Liquor Licensing

For anyone or any business that desires to manufacture, distribute, or sell alcohol in the State of California, they must obtain an ABC License at the state level (see Conditional Use Permit for the local level).  Without a valid ABC License, it is a misdemeanor to sell alcoholic beverages in California, carrying a penalty of up to 1 year of jail time and/or up to $1,000 in fines.  We have extensive experience in applying for an ABC License and maneuvering throughout the complicated administrate process to obtain a valid license for your business.  There are currently 88 different types of licenses offer by the ABC.  We expedite this process for our clients to minimize unnecessary delays in starting an alcohol business.  We help clients with brand new licenses, transfer of licenses, premise transfers, and expansion or modification of ABC License privileges and conditions.  We also help in sourcing ABC Licenses for certain types of businesses.

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We are well versed in the ABC Law and can help negotiate difficult legal issues when applying for an ABC License, including those with a criminal background as we also practice criminal law, as all applicants are required to undergo a FBI background check.  As the ABC License process is becoming more and more difficult, it is highly recommend to hire an experience ABC lawyer to navigate the complex ABC licensing procedures.  We also have extensive experience in dealing with escrow companies, that are usually required for license transfers.

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Our Core Practice Areas

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1. New ABC License Applications & Acquisition

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Navigating the initial application process can take months and involves substantial financial investment. We streamline the process to avoid processing delays or administrative denials.

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• License Typologies: We handle original applications for the most common retail tiers, including Type 20/21 (Off-Sale Beer & Wine/Liquor), Type 41 (On-Sale Beer & Wine for Restaurants), Type 47 (On-Sale General for Restaurants), and Type 48 (On-Sale General for Bars/Nightclubs).

• Local Land Use & Entitlements: We handle necessary municipal cross-compliance requirements, including securing local Conditional Use Permits (CUPs), zoning clearances, and managing public convenience or necessity (PCN) determinations.​

 

2. License Transfers & Entity Restructuring

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Buying, selling, or corporate restructuring requires precise legal execution to prevent the lapse or forfeiture of a valuable liquor license.

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• Person-to-Person & Premises-to-Premises: We manage the complex escrow and application processes required for transferring licenses between individuals, entities, or physical locations.

• Corporate Structure Changes: We assist existing licensees with updating ownership records following partner buyouts, corporate officer changes, or stock transfers.​

 

3. Administrative Modifications & Authorizations

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As your business expands and shifts, your licensing parameters must adapt legally alongside your operations.

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• Condition Waivers: We represent clients seeking to modify or remove restrictive operating conditions historically placed on their licenses by the ABC or local law enforcement.

• Special Event & Catering Permits: We draft and submit applications for catering authorizations and temporary daily licenses for festivals, corporate events, and off-site activations.

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4. ABC Disciplinary Defense & Accusation Representation

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If your business is issued a citation, immediate defense representation is critical. We actively represent owners facing ABC investigations or formal enforcement actions.

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• Violation Defense: Strategic counsel for standard operating citations, including minor-decoy sting operations, after-hours sales, out-of-state retail purchasing, and disorderly premises allegations.

• Accusation Hearings & Appeals: If the ABC files a formal "Accusation" to suspend or revoke your license, we provide comprehensive representation at administrative law hearings and handle petitions before the ABC Appeals Board.

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Why Top Hospitality Brands Choose Our Firm.

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• A Strategic Approach: We manage your licensing needs alongside local municipal zoning requirements so your doors can open without administrative delay.

• Proactive Risk Mitigation: We review your physical premises and operational handbooks to detect and resolve compliance vulnerabilities before state investigators arrive.

• Proven Litigation Record: When negotiations stall, our attorneys provide defense counsel in administrative hearings to save your license and protect your revenue.

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Contact us today to schedule your consultation with an alcohol and liquor ABC licensing attorney.