Contact: Mark Fefer, Marketing Communications, 206.757.8583 or markfefer@dwt.com
SEPTEMBER 4, 2020 – As a former U.S. Attorney, John McKay's support of cannabis legalization, and early endorsement of Washington state's I-502, helped bring the modern cannabis industry into being. Since joining Davis Wright Tremaine LLP in 2016, McKay has become a go-to adviser for major players in the business he helped establish. In recognition of his pioneering work and the prominent role he continues to play in the industry, the National Law Journal has recognized McKay as a Cannabis Trailblazer.
He and the other Trailblazers were profiled in a special section of the Journal, published this week.
In addition to supporting the success of clients operating directly in the legal cannabis industry, McKay advises large corporations—such as agricultural equipment makers, software suppliers, management consultants, and others—on how to engage with "plant-touching" businesses in a way that will minimize risk and maximize opportunity. He counsels clients on the complex interplay between state, tribal, and federal law, as well as regulatory concerns and other issues, including advertising and immigration.
A partner in the firm's white-collar defense practice team, McKay brings his extensive experience with the U.S. Department of Justice, FBI, and other government agencies to bear on behalf of cannabis clients. He has received numerous awards for pro bono service, for his leadership in diversity, and for his service to local, state, federal, and American bar associations. He regularly writes and lectures on legal ethics, prosecutorial ethics, and ethical leadership.
Davis Wright Tremaine was one of the first large private law firms to formally launch a cannabis practice and continues to be a leader in the space. From deals to appeals, the firm offers a deep bench of attorneys who are committed to representing cannabis and cannabis-adjacent businesses with professionalism, integrity, and a deep sense of responsibility.
About Davis Wright Tremaine
Davis Wright Tremaine LLP is a national law firm with more than 550 lawyers representing clients based throughout the United States and around the world. For more information, visit www.dwt.com.