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Our experts in various fields find solutions for customers. We provide customized solutions based on a thoroughly analyzed litigation database.
Liquor Licensing
The success of a bar, restaurant, or beverage brand often hinges on one document—the liquor license.
At SJKP LLP, our Liquor Licensing practice goes beyond filing paperwork. We help clients anticipate issues before they arise: from obtaining first-time approvals and managing ownership changes to defending against costly violations. Whether you’re opening a new venue, expanding to multiple states, or acquiring a beverage company, our goal is simple—keep your business licensed, compliant, and profitable.
We guide clients through real-world licensing challenges—where law, business, and timing intersect—and help them move quickly from planning to pouring.
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1. Before You Open Getting the Right License the First Time
The licensing process can take months—planning early saves both time and money.
At SJKP LLP, we advise clients on which licenses they actually need: retail, on-premise, off-premise, brewery, distillery, or distributor. We identify the best legal structure for your ownership and financing arrangements, ensuring that investors, managers, and silent partners don’t trigger disqualification under state “control” rules.
We also handle the full filing process—background checks, public notices, local hearings, and zoning reviews—so you can focus on running your business, not navigating red tape.
Choosing the Right License
Every state has different categories—restaurant licenses, tavern licenses, brewpub permits, wine-only retail, and more. We help you select the structure that fits your business model and location, preventing rejections and unexpected restrictions.
Zoning and Local Approval
A perfect location can become a regulatory headache if zoning or community board approval isn’t addressed early. We coordinate with local agencies to confirm permitted use, noise and distance requirements, and neighborhood input before you sign a lease or start construction.
2. Operating Legally Staying Compliant Day-to-Day
Once you have a license, keeping it is an ongoing commitment.
Our Liquor Licensing team advises on daily operational compliance—who can serve, how to manage underage sales, and what documentation inspectors expect. We train staff, design compliance manuals, and create systems for recordkeeping, inventory, and reporting.
Most violations stem from simple mistakes: selling past permitted hours, failing to update ownership, or poor training. We help you build a culture of compliance that avoids fines, suspensions, and costly downtime.
Common Violations and How to Avoid Them
We guide clients on practical issues such as: - Employee serving without proper certification - Failure to check IDs or track age verification - Outdated or incomplete sales records - Prohibited promotions (e.g., unlimited drink specials) - Ownership or management changes without notice
A quick legal review before launching a new campaign or event often prevents expensive enforcement later.
Dealing with Inspectors and Investigations
When regulators show up unannounced, knowing your rights matters. We train managers on inspection protocols—what documents to provide, how to respond, and when to call counsel. Our attorneys handle communications with agencies to resolve issues before they escalate.
3. Growth and Expansion Licensing for New Locations, Acquisitions, and Franchises
Expansion shouldn’t mean starting over.
We help clients scale from single locations to regional or national operations by replicating compliance systems across jurisdictions. Our Liquor Licensing attorneys coordinate filings in all 50 states, harmonizing ownership disclosures and maintaining consistent brand control.
When acquiring a licensed business, we handle license transfers, temporary permits, and due diligence to ensure uninterrupted service. We also structure franchise and joint venture agreements that maintain compliance for every location.
Buying or Selling a Licensed Business
In most states, licenses can’t simply be “transferred” without agency approval. We manage escrow arrangements, conditional closings, and new filings so deals close smoothly without operational shutdowns.
Multi-State Operations
Each state has its own application, fee, and renewal process. We maintain national licensing calendars and manage renewals, allowing your operations and brand expansion to remain uninterrupted.
4. Marketing and Online Sales Where Promotion Meets Regulation
Digital marketing and delivery sales have changed the rules of compliance.
We counsel clients on social media promotions, influencer partnerships, and event sponsorships—all of which are heavily regulated in the alcohol space. Our Liquor Licensing team ensures that creative marketing stays compliant with tied-house, advertising, and consumer protection laws.
We also advise on e-commerce operations, age-verification software, and third-party delivery platforms—helping businesses sell online while meeting every state’s licensing and shipping laws.
Promotions and Advertising Review
We review campaigns to prevent violations such as misleading ads, unapproved co-branding, or over-service promotions. Our goal is to balance compliance with creative freedom, keeping your brand both compliant and compelling.
Online Sales and Delivery Licensing
From direct-to-consumer wine shipments to app-based delivery, we assist with platform licensing, distributor agreements, and state-level fulfillment compliance.
5. When Problems Arise Enforcement, Hearings, and Crisis Management
Even a single violation can threaten your license—and your reputation.
When clients face suspensions, penalties, or public hearings, our Liquor Licensing attorneys act swiftly. We prepare defenses, negotiate settlements, and represent clients before local and state boards. We also conduct internal reviews to prevent future violations and demonstrate corrective action.
In high-profile cases, we manage communications with the media and community to protect brand trust while resolving legal exposure.
Handling Violations
Our team responds immediately when a notice of violation or suspension order arrives. We assess the allegations, prepare compliance plans, and negotiate reinstatement terms to minimize financial impact.
Public Relations and Reputation Management
We work with PR professionals to ensure that enforcement matters are handled with discretion. Protecting your license also means protecting your brand.
6. International Import & Distribution Expanding Beyond Borders
Selling across borders means understanding international licensing regimes.
We help importers, distributors, and global beverage brands secure permits for cross-border sales. Our attorneys coordinate with customs, labeling, and trade authorities to meet import/export requirements in the U.S., EU, and Asia.
Whether registering products with the TTB or managing supply chain contracts abroad, we help clients scale safely in the global market.
Import Permits and Compliance
We secure federal permits for importers, handle label approvals, and ensure customs filings meet regulatory and tax standards.
>Global Distribution Contracts
Our team drafts and negotiates international distribution and brand licensing agreements that protect IP, allocate risk, and ensure compliance across multiple jurisdictions.
7. Why Clients Choose SJKP LLP Real-World Answers. Not Red Tape.
Our clients don’t need theory—they need results.
At SJKP LLP, we bring decades of experience helping hospitality, retail, and beverage businesses open, expand, and stay compliant. We understand how regulators think, how agencies operate, and what it takes to keep your license secure.
Whether you’re opening your first venue or managing a multi-state franchise, we provide clear, actionable guidance that keeps your business on tap—legally and profitably.
Because at SJKP LLP, we don’t just handle Liquor Licensing—we make sure your business never stops pouring.
The information provided in this article is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Reading or relying on the contents of this article does not create an attorney-client relationship with our firm. For advice regarding your specific situation, please consult a qualified attorney licensed in your jurisdiction.
Certain informational content on this website may utilize technology-assisted drafting tools and is subject to attorney review.
