Legal compliance for cannabis in Kentucky requires adherence to both state and federal regulations, as cannabis remains illegal for recreational use and is only permitted for specific medical purposes under strict guidelines. The Kentucky Cabinet for Health and Family Services oversees the state's medical cannabis program, ensuring compliance with laws regarding licensing, cultivation, distribution, and possession. Additionally, professionals such as attorneys navigating cannabis-related legal matters must follow ethical guidelines set forth by the Kentucky Bar Association, which provides resources and guidance to help lawyers advise clients while maintaining compliance with state and federal laws.
Attorneys Who Work With Cannabis-Related Issues in Kentucky | Area of Expertise |
---|---|
Baldani Law Group | Criminal Defense |
Butler & Associates | Criminal Defense |
Dowan Law Offices | Criminal Defense |
Josh McIntosh Law | Business Compliance |
JPS Law | Business Compliance/Criminal Defense |
KY Cannabis Law Group | Business Compliance |
Oakley & Oakley | Criminal Defense |
SFE & B | Criminal Defense |
Stites & Harbison LLC | Business Compliance |
Tim Denison | Criminal Defense |
Specialized cannabis lawyers focus on different aspects of cannabis law.
Business Formation and Licensing: Assist with setting up cannabis businesses, navigating state regulations, and obtaining licenses.
Regulatory Compliance: Ensure adherence to state, local, and federal laws, offering operational compliance guidance.
Real Estate and Zoning: Handle zoning, leasing, and land use issues for cannabis businesses. Example:
Intellectual Property: Protect trademarks, patents, and branding for cannabis businesses. Example:
Litigation and Dispute Resolution: Resolve conflicts related to business operations or regulatory issues.
Criminal Defense: Represent clients facing cannabis-related charges, providing defense strategies.
Marijuana trafficking penalties depend on the amount and offense history. Possessing less than 8 ounces is a Class A misdemeanor for a first offense but escalates to a Class D felony for subsequent offenses. Trafficking 8 ounces to less than 5 pounds is a Class D felony initially, increasing to a Class C felony for repeat violations. For amounts of 5 pounds or more, the first offense is a Class C felony, while repeat offenses are classified as a Class B felony, carrying even harsher consequences.