California Dispensaries lead the Way — Medical Marijuana a $1.7 Billion Industry

U.S. sales of medical marijuana are expected to reach $1.7 billion this year, according to a report in the Wall Street Journal.

Our Los Angeles medical marijuana defense lawyers see the picture getting more complicated for dispensaries and patients alike. Certainly money is a part of it. Los Angeles can’t decide whether it wants to trample the rights of patients or tax the product — so it’s doing both.

We reported recently on our Marijuana Lawyer Blog that the Internal Revenue Service is weighing in with audits.

The dispensaries that have fought unfair ordinances have met with some success. While those that have not have often been forced to close. Yet we are amazed at the number of these dispensaries that have never consulted with experienced legal representation. You enjoy a confidential relationship with your attorney. Most businesses with income rivaling local pot shops have legal counsel to back them up. Let’s just say we see it as especially essential when your product happens to be a narcotic that remains illegal under federal law.

In just a few short years, the medical marijuana industry has grown to rival that of Viagra, which has annual sales of $1.9 billion. Not only are there growers and dispensaries, but a host of secondary businesses that are profiting, including real estate companies and those selling hydroponic equipment.

Marijuana is currently sold in California, Colorado, Michigan, Montana, Oregon, Washington and New Mexico. Five other states will open for business this year, including Arizona, Maine, New Jersey, Rhode Island and the District of Columbia.

The CANNABIS LAW GROUP is a law firm dedicated to the rights of medical marijuana patients, collectives and growers and has built a reputation for high-powered, aggressive legal representation of the medical marijuana industry in Southern California. Call 949-375-4734 for a confidential consultation to discuss your rights.