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.
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.
Feb 28, 2025
Join Vicente partner Michelle Bodian during NECANN Boston, where she will present the session “Sip and Sell Smart: Legal Strategies for the Hemp Beverage Boom” on March 21. During this session, Michelle will discuss the latest developments in hemp beverage regulations in the Northeast and provide tips for businesses to remain compliant in the evolving industry. Register now!
By David Ullian, Casey Leaver
Jan 16, 2025
Massachusetts' Cannabis Control Commission has introduced new testing requirements, effective April 1, 2025, to prevent "lab shopping." Key changes include mandatory submission of Test Sample Packages to a single Independent Testing Laboratory, stricter rules for subcontracting tests, and penalties for non-compliance. Read on to learn more about these changes and how to take the necessary steps to ensure compliance and avoid regulatory violations.
By David Ullian, Tim Callahan
Dec 19, 2024
The Massachusetts Cannabis Control Commission released draft regulations for social consumption establishments this week and will hold an informal public comment period through January 23, 2025. Three license types are proposed, including one for current licensed cannabis businesses, one for new or existing non-cannabis businesses, and one for event organizers. Read this article for a breakdown of each license type and what comes next.
Dec 2, 2024
Vicente LLP is honored to announce that ten attorneys from our Boston office were selected for inclusion in Boston Magazine’s 2024 “Top Lawyers” list. Each year, Boston Magazine highlights the outstanding legal professionals in the Greater Boston area who blend exceptional legal services with a “genuine commitment to helping their clients.” Congratulations to our Vicente attorneys recognized for their work in Corporate Law, Government and Administrative Law, Civil Law Litigation, Land Use/Environment, Business Law, and Commercial Litigation!
Nov 19, 2024
Vicente partner Meg Nash has built an impressive career as a lawyer and she recently earned recognition from Massachusetts Lawyers Weekly as one of the 2024 Top Women of Law. Congratulations, Meg!
By Jeffrey Welsh
Nov 19, 2024
In an industry that runs on innovation and differentiation, a cannabis brand’s identity is among its most valuable—and most prone to copying—assets.
By David Ullian, Tim Callahan
Nov 6, 2024
The Massachusetts Cannabis Control Commission approved adult-use and medical-use cannabis regulations to support microbusinesses, home delivery licensees, product transportation, and medical patients, with a proposed effective date of November 22, 2024. The key provisions of the amendments include the removal of requirements for inventory tracking, changes to Microbusiness and Craft Marijuana Cooperative license types, expanded operations for home delivery businesses, and increased medical cannabis patient access. Read on to learn how these proposed amendments may impact cannabis operations in Massachusetts.
Oct 11, 2024
Adam D. Fine, managing partner of Vicente LLP’s Boston office, was once again acknowledged in Super Lawyers’ 2024 Massachusetts listing for his outstanding work in Business and Corporate Law and Cannabis Law. Congratulations, Adam!
Oct 7, 2024
Vicente LLP is pleased to announce that partner Jeremy Shaw has been honored as a winner in the prestigious "New Leaders in Law" category at the 2024 New England Legal Awards hosted by Law360. This achievement highlights the outstanding contributions and successes of legal professionals from Massachusetts and across the East Coast. Congratulations, Jeremy, on this well-deserved recognition!
By Chelsie Spencer
Sep 3, 2024
A strong trademark is crucial for cannabis businesses to stand out and thrive. This Insights post explores the importance of trademark protection and breaks down the different categories of trademark distinctiveness, from generic to fanciful. By understanding these categories, entrepreneurs can make informed decisions to safeguard and protect their brand identity.
By David Ullian, Tim Callahan
Jun 5, 2024
The Massachusetts Cannabis Control Commission is now issuing formal Requests for Information and Notices of Deficiency to license applicants, licensees, and host communities, and is requesting the submission of a compliant HCA or HCA Waiver. This process could cause delays in the initial application, license renewal, and final licensure processes. Learn more about the HCA reviews and how to request a license renewal extension in this Vicente Insights article.
By Casey Leaver
May 13, 2024
In the wake of changing laws and mandates for state agencies to regulate certain components of hemp licensing and production, there are a few states on the move with rules and regulations available for review or anticipated shortly. Read this insight about Kentucky’s new emergency rules, Rhode Island’s proposed definition of “consumable,” locality control over smokable hemp sales in Virginia, and more.
May 3, 2024
Watch this special briefing featuring Vicente LLP leaders who have been deeply immersed in the federal scheduling issue, along with Mitzi Keating, a CPA and partner at Citrin Cooperman.
Apr 30, 2024
Are you an entrepreneur or current hemp business interested in entering Kentucky's upcoming medical cannabis market or current hemp market? Watch this recorded session to receive the valuable information you need to get started. Vicente’s cannabis and hemp attorneys will dive into Kentucky’s medical cannabis and adult-use cannabinoid programs, discuss the markets and licensing opportunities, and offer best practices to help you reach your business goals in this new market.
By Yolanda Clarke, Colleen Mitchell
Apr 19, 2024
In an exciting week for the nascent Kentucky medical cannabis program, interested stakeholders were provided abundant new information to inform their business goals. Read this article for details on the new bill and regulations, and key licensing details—including medical cannabis business license caps.
Mar 28, 2024
Watch this pre-recorded session to learn about the future of intellectual property for cannabis and hemp products with rescheduling on the horizon. This webinar will feature a discussion with VLLP IP specialists regarding patent, IP and trademark protection, cannabis research, and what may change with potential federal marijuana rescheduling.
By David M. Ullian, Tim Callahan
Mar 7, 2024
This Insights post provides an overview of recent changes impacting Massachusetts cannabis businesses. We break down the new Model Host Community Agreement (HCA), explaining its purpose, usage, and accessibility. Additionally, we explore the updated application and renewal processes, highlighting the mandatory inclusion of compliant HCAs or waivers. This blog serves as a valuable resource for both new and existing cannabis businesses seeking to navigate the evolving regulatory landscape in Massachusetts.
Mar 7, 2024
Vicente LLP, Anderson Porter Design, and Mercury Public Affairs are thrilled to host an exclusive happy hour during NECANN Boston on March 22, and you’re invited!
Mar 4, 2024
Join Vicente LLP partner Michelle Bodian on Friday, March 22, 2024, at 3:00 p.m. ET during the New England Cannabis Convention in Boston at the Hynes Convention Center for her panel “Blink and You’ll Miss It! The Evolution of Hemp Cannabinoids.” You won’t want to miss it!
By Sally Kent Peebles, David Ullian
Feb 13, 2024
Southeast cannabis-related legislation, regulatory updates, events and other news
Nov 21, 2023
Congratulations to the Vicente LLP attorneys who were recognized as top lawyers by Boston Magazine in their 2023 list. Our attorneys were selected for their exceptional work in Corporate Law and Land Use.
Nov 9, 2023
For the second year in a row, Vicente LLP partner Adam Fine has been recognized by Super Lawyers for his exceptional practice in Massachusetts.
By David Ullian
Oct 31, 2023
The Massachusetts Cannabis Control Commission’s amended regulations make substantial changes to the current regulatory framework related to HCAs, Social Equity businesses, municipal equity, and agent suitability. These changes reveal a clear intent to make real progress towards achieving the goals of creating new opportunities and a level playing field for Social Equity businesses, and continuing to build a successful, equitable cannabis industry in Massachusetts. Read this article for an overview of the key provisions in the amended regulations.
Jul 17, 2023
Jeremy Shaw will participate in Worcester Business Journal’s Cannabis Business Summit on July 20. This panel will discuss how to anticipate and adapt to the rapidly changing market so that your business is ready for anything.
May 24, 2023
Watch Vicente's director of economics and research, Andrew Livingston, partner Adam Fine, and cannabis industry CPA/CFE Mitzi Keating discuss the latest Massachusetts market trends and opportunities in this on-demand webinar.
By Jerrico Perez
May 22, 2023
Opportunities for growth across the nation are currently abundant for cannabis businesses, and our experienced team is here to help you navigate these increasingly complex and competitive licensing processes. With more winning merit-based applications than any other law firm in the country, our team’s work ethic, dedication, and experience will help elevate your application above the competition and set your business up for long-term success.
May 10, 2023
Vicente LLP shines the spotlight on newly elevated partner Jeremy Shaw
By Sally Kent Peebles
May 3, 2023
Kentucky Governor Andy Beshears signed SB47 into law, making the Bluegrass State the 38th state to take this important step. Read this insights article for an overview of the law, including license types and qualifying medical conditions for patients.
Mar 2, 2023
Register to hear Jennifer Flanagan, David Ullian, Meg Nash, Sam Kovach-Orr, and Steve Pemberton discuss Massachusetts hiring plans, business opportunities, and cannabis delivery at NECANN!
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!
By Sally Kent Peebles, David Ullian
Jan 31, 2023
Update on cannabis legislation and rulemaking, regulatory changes, and other noteworthy news and events related to states in the Southeastern U.S. region.
Jan 10, 2023
Phil Silverman will discuss legal options for cannabis businesses encountering insolvency during MCLE’s 24th Bankruptcy Law Conference on January 12. Register to join in person or online.
Nov 23, 2022
We're proud to announce that eight VS attorneys were included in Boston Magazine's 2022 'Top Lawyers' list! Congratulations to Brandon Kurtzman, Phil Silverman, Charles Alovisetti, David Ullian, Adam Fine, Jeremy Shaw, Meg Nash, and Michelle Bodian!
By David Ullian, Jennifer Flanagan
Nov 2, 2022
This Bloomberg Law article by David Ullian and Jen Flanagan explores the evolution of the Massachusetts adult-use cannabis industry and how lawmakers, regulators, and industry advocates contributed to key recent legislative and regulatory developments.
By Jennifer Flanagan
Aug 26, 2022
Jennifer Flanagan writes for the Worcester Telegram & Gazette, reflecting on the Commonwealth's first major cannabis reform legislation since Massachusetts established a regulated adult-use cannabis market.
Aug 26, 2022
We're thrilled to announce that VS Vice President of Northeast Markets + Business Intelligence, Becca Rutenberg, earned a spot on the Boston Business Journal’s 2022 “40 under 40” list!
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.
Aug 19, 2022
Massachusetts Legislature recently voted to pass marijuana reform legislation that will impact the cannabis industry in significant ways, particularly with respect to social equity. Watch this for an overview of the new law and insights into how it might impact your business.
Aug 9, 2022
VS and Grasslands: A Journalism-Minded Agency are proud to announce the first-ever New England Cannabis C-Suite Networking Sesh, a high-level networking gathering to be held September 8 in Boston.
By Kim Napoli, Bridgette Nikisher
Aug 2, 2022
New York's Conditional Adult-Use Retail Dispensary (CAURD) Licenses are reserved for "Justice-Involved" individuals disproportionately impacted by the war on drugs. What does "Justice-Involved" mean, and how does one take advantage of the benefits associated with that classification?
By Erik Pelton
Jul 27, 2022
Looking to start a cannabis business in New York? When creating your business brand name and logo, don't forget to protect it with a trademark.
Jul 21, 2022
Congratulations to the VS attorneys selected to the 2022 Super Lawyers and Rising Stars lists in Massachusetts and New York!
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.
Apr 26, 2022
VS partner Adam Fine will discuss recent case law and provide a legislative primer on the siting of Massachusetts marijuana establishments at the Real Estate Bar Association for Massachusetts 2022 Spring Conference on May 2.
Apr 15, 2022
Kim Napoli was recognized by her peers during the 2022 NECANN Conference Community Awards
Mar 4, 2022
We look forward to seeing our colleagues, clients, and friends in person this month at the New England Cannabis Convention (NECANN)! Michelle Bodian, Jeremy Shaw, and David Ullian are slated to present in hemp and cannabis sessions.
By David M. Ullian, Gabriel Amatruda
Nov 8, 2021
Five years in, the Commonwealth has seen the most significant growth in both the number of cannabis businesses and sales, and the market continues to expand and provide new opportunities.
Nov 3, 2021
VS partner Adam Fine is slated to participate in two sessions in the upcoming AICPA & CIMA Cannabis Industry Conference on November 9, 2021.
Oct 26, 2021
Watch this session to hear lessons learned from recent cannabis EHS cases and how to avoid environmental enforcement actions
Oct 20, 2021
VS attorneys Michelle and Brandon are slated to join the panel "Opportunities at the Intersection of Hemp and Marijuana" on Friday, November 5 at CWCB Expo in New York City.
Oct 11, 2021
The spread of legalization means a growing practice area for law firms. Two VS Columbia Law alumni were interviewed in this article.
Oct 5, 2021
We look forward to seeing our colleagues, clients, and friends at MJBizCon in Las Vegas, October 19-22!
Sep 20, 2021
Kim Napoli was nominated by her peers for two awards at this years' NECANN Conference Community Awards and ultimately voted the Champion of Corporate Responsibility!
Sep 16, 2021
Find Kim Napoli on the Education Village Stage at 3 p.m. Joining Kim are Blake Mensing, Robert Jeffrey, Dick Evans and Jason Ortiz.
Sep 2, 2021
Don't miss these ESG, hemp, and compliance-focused panels with the Vicente Sederberg team at NECANN Boston cannabis conference on September 10-11, 2021.
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 2, 2021
VS partner Charles Alovisetti discussed cannabis policy and his book, The Cannabis Business, in this episode of In the Weeds with Jimmy Young podcast.
Jun 8, 2021
The prestigious international legal directory awarded VS with the 2021 'Cannabis Law - Law Firm of the Year' award, once again extended VS a Band 1 ranking, and recognized two more VS attorneys as top cannabis lawyers.
Jun 3, 2021
VS's director of regulatory policy will present the keynote at the June 16, 2021 Worcester Business of Cannabis Forum.
Jun 1, 2021
Massachusetts Lawyers Weekly will host a webinar on June 17 featuring members of Vicente Sederberg's Massachusetts team.
By Michelle Bodian, David M. Ullian
May 24, 2021
If you’re a Massachusetts cannabis retailer who is interested in selling hemp products at your store, you're probably wondering how to comply with new guidance from the Cannabis Control Commission. This article should answer some of those burning questions.
May 6, 2021
Learn best practices for onsite cannabis business compliance by watching this Massachusetts-focused session.
May 5, 2021
Watch as we explore the stark differences and key similarities between east coast and west coast cannabis licensing.
Apr 26, 2021
VS's director of regulatory compliance discusses Massachusetts cannabis business compliance on a recent episode of Pro Cannabis Media's Green Rush Live talk show.
Apr 22, 2021
Watch to learn about the common roadblocks found on the path to cannabis business compliance.
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.
By Charles Alovisetti
Mar 19, 2021
VS partner Charles Alovisetti outlines six regulatory considerations cannabis investors and operators should keep in mind when thinking about court-supervised transfers of control of a cannabis business in this article published by Marijuana Venture.
By Michelle Bodian
Feb 10, 2021
With state legislative sessions in full swing, plenty of hemp and CBD bills have been filed across the country.
By Charles Alovisetti, Sally Kent Peebles
Jan 15, 2021
As more law firms are fielding client questions about cannabis industry transactions, it can be challenging for corporate counsel to identify when they need cannabis regulatory counsel.
Jan 13, 2021
Massachusetts Cannabis Control Commission released regulatory changes impacting applicants, licensees, and stakeholders on January 8, 2021.
Jan 13, 2021
Watch to learn about operational changes related to advertising and branding, white labeling, testing, agent registration, and more!
By Vicente Sederberg LLP
Dec 18, 2020
Vicente Sederberg attorneys wrote the book on cannabis law — and now you can own it! This comprehensive primer on all things cannabis law is a must-have for anyone seeking to understand the major practical legal issues facing the marijuana and hemp industries.
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.
Nov 25, 2020
Update on hemp legislation and rulemaking, regulatory changes, and other noteworthy hemp news and events.
By Charles Alovisetti, Michelle Bodian, Elliot Choi
Oct 19, 2020
A brief history of cannabis regulation (including hemp) in the Commonwealth.
Sep 23, 2020
Watch this virtual discussion on cannabis trademarks and intellectual property with Sahar Ayinehsazian, Erik Pelton and Jeffrey Welsh.
Sep 3, 2020
Jennifer will present "Litigation is Coming! What Cannabis Businesses Need to Know Now" at NECANN Online on September 26, 2020.
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.
Jul 22, 2020
Watch this interview with Brandon Kurtzman on the CanopyBoulder Investor Hub for information on the state of legal cannabis in Massachusetts and where the opportunities lie for investors.
Jun 25, 2020
Learn best practices and key requirements for renewing your Massachusetts Marijuana Establishment license.
By Alex Lamphier
May 18, 2020
Vicente Sederberg is monitoring the potential impact of the coronavirus (COVID-19) on cannabis businesses, service providers, and consumers in Massachusetts.
By Charles Alovisetti, Elliot Choi, Sahar Ayinehsazian, Corey Cox
May 5, 2020
The continuing growth of the cannabis and hemp industries has given rise to the need for specifically tailored due diligence.
By Meg Nash, David Gately
Apr 30, 2020
The Massachusetts government has enacted several programs aimed at helping businesses and workers adversely impacted by the novel coronavirus (COVID-19).
Apr 23, 2020
The prestigious international legal directory once again gave VS a Nationwide Band 1 ranking, and this time around it also individually ranked three of the firm's partners.
Apr 17, 2020
A discussion on what's going on in the cannabis industry and, of course, real estate issues in the cannabis industry.
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?
Apr 16, 2020
Gov. Charlie Baker's ban on adult sales will remain in place, but the court's decision highlighted how it could legally be lifted and why it would help medical cannabis patients.
Apr 7, 2020
Watch the replay of this discussion on federal financial assistance and lending available for hemp and CBD businesses in light of the coronavirus pandemic.
Apr 1, 2020
Massachusetts Gov. Charlie Baker has designated medical cannabis sales essential, but not adult sales, resulting in a total shutdown of the adult-use market. Vicente Sederberg is working with local business owners, organizations, and state officials to push for a responsible solution to the situation.
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 13, 2020
Don't miss the sessions featuring Brian Vicente, Charles Alovisetti, Ilya Ross, Jennifer Cabrera, Casey Leaver and Meg Nash. Also, be sure to meet up with VS during the event and at our pre-conference networking party!
Feb 12, 2020
Legal adult cannabis sales in MA have surpassed half a billion dollars and raised approximately $100 million in tax revenue since they commenced in 2018. Check out our analysis of the state data.
Jan 22, 2020
Learn cannabis packaging and labeling best practices for Massachusetts marijuana dispensaries during this webinar on February 12, 2020.
By Valerio Romano, Partner
Jan 6, 2020
Massachusetts voters passed Question 4 to legalize adult-use marijuana in 2016, but, for various reasons, the actual rollout has been slow. While the first sales of legal recreational cannabis didn’t take place until two years later, the industry has grown consistently.
Jan 3, 2020
Andrew Livingston, Valerio Romano and Dan Smith will participate in the Business of Cannabis Forum on January 15, 2020.
Dec 11, 2019
What brand protection options are available for businesses in the cannabis, hemp, CBD or related industries? Watch this presentation to better understand the tactics your business can implement to increase protection for brand names, logos, and slogans.
By David Ullian, Senior Associate Attorney; Meg Nash, Associate Attorney; Casey Leaver, Compliance Manager
Nov 1, 2019
With the release of the new marijuana regulations in Massachusetts, our attorneys created a list of some of the important amended licensing and operational topics, effective Friday, November 1, 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.
Sep 10, 2019
Adam Fine, Elliot Choi and Ilya Ross are set to speak at Cannabis Conference Boston, a full-day conference focused on best practices in the cannabis space, presented by Massachusetts Lawyers Weekly.
Jul 16, 2019
Join us on July 18th in Boston, Massachusetts for the State of Innovation Meetup: The Future of Cannabis.
Jun 19, 2019
Vicente Sederberg Attorneys Valerio Romano and Michelle Bodian will speak on cannabis and hemp at NECANN Springfield Cannabis Conference June 22-23, 2019.