Vasquez Segarra LLP are more than just attorneys practicing cannabis law. We are also advocates for the industry and have had a hand in securing the passage of the Marihuana Regulation and Taxation Act (MRTA) and the social equity aspects of the legislation.

The MRTA regulations are still unfolding. But Vasquez Segarra has already made significant inroads into navigating the complexities of the law, regulations and requirements needed for each specific license. How have we done this? By being at the forefront of the law prior to its enactment and staying active in the field. Our team has nearly a decade of experience advocating for cannabis justice, including decriminalization, remedying past harms caused by the failed war on drugs, community reinvestment, and ensuring that those most impacted by the legacy market are at the head of the regulated market. 

One key component of the MRTA law, and one in which Vasquez Segarra has worked diligently to ensure the inclusion of, is the socially equitable access to the cannabis industry. Social equity applicants will be awarded 50% of all New York’s retail dispensary licenses.

A social equity applicant is a person of color, a woman, a disabled veteran, a farmer in defined financial distress and those persons from communities disproportionately impacted by the war on drugs.

Vasquez Segarra assists clients seeking cannabis licenses by:

  • Counseling social equity applicants in New York

  • Advising clients on cannabis-related applications in New York and New Jersey

  • Transitioning from the legacy market into the regulated market

  • Branding and state trademarking as well as federal trademarking related to educational purposes

  • Lease negotiations

  • Trade secrets

We routinely participate in national and local discourse on cannabis and the importance of ensuring diverse ownership.

Jorge presents at Future of Cannabis Justice alongside Senator Cory Booker

Vasquez Segarra LLP's Jorge Vasquez on Cannabis 101 Forum with Assembly Member Tremaine Wright

If you are interested in applying for a cannabis license in New York, please request a consultation below.