Hemp & Cannabis Law

Hemp & Cannabis Law

Attorneys Representing Companies in the Hemp & Cannabis Industry Across a Variety of Fields

The federal government’s 2014 Farm Bill permitted the states to authorize and oversee industrial hemp growth and cultivation pursuant to agricultural “pilot programs” to be established by the respective states. “Industrial Hemp” is defined in both federal and state law as the plant Cannabis sativa L., and any part thereof, having a delta-9 tetrahydrocannabinol (“THC”) concentration of not more than 0.3% on a dry weight basis. As a result of the 2014 Farm Bill, New York State created its industrial hemp pilot program which, beginning in 2015, initially allowed only ten universities to grow hemp under the program for research purposes.

The federal government’s more-recent 2018 Farm Bill did a number of things to boost the growth of the industrial hemp industry, the most notable of which included removing hemp from the list of Schedule I Controlled Substances. Since then, New York has continued to loosen its restrictions and appears to be heading toward full adult-use legalization. In 2019, New York decriminalized possession of marijuana in small quantities, and in 2021, it is expected to adopt comprehensive legislation legalizing adult, recreational use of cannabis products. These developments in federal and state law have opened the door for businesses looking to start, or expand, in this new and exciting market.

At Coughlin & Gerhart, we understand that navigating these complex and demanding regulations can be challenging for those interested in operating in the hemp and cannabis industry. Businesses operating in this industry must have a working knowledge of the law, and stay up to date as amendments to the law are adopted and court decisions are issued.

Our attorneys are experienced in representing clients working in the hemp and cannabis industry from a variety of angles, including:

  • Company Formation
  • Customized Contract Drafting
  • Contract Review
  • Legal Compliance
  • Leasing
  • Real Property Transactions
  • Business Disputes and Litigation

Contact Coughlin & Gerhart: Offices in Binghamton, Ithaca, and Throughout the Region

Our knowledge and experience in this new and growing industry allows us to provide your business with quick and efficient legal solutions, affording you a “first-mover” advantage. To arrange a confidential consultation in which you can discuss your legal needs with one of our lawyers, contact our firm via email, or call our Binghamton headquarters at (607) 821-2202, toll free 800-646-3420.

Disclaimer: Possessing, using, distributing, and/or selling cannabis or cannabis-based products may not be legal in all states, and may constitute a federal crime. No legal advice we give is intended to provide any guidance or assistance in violating federal or state law, nor will any such advice provide any guidance or assistance in complying with federal law or the law of any state where such activity is illegal. Please also note that we are not advising you regarding the federal, state, or local tax consequences of engaging in any business in this industry.

Our Practice Areas

Our Business & Banking Law Experience