Cannabis Section

The Cannabis Section invites members to actively shape the future of cannabis law in California. Membership offers access to exclusive resources, specialized programs, and a vibrant community of professionals—all designed to support your growth and success in this dynamic legal field.

Through educational programs and advocacy initiatives, the Section helps attorneys navigate the complex and changing legal landscape of the cannabis industry, which operates at the intersection of state legalization and federal prohibition.

Our Mission

The Cannabis Section provides attorneys with the education, resources, and professional network needed to navigate California’s rapidly evolving cannabis industry. By exploring both the opportunities and challenges of this complex regulatory environment, the Section helps practitioners develop the expertise to advise clients, shape policy, and address the conflicts between state and federal law.

Photos by Hector Islas

What We Offer

Continuing Legal Education – Programs on regulatory compliance, licensing, taxation, corporate structuring, labor and employment, intellectual property, real estate, insurance, ethics, and litigation specific to cannabis law.
Policy & Compliance Insights – A forum for understanding California’s multi-layered regulatory framework and the federal–state conflicts that define cannabis law today.
Networking Opportunities – Regular events connecting attorneys, business leaders, policymakers, and regulators working in or alongside the cannabis industry.
Thought Leadership – A trusted resource for attorneys, government agencies, and the media on developments in cannabis law and public policy.
Community & Collaboration – A space to share insights across disciplines and connect with leaders shaping this rapidly developing area of practice.

Why You Should Join

Stay informed on one of California’s most dynamic and complex legal industries.
Gain specialized knowledge across multiple practice areas intersecting with cannabis law.
Build a professional network with attorneys, regulators, and industry leaders.
Contribute to shaping policy and public dialogue around cannabis regulation.

Join The Cannabis Pro Bono Panel

Are you ready to make a real impact in California’s fast-changing cannabis legal landscape? Join the LACBA Cannabis Pro Bono Panel—an exciting initiative powered by LACBA’s Lawyer Referral Service, SmartLaw.

This isn’t just another volunteer opportunity; it’s a social equity movement, launched in partnership with the City of Los Angeles and local community leaders, to deliver critical legal support to cannabis entrepreneurs who need it most. The mission: to level the playing field for underrepresented cannabis business owners through accessible, socially conscious legal counsel.

As a panel member, you’ll have the unique chance to:

Provide limited pro bono services
Build connections with emerging industry leaders
Cultivate new client relationships for future work

SmartLaw is waiving all dues for attorneys who join this initiative. To participate, panelists must meet certain qualifications, hold valid E&O insurance, adhere to SmartLaw’s Rules of Operation, and be in good standing with the State Bar of California.

The application process is simple—just click here to get started (need new link). For questions, reach out to SmartLaw at SmartLaw@lacba.org or call (213) 896-6476.

This is your opportunity to champion justice and help reshape the cannabis industry for the better. Step up, serve your community, and expand your practice in one of California’s most dynamic fields of law.