“Homework” for Hemp and Cannabis Attorneys 101

Offering legal services in the hemp and/or cannabis industries can be a bit daunting at first. I’d strongly recommend seeking out a mentor that has experience throughout the supply chain, if possible. If you’re brand new to either industry, this is where I would start:
1) Obtain a working knowledge of the “building blocks” of hemp/cannabis such as cannabinoids, terpenes, etc. and the role that they play. A working knowledge will make life much easier when reading cases and statutes.
2) Research hemp/cannabis history. This may sound a bit corny, but understanding the history of hemp/cannabis policy and enforcement can be extremely useful, particularly in gauging risk of federal enforcement when it comes to cannabis.
3) Visit as many operational cannabis businesses as possible. Studying written regulations is all well and good, but visiting a compliant operation will inevitably connect some of the dots in areas of regulatory ambiguity or confusion.

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