Cannabis & Hemp

How we may serve you

The emerging markets for both cannabis and hemp provide invaluable opportunities for tribes and tribal business entities to lead the field in sustainable and profitable industries. Our team of experienced attorneys has advised tribal governments, tribal entities, farmers, processors, distributors, and retailers in the navigation of an ever-evolving legal and regulatory landscape to create self-sustaining practices that foster growth in tribal communities. Our extensive experience runs the gamut of legal work in these fields on both the regulatory and business side. In addition to providing legal services to business entities, we assist tribes in developing the legal and regulatory frameworks necessary for these complicated arenas.

Economic Development

Our experienced attorneys understand the unique opportunities and challenges faced by tribal entities in this rapidly evolving sector. We offer tailored legal solutions to help you maximize economic benefits while maintaining cultural values and sovereignty. Our services encompass the full spectrum of economic development needs for tribal cannabis and hemp enterprises:

 

  • Structuring tribally-owned enterprises and developing strategies for job creation and workforce development
  • Exploring diversification opportunities in the cannabis/hemp supply chain
  • Attracting investment while maintaining tribal control
  • Forming joint ventures or partnerships with non-tribal entities
  • Structuring tribal tax systems for cannabis businesses
  • Developing revenue disbursement protocols
  • Drafting and negotiating commercial agreements

 

We work closely with tribal leaders to create robust legal frameworks that support sustainable growth in the cannabis and hemp industries. Our approach ensures compliance with tribal, state, and federal laws while maximizing economic potential for your community. From establishing business structures to implementing tax systems and negotiating partnerships, our team provides comprehensive support at every stage of your cannabis and hemp initiatives. We’re committed to empowering tribal communities through responsible and profitable participation in these emerging industries.

Sovereignty and Compliance

We understand the critical importance of maintaining tribal sovereignty while navigating the complex regulatory landscape of the cannabis and hemp industries. Our experienced attorneys provide comprehensive support to help your tribe establish and operate cannabis and hemp enterprises in compliance with tribal, federal, and state laws. Our sovereignty and compliance services include:

 

  • Establishing tribal court jurisdiction over cannabis-related disputes
  • Negotiating government-to-government agreements
  • Drafting and implementing tribal ordinances and regulations
  • Establishing tribal cannabis commissions or regulatory bodies
  • Addressing cross-jurisdictional issues and compacts with states
  • Navigating federal banking restrictions
  • Establishing relationships with financial institutions
  • Developing alternative dispute resolution mechanisms
  • Handling potential conflicts with state or federal authorities
  • Ensuring compliance with federal requirements for use of tribal funds

 

We work closely with tribal leaders and other stakeholders to develop robust legal frameworks that protect your sovereignty while fostering successful cannabis and hemp enterprises. Our attorneys have extensive experience in tribal law and the cannabis industry, allowing us to provide tailored solutions that balance compliance with your unique needs.

Operational Framework

We recognize that a well-designed operational framework is crucial for the success and longevity of tribal cannabis and hemp enterprises. Our attorneys provide comprehensive support to help establish robust systems and procedures that ensure smooth operations, regulatory compliance, and quality control. Our operational framework services include:

 

  • Designing and implementing licensing procedures for businesses
  • Establishing enforcement mechanisms for regulatory compliance
  • Creating systems for inspections and audits
  • Establishing quality control and safety standards
  • Developing tracking and reporting systems
  • Creating rules for cultivation, processing, distribution, and retail sales
  • Implementing cash management and anti-money laundering protocols

 

We work closely with tribal leaders and regulatory bodies to develop tailored operational frameworks that align with your specific needs and goals. Our attorneys combine their expertise in tribal law, cannabis regulations, and business operations to create comprehensive systems that promote efficiency, transparency, and compliance.

From establishing clear licensing procedures to implementing sophisticated tracking systems and developing stringent quality control measures, we ensure that your tribal cannabis and hemp enterprises operate at the highest standards. We also focus on creating practical enforcement mechanisms and audit processes to maintain ongoing compliance and build trust with regulators and customers alike.