Cannabis Law

“Seed to Sale” Services: Our Comprehensive Portfolio of Cannabis Legal Services

Our team provides “seed to sale” services to cannabis businesses of all sizes, including startups, by guiding them through the formation process. We assist with all aspects of licensing—whether retail, cultivation, or processing licenses—to help new businesses establish a strong foundation in this highly regulated sector. We also ensure companies comply with local marijuana laws and regulations, such as those in Denver, Colorado.

Our key areas of service include the following:

• Regulatory, Licensing, and Compliance [+]

• Land Use and Real Estate [+]

• Corporate and Business Law [+]

• Intellectual Property [+]

• Employment Law [+]

• Government Relations [+]

• Litigation [+]

The Intersection of Cannabis and IP Law

Without robust intellectual property (IP) protections, cannabis businesses risk losing critical assets and may face obstacles in securing funding or expanding their brand. Various IP tools can shield cannabis companies from these risks.

Trademarks, Copyrights, Patents, and Trade Secrets

Trademarks, for instance, offer brand protection by restricting competitors from using similar names or symbols. Though federal trademark registration is limited to lawful uses, state trademarks are often available, and the 2018 Farm Bill permits federal trademarks for products with under 0.3% THC, covering ancillary items like packaging and accessories.

Copyrights protect creative content—like blogs and marketing materials—with no restrictions specific to cannabis. Patents, including plant, utility, and design patents, secure innovations from new strains to vaporizer designs, offering up to 20 years of exclusive rights. Additionally, trade secrets can safeguard proprietary formulas or customer lists, provided they remain confidential.

Given the industry’s unique regulatory landscape, an effective IP strategy is essential. Our skilled cannabis business law attorneys can help secure the comprehensive protections you need for sustainable growth and competitive advantage.

In-House General Counsel Services

At Messner Reeves LLP, we go beyond traditional legal representation by offering in-house general counsel services designed to meet the needs of small and mid-sized cannabis-related businesses. For companies requiring regular legal support but not to the extent of hiring a full-time attorney, our on-site counsel services provide an effective solution.

When you hire us for in-house general counsel, a Messner Reeves attorney will help streamline your business operations, manage legal risks, and handle essential matters. This approach combines the advantages of having experienced legal counsel on-site with the flexibility and cost-efficiency smaller businesses often seek.

The cannabis business law attorneys at Messner Reeves LLP provide industry-focused legal solutions that are responsive to the evolving cannabis landscape. Our attorneys are here to help you address every legal and business challenge that comes your way in this unique, dynamic industry. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help you succeed in the cannabis sector.