Outside General Counsel
The alcohol beverage industry runs on licenses, relationships, and razor-thin regulatory margins. You don't just need a lawyer who already speaks TABC. Your success requires sound legal counsel across the board - complemented by alcohol industry expertise.
Your General Counsel, Without the Full-Time Cost
Running a business in the alcohol industry means operating in one of the most regulated industries in the country. You're facing a patchwork of federal, state, and local rules that all compete for your attention - on top of the legal hurdles any small buiness faces. You need sophisticated legal guidance, but not necessarily a full-time attorney on payroll.
Outside General Counsel (OGC) is a flexible arrangement where I serve as your dedicated legal partner on an ongoing basis. You're not just a phone call away from regulatory help. I am on call to assist with employment disputes, contract matters, business structures - and if your needs exceed my capabilities, I am your field general coordinating all of your legal needs. That's the relationship.
Why It Works
The OGC Advantage
Regulator's Perspective
I served as General Counsel at TABC. I know how enforcement thinks — which means I can help you avoid problems before they become violations.
Direct Access
You work with me, not a rotating team of associates who've never read the Texas Alcoholic Beverage Code. Responsive, personal counsel when it matters.
Industry Fluency
Three-tier system, TABC licenses, TTB label approvals, franchise law — I speak the language of your business without a learning curve.
Predictable Costs
Flat-fee or retainer arrangements so you can budget confidently, without surprise invoices every time a compliance question comes up.
OGC Services
Licensing & Compliance
State and federal license applications, renewals, condition letters, and day-to-day compliance guidance across all three tiers — from a former TABC General Counsel.
Distribution Agreements
Drafting and negotiating your contracts with distributors — with an eye toward maximizing your position under Texas franchise.
Ownership & Business Structure
Entity formation, operating agreements, cap table management, and ownership structures that satisfy TABC's tied-house rules and investor requirements.
Fundraising & Investment Compliance
Guidance on cap raises, investor agreements, and regulatory considerations when bringing on outside capital in a licensed business.
Workforce Counsel
Executive compensation, employment policies and procedures, and non-competes to maximize your workplace operations.
Ongoing Strategic Legal Partner
From new product launches to taproom expansions to acquisitions — a legal partner at the table for your business decisions, not just your crises.
Let's Talk About Your Business
Whether you're launching a new label, navigating a TABC issue, or just need a trusted legal partner in your corner — I'd love to hear what you're building.