Jun 26, 2025
Join us in welcoming our new cannabis attorneys to our Denver and California offices. We are committed to building a legal team that not only reflects the communities we serve but also helps shape a more just and equitable future for the industries we support.
By Vicente LLP
Jun 17, 2025
Over the past 15 years, Vicente LLP has evolved from a bold legal experiment into one of the most influential forces in cannabis and psychedelics reform. From leading the charge on Colorado’s historic Amendment 64 to shaping national psychedelics policy and supporting Tribal sovereignty, Vicente LLP has redefined what it means to be a mission-driven law firm.
May 23, 2025
Vicente LLP is proud to sponsor Psychedelic Science 2025, the world’s largest conference dedicated to psychedelics and natural medicine! Vicente attorneys Joshua Kappel, Barine Majewska and Jerrico Perez will be featured in multiple sessions on natural medicine law, policy and entrepreneurship. Stop by Booth #406 or find us in the Business & Practitioner Lounge to connect with our team. Reach out to schedule a meeting.
By Genevieve Meehan, Samantha Fow
May 22, 2025
On May 16, the Colorado legislature passed HB25-1209, a bill designed to reduce regulatory burdens on licensed cannabis businesses. Spearheaded by state lawmakers and supported by industry advocates, the bill streamlines outdated requirements related to background checks, recordkeeping, surveillance, and more—aiming to improve operational efficiency while maintaining public safety. In this Insights post, we’ll cover the key changes introduced by HB25-1209, how they affect cannabis operators and regulators, and what businesses should know moving forward.
Apr 16, 2025
Brian Vicente, founding partner of Vicente LLP and a pioneer in cannabis policy reform, has been honored by ColoradoBiz as a top business law leader in their Spring 2025 Power List. Congrats, Brian!
By Genevieve Meehan, Barine Majewska
Apr 9, 2025
New Mexico becomes the third state in the U.S. to legalize the supervised medical use of psilocybin with the passage of Senate Bill 219, the Medical Psilocybin Act. Notably, the bill was mandated by New Mexico’s legislature, and not by voter ballot measure as in Colorado and Oregon.
By Vicente LLP
Mar 18, 2025
As Vicente LLP celebrates its 15th anniversary this year, we reflect on 15 milestones that highlight our growth, commitment to advocacy, and the important role our firm has played in cannabis law, psychedelics law, and drug policy reform.
Mar 7, 2025
Vicente partner Joshua Kappel joined Healing Advocacy Fund and the National Psychedelics Association during the “Nuts & Bolts: Colorado Natural Medicine Business Webinar,” which provided insights for business license applicants navigating Colorado’s regulated natural medicine program, including regulatory requirements, business structuring, and legal considerations. Watch the replay!
By Shawn Hauser, Andrew Livingston
Jan 31, 2025
The much-anticipated hearings on the proposed rulemaking to reschedule cannabis, which were scheduled to begin on January 21, have been postponed for at least three months as a result of an appeal granted by DEA Administrative Law Judge John Mulrooney. In this article, we examine a timeline of progress on rescheduling so far and discuss what may happen next and how the new administration may affect the process.
Dec 18, 2024
Join Vicente LLP and Healing Advocacy Fund in a pre-recorded session for an opportunity to hear how Colorado’s Natural Medicine Program rules have come together. We will also discuss business structures and licensing, followed by a Q&A session with leading psychedelic policy experts.
Nov 8, 2024
On November 13, Vicente founding partner Joshua Kappel will provide training for DU Law students on how to get involved with local and state drug policy during a two-part educational series hosted by Students for Sensible Drug Policy (SSDP).
Oct 24, 2024
Vicente’s Florida-based cannabis attorney Sally Peebles recently appeared on WJCT Public Media’s First Coast Connect radio show to discuss Amendment 3, the cannabis legalization initiative set to appear on Florida ballots this year. Listen now!
Oct 17, 2024
Watch this Vicente session to learn about how rescheduling may impact 280E and tax planning! Vicente attorneys, along with special guest tax attorneys from HBK CPAs and Jones & Keller, provide an update on the rescheduling process, including the timeline to a final rule and potential obstacles, along with a deep dive into 280E and tax strategies.
Oct 2, 2024
The 7th Annual Cannabis LAB Conference will feature Vicente Florida partner Sally Peebles, who will discuss the future of the cannabis industry as a result of federal cannabis rescheduling. Register now!
Sep 27, 2024
Attend Vicente partner Michelle Bodian’s panel during the Wine, Beer and Spirits Law Conference in Denver, Colorado on October 9. Bodian will discuss “Cannabis and Hemp: Rescheduling, Further Legalization, Intoxicating Hemp Beverages, and More.” Register now!
By Jason Adelstone
Sep 9, 2024
The DEA Hearing on Proposed Rulemaking for cannabis rescheduling will take place on December 2, 2024. What happens next? Read this insights article to learn about the importance of "interested persons" and the administrative law judge appointed to oversee the hearing, the anticipated timeline, the potential impact of the presidential election, and more.
By Joshua Kappel, Barine Majewska
Aug 23, 2024
Colorado’s Department of Regulatory Agencies and Department of Revenue have finalized rules for facilitator licensing and business operations under the Natural Medicine program, which launches January 1. Read on for the latest update on the rules, local government restrictions and proposed licensing and application fees.
By Shawn Hauser
Aug 1, 2024
Last Monday marked the end of the historic DEA public comment period for marijuana’s proposed rescheduling to Schedule III. What happens now and how might election dynamics have an impact?
By Shawn Hauser
May 29, 2024
We are at a historic and critical moment for cannabis reform, as the DOJ and HHS/FDA have proposed rescheduling cannabis to Schedule III. The DEA is accepting public comments until July 22, 2024 via the Federal eRulemaking Portal, so now is the time to take action and make your voice heard!
Mar 4, 2024
Join Vicente LLP partner Michelle Bodian on Thursday, April 11, 2024, at the NOCO Hemp Expo in Estes Park, Colorado for her speaking session “Navigating the Hemp Haze: State of the Union on Intoxicating Hemp Products”. Register now!
By Genevieve Meehan
Jan 11, 2024
The Colorado Marijuana Enforcement Division (“MED”) implemented new rules that became effective on January 8th, 2024. Read on to learn more about these important regulatory changes and how they may impact your marijuana business.
Jan 4, 2024
Vicente LLP attorneys Shawn Hauser, Jerrico Perez, Christian Sederberg, and Brian Vicente were recognized by 5280 magazine in its annual "Denver's Top Lawyers 2024" list of the city's most respected attorneys.
Dec 21, 2023
Shawn Hauser recently joined the “One Minute With…” podcast hosted by Jacques Santucci of Opus Consulting to discuss Vicente LLP’s history with cannabis legalization, the recent recommendation by the HHS to reschedule marijuana to a Schedule III drug and what this means for the future of federal drug policy reform. Listen now!
Aug 29, 2023
What are the latest updates on Natural Medicines in Colorado? What are the opportunities for entering Colorado’s psychedelic ecosystem? Attend Joshua Kappel and Yolanda Clarke’s sessions at PsyCon Denver on September 29 to find out the answers to these questions. Register now!
Apr 10, 2023
Attend the NORML Denver Legal Seminar from June 7-9 to hear Vicente partners Charles Alovisetti, Sahar Ayinehsazian, Shawn Hauser, and Brian Vicente discuss the latest cannabis industry legal and business insights.
By Jason Adelstone
Mar 15, 2023
In its 2022 report, the International Narcotics Control Board (INCB) argues that legalizing the non-medical and non-scientific use of cannabis has failed to achieve the benefits to society that were intended through such legalization. In its attempt to deliver evidence of this failure, INCB instead provides ample evidence to the contrary—that legalization and regulation work. Read this insight for Vicente LLP’s response to the annual report of the INCB.
Feb 22, 2023
It's official: Vicente Sederberg LLP is now Vicente LLP. Take a look at our new logo and get to know the firm's largest-ever new partner class!
Feb 9, 2023
What is microdosing and what does the path to legalizing responsible psychedelic use look like? Get the low-down from the Third Wave Podcast featuring Josh Kappel, Alli Schaper and Marie Mbouni, M.D.
Jan 12, 2023
As states like Oregon and Colorado develop regulated pathways for people to get involved in the regulated psychedelics industry, possibilities—and questions—are increasing: What are the opportunities now, what’s next, and where? Get answers by watching this recorded session.
Jan 6, 2023
"Can I start selling mushrooms in Colorado now?" Joshua Kappel answers your questions about Proposition 122 on the Psychedelics Passage podcast. Listen here!
Jan 5, 2023
Congratulations to VS's cannabis attorneys who landed on 5280 Magazine's Top Lawyers 2023 list!
Dec 23, 2022
On January 7, 2023, the VS team will provide legal services at a drug conviction record sealing clinic in Denver, Colorado.
By Shane Pennington
Nov 9, 2022
What outcomes are possible from the impending administrative process to reconsider cannabis’s schedule I status? What are the implications of those various possible outcomes? And how should we all proceed in light of it all?
Nov 4, 2022
Christian Sederberg was recently interviewed by The Green Peak podcast about federal cannabis legalization, the midterm elections and more. Listen now!
Nov 4, 2022
Brian Vicente and Mason Tvert speak on their journey and history related to cannabis legalization on the High-Rise podcast. Listen now!
By Shane Pennington
Oct 21, 2022
To appreciate the gravity of the President’s scheduling directive and what could happen next, you need to understand (1) how the administrative process the President has set in motion will actually work and (2) how the agencies in charge have used it to affirm and reaffirm cannabis’s schedule I1 status repeatedly throughout the Comprehensive Drug Abuse Prevention and Control Act of 1970’s (“CSA”) history. Those topics are covered in this article.
Oct 17, 2022
Congratulations James Nechleba! We are extremely proud of your accomplishment!
By Joshua Kappel and Tucker Wentz
Oct 11, 2022
Vicente Sederberg LLP is proud to stand with Natural Medicine Colorado and support Proposition 122. This measure not only provides safe access to natural psychedelic medicines, but does so in a way that is grounded in equity and conscious capitalism while also protecting legacy communities and existing medicine keepers.
By Marc Ross
Oct 11, 2022
Colorado Prop 122, The Natural Medicine Health Act, requires that licensed entities participating in the Natural Medicine Regulated Access Program must meet specific ESG criteria.
By Colleen Mitchell, Yolanda Clarke
Oct 10, 2022
Prop 122 would create a regulated system for adults aged 21 and older to access natural psychedelic medicine, such as psilocybin, in a supervised setting to treat various mental health conditions. It would also allow for the cultivation, possession, personal use, and gifting of psychedelic medicine for adults aged 21 and older. Read this for an overview of the proposition’s key components.
Sep 12, 2022
Brian Vicente discusses the roots of his cannabis career, how his firm grew to be one of the largest in cannabis law and more on a recent podcast titled, "Pot to Popular" hosted by CEO of MATTIO, Rosie Mattio.
Aug 19, 2022
VS is pleased to announce that 14 attorneys from national cannabis law firm Vicente Sederberg LLP (VS) were recognized this week by Best Lawyers, the oldest and most respected peer-review publication in the legal profession.
Jul 29, 2022
Brian Vicente will join the State Bar of New Mexico's 2022 Annual Meeting on August 11, 2022 to present in a Cannabis Law Institute breakout session.
Jul 28, 2022
VS partner Shawn Hauser is slated to participate in a hemp- and cannabis-focused session at the upcoming AICPA & CIMA Agriculture Industry Conference.
Jul 28, 2022
VS partner Adam Fine is slated to participate in two sessions in the upcoming AICPA & CIMA Cannabis Industry Conference on August 8, 2022.
Jul 22, 2022
VS founding partner Christian Sederberg was recently interviewed by the Proud to Work in Cannabis podcast to discuss details regarding federal drug policy, as well as his own entrepreneurial background - from Amendment 64 to today.
Jul 6, 2022
VS is excited to announce that the prestigious international legal directory Chambers & Partners awarded VS with the 'Cannabis Law Firm of the Year' award once again, extended VS a Band 1 ranking for the fourth straight year, and recognized five VS attorneys as top cannabis lawyers.
By Catie Wightman, Shawn Hauser
Jun 16, 2022
We recently hosted a webinar exploring intoxicating hemp-derived products. Read this for key takeaways from the session.
By Jamie Greenwood
Jun 6, 2022
The State of Colorado is convening a task force to collaborate on a report concerning intoxicating hemp products. Participate in the process by joining the task force, attending meetings, and submitting public comments!
By Charlie Alovisetti, Genevieve Meehan, Josh Kappel
May 27, 2022
Do commercial opportunities for entrepreneurs exist in psychedelics? We explore the current limited legal pathways and potential opportunities via proposed legislation and ballot initiatives in this article.
May 23, 2022
Brian Vicente and Genevieve Meehan will join cannabis branding and compliance panels on Thursday, June 9.
By Jason Adelstone
Apr 27, 2022
A recent paper by Kenzi Riboulet-Zemouli argues that the 1961 Single Convention on Narcotic Drugs already allows for the regulation of Non-Medical cannabis. This premise, unfortunately, is just incorrect.
Apr 19, 2022
The feature recounts the closely intertwined origins and growth of Vicente Sederberg and the legal cannabis market in Colorado and beyond.
Apr 15, 2022
Back from a COVID-19 hiatus, High Times announced its annual list of the 100 most influential figures in the cannabis space - including VS founding partner Brian Vicente.
Mar 7, 2022
We're thrilled to announce that VS partner Shawn Hauser earned a spot on the Denver Business Journal’s 26th annual “40 under 40” list!
Nov 9, 2021
The American Bar Association's International Law Section will host its first annual Global Business of Cannabis Conference in Denver, Colorado from November 10-12, 2021. Marc Ross is slated to join the panel "The Environmental Impact of Cannabis Cultivation: Does Legalization Make a Difference?"
Oct 26, 2021
Watch this session to hear lessons learned from recent cannabis EHS cases and how to avoid environmental enforcement actions
Oct 19, 2021
Watch this recorded session for an update on recent changes in the Colorado market from members of our Colorado regulatory, corporate, and hemp teams and special guest Christopher Stefan of Cannabis Capital Advisors.
By James Nechleba
Oct 6, 2021
How can mental health practitioners map the new territory of psychedelics use in mental health therapy and stay within Colorado law?
By Jonathan Cherkoss
Aug 30, 2021
Oregon voters passed two of the nation’s most sweeping drug policy reform measures in U.S. history in 2020, energizing grassroots organizers in Colorado and across the country. What's next for decriminalization and psychedelics reform in Colorado?
Aug 19, 2021
Vicente Sederberg LLP is pleased to share that five lawyers representing the firm’s Colorado, Massachusetts, and New York offices were recognized by their attorney peers in The Best Lawyers in America© 2022.
Jul 28, 2021
VS entheogens and emerging therapies attorney Barine Majewska, alongside other leaders in the psychedelic and drug policy space will explore political and policy avenues for ending the war on drugs in this upcoming forum.
Jul 26, 2021
VS Strategies partner Jordan Wellington discussed Colorado's cannabis hospitality laws and opportunities in New Mexico on the Deadhead Cannabis Show.
Jul 22, 2021
VS's Jason Adelstone, Catie Wightman and Genevieve Meehan will participate in a free expungement clinic to be held on July 31, 2021 in Denver.
Jul 2, 2021
Denver marijuana licensees are now required to submit Social Impact Plans as part of license renewals and applications. Watch this session to learn about the new requirements.
Jun 23, 2021
VS founding partner Christian Sederberg was recently interviewed by legal columnist Alison Frankel of Reuters about his background in cannabis law and thoughts for the future.
By Corey Cox, Caitlin Wightman
May 24, 2021
The Colorado government has enacted several programs aimed at helping businesses and workers adversely impacted by the novel coronavirus (COVID-19).
May 7, 2021
Shawn will discuss the path forward for hemp-derived CBD at the Council for Responsible Nutrition's June 8-10 event.
May 4, 2021
Colorado Law Executive Education and CU Leeds School of Business are offering an online Cannabis Entrepreneurship Academy on Fridays during June 2021. The academy will tackle many cannabis business issues, including leadership, financing, regulations, markets, and more!
Apr 30, 2021
Josh Kappel recently chatted with host Bruce Eckfeldt about the beginnings of his work in cannabis law and advocacy, as well as what he's doing now and thoughts for the future.
Apr 19, 2021
Christian Sederberg and Barine Majewska will speak on cannabis law and psychedelics during the Cannalaw Summit on May 6, 2021.
By Brian Vicente
Apr 19, 2021
The cannabis industry is complex. Prospective cannabis business owners and other service providers interested in working with cannabis businesses are wise to take a step back and assess what it really takes to not only enter the cannabis industry, but to succeed in it.
Apr 7, 2021
Launched March 25, 2021, the NHCC aims to empower the U.S. Hispanic community through education, entrepreneurialism, and economic opportunity. Brian Vicente, Jennifer Cabrera, and Fatima Thibou will sit on the Board of Directors.
Mar 29, 2021
Vicente Sederberg is monitoring local, state, and federal responses to the coronavirus (COVID-19) and how they may impact cannabis businesses, service providers, and consumers.
Mar 19, 2021
VS partner Brian Vicente discusses cannabis policy reform and state and federal legalization in this episode of In the Weeds with Jimmy Young podcast.
Mar 16, 2021
VS Strategies partner Mason Tvert was recently interviewed by host Jay Shifman on the Choose Your Struggle podcast.
By Ben Leonard and Brett Williams
Mar 9, 2021
This article published by the Colorado Bar Association addresses issues unique to cannabis-related business lease transactions and offers suggestions for structuring such leases to maintain regulatory compliance.
By Charles Alovisetti, Corey Cox, Justin Johnson, Andrew Livingston, Jessica Scardina, Jordan Wellington, Catie Wightman
Jan 11, 2021
Vicente Sederberg is monitoring the potential impact of the coronavirus (COVID-19) on cannabis businesses, service providers, and consumers in Colorado.
Jan 5, 2021
Shawn Hauser, Jessica Scardina, Christian Sederberg, and Brian Vicente were included in the magazine's list of the 487 best lawyers in the Denver area.
Dec 29, 2020
The article, titled "Nation's Top Cannabis Lawyer to Head Industry's Leading Trade Group," discusses Christian's path to cannabis law and delves into the Cannabis Trade Federation's main priorities.
Dec 22, 2020
VS is honored to receive the Black Cannabis Equity Initiative’s Beacon of Light Award for "leading the way” on social equity issues in Colorado’s cannabis industry.
By Vicente Sederberg LLP
Dec 22, 2020
Ten events from the past decade that established Colorado as a global leader on marijuana and hemp policy.
Dec 14, 2020
VS was honored to be recognized as the Industry Leader of the Year during the 2020 Colorado Cannabis Business Awards, held virtually on December 10, 2020.
By Vicente Sederberg LLP
Dec 1, 2020
For our 10th anniversary, we take a look back at VS's history of leadership in cannabis law, the marijuana and hemp industries, and drug policy reform.
Oct 30, 2020
Brian Vicente weighs in on the challenges and opportunities of helping those who’ve been unfairly targeted by the War on Drugs on episode 93 of the Brave New Weed podcast.
Sep 17, 2020
Blizzy Magazine, a new publication targeting the African American cannabis consumer, recently recognized VS attorneys Christian Sederberg and Jordan Wellington in the magazine’s inaugural list of “Top Social Equity Cannabis Power Players.”
Aug 31, 2020
VS founding partner Brian Vicente will discuss litigation and regulation in the cannabis industry as part of the Association of Defense Trial Attorneys Denver Annual Meeting.
Aug 20, 2020
Vicente Sederberg LLP is pleased to share that five lawyers representing the firm’s Boston and Colorado offices were recognized by their attorney peers in The Best Lawyers in America© 2021.
Aug 14, 2020
In the second episode of this thrilling podcast series, VS partner Brian Vicente is interviewed by host Chris Walker to better understand cannabis laws in Colorado.
Jul 29, 2020
The Color of Cannabis will host a free expungement clinic for Colorado cannabis convictions on August 22, 2020.
By Justin Johnson
Jun 19, 2020
Many licensed Colorado marijuana businesses unfortunately experience disputes among their owners. Reasons vary, but almost all of them trigger regulatory issues that must be navigated.
Jun 11, 2020
The Color of Cannabis, in partnership with Minority Cannabis Business Association and Vicente Sederberg LLP, will host a free expungement clinic for Denver County cannabis convictions on June 20, 2020. RSVP by June 19!
May 27, 2020
VS partner Josh Kappel chatted about entheogens on The Real Dirt with Chip Baker.
May 21, 2020
Vicente Sederberg LLP, VS Strategies, and Cannabis Trainers held a timely virtual discussion about the new reality and rules for Colorado cannabis businesses.
Apr 17, 2020
Vicente Sederberg is monitoring the potential impact of the coronavirus (COVID-19) on hemp businesses, service providers, and consumers.
By Charles Alovisetti, Brandon Kurtzman
Apr 16, 2020
Since COVID-19 has limited patient ability to get in-person consultations and examinations with health care providers, how does one go about obtaining a medical marijuana patient certification?
Mar 27, 2020
Watch the replay of this timely discussion on coronavirus (COVID-19) regulatory updates affecting the cannabis industry.
Mar 16, 2020
VS is open for business and communicating with regulators to help answer your questions.
Feb 26, 2020
VS attorney Courtney Barnes will volunteer at Denver’s Turn Over a New Leaf clinic on February 29, 2020, to clear and vacate low-level marijuana convictions for activities that are now legal in the city of Denver.
Jan 31, 2020
Cannabis activists in Missouri officially launched their campaign to put marijuana legalization on the Show-Me State’s November 2020 ballot. Show your support by attending an insider briefing at our Denver office.
Jan 22, 2020
VS attorneys Charles Alovisetti and Sahar Ayinehsazian sat down in Business of Cannabis's Canada's Scene Booth at MJBizCon 2019 to discuss the state of the cannabis industry.
Jan 13, 2020
Former Colorado state Representative Sal Pace joins Jordan and Andrew to talk about the history of Colorado legalization and about his work with the Cannabis Voter Project, which seeks to register marijuana-friendly voters.
Dec 16, 2019
Brian Vicente talks about the early days of the cannabis industry, along with the risks of being a cannabis lawyer, in the new podcast series, Law360 Explores: Legalization.
Dec 13, 2019
Join VS and the tax experts at Ryan LLC for a live discussion on cannabis industry taxation, including 280E and best practices for indirect tax issues in the cannabis industry.
By Jessica Scardina, Senior Associate Attorney
Dec 12, 2019
Effective January 1, 2020, the MED is eliminating the 90-day grace period for filing late license renewals.
Oct 9, 2019
Hemp & Cannabinoids Practice Group attorney Corey Cox will speak about the legalities of CBD at the CBDExpo Mountain conference on October 12, 2019.
By Yolanda Clarke, Associate Attorney; Rachael Cotner, Licensing Specialist Assistant
Sep 27, 2019
VS was proud to support National Expungement Week (N.E.W.) events in Denver and Massachusetts during the week of September 21-28, 2019.
By Charles S. Alovisetti, Partner; Jessica Scardina, Senior Associate Attorney; and Ben Leonard, Associate Attorney
Aug 26, 2019
New guidance from the Colorado MED clarifies that companies and investors can begin taking advantage of HB 1090’s more flexible regulatory structure immediately.
Aug 20, 2019
VS Attorney Ben Leonard will moderate the event "The Future of Cannabis" event on Wednesday, August 21, 2019, at Industry RiNo Station in Denver.
Aug 8, 2019
The American Herbal Products Association (AHPA) will hold their first Hemp-CBD Supplement Congress on August 15-16, 2019 in Denver, Colorado. Several members of the Vicente Sederberg hemp team will be in attendance!
Jul 24, 2019
Jordan Wellington spoke on a panel at Denver Business Journal's well-attended Business of Cannabis event on July 23, 2019.
Jul 17, 2019
Earlier this summer, Colorado Governor Jared Polis announced two major initiatives for Colorado’s marijuana and hemp industries: Colorado Hemp Advancement & Management Plan (CHAMP) and the Governor's Dashboard.
Jul 16, 2019
Jordan will speak on a cannabis compliance and legislative panel at the Denver Business Journal's event on Tuesday, July 23, 2019.
May 22, 2019
Vicente Sederberg was proud to assist the initiative proponents in drafting a measure that can mitigate the harms being caused by current state laws that treat psilocybin possession as a felony offense.