-immigrant Worker, Include the required evidence according to the form instructions. Must petition for you in connection with the services of an O-1 artist or athlete, Both you and the O-1 artist or athlete must each have your own Form I-129. Employer or agent cannot file your Form I-129 more than one year before the artist or athlete will begin employment. File it at least 45 days before the date of employment. In addition to Form I-129, the petitioner must submit the documentary evidence discussed in the previous item. Processing times and Period of Stay/Extension of Stay With each step discussed above in mind, we can make an estimate on what the processing time will be. However, there are a number of factors that can drastically change the amount of time it will take. Form I-129: average of six months depending on caseload. Premium processing shortens your petition’s processing time to 15 calendar days Take into consideration the amount of time it will take to gather and organize the evidence required to prove your eligibility. If you are outside the U.S. and must go through consular processing, the O-1 processing time may be extended depending on when the consulate or embassy schedules your interview appointment. As an O non-immigrant, you may be admitted to the United States for the validity period of the petition, plus a period of up to 10 days before the validity period begins and 10 days after the validity period ends. You are only authorized to work during the validity period of the petition. Contact If you are in the US or planning to come to the US and would like to schedule a consultation, let's connect. CLICK HERE TO SCHEDULE INITIAL CONSULTATION OR EMAIL US ‬ CALL US

Back FTC Franchise Rule The Franchise Rule gives prospective purchasers of franchises the material information they need in order to weigh the risks and benefits of such an investment. The Rule requires franchisors to provide all potential franchisees with a disclosure document containing 23 specific items of information about the offered franchise, its officers, and other franchisees. The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) Franchise Rule is a disclosure rule that requires a franchisor offering or selling a franchise located in the United States of America to provide the prospective franchisee with the relevant information about the franchise. Under Subpart B of the FTC Franchise Rule , the franchisor shall be in breach of the FTC Franchise Rule if it: (a) fails to furnish the prospective franchisee with the disclosure document fourteen calendar days before the prospective franchisee signs the franchise agreement or makes any payment in connection with the franchise; or (b) if the franchisor unilaterally modifies the terms and conditions of the franchise agreement without furnishing the prospective franchisee with a copy of the revised franchise agreement at least seven calendar days before the prospective franchisee signs the revised franchise agreement. According to Subpart C of the FTC Franchise Rule , along with other formalities established therein, the disclosure document the franchisor shall provide to the prospective franchisee must contain the following material information: - A cover letter indicating: (a) the franchisor's name, type of business organization, principal business address, telephone number, and, if applicable, email address and primary home page address; (b) a sample of the primary business trademark that the franchisee will use in its business; (c) a brief description of the franchised business; and (d) the total investment required to begin the operation of the franchise. - The following 23 items of disclosure information: (1) the franchisor and any parents, predecessors, and affiliates; (2) business experience; (3) litigation; (4) bankruptcy; (5) initial fees; (6) other fees; (7) estimated initial investment; (8) restrictions on sources of products and services; (9) franchisee's obligations; (10) financing; (11) franchisor's assistance, advertising, computer systems, and training; (12) territory; (13) trademarks; (14) patents, copyrights, and proprietary information; (15) obligation to participate in the actual operation of the franchise business; (16) restrictions on what the franchisee may sell; (17) renewal, termination, transfer, and dispute resolution; (18) public figures; (19) financial performance representations; (20) outlets and franchisee information; (21) financial statements; (22) contracts; and (23) receipts. Detailed information about each item may be consulted in Subpart C of the FTC Franchise Rule. Under Subpart E of the FTC Franchise Rule , seven exemptions apply to the FTC Franchise Rule. As of July 1, 2020, the following are the thresholds applicable to those exemptions from compliance with the FTC Franchise Rule: (a) Sales where the buyer pays less than $615 for the franchise. (b) Sales requiring a large investment where the franchisee pays at least $1,233,000, excluding the cost of unimproved land and any franchisor (or affiliate) financing; and (c) Sales to large entities, such as multi-unit franchisees, airports, hospitals, and universities that have been in business for at least five years and have a net worth of at least $6,165,500. Contact If you are in the US or planning to come to the US and would like to schedule a consultation, let's connect. CLICK HERE TO SCHEDULE INITIAL CONSULTATION OR EMAIL US ‬ CALL US

Back REAL ESTATE The Power Of Experienced Litigators In matters of real estate litigation and title insurance claims, having well-informed, experienced real estate attorneys at your side gives you a distinct advantage. Buschkin Law Firm has substantial experience in every facet of real estate litigation, title insurance claims, and title defence litigation. Buschkin Law Firm understands real estate law and the intricacies of commercial and residential real estate transactions. Whether the solution to a dispute lies inside or outside the courtroom, we work diligently to advocate our client’s position and reduce their exposure. When litigation is unavoidable, we are by your side ready to bring our legal knowledge and expertise to bear, finding the solution that is best for you. Real estate litigation generally refers to any dispute arising from a real property interest. We advise and represent clients on all aspects of real estate litigation and contractual disputes and help clients evaluate the legal and business issues that impact real estate contracts. We have a great deal of experience in handling diverse and complex litigation and contractual disputes, and in achieving successful outcomes. General Real Estate Practice Buschkin Law Firm has technical skills and, equally important, a practical orientation regarding business advice, the structuring of transactions and contract negotiations. Our experience relates to a broad spectrum of real estate asset types, including equity, debt and leasehold interests, and various property types, including office, multi-family, condominiums, shopping centers, hotels, hospital and health care facilities, storage facilities, industrial and warehouse properties and mixed-use developments. We can help you in commercial and residential development, joint venture transactions, sales, acquisitions, construction and permanent financings, "big box" leasing and commercial office and retail leasing transactions. We also can help you with workouts, loan restructurings and asset acquisitions on behalf of lenders and borrowers, and in matters involving condominiums and cooperative housing corporations. During times of market uncertainty and legislative change, the real estate sector offers significant opportunities for companies that can target and manage potential risks. Strategic legal counsel based on a clear-eye assessment of market realities can help owners, developers, and investors reap the rewards of a volatile market. Buschkin Law Firm provides comprehensive and fully integrated services, we advise on the full range of sophisticated real estate transactions and construction projects, with a strong focus on portfolio transactions, complex and alternative financings, large-scale development and redevelopment projects, and high-stakes dispute resolution. We offer cogent counsel on all aspects of real estate transactions, from acquisitions and financings to leasing and sales, and help clients navigate and comply with shifting environmental regulations. In addition, should a dispute arise, we vigorously litigate on our clients’ behalf. New York and New Jersey Residential Real Estate Attorney Real estate is an integral part of the economy in the New York Metro Area, there is a lot at stake in real estate transactions throughout New York and New Jersey . Our clients trust our services and rely on us to protect them at every stage of a transaction. If you plan to buy or sell a home or property in NYC or surrounding areas anytime soon, you will want to work with an experienced new York and New Jersey residential real estate lawyer. Hiring an attorney who specializes in New York and New Jersey real estate can protect your rights, make the process easier by ensuring that all contracts and documents meet legal requirements, and identify any potential problems with the agreement to prevent future legal complications. Buschkin Law Firm can help you in the following ways: We help you review and prepare all information related to your purchase. This involves interpreting real estate laws, regulations, and policies, as well as developing specific contracts and agreements. When buying or selling real estate, you will come across a lot of new information, and some of it may be confusing. A lawyer can help you understand the language of the real estate world, facilitate the transfer of titles and funds, ensure you meet your contractual agreements, and prevent you from facing surprises at closing. In addition to being knowledgeable about the real estate industry, Buschkin Law Firm can also help you feel secure in your specific investment. By entering a deal with legal representation, you’ll have a knowledgeable, skilled advocate who can identify any risks associated with this acquisition, protect your interests, and deliver the best possible outcome in your case. Buschkin Law Firm is not only valuable for our legal knowledge but also our negotiation skills, in and outside of the courtroom, we can help you during the deal-making process ensure you achieve a contract that minimizes risk and maximizes reward. What we offer Buschkin Law Firm handles complex and challenging matters for a wide array of clients, such as the owners, developers and financiers of the largest real estate projects, both in the private and public sectors. We are skilled in a broad spectrum of transactions that includes: Real estate finance Development Sales and acquisitions Land use and environmental matters Leasing Distressed asset workouts Real estate matters may require a range of services and present varied challenges. Contact If you are in the US or planning to come to the US and would like to schedule a consultation, let's connect. CLICK HERE TO SCHEDULE INITIAL CONSULTATION OR EMAIL US ‬ CALL US

Back FRANCHISEE ASSOCIATIONS As your trusted consultant, we will help you form an association that reflects the needs and preferences of those it serves. We'll prepare bylaws so it can be established in a timely manner, then get down to business with programs/agendas designed just for this type or purpose. We will review your existing franchise agreement (or new and amended), negotiate potential modifications with the franchiser. If you have other issues that cannot be resolved through negotiations, we can engage in mediation arbitration or litigation as appropriate for this type of situation. Contact If you are in the US or planning to come to the US and would like to schedule a consultation, let's connect. CLICK HERE TO SCHEDULE INITIAL CONSULTATION OR EMAIL US ‬ CALL US

Back Comprehensive Living Wills & Estate Planning Services Having peace of mind today sometimes requires planning for the future, we know how important it is to be prepared for any scenario. WHAT IS A LIVING WILL? A living will is a legal document that you sign, giving your doctors, family members, and loved ones instructions on the type of medical care you would like to receive if you are unable to communicate. Your living will can specify which life-prolonging procedures you agree to ahead of time, as well as those you do not consent to. Be sure to discuss your living will with your healthcare provider, as he or she can offer valuable insight into the details that may be necessary to include. Your religious beliefs may affect your final instructions and you should take time to discuss the drafting of a living will with your clergy so your living will reflect your religious beliefs. WHY DO I NEED A LIVING WILL? Sometimes injuries and illnesses leave people incapacitated and unable to communicate their end-of-life wishes. This can create a stressful situation for loved ones who must try to guess what the person’s wishes might be, and sometimes they will make decisions based on emotions rather than what their loved one would want. By drafting a living will, you remove all uncertainty about your end-of-life preferences and the sense of guilt your health care surrogate may have if there was no written living will. A written living will ensure that you will be treated the way you choose while also alleviating responsibility from the people closest to you. Your living will is not just about your care, it is also for the benefit of your loved one who will have to make that difficult end-of-life decision for you. A living will give them peace of mind as well. Whether you would like advice about drafting your living will appointing a power of attorney, managing trusts, or estate planning, contact us today to set up a consultation. Contact If you are in the US or planning to come to the US and would like to schedule a consultation, let's connect. CLICK HERE TO SCHEDULE INITIAL CONSULTATION OR EMAIL US ‬ CALL US

Back PROTECTED MARKETING AREAS One of the key business issues in any franchise arrangement is how much protection should be given to a particular market. It needs to balance protecting reasonable marketing areas for locals with giving enough room so that franchisers can maximize their penetration, over time. What happens to the Protected Marketing Area upon renewal should be addressed. When discussing the differences between a “territory” and market, it is important for franchisees to be aware that they may get trapped by their unfamiliarity with business terminology. We will help you analyze the important aspects of your franchise agreement and see that it is fair, protective for both franchiser as well as franchisees. Contact If you are in the US or planning to come to the US and would like to schedule a consultation, let's connect. CLICK HERE TO SCHEDULE INITIAL CONSULTATION OR EMAIL US ‬ CALL US