Frantz Ward Welcomes James E. J. Ickes to Cannabis Practice Group

Frantz Ward is pleased to announce the addition of James E. J. Ickes to the firm’s Cannabis Practice Group as Partner.

Jim is the newest addition to Frantz Ward’s growing Cannabis Practice Group, as he represents clients in Ohio and across the country in the cannabis industry. In particular, Jim’s cannabis practice includes the representation of national hemp-infused beverage companies.

In addition to his vibrant cannabis practice, Jim represents clients in all stages of litigation, from investigation to trial and appeal. He has extensive knowledge of data privacy, cybersecurity, and cannabis law, and brings specific experience managing cybersecurity and data breach incidents. He leverages deep relationships with digital forensics experts and a solid understanding of cybersecurity frameworks to develop individualized client defenses in matters including regulatory investigations and litigation as well as cyber risk mitigation. He also co-founded and led a licensed hemp processing company in Ohio, overseeing all legal, regulatory and commercial aspects of launching innovative consumer cannabis products.

Jim also holds a certification as a Healthcare Information Security and Privacy Practitioner, developing HIPAA compliance programs for clients navigating the legal and regulatory complexities of the health care and medical cannabis sectors. He has previously led the design and implementation of comprehensive HIPAA programs for both public health departments and private medical practices.

He earned his J.D. from The Ohio State University Moritz College of Law in 2000 after receiving his B.S. at Ohio University in 1997.