Beverage law is complex, varies from state to state, and can change at any time. Whether you have a business in the beverage industry, or are planning on starting a business in the beverage industry, Bochner PLLC offers services to assist with all facets of beverage law – more than just IP. Alcoholic beverages are highly regulated in the United States. Any business that sells these beverages needs expert help to ensure compliance with regulations. Selling alcoholic beverages may entail any of the following:
- Entity formation
- Regulations
- License applications
- Drafting and reviewing contracts
- Trademarks – filing trademarks, trademark search, and watch services
- TTB (Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau) label/recipe approval
To navigate these points, you need an attorney that is well-versed in beverage law. The following are some areas related to beverage law that Bochner covers.
Entity Formation
Starting any type of business requires choosing the right entity type, such as LLC, Corporation, or Sole Proprietor. In an industry with so many regulations, it’s especially critical for anyone starting, or running, a beverage company to make the most suitable choice. An alcohol license attorney can provide guidance and help with filing the appropriate documents in not only Florida, but also New York, San Francisco, and Houston.
Navigating Regulatory Laws
Any business that sells or makes alcohol needs to comply with a complex array of local, state, and federal laws. Bochner attorneys are highly knowledgeable regarding U.S beverage law, as well as federal laws, including:
- Import and export regulations
- Local zoning laws
- Franchise laws
- Regulations on beverage labeling
- Laws regulating the sale and distribution of alcoholic beverages
- Advertising and marketing
Licensing
Any business that sells or manufactures alcohol, such as a retailer, restaurant, bar, or manufacturer needs a license. There are several types of licenses, depending on the type of business. In addition to a state license, businesses need a federal permit and must file the appropriate tax documentation. Our attorneys can simplify and accelerate the process. Contact a Bochner beverage law attorney today to get started.
Contracts
A beverage attorney can draft and review contracts, which are often numerous and complex. Contracts are needed for a variety of transactions and agreements, such as distribution contracts, vendor agreements, third-party marketing agreements, and other contracts.
Production and distribution agreements can be especially complex and full of minutia. Before drafting or signing contracts, it’s necessary to be aware of the latest regulations and industry trends, which an attorney can assist with.
Trademarks and Copyrights
As intellectual property specialists, Bochner is well-equipped to help companies develop, apply for, and protect their brands with trademarks and copyright. A trademark is a design, word, or another distinguishing symbol that sets your brand apart. Brand names and logos are common examples of trademarked items. Copyrights pertain to original material such as an artistic, literary, or intellectual creation. Ad copy, label designs, content related to a brand (e.g. a video, recording, or article), and software can be protected by copyright.
Labels
The TTB has strict guidelines concerning labels on alcoholic beverages. Before a product can be sold, it must receive a COLA (Certificate of Label Approval). Bochner can help accelerate the approval process for both print and online label applications. See how our beverage law attorneys can help.
Contact Bochner With Any Beverage Law Questions or Concerns
Bochner beverage law attorneys are glad to work with companies of all sizes, including startups and experienced businesses that need to review or update contracts or policies. We can also help businesses that want to expand into the beverage sector. Download our beverage law guide and contact our beverage law team, today!
