My name is James Anthony, and I have the distinction of running the only law office in the state that specializes in medical cannabis dispensary land use law. I assist MCDs in getting their land use permits—successfully so far in Kern County, San Francisco, and Oakland. I’ve also defended MCDs from local government lawsuits trying to shut them down for “nuisance” or zoning violations in Contra Costa County, Tracy, Richmond, Modesto, Pomona, Desert Hot Springs, and Corona. I have a reputation for beating City Attorneys.

My experiences as an Oakland Deputy City Attorney myself, and as a drug policy activist, make me ideally suited to this emerging area of law. When I worked for Oakland, I was City Hall’s lawyer and advised the government on permitting “good”—and shutting down “bad”—businesses. Now I can be your lawyer, using my experience on the inside to strengthen your permit application for the best possible shot at getting that all-important permit.

And if local government ever comes after you and tries to bully you into shutting down, I can give you the fighting chance to stay open. If you just give in and surrender, they win. If you are ever harassed by local government telling you that you must “cease and desist” or ordering you to “abate the nuisance,” call me for a realistic appraisal of the strength of the City’s case. If they’re bluffing, and they often are, I can tell you how strong—or weak—their case against you really is.

More importantly, it’s time to work with City Hall and with our neighbors to create MCDs that are recognized and respected for their positive contributions to our communities. A positive relationship with City Hall and your community can promote years of successful—and fully permitted—operation.

Contact us to discuss your needs for your particular situation.