Key Points
- The Ohio Department of Commerce and the Ohio Board of Pharmacy regulate licensing, operations, and product testing under the Medical Marijuana Control Program (MMCP).
- Compliance with state-specific laws is mandatory for cultivation, processing, dispensing, and testing operations.
Staying Compliant: Cannabis Businesses in Ohio
Legal compliance for cannabis businesses in Ohio requires adherence to state regulations overseen by the Ohio Department of Commerce and the Ohio Board of Pharmacy. These agencies regulate licensing, operations, and product testing for medical marijuana businesses under Ohio's Medical Marijuana Control Program (MMCP). Legal guidance is often essential, and organizations like the Ohio State Bar Association provide resources and legal expertise to navigate the complexities of cannabis law. Additionally, the Ohio Cannabis Association serves as a resource for industry-specific advocacy and education, helping businesses remain informed about legislative updates and best practices.
Attorneys Who Work With Cannabis-Related Issues in Ohio |
Area of Expertise |
Dominy Law Firm, LLC |
Criminal Defense |
Frantz Ward |
Business Compliance |
Joslyn Law Firm |
Criminal Defense |
Kegler Brown Hill + Ritter |
Business Compliance |
Law Office of James D. Owen, LLC |
Criminal Defense |
MacMurray & Shuster |
Business Compliance |
Maher Law Firm, LLC |
Criminal Defense |
Ohio Defense Firm |
Criminal Defense |
Watson Kuhlman LLC |
Criminal Defense |
- Are you an Ohio-licensed Attorney offering services to cannabis-related businesses? Request to be listed .
How Can Attorneys Help Cannabis Businesses in OH?
Operating a cannabis business in Ohio requires navigating a unique legal framework. Attorneys specializing in cannabis law provide tailored services, including:
- Licensing & Compliance
- Assisting with license applications for cultivation, processing, dispensing, and testing.
- Navigating federal, state, and local regulations to ensure compliance.
- Real Estate & Zoning
- Identifying suitable properties and managing zoning approvals.
- Intellectual Property
- Securing trademarks and copyrights despite cannabis's federal legal status.
- Drafting licensing agreements for intellectual property use.
- Litigation
- Representing businesses in regulatory or license disputes.
- Handling civil litigation, including contracts and liability claims.
In Ohio, penalties for unlawful cannabis activities vary based on the substance involved—such as marijuana, CBD, or hemp—and the specific offense. Here's an overview:
Marijuana (Cannabis):
- Possession: possessing up to 100 grams of marijuana is a minor misdemeanor with a $150 fine. Penalties increase with quantity: 100-200 grams may result in 30 days in jail and a $250 fine, while 200-1,000 grams can lead to one year in prison and a $2,500 fine. Larger amounts range from five to eight years in prison and fines up to $20,000.
- Cultivation: Penalties align with possession amounts. For instance, cultivating up to 100 grams is a minor misdemeanor, while cultivating larger amounts results in more severe charges.
- Trafficking: Selling or distributing marijuana carries penalties based on the amount and circumstances, with increased fines and jail time for trafficking near schools or involving minors.
CBD and Hemp:
Selling CBD products with higher THC content or without proper licensing can lead to penalties similar to those for marijuana offenses.
- If you're facing cannabis-related charges in Ohio, consulting with a knowledgeable Criminal Defense Attorney is crucial. They can help navigate the complexities of state laws, protect your rights, and work towards the best possible outcome for your case.