Joshua Bauchner, Chair of our Cannabis, Hemp, and Psychedelics Practice Group, is featured in the Law360 article for his pivotal role in a landmark court decision that halted unwarranted raids on licensed hemp stores in New York.
Bauchner represented hemp retailers in a case that led to a ruling granting a preliminary injunction against New York state authorities and city law enforcement, marking a significant victory for hemp businesses in the state. The judge’s decision was a major step toward protecting licensed hemp operators from unjust enforcement actions, with the court ruling that the New York City Sheriff’s Office lacked lawful authority to conduct warrantless regulatory or administrative inspections of businesses possessing hemp licenses.
The case stemmed from actions taken by the New York City Sheriff’s Office, which had conducted inspections of hemp operators without proper warrants, violating constitutional protections. The court’s ruling underscores that enforcement efforts must respect legal standards, particularly when dealing with businesses in this industry. This decision sends a strong message that law enforcement cannot bypass due process, especially in the emerging hemp market.
This decision marks a significant moment for hemp businesses in New York, reinforcing the need for fair and lawful regulation in the industry. Bauchner’s leadership was essential in securing this ruling, which not only protects licensed hemp operators but also sets an important precedent for similar cases in the future. As hemp continues to expand in New York, this case marks a key moment in the battle for transparent regulatory practices in the sector.
Read the full Law360 article here.
You can reach Joshua Bauchner at 646-369-0250 or via email at jbauchner@mblawfirm.com.