Yo, what’s good? My name is Dan and I’m here to talk to y’all about the rise of cannabis use and businesses in California since they legaled recreational marijuana back in 2016. With all this growth comes a need for lawyers who know their stuff when it comes to cannabis. Even though using, selling, and growing weed is legal in Cali, the regulations for the businesses can be tricky and change depending on where you are in the state. Plus, the laws around personal use can be pretty unclear, so having a lawyer on your side can be a huge help if you get in trouble.
So, what kind of services do cannabis attorneys offer? Well, not all lawyers who work with weed are created equal. Some know more about the business side of things, while others focus on keeping their clients out of trouble with the law. Some firms offer both kinds of services, as well as other legal services that aren’t necessarily related to cannabis.
If you’re starting a cannabis business, it’s smart to hire a lawyer who knows what they’re doing. They can help guide you through the licensing process and make sure you’re following all the zoning, taxation, and environmental laws at the state and local levels. It’s also a good idea to keep up regular check-ins with your lawyer because the rules and regulations are always changing.
On the criminal side of things, even though using weed is legal in California, you can still get in trouble for it if you don’t follow the rules. Sometimes the laws around marijuana can be unclear or open to interpretation, so having a lawyer who knows how to navigate those gray areas can be super helpful. They might be able to get your charges reduced or dismissed altogether.
Some lawyers who specialize in cannabis law also offer expungement services. If you were charged with something related to weed in the past but now it’s legal or less severe than it used to be, you can appeal to have the charge changed or removed from your record. This is especially important because previous convictions can lead to bigger penalties in the future.
So who should hire a cannabis lawyer in California? Basically, anyone who wants to make sure they’re following all the rules and regulations around weed. If you’re running a cannabis-related business or own property that will be used for a weed business, it’s essential to have an experienced lawyer on your side. And if you get in trouble with the law for anything related to weed, a good lawyer can help you out of a sticky situation.
Some common charges people hire cannabis lawyers for in California include driving under the influence, having an open container of weed in a car, selling it illegally, using or possessing it in places where it’s not allowed (like school zones), having too much of it, giving it to minors, transporting it across state lines, growing too much of it, and violating environmental laws.
When you’re looking for a cannabis lawyer, there are a few things to keep in mind. Make sure you feel comfortable with their communication style and trust them to handle your case well. It’s always a good idea to bring your most pressing questions and concerns to your initial consultation so you can get a feel for the firm’s ability to handle your specific case. Don’t be afraid to shop around and meet with more than one lawyer before making your decision.
For business-related legal services, it’s best to hire a lawyer who specializes in cannabis law and knows all the ins and outs of the industry. You want someone who can help you navigate local ordinances and regulations that might affect your business. For criminal cases, look for lawyers with experience in marijuana-related crimes and a track record of getting charges reduced or dismissed.
When it comes down to it, the quality of the lawyer you hire can make a huge difference in your future. Make sure you find someone who is knowledgeable and experienced in the area of cannabis law that you need help with. Here are some of the best cannabis-specific law firms in California to get you started:
– Bruce M. Margolin, Attorney at Law (Los Angeles)
– The Law Offices of Michael E. Cindrich, APC (San Diego)
– Margolin & Lawrence, Attorneys at Law (Beverly Hills, San Francisco, and Central Coast)
– Pot Brothers At Law (Stanton)
– The Law Offices of Omar Figueroa (Sebastopol)
– Vicente Sederberg LLP (Los Angeles)
– The Law Office of Shay Aaron Gilmore (San Francisco)
Peace out, y’all!