Liquor & Cannabis Attorney (Counsel or Partner Level)
Job Description
Job DescriptionSenior Liquor & Cannabis Attorney (Counsel or Partner Level)
Seattle, WA (Preferred) | Also open to NY, Portland, Spokane, or Washington, D.C. | Hybrid
$255,000–$350,000 (DOE) + Bonus + Full Benefits
Direct Counsel is seeking a Senior Liquor & Cannabis Attorney to join the Commercial, IP & Technology group of a nationally respected law firm. This position is ideal for an experienced attorney looking to work with clients in the alcoholic beverage and cannabis industries on a wide range of regulatory, transactional, and compliance matters.
This role offers meaningful leadership opportunities, including mentoring attorneys and paralegals, managing client relationships, and contributing to firmwide initiatives at the intersection of law, innovation, and public policy.
Scope of Work:
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Advise on liquor and cannabis licensing, trade practice compliance, and tied-house analyses
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Draft and negotiate distribution agreements, custom crush and alternating proprietorship agreements, and related commercial contracts
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Oversee client matters and help manage a growing team
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Engage in thought leadership and business development efforts
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Collaborate with colleagues across five offices on national regulatory and transactional issues
Ideal Background:
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JD from an ABA-accredited law school; active license to practice law
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Minimum 7 years of experience advising on liquor and cannabis law matters
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Experience with FDA regulatory issues is a plus
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Strong academic background and written/oral advocacy skills
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Proven client service orientation and interest in mentoring others
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Partial book of business is a plus
Compensation & Benefits:
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Base salary range of $255,000–$350,000 depending on experience and location
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Medical, dental, and vision coverage
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401(k) with employer contributions
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Life and disability insurance
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Parental leave and commuter benefits
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Billable credit for pro bono and DEI work
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Annual bonus and robust mentorship
This is an opportunity to work on high-profile matters in a supportive and mission-driven environment that values collaboration, innovation, and inclusion.