Vicente LLP is a national leader in cannabis business licensing. We have helped clients obtain all types of licenses — cultivation, processing, retail, testing, delivery, etc. — including many through highly competitive application processes. We also routinely help clients secure licenses through non-competitive state and local processes, and we have been doing so for over a decade.
Vicente LLP started helping entrepreneurs obtain cannabis business licenses back in 2010, after firm leaders helped establish the nation’s first state-regulated cannabis market in Colorado. Since then, our attorneys and professional staff have developed extensive experience navigating state and local licensing processes across North America. Their active participation in shaping state and local cannabis laws and regulations provides them with unique insights into these complicated licensing systems. As a result, we have an unparalleled track record of success: Vicente LLP has helped clients successfully obtain licenses in 27 states and dozens of localities across the U.S. and Canada (see the "Experience" tab below for details).
Vicente LLP provides assistance with all types of state and local licensing applications, including applications for new business licenses, license renewals, social equity and economic empowerment programs, changes of ownership, changes of location, modification of premises, and occupational licensing. We oversee the application process, create work plans, draft narratives, and play a critical role in the production of business plans, financials, and operating manuals, providing confidential legal and strategic advice related to all facets of the process and your business. We have also developed comprehensive industry-specific manuals and intellectual property to assist clients when applying in new markets. From the initial completion and review of applications to complex processes involving existing facilities, our team can quickly assess a client's needs and provide them with the guidance and practical knowledge necessary for continued success.
Assistance with all types of state and local licensing applications, including applications for new business licenses, license renewals, changes of ownership, changes of location, modification of premises, and occupational licensing
Assistance with finding of suitability applications and other financial disclosure applications
Development of standard operating procedures and implementation of industry best practices
Obtaining required state and local tax permits
Development of business plans, including market analysis and financial projections
Regulatory reviews of licensing applications and supporting documents
Representation at state and local licensing hearings
Renewal tracking and assistance for all license types
Vicente LLP has assisted clients in obtaining all types of cannabis licenses:
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We have helped clients successfully secure licenses in the following 27 states, as well as dozens of localities across the U.S. and Canada:
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Vicente LLP has helped clients obtain licenses through some of the most competitive state and local application processes in the country. The following is a sample of our track record:
California — Helped a client obtain approval for local storefront and delivery licenses in West Hollywood, where over 300 screening applications were submitted by more than 120 different applicants, and the city awarded only eight authorizations to proceed for each license type.
Colorado — In the city of Aurora, helped a client win one of 27 local adult-use cannabis business licenses, receiving the highest score of the 57 applications submitted.
Connecticut — Helped clients win almost 30% of all available adult-use cannabis licenses in the first-round lottery. Also helped a client win a state medical cannabis dispensary license, when just nine were awarded and 73 applications were submitted.
Florida — Helped a client win one of the first state medical cannabis cultivation/distribution licenses, when only five were awarded and 28 applications were submitted.
Hawaii — Helped a client win a state medical cannabis dispensary license, when only eight were awarded and 66 applications were submitted.
Maryland — Helped a client win one of 15 state medical cannabis cultivation licenses and one of 15 medical cannabis processing licenses, when 145 cultivation applications and 124 processing applications were submitted, respectively. Also helped win three state medical cannabis dispensary licenses.
Minnesota — Helped a client win one of only two state medical cannabis cultivation licenses that were awarded.
Missouri — When the state awarded 24 medical cannabis dispensary licenses in each congressional district, Vicente LLP helped clients win a license in District 5 (where 182 applications were submitted), District 6 (where 168 applications were submitted, and District 7 (where 141 applications were submitted). Also helped clients win four of the 86 state medical cannabis manufacturing licenses awarded (415 applications were submitted) and one of only 10 state medical cannabis testing licenses, receiving the highest score of the 17 applications submitted. Additionally, Vicente LLP helped a client win one of 60 state medical cannabis cultivation licenses (554 applications were submitted) to achieve vertical integration.
Nevada — Helped clients win four of the 60 state cannabis businesses licenses awarded, receiving the highest and second-highest scores of the 109 applications submitted.
New York — Helped clients acquire conditional cultivator and conditional processor licenses, the first adult-use cannabis license types available in the state. Also helped a client win a state medical cannabis cultivation license, when only four were awarded and 43 applications were submitted.
North Dakota — Helped a client win one of only two state medical cannabis cultivation/manufacturing licenses, receiving the highest score of the 19 applications submitted.
Ohio — Helped a client win one of only 12 large medical cannabis cultivation licenses awarded by the state, receiving the highest score of the 109 total applications submitted. Also helped win one medical cannabis processor license and three dispensary licenses.
Pennsylvania — Helped a client win a state medical cannabis dispensary license, when only 27 were awarded and 282 applications were submitted. In Erie and Pittsburgh, helped a client win local clinical registrant dispensary and grower/processor permits in a highly competitive application process that saw only one permit awarded in each locality.
South Dakota — Helped a client acquire local and state applications to become one of the first licensed dispensaries in the state. Submitted one of the only applications without a single deficiency.
Utah — Helped a client win one of eight state medical cannabis cultivation licenses (81 applications were submitted), as well as a state medical cannabis processing license.
Virginia — Helped a client win a vertically integrated state medical cannabis license, when only five were awarded and 51 applications were submitted.
West Virginia — Helped a client win state cultivation and processing licenses, when only 10 of each license type were awarded and dozens of applications were submitted. Vicente LLP also helped a client win six of the initial 100 dispensary licenses awarded by the state.
By Meg Nash, Sam Kovach-Orr
Mar 16, 2023
Proposed legislation that would regulate the adult-use cannabis market in Maryland was recently amended. This article provides an overview of key provisions of the amended HB 556 that will impact both existing medical licensees and future applicants intending to pursue licenses in 2023.
Mar 15, 2023
Are you ready to jump into the Connecticut cannabis market? Attend this Xpocanna session with Vicente partner Michelle Bodian on March 25 for reflections on the Nutmeg State’s 2022 licensing lottery process, guidance for applying in 2023, and insight into what’s might be coming during this year from the legislature, Dept of Consumer Protection, and the Social Equity Council.
Mar 9, 2023
Watch this session to learn how cannabis regulations impact M&A transactions and financings in Connecticut, New Jersey, and New York.
Feb 27, 2023
Don’t miss Sally Peebles and Jerrico Perez speaking at the National Hispanic Cannabis Council’s Florida spotlight live session on February 28!
By Meg Nash and Sam Kovach-Orr
Feb 7, 2023
Just a few months after voters legalized cannabis, Maryland legislators introduced proposed legislation that would create a framework for the adult-use cannabis market.
Feb 2, 2023
Michelle Bodian will discuss Connecticut’s adult-use cannabis licensing program, lottery system, and social equity goals in an INCBA webinar on February 8!
By Sally Kent Peebles
Feb 1, 2023
Nearly one year after Gov. Reeves signed the Mississippi Medical cannabis Act (MMCA), medical marijuana sales launched in the Magnolia State. License applications are still being accepted.
By Stephen Pemberton, Jennifer Cabrera
Jan 25, 2023
The New Jersey Cannabis Regulatory Commission recently published proposed regulations governing the operation of cannabis consumption areas and opened up the public comment period. Read our summary to get the low-down.
By Yolanda Clarke, Alex Solome
Jan 11, 2023
Illinois will hold another cannabis dispensary license round in early 2023 with a lower submission fee and a major focus on social equity requirements. Read this article to learn about the requirements and application deadlines. If you're interested in applying, VS's licensing team is ready to help you secure your future success.
By Sally Kent Peebles
Dec 19, 2022
The wait is finally over! Florida Department of Health Emergency Rule 64ER22-9 was released today, providing insight into the much-anticipated Florida Medical Marijuana Treatment Center licensing round.
By Michelle Bodian, Sam Kovach-Orr, Bridgette Nikisher
Dec 16, 2022
Draft regulations to implement New York's Marijuana Regulation and Taxation Act have been published. While the draft regulations are over 280 pages, we summarized ten key items that will most directly impact hopeful and existing New York cannabis businesses.
Dec 8, 2022
Watch this session on-demand for a discussion on the cannabis landscape and emerging opportunities in Michigan, Minnesota, Illinois, Ohio, North Dakota, South Dakota, and Wisconsin.
By Yolanda Clarke, Jamie Greenwood
Nov 16, 2022
In another exciting step towards implementing psilocybin services, the Oregon Psilocybin Services Section issued updated proposed rules under the Oregon Psilocybin Services Act this month, making significant changes to the previous iteration. Make your voices heard! The public comment period is open through November 21, 2022.
By Jen Flanagan, Sam Kovach-Orr, Meg Nash, Bridgette Nikisher
Nov 16, 2022
Widespread support for allowing cannabis retail sales in Rhode Island municipalities significantly expands opportunities for potential applicants seeking to obtain one of the 24 cannabis retail licenses expected to be available in 2023. Read this article for insight into what to expect next and how to prepare.
By Michelle Bodian, Bridgette Nikisher
Nov 15, 2022
Who wants free money for investing in a Connecticut cannabis company? CT's Cannabis Angel Tax Credit Program provides a way for investors to receive a 25% tax credit against the state income tax when they invest at least $25k in an approved social equity cannabis licensee.
Nov 10, 2022
VS unpacks the cannabis- and psychedelics-related results of the 2022 election and discusses the implications of President Biden’s recent Executive Scheduling reform.
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.
Oct 26, 2022
On October 30, VS counsel Shane Pennington will be joined by other cannabis attorneys and consultants on a panel about New York’s cannabis licensing process.
Oct 19, 2022
Watch this recorded session for insight into the current market data and projected future of NY’s cannabis market.
By Michelle Bodian, Bridgette Nikisher
Oct 18, 2022
Helpful tips and best practices to position you and your business for a smooth New York cannabis license application process.
Oct 17, 2022
Michelle Bodian will be discussing the Tri-State licensing landscape at Arcview Access Cannabis Investment Summit on October 20!
Sep 27, 2022
Sally Kent Peebles will be in Jackson, Mississippi on October 7 to speak about cannabis business licensing at the Lucky Leaf Expo!
By James Nechleba
Sep 20, 2022
Hunting for an optimal cannabis business location in New Mexico demands a thorough investigation and understanding of state and local laws, but one should pay the closest attention to local rules.
By James Nechleba
Sep 14, 2022
Cannabis retailers in New Mexico that want to provide their customers with a deli-style experience must be aware of license restrictions and local zoning rules that may prohibit them from doing so with just a basic retailer license.
Sep 13, 2022
Michelle Bodian will be speaking at The Business of Cannabis: CT Cannabis Conference & Expo on a panel "Where Are We Now and What's Next for CT's Emerging Cannabis Industry" on September 14, 2022.
Aug 29, 2022
VS partners Sally Peebles and Jerrico Perez will participate in an upcoming NHCC legal committee session spotlighting the unique southern cannabis landscape on August 31st.
Aug 25, 2022
Watch these two sessions where our New York team dives into what you need to know to prepare for the upcoming New York CAURD licensing round.
By Michelle Bodian, Jennifer Cabrera, Bridgette Nikisher
Aug 16, 2022
On August 12, 2022, New York state announced the application window for Conditional Adult-Use Retail Dispensary Licenses (CAURD), which will be the first batch of adult-use retail licenses released in New York. CAURD applications will be available starting August 25, 2022 and close on September 26, 2022.
Aug 15, 2022
Jennifer Cabrera, Casey Leaver, Adam Fine and Steve Pemberton are scheduled to speak at New Jersey NECANN in September!
Aug 10, 2022
Michelle Bodian and Jen Flanagan will be speaking at 2022 New York Cannabis Convention hosted by NECANN
By Travis Copenhaver
Jul 29, 2022
Michigan cannabis licensing is broken up into three steps: prequalification, municipal approval, and state facility approval. The first major hurdle every licensee must go through is the prequalification process.
By Meg Nash
Jul 26, 2022
Licensed medical cannabis cultivators in Rhode Island can produce cannabis for adult use starting August 1, 2022. Hybrid cultivation applications were released on July 26 and hybrid retail cannabis applications will be available by October 15, 2022.
By Sally Kent Peebles
Jul 20, 2022
The wait may soon be over for those wishing to enter the Florida medical marijuana market with the upcoming general application process opening for medical marijuana treatment centers.
By Zachary Windham
Jul 13, 2022
The New York cannabis rush is here, and with the release of more license categories on the horizon, cannabis entrepreneurs are (hopefully) busy preparing for the upcoming historical licensing round. Read this VS Insight focusing on a crucial first step for any company—creating a plan and forming a business.
Jul 5, 2022
Update on cannabis legislation and rulemaking, regulatory changes, and other noteworthy cannabis news and events from New York, New Jersey and Connecticut.
By Brandon Kurtzman, Bridgette Nikisher
Jul 5, 2022
To beat the summer slump, VS’s New York team created an eight-part series of VS Insights to help you prepare for your New York cannabis business license application. Read the first article of the series, which focuses on helpful tips to put your best foot forward for the licensing process.
Jun 24, 2022
Cassia Furman was joined by others for a Cannabis M&A Summit panel titled, "Creating Deal Terms, Contracts, Equity & Licenses," on June 22, 2022 in San Francisco, California.
May 11, 2022
VS counsel Michelle Bodian will take the stage on May 22, 2022 during the Xpocanna Connecticut Cannabis Expo at the Mohegan Sun in Uncasville to discuss cannabusiness licensing in the Nutmeg State.
May 11, 2022
On May 19, 2022, a live INCBA CLE webinar about cannabis licensing in New York will feature VS counsel Michelle Bodian.
May 6, 2022
VS attorneys Michelle Bodian and Jennifer Cabrera will participate in an NHCC roundtable focused on New York's cannabis industry on May 12.
May 6, 2022
VS attorneys Michelle Bodian and Jennifer Cabrera will participate in an NHCC roundtable focused on New York's cannabis industry on May 12.
Apr 8, 2022
Cassia will join the panel "The Current Legal Cannabis Landscape: An Overview and Comparative Study" on April 12 at 9:15 a.m.
Mar 28, 2022
Watch this session to learn more about the New York adult-use cannabis conditional cultivator license and how you can prepare.
By Travis Copenhaver
Mar 24, 2022
Michigan's MRA recently announced the Class A Marihuana Microbusiness License. This new microbusiness license differs from the original in several interesting ways, which may create a more profitable business model.
By Michelle Bodian, Bridgette Nikisher
Mar 18, 2022
Connecticut’s first round of adult-use cannabis licensing is underway! Read this for practical tips to help complete your application.
Mar 1, 2022
The Business of Cannabis: New York Sessions event will focus on the critically important topic of connecting social equity licensees to capital.
Feb 16, 2022
Whether you’re an aspiring entrepreneur, current business owner, or looking to start a new career in the cannabis industry, this webinar series will provide a comprehensive overview of the Connecticut adult-use cannabis licensing process, including how to qualify as a social equity applicant.
By Michelle Bodian, Jennifer Cabrera
Feb 16, 2022
The law is intended to accelerate the cultivation, processing, and distribution of cannabis in New York.
By Sally Kent Peebles
Feb 3, 2022
The Mississippi Medical Cannabis Act (MMCA) is poised to achieve what no other southern state has yet to accomplish—the development of a refreshingly non-competitive licensed program that should allow for greater patient access and lower barriers to entry for those interested in participating in this exciting industry.
Jan 25, 2022
VS partner Brandon Kurtzman recently sat down with Business of Cannabis to discuss the cannabis market that's on everyone's minds: New York.
By Michelle Bodian, Brandon Kurtzman
Jan 19, 2022
With the first round of Connecticut cannabis licensing applications opening early next month, we prepared a recap of the crucial information you need to know before clicking the submit button.
By Charles Alovisetti, Michelle Bodian, Brandon Kurtzman
Jan 18, 2022
While we still don’t have draft or final cannabis regulations, applications, or a definitive timetable, plenty of new information has come out since legalization. Read this article for ten key updates about New York’s market in the past year.
By Genevieve Meehan, Emily Hackman, Andrea Golan, Amanda Kilroe
Jan 14, 2022
Our team compiled a list of five resolutions to ensure your California cannabis business is focused on operational compliance for years to come.
Jan 11, 2022
Watch this session for a look back at 2021 tri-state cannabis developments and a look forward to expectations for 2022.
By Michelle Bodian, Jennifer Cabrera, Brandon Kurtzman
Nov 10, 2021
Eight months after New Jersey’s Governor signed the Cannabis Regulatory, Enforcement Assistance, and Marketplace Modernization Act into law, we now have an application timeline for adult-use cannabis licenses.
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.
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 Shane Pennington
Oct 18, 2021
An introduction to the different registrations available for schedule I substances such as psilocybin and psilocin.
Oct 12, 2021
Watch this recorded session where members of VS’s real estate practice discuss cannabis real estate issues, including lease considerations, financing, and local jurisdiction laws that may affect your business.
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 11, 2021
VS partner Cassia Furman will join the LA County Bar Association on October 14, 2021 to review the adopted rules and critically engage with the new regulatory landscape.
By Cassia Furman, Andrea Golan, Genevieve Meehan
Oct 7, 2021
DCC filed emergency rules for cannabis operators. Read this VS Insight for the need-to-know changes and information on submitting a public comment.
By Emily Hackman
Sep 9, 2021
In the first post of a three-part series focused on California cannabis, we will highlight the impact of the 2021 Budget Trailer Bill and the upcoming end of provisional licensing on California cannabis operators, as well as strategies to reduce delays in new license issuance and annual license transitions.
Aug 26, 2021
Watch this session for a dive into key elements of the regulations and an engaging discussion with special guests from the NJ CannaBusiness Association, the NJ League of Municipalities, and the US Cannabis Council.
By Jennifer Cabrera, Heather Kumer, Michelle Bodian, Steve Pemberton, Bridgette Nikisher
Aug 24, 2021
Read this summary to find out what is included, what was left out, and what is noteworthy in New Jersey's recently released cannabis rules.
Jul 22, 2021
Gov. Newsom signed the Cannabis Trailer Bill on July 12, creating the Department of Cannabis Control. Read this for an overview of the most significant provisions of the trailer bill impacting the cannabis industry.
By Colleen Mitchell, Jerrico Perez, Sally Kent Peebles
Jul 15, 2021
The Florida Department of Health (DOH) recently announced it is kicking off rulemaking for two separate competitive medical marijuana treatment center (MMTC) license application processes.
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.
By Michelle Bodian
Jun 24, 2021
Get answers to the who, what, when, and where questions that surround Connecticut's new cannabis law.
Jun 23, 2021
Join VS for a free webinar on June 29 that will cover the latest updates on cannabis legalization and implementation in CT, NJ, and NY
By Colleen Mitchell, Tucker Wentz
Jun 9, 2021
Montana lawmakers recently approved HB 701, which outlines key aspects of the framework that will govern the Treasure State’s new cannabis program.
Jun 4, 2021
NJCI Live: Focus on Municipalities, held on June 8-19, 2021, will dive into municipal issues for cannabis in New Jersey, including zoning, buildings, licensing, and jobs.
Jun 4, 2021
VS counsel Heather Kumer will participate in the panel "What the Zone? Cannabis in NJ and the Transition to Adult Use" with New Jersey cannabis leaders on June 10, 2021.
May 5, 2021
Watch as we explore the stark differences and key similarities between east coast and west coast cannabis licensing.
Apr 9, 2021
Watch this presentation for a look into the new law, how it will be implemented, and the opportunities it will create for businesses and individuals.
By Charles Alovisetti, Jennifer Cabrera
Mar 25, 2021
Using New Jersey as an example, here are eight important considerations companies should make when expanding into new cannabis markets.
Mar 5, 2021
NJCI Live will offer a deep dive into the current landscape of cannabis in New Jersey and best business practices in all areas of the industry.
Feb 4, 2021
A look into cannabis legalization, markets, and opportunities in New Jersey, New York, and Connecticut.
By Jennifer Cabrera, Andrea Golan, Brandon Kurtzman, Jerrico Perez
Feb 3, 2021
Regulatory agencies can deny cannabis license applications for various reasons, but a denied application is not the end of the line.
Jan 14, 2021
Watch this presentation with Amanda Kilroe, Jeffrey Welsh, and Yolanda Clarke for top tips on how to succeed in the competitive marijuana business industry.
Jan 13, 2021
Massachusetts Cannabis Control Commission released regulatory changes impacting applicants, licensees, and stakeholders on January 8, 2021.
By Jennifer Cabrera
Dec 22, 2020
With its plan to regulate and tax adult-use cannabis sales underway, the Garden State is easily positioned to be the East Coast’s cannabis leader in sales and regulatory practices that support and promote small, locally-owned businesses and equitable ownership.
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 Christina Sava, Kelsey Middleton
Nov 24, 2020
California Bureau of Cannabis Control issued proposed amendments in response to AB 2138 that would remove licensure barriers for Californians with past criminal convictions.
By Andrea Golan, Kelsey Middleton
Nov 18, 2020
On Election Day 2020, Californians voted on a remarkable number of cannabis-related ballot measures—39 to be exact. Of those, only six were rejected by voters.
Oct 27, 2020
If you operate in the cannabis industry, chances are you’ll need to challenge a regulatory decision at some point. Watch this session to learn about your options.
By Jerrico Perez
Aug 21, 2020
Vicente Sedeberberg LLP continues to identify exclusive licensing opportunities for our clients. With more winning merit-based applications than any other law firm in the country, our team’s work ethic, dedication, and experience can help elevate your application above the competition.
Jun 25, 2020
Learn best practices and key requirements for renewing your Massachusetts Marijuana Establishment license.
By Jerrico Perez
May 13, 2020
Vicente Sedeberberg LLP continues to identify exclusive licensing opportunities for our clients. With more winning merit-based applications than any other law firm in the country, our team’s work ethic, dedication, and experience can help elevate your application above the competition.
Mar 2, 2020
After a highly competitive application process, Missouri awarded medical marijuana facility licenses in early 2020. VS is proud to have assisted some of those winners with their applications.
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.
By Charles Alovisetti, Jessica Scardina, Ben Leonard, Carl Werner, and Justin Johnson
Nov 18, 2019
HB-1090 is live and Colorado's cannabis industry is officially open to publicly-traded companies and out-of-state investors. Find out what we've learned so far about this brand-new system.
