Minnesota And Wisconsin Cannabis Law Attorney
Helping Businesses Navigate Minnesota’s Evolving Cannabis Industry
Lommen Abdo provides strategic legal counsel to cannabis entrepreneurs, investors, and operators across Minnesota and Western Wisconsin. From licensing to dispute resolution, our attorneys help you build, protect, and grow your cannabis business in full compliance with state and local laws.
Business Formation + Structuring
Start Your Cannabis Business on a Strong Foundation
Launching a cannabis business requires careful planning from the start. Our attorneys help entrepreneurs choose the right business entity, draft ownership and partnership agreements, and establish sound corporate governance. Review our guide on “So, You Want to Start a Cannabis Business in Minnesota? Here’s What to Know Before you Dive In.”
Drawing on our firm’s extensive Business and Corporate Law experience, we create structures that protect owners, limit liability, and set the stage for long-term success under Minnesota’s evolving cannabis regulations.
Licensing + Regulatory Compliance
Navigate State and Local Rules with Confidence
The cannabis industry is highly regulated, and staying compliant is critical. Our team assists with state and local licensing applications, denials, renewals, and compliance audits. We help clients interpret Minnesota cannabis laws, zoning ordinances, and administrative rules to ensure their operations remain in good standing with local municipalities and the Office of Cannabis Management.
If you encounter delays, denials, or revocations, our attorneys are equipped to step in and advocate for your business.
Contracts + Transactions
Protect Your Interests with Clear, Enforceable Agreements
From supplier and distributor contracts to real estate leases and vendor agreements, clear documentation is essential in this emerging market. Lommen Abdo’s attorneys draft and negotiate customized contracts that protect your interests, clarify responsibilities, and prevent future disputes.
Add link to corporate for section on vendor agreements or separate into real estate and corporate tasks We also draw on our Real Estate Practice to assist cannabis clients with property acquisition, zoning, and lease compliance.
Litigation + Dispute Resolution
Defend Your Right to Operate and Grow
When disputes arise—particularly with municipalities or regulators—you need experienced counsel who knows both the business and legal sides of cannabis. Lommen Abdo’s Litigation Attorneys represent cannabis clients in:
- Licensing denial or revocation hearings
- Zoning and municipal challenges
- Regulatory enforcement actions
- Add appeals and link to appellate section
Our attorneys work to resolve issues efficiently and preserve your ability to operate and expand within the law.
Employment + HR Guidance
Protect Your Business from Employment Disputes Before They Escalate
Employment issues in the cannabis industry can quickly become complex—and costly. Lommen Abdo’s Employment Law Attorneys help cannabis employers navigate evolving regulations while minimizing risk and resolving disputes efficiently.
Our team counsels business owners on workplace compliance, hiring and termination risks, and employee rights under Minnesota and federal law. When litigation arises, we represent cannabis businesses in claims involving discrimination, wrongful termination, wage and hour disputes, retaliation, and regulatory compliance.
We take a pragmatic approach to dispute resolution, balancing compliance with your operational realities—so you can stay focused on growing your business while we protect your interests.
Mergers, Acquisitions + Exit Planning
Plan Your Next Phase Strategically
As the cannabis market matures, consolidation and investment opportunities continue to grow. Lommen Abdo advises cannabis businesses on mergers, acquisitions, and ownership transitions, guiding clients through due diligence, negotiations, and closing.
Our attorneys also help owners prepare for eventual exit planning—ensuring smooth transitions and maximizing business value when the time is right.
Why Choose Lommen Abdo for Cannabis Law
- Deep experience in business, litigation, and regulatory law
- Extensive knowledge of Minnesota’s evolving cannabis legislation
- Practical, business-minded legal guidance
- Trusted counsel for both entrepreneurs and established companies
- Offices conveniently located in Minneapolis, MN and Hudson, WI
Meet Our Cannabis Law Attorneys
Kathleen Loucks — With decades of experience in professional liability and regulatory compliance, Kathleen helps clients navigate complex licensing and business governance matters in highly regulated industries, including cannabis.
Christopher Luehr — Chris advises emerging businesses on formation, contracts, and commercial disputes, offering pragmatic, results-driven guidance tailored to the cannabis industry.
Frequently Asked Questions About Cannabis Law
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Is cannabis fully legal in Minnesota?
Yes, adult-use cannabis is legal under the 2023 law, but state licensing and regulation remain under development by the Office of Cannabis Management
What types of cannabis businesses can be licensed?
Licenses may be available for cultivators, manufacturers, retailers, testing facilities, and related operations.
How long does the cannabis licensing process take?
Timelines vary, but applicants should prepare for multi-step reviews by both state and local authorities.
Can a city or county deny my cannabis license?
Yes, municipalities can restrict or deny licenses through zoning or local ordinances. Our attorneys assist with appeals and administrative challenges.
What are common legal risks for cannabis business owners?
Noncompliance, improper contracts, and local disputes pose major risks. Lommen Abdo helps you prevent and resolve these issues.
Can I operate cultivation and retail operations under one license?
Generally, Minnesota limits vertical integration, but certain exceptions exist. Our attorneys can evaluate your eligibility.
What happens if my license is denied or revoked?
You have the right to appeal. Our team represents clients in administrative and judicial proceedings to protect their rights.
How should I structure my cannabis business for tax purposes?
Because federal restrictions complicate cannabis taxation, we help design compliant and efficient business structures.
Are employment policies different for cannabis businesses?
Yes. Cannabis employers must navigate unique compliance and workplace safety requirements.
How can I prepare my business for sale or merger?
Early planning is key. Our attorneys handle due diligence, valuation, and negotiation for seamless transactions.
Why is experience in both business and litigation important?
Cannabis law involves regulation, contracts, and disputes—so having attorneys who excel in both areas provides critical protection.
Ready to Grow Your Cannabis Business?
Whether you’re applying for your first license, negotiating contracts, or defending your right to operate, Lommen Abdo offers the experience and insight your business needs to thrive in Minnesota’s cannabis marketplace.
News + Articles
Federal Lawmakers Close Hemp Loophole: Key Changes Explained
As part of the deal to end the recent government shutdown, Congress included a provision in the funding bill that significantly redefines “hemp” under federal law—a change that could reshape the entire landscape of hemp-derived products across the country. If you...
What Minnesota’s Cannabis Statute Means for Local Retailers
In August 2023, Governor Tim Walz enacted the Minnesota cannabis statute which legalized the sale and use of cannabis to adults. Specifically, Minn. Stat. § 342.2 allows a cannabis business with a license or endorsement authorizing the retail sale of cannabis flower,...
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