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California
Cannabis Lawyer

At Seligson Law, we know that no other industry moves,or changes,quite like cannabis. Whether you’re launching your first dispensary, scaling up your operation, or investing in a brand, navigating cannabis law here requires more than a generalist—it takes a legal partner who has grown with the industry.

From licensing to litigation, our legal team has helped operators and investors chart a path through California’s cannabis regulatory framework since 2016. We understand not only the law but the culture, the risks, and the drive it takes to succeed in this space. If you’re serious about building something in cannabis, we’re ready to stand with you.

Get started today: 213-293-6692

“I’ve worked with other firms in this space, and the difference here is night and day. Seligson Law understands how fast things shift and what’s really at stake for investors. They don’t just point out the risks—they actually help you navigate them, make smart decisions, and move forward. They’re thorough, strategic, and plugged in to the industry.”

— Arvin Hallak, NY Cannabis Co.

“When we were applying for our first license, we didn’t know what we didn’t know. Ken and his team walked us through every step, flagged issues before they became problems, and kept us on track through a pretty intense process. We felt taken care of the whole way.”

— Debbie Vladic, Dime Industries, California

“There’s a lot of noise in this space. Seligson Law cuts through it. They’ve helped us with everything from licensing to employment issues, always with clear guidance and zero BS. I wouldn’t want to do business in this industry without them.”

— Shawn Bean, Source Cannabis

“We’ve been in this game for years, and it’s not easy finding lawyers who understand where we’re coming from. Seligson Law didn’t talk down to us, didn’t overpromise. He just gave us solid advice and helped us get compliant without compromising who we are.”

— Avo, Qanabliss, Heights Cannabis

Our Cannabis Law Services

At Seligson Law, we offer comprehensive legal services tailored to every stage of the cannabis business lifecycle, from early planning and formation to operations, expansion, and exit.

Our cannabis law services include:

Licensing

We help clients navigate California’s complex state and local licensing processes, from initial applications to renewals, ownership changes, and post-license compliance.

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Business formation

We guide you in choosing the right entity structure, drafting governing documents, and establishing a solid legal foundation that aligns with your operational and investment goals.

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Business transactions

We advise on deals of all sizes, including mergers, acquisitions, investments, and joint ventures, so you can grow your cannabis business while protecting your interests.

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Regulatory compliance and violations

We work proactively to keep clients in compliance with DCC regulations and local ordinances, and we step in quickly if you’re facing a violation, enforcement action, or audit.

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Real estate and land use

We help cannabis businesses secure and structure leases or property purchases, navigate zoning and land use issues, and ensure that real estate decisions support your long-term business strategy.

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Employment law

We counsel cannabis employers on workforce compliance, employee policies, and dispute resolution, helping you manage risk while building a strong, compliant workplace.

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Litigation

We represent cannabis businesses in high-stakes litigation, including commercial disputes, employment claims, licensing challenges, and investor conflicts. We fight to protect your business and your future.

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We’ve been doing this for as long as there has been a legal cannabis industry in California, and we are intimately familiar with the challenges and opportunities of operating or investing in a cannabis business.

We pride ourselves on offering not just legal advice, but strategic partnership. Your business’s success is our success.

Get started today: 213-293-6692

Cannabis Law in California

California’s cannabis industry is one of the most ambitious and complicated legal markets in the world. Since voters passed Proposition 64 in 2016, the state has built a regulatory framework intended to transition cannabis from a patchwork of medical collectives into a licensed, regulated, and legal market. But the result is anything but simple.

Cannabis businesses must comply with both state regulations, administered by the Department of Cannabis Control (DCC), and a second layer of local city or county rules, which vary widely across jurisdictions. Some cities embrace cannabis and actively support licensing and innovation. Others restrict cannabis operations entirely or impose moratoriums and zoning limitations that are nearly impossible to navigate without expert legal guidance.

In addition to licensing, cannabis operators must comply with strict requirements regarding:
  • Seed-to-sale tracking (METRC)
  • Security and surveillance systems
  • Labeling and packaging regulations
  • Waste management and environmental reporting
  • Advertising and marketing limitations
  • Product safety testing
  • Equity program requirements
  • Employee labor and wage standards
  • State and local tax remittance

And that’s just the beginning.

The legal landscape continues to shift as California implements regulatory reforms, adjusts tax structures, and ramps up enforcement against unlicensed operations. Meanwhile, federal legalization remains stalled, creating additional challenges related to banking, interstate commerce, and access to capital.

At Seligson Law, we help clients cut through the noise and stay focused on what matters: building and protecting a successful cannabis business. Whether you’re applying for your first license or fighting to keep the one you have, we offer guidance rooted in real-world experience, not theory.

Why Choose Seligson Law?

At Seligson Law, we know the culture of the industry just as well as the law. We’ve worked alongside the industry’s pioneers and innovators since day one. This isn’t a side practice for us—it’s our purpose.

With over 400 cannabis clients served, we’ve advised on everything from license acquisition to merger and acquisition deals. We don’t just give you the legal answer, we help you make smart, strategic business decisions with the law in mind.

At the end of the day, our practice is about relationships, not case files. Our clients trust us because we take the time to understand their business, goals, and values. They also understand that we care about equity, sustainability, and access.

Our Cannabis Law Case Process

At Seligson Law, our process is built on transparency and trust. Here’s what you can expect:

Initial Consultation

We start with a confidential consultation to understand your situation and outline your options.

Strategic Planning

Our team develops a tailored legal strategy for you and your business, whether that means licensing, regulatory compliance, or litigation.

Action & Advocacy

We advocate fiercely on your behalf, drafting contracts, representing you in negotiations, and pursuing justice in court if necessary.

Long-Term Planning & Results

If you enjoy collaborating with us, we can begin planning for the long term.

We don’t treat clients like case numbers. We see you, we hear you, and we’re here to fight for you.

Get started today: 213-293-6692

FAQs

Do I need both a state and local license to operate in California?

Yes. California requires cannabis businesses to obtain both a state license (through the Department of Cannabis Control) and local authorization from the city or county where they operate. A cannabis business lawyer can help guide you through the process of acquiring the proper licensure.

Can I operate a cannabis business from my home?

Generally, no. Cannabis businesses must operate from a properly zoned commercial property.

What happens if I receive a notice of violation or enforcement action?

Don’t ignore it. Call a cannabis attorney immediately. Early legal intervention can often resolve issues before they escalate.

How do I buy or sell a cannabis license or business?

Buying or selling a cannabis license or business in California requires regulatory approval, due diligence, and careful legal structuring. Unlike traditional businesses, cannabis licenses cannot be sold outright because they are tied to the entity and location. Any change in ownership must be approved by the Department of Cannabis Control (DCC) and often by the local jurisdiction.

How do I find a compliant property for a cannabis business?

Cannabis businesses in California must operate from locations that comply with state cannabis laws and local zoning regulations. Before signing a lease or purchasing property, it is important to work with a cannabis attorney to ensure the site meets all distance and zoning requirements to avoid costly mistakes.

Contact a California Cannabis Lawyer Today

Whether you’re launching your first venture or scaling an established operation, Seligson Law offers the legal insight and industry fluency to help you thrive. We’re here to help you navigate every challenge, seize every opportunity, and build something real.

Ready to grow your California cannabis business? Contact Seligson Law today.

Get started today: 213-293-6692