Cannabis
Integrated Legal Solutions for Cannabis Businesses and Investors
Strategic Counsel for Cannabis Businesses, Investors, and Regulated Operations
WH Burkley advises cannabis businesses, investors, lenders, landlords, and service providers operating in one of the nation’s most highly regulated industries. We provide practical, business-focused counsel to help clients navigate evolving regulatory requirements, manage risk, and capitalize on growth opportunities.
The cannabis industry presents unique legal and operational challenges arising from the intersection of state legalization frameworks and ongoing federal regulatory considerations. We work closely with clients to develop strategies that support compliance, facilitate growth, and protect long-term business interests.
Licensing & Regulatory Compliance
• State licensing and permit applications
• Regulatory compliance counseling
• License transfers and ownership changes
• Operational compliance reviews and risk assessments
• Advising on evolving state and federal regulatory developments
Corporate & Business Transactions
• Business formation and entity structuring
• Investment, financing, and capital raise transactions
• Mergers, acquisitions, and ownership transfers
• Joint ventures and strategic partnerships
• Contract drafting and negotiation
Real Estate, Land use & Zoning
• Real estate acquisitions and dispositions
• Leasing and occupancy matters
• Zoning, permitting, and land use approvals
• Development-related regulatory issues
• Facility and operational site planning
Employment & Workforce Matters
• Employment policies and compliance programs
• Workforce management and risk mitigation
• ADA and workplace accommodation issues
• Employee agreements and operational guidance
Tax, Risk Management & Operations
• Tax planning and compliance considerations, including IRC §280E issues
• Insurance and risk management strategies
• Operational and governance matters
• Business continuity and compliance planning
Disputes & Enforcement
• Regulatory investigations and enforcement actions
• Licensing disputes and administrative proceedings
• Business and contract disputes
• Coordination with litigation and dispute resolution strategies
Contact
John N. Neal, Partner
John focuses his practice on state and federal liquor permit licensing, and the licensing of Ohio’s new medical marijuana industry. John has also developed a diverse set of legal skills with complex commercial litigation, employment law, business organizations, insurance coverage, real estate, and business services.
216.619.7866
Our Approach
- Align legal strategies with each client’s business and growth objectives
- Coordinate across corporate, regulatory, real estate, employment, and tax considerations
- Focus on managing risk while supporting operational success
- Help clients adapt to a rapidly evolving regulatory environment
- Prioritize responsiveness, clear communication, and practical execution
Why WH Burkley
• Experience advising cannabis businesses, investors, landlords, lenders, and service providers in highly regulated environments
• Practical understanding of state cannabis regulatory frameworks and evolving compliance requirements
• Ability to coordinate legal, operational, financing, and growth-related considerations across multiple disciplines
• Integration with corporate, regulatory, real estate, labor, litigation, and tax capabilities
• Responsive, partner-level service focused on helping clients build and scale regulated businesses