In October 2023, a client applied for a NYS retail cannabis license as a Social and Economic Equity (SEE) applicant under the designation of a service-disabled veteran business owner, targeting an underserved area of Buffalo, New York. Despite completing the application promptly, the client received a query number greater than 1000 and waited for seven months without any communication from the Office of Cannabis Management.
The client took proactive measures, reaching out to their city congressman and state senator and notifying the Office of Cannabis Management via phone and email. However, all responses were generic, leaving the client increasingly concerned and in need of expert legal assistance.
That’s when the client decided to retain Natalie C. Diaz, describing this decision as “the best choice I could have made.” Within just two days, Natalie thoroughly analyzed the application and identified a critical oversight: the client’s spouse, although not listed as a True Party of Interest (TPI), was still required to complete that section. Natalie found the missing email and provided exact instructions on the next steps, even assisting with the completion of the TPI section.
The impact was immediate. “The very next day, I received an email stating my application was completed, and within three to four weeks, my application was under official review, and my location was placed on the Protected Proximity List,” the client shared. The client emphasized that without Natalie’s help, they would still be waiting to hear from the Office of Cannabis Management.
Natalie’s “expertise and dedication have been invaluable.” She made the entire process easy to navigate and provided excellent guidance every step of the way. Her prompt responses and compassionate approach ensured that the client was never left in the dark. The client highlighted that Natalie was “not only professional but also compassionate, consistently returning calls and emails quickly.”
Attorney Natalie C. Diaz continues to work seamlessly with the client, advocating for their best interests and providing legal support.
At Mandelbaum Barrett PC, we are proud to have attorneys like Natalie C. Diaz, who go above and beyond to ensure our clients achieve their goals.
you can contact Natalie C. Diaz at 973-852-4235 or via email at ndiaz@mblawfirm.com
You can learn more about Natalie, here.
These stories are successful case results from our attorneys. Please note that results may vary depending on your particular facts and legal circumstances.