Alcoholic beverages are one of the most highly regulated consumer commodities. Federal, state and local alcoholic beverage regulations are complex and difficult to navigate. At SKE Law, we have a deep understanding of these regulations, including tied house and trade practice regulations, to help clients successfully establish and maintain a compliant business. We also represent clients in regulatory licensing and compliance matters related to tobacco permits as well as the emerging and dynamic CBD (or Consumable Hemp) industry.

SKE Law provides federal, state and local alcoholic beverage and business licensing support to manufacturers, wholesalers, retailers and third-party affiliates. We guide clients through the initial licensing procedures, from preparing and filing of applications and registrations, to interfacing with agencies to obtain approvals, to counseling clients on implementation and best practices. Once clients have obtained the necessary licensing and permits to operate their businesses, we provide continued support through renewals, defense of violations, and other compliance matters.

SKE Law assists clients with drafting and review of various industry-related transactions and contracts, including but not limited to commercial leases, management agreements, distribution agreements, contract brewing agreements, alternating proprietorship agreements, and third-party delivery agreements.

E-commerce is booming in the post-Covid era, and that includes direct-to-consumer shipping and direct delivery of alcoholic beverages through websites, apps, and other technology platforms. SKE Law assists with all aspects of the licensing and compliance for these businesses.

Elected and appointed officials routinely propose and implement measures that significantly impact business operations. At SKE Law, we ensure that our clients’ interests are represented when such critical decisions are made. We proactively monitor and review all foreseeably relevant state and local propositions, communicate closely with our clients, use our knowledge of the process to best represent our clients' interests, and continuously foster positive relationships that enable us to effectively "go to the table" on our clients' behalf.

Before clients acquire property on which to begin a business in the alcoholic beverage industry, SKE Law can advise on potential zoning and land use regulatory issues. If rezoning or conditional/special uses are required for a client’s proposed business, we can assist with the local approval process, including preparation of applications, meeting with local officials and neighborhood associations, and appearing before councils or boards. We can also represent clients in litigation, if necessary, to challenge adverse zoning or land use decisions.