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Legal Updates
Our blog provides updates and insights into the complex issues affecting the alcohol industry.
Our team represents clients across the globe on industry issues such as licensing, permitting, manufacturing, TTB labels and formulas, taxation, and trade practice issues.
If you have questions, please contact our firm, or reach out to one of our contributors directly.


Big Changes Proposed to Ohio's Beer Distribution Laws
Ohio seeks to join other states which have revised their existing “Franchise Act” laws to create a carve-out for smaller breweries.
James Niekamp
Sep 28, 20232 min read


It's Almost Time to Renew Your Ohio Brewery or Distillery Permit
Ohio breweries and distilleries will soon need to submit renewal permit applications to the Ohio Division of Liquor Control.
James Niekamp
Aug 11, 20231 min read


Is it Legal to Distill Alcohol at Home for Personal Use?
Distilled spirits cannot be produced in any amount without federal approval.
James Niekamp
Jul 31, 20231 min read


When is a TTB COLA Required for Malt Beverages?
COLA's ensure that branding, labeling, and formula requirements are met for alcohol products, but not all alcoholic drinks require a COLA.
James Niekamp
Jun 27, 20231 min read


Is it Legal to Keg RTD’s?
Ready-to-Drink (“RTD”) cocktails continue to grow as an industry segment, and with any new trend in the alcohol industry, the regulations...
James Niekamp
May 25, 20231 min read


TTB Audits: What to Expect
Now may be a good time to make sure your business is in compliance with TTB rules and regulations.
James Niekamp
Apr 27, 20233 min read


Ohio Division of Liquor Control Introduces Online Product Registration
The Ohio Division of Liquor Control has announced that Ohio Breweries, wineries, and low-proof mixed beverage manufacturers can now register
James Niekamp
Mar 13, 20231 min read


What to Know Before Making RTD’s
What alcohol beverage manufacturers should consider before making the jump into this new industry segment
James Niekamp
Feb 22, 20233 min read


Central and Eastern Ohio D Class Liquor Permit Renewals Due Soon
Central and Eastern Ohio D Class Liquor Permit Renewals Due Soon
James Niekamp
Jan 9, 20231 min read


Need Help with TTB Reports?
Now might be a good time to ensure your brewery, winery, or distillery is caught up on TTB reports and returns.
James Niekamp
Dec 13, 20221 min read


TTB to Require Reports and Tax Returns are Current Before Processing Certain Permit Changes
TTB is now requiring that TTB reports and returns be up to date before processing certain permit amendments and applications.
James Niekamp
Nov 2, 20221 min read


How to File a TTB Refund Claim
Many businesses in the alcohol and tobacco industries are familiar with TTB, but not all are familiar with the TTB refund claim process.
James Niekamp
Oct 23, 20221 min read


What is a TTB Transfer in Bond?
A Transfer in Bond means that alcoholic beverage product is being transferred between two manufacturing-tier bonded facilities (regardless o
James Niekamp
Sep 15, 20222 min read


How to Renew Your Ohio Liquor Permit Online
It's that time of year again. Pursuant to Ohio Revised Code (R.C.) 4303.27, all permits renew annually at one of three points depending...
James Niekamp
Aug 19, 20221 min read


Ohio Liquor Permit Expired? You May Still Have Time to Appeal
This post contains important information for permit holders whose permits expired on June 1, 2022, and received a Cancel for Failure to Rene
James Niekamp
Jul 20, 20222 min read


Is Home-Distilling Legal? The Answer is Still "No".
TTB released an updated Newsletter today, reminding the public that home-distilling alcohol is not legal. As the craft spirits industry...
James Niekamp
Jul 15, 20221 min read


How Do You Transfer an Ohio Liquor Permit?
Whether you are looking to buy permits, sell permits, or simply change your business location, there are many issues to be aware of
James Niekamp
Jul 1, 20223 min read


How Much Does an Ohio Liquor Permit Cost?
How Much Does an Ohio Liquor Permit Cost?
James Niekamp
Jun 21, 20224 min read


Big Changes Coming to Ohio Division of Liquor Control Forms Soon
The Ohio Division of Liquor Control is updating its permit applications forms
James Niekamp
Jun 11, 20221 min read


Ohio Craft Breweries Can Now Partner with Food Trucks for Added Liquor Permit Privileges
Ohio Craft Breweries Can Now Partner with Food Trucks for Added Liquor Permit Privileges
James Niekamp
Jun 6, 20222 min read
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