At Seligson Law, we help cannabis entrepreneurs and operators build businesses that are legally sound, strategically structured, and well-positioned for growth. From forming your entity to drafting contracts and closing deals, our New York cannabis legal team will help you move forward with confidence.
Legal Foundations for Cannabis Businesses in New York
Building a cannabis business in New York takes more than passion and funding. It takes a strong legal foundation that protects your interests and aligns with the state’s complex and evolving regulatory environment.
At Seligson Law, we assist cannabis clients in forming compliant entities, drafting and negotiating critical contracts, and structuring transactions that support long-term growth. Whether you’re building a brand, acquiring a license-holding company, or launching a joint venture, we help you think several steps ahead.
We advise dispensaries, processors, cultivators, delivery services, and investors across a full range of business matters, including:
- Entity formation and ownership agreements
- Internal governance and investor compliance
- Commercial contracts, including supply, distribution, and service agreements
- Joint ventures, mergers, and acquisitions
- Business and asset sales
- Risk assessment and regulatory review
Transactional Counsel You Can Rely On
In New York’s cannabis space, every deal has its own complexity, especially with license caps, equity requirements, and OCM oversight. Whether you’re onboarding investors, partnering with another operator, or restructuring your company, the legal terms need to work in practice, not just on paper.
At Seligson Law, we help clients craft clear, enforceable agreements that reflect how the business actually runs. We make sure the money flows properly, roles are well-defined, and you stay aligned with both licensing and compliance obligations.
We identify red flags, guide you through negotiations, and make sure you understand what you’re agreeing to—before you sign.
Our New York Cannabis Business Law Process
At Seligson Law, we support cannabis clients throughout the lifecycle of business formation and deal-making. Here’s how we work:
Consultation & Strategy Session
We start with a focused conversation about your business model, goals, and where you stand in the licensing and deal process.
Legal Formation or Deal Preparation
We draft and review foundational legal documents, such as formation paperwork, operating agreements, letters of intent (LOIs), non-disclosure agreements (NDAs), or terms sheets, customized to New York’s legal environment.
Negotiation & Documentation
We help you finalize terms, negotiate protections, and execute agreements that are enforceable, compliant, and built to last.
Ongoing Support & Growth Planning
As your business evolves, we provide ongoing legal support, including revising contracts, onboarding new partners, planning for investments, and managing exits.
FAQs
What type of business entity should I use for my cannabis company?
LLCs and corporations are common, but the best choice depends on your ownership structure, investment plans, and licensing goals. We’ll help you weigh your options and align with OCM expectations.
Do I need a written agreement with my business partners or investors?
Yes. LLC operating or corporate shareholder agreements are essential in protecting your interests and preventing future disputes.
Can I buy or sell a cannabis license in New York?
New York does not allow a cannabis business entity to sell its license as an asset (i.e., a direct license transfer). In New York, you can sell your licensed entity, but there are restrictions on the percentage you can sell and to whom you can sell it. All transactions involving licensed entities require approval from the Office of Cannabis Management. We assist in structuring and executing those deals.
What contracts do I need for my cannabis business?
You’ll likely need supply agreements, service contracts, employment documents, and internal corporate governance materials. We draft and review each in line with industry realities and OCM rules.
How can I protect myself in a cannabis business transaction?
Start with due diligence. We help assess compliance, verify license status, and negotiate terms that protect your investment and future operations. When buying an entity, be cautious of hidden liabilities, including taxes, employment issues, lawsuits, and regulatory compliance violations.
Contact Seligson Law for Cannabis Business Legal Support
Whether you’re forming your first cannabis company, adding a partner, or closing a deal, we’re here to help you move forward with confidence. We’ll handle the legal side so you can focus on building the business you’ve worked hard to grow. Reach out today to get started.
