How to Protect Your Intellectual Property

The United States cannabis industry is poised to grow exponentially. Many states have approved or decriminalized medical cannabis use; several have legalized recreational use. Only a few states have been legislatively silent about public use of cannabis. It is likely some of these holdout states soon will further decriminalize cannabis.

As a result, investment in cultivation and processing facilities has mushroomed. In some respects, the industry resembles a gold rush. Fledgling and mature companies and entrepreneurial individuals are aggressively staking claims on new cannabis-related products and businesses. As in other evolving industries, entrepreneurs would be wise to consider how to protect their market position as a part of prudent due diligence.