Goodwin provides full-service support to leading cannabis and cannabis-adjacent companies and investors, covering corporate, regulatory, and litigation matters across the business lifecycle - from formation and early-stage financing to cross-border transactions and IP protection. Based in San Francisco, co-practice head Jennifer Fisher is a trusted advisor to cannabis brands, investors, and financial institutions, guiding them through state and federal frameworks across corporate transactions, regulatory compliance, and complex litigation. Fisher also advises on market access and regulatory matters. Fellow San Francisco co-practice head Brett Schuman is an experienced litigator, bringing longstanding expertise in IP, regulatory, and commercial disputes. Rounding out the leadership team, Silicon Valley-based William Growney is a seasoned corporate and transactional lawyer, well regarded for his deep understanding of the regulatory and commercial landscape in the sector. He is particularly trusted for M&A, corporate governance, licensing, and IP strategy. San Francisco’s Harry Berezin draws on his prior experience at a cannabis manufacturer and distributor to advise clients on operational, regulatory, and transactional challenges.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary

Accolades

Client satisfaction: Lawyer & team quality

Key clients

  • Central Coast Agriculture
  • RIV Capital
  • Cheech & Chong's Global Holding Company
  • FundCanna
  • Canopy Growth Corporation
  • TheSY, LLC dba Element Vape
  • The Cann + Botl Company
  • Courier Plus d/b/a dutchie
  • EIR Club
  • Everscore
  • Miss Grass
  • Vangst

Work highlights

Represented Central Coast Agriculture (Raw Garden) in a federal trademark trial against BBK Tobacco & Foods (owner of the “RAW” trademarks).
Advised RIV Capital Inc. in its $100m cross-border merger with Cansortium Inc.
Representing Cheech & Chong’s Global Holding Company and other cannabis beverage brands in a California DPH enforcement action over alleged Delta-9 THC and labelling violations.

Lawyers

Leading partners

The strongest partners in their field, leading on market-leading deals and endorsed by peers and clients alike.

Leading associates

Leading associates with regular involvement in their team's key work, and recognition from peers or clients as being ones to watch.

Practice head

Jennifer Fisher; Bill Growney; Brett Schuman

Other key lawyers

Harry Berezin