3 Cannabis Legal Research Tips

In a prior blog post, we discussed how to get the cannabis licensing process started. One tip was to review all relevant cannabis statutes and regulations, as well as identify any helpful guidance document(s) produced by regulators. In this post, we’ll discuss how to go about finding relevant statutes, regulations, and guidance documents by providing three helpful cannabis legal research tips.

Google is about to become your best friend

There are cannabis-specific research platforms out there, but the investment may not be justified if you are just getting started. If that’s the case, Google can be an invaluable tool. By simply Googling “[Your Jurisdiction’s] Cannabis Statutes/Regulations,” you will likely be able to find relevant cannabis statutes and regulations. Remember: most jurisdictions are regulated at both the state and local level, so make sure you don’t overlook relevant law.

Plan B  

Local jurisdictions can be a bit slower to post relevant cannabis regulations on their website. If this is the case in your local jurisdiction, Plan B is to call your local jurisdiction. Some local jurisdictions have individuals (or even entire departments) dedicated to cannabis who can point you in the right direction. If your local jurisdiction doesn’t have anyone dedicated to handling cannabis inquiries, the planning department is often your best bet.

Guidance Documents  

Cannabis statutes and regulations are often downright confusing. Don’t stop once you find the cannabis statute or set of regulations that you were looking for. State and local jurisdictions often produce helpful guidance documents that explain key areas of relevant cannabis law that can be invaluable. If you still have questions, consider consulting with an experienced cannabis lawyer.

The advice in this post may seem obvious, but in all likelihood, these are the same any cannabis attorney or consultant will utilize. Doing some research upfront can save a cannabis entrepreneur on a budget some money. It’s still under construction, but if you’re interested in a free cannabis research tool, be sure to check out our Cannabis Law Hub.    

© RYAN T. KOCOT, ESQ. 2021

DISCLAIMER: THIS INFORMATION IS STRICTLY EDUCATIONAL AND DOES NOT CONSTITUTE LEGAL ADVICE.