Jason R. Canvasser

Jason R. Canvasser is a trusted legal advisor with extensive experience in risk management, regulatory compliance, and complex litigation. He represents clients in the liquor, cannabis, retail, hospitality, food & beverage, and gaming industries, guiding them through licensing, land use, and commercial disputes. His expertise extends to real estate matters, creditor’s rights, and collection litigation, ensuring clients achieve their business goals while maintaining compliance with industry regulations.

Jason earned his J.D. from Wayne State University Law School in 2006 after completing his B.A. at the University of Michigan in 2003. His deep legal knowledge allows him to represent clients in state, federal, and bankruptcy courts, including out-of-state cases where he has been admitted pro hac vice. His reputation as a strategic litigator has made him a sought-after attorney for businesses navigating licensing and compliance challenges.

Jason focuses a large part of his practice on helping national clients with alcohol licensing and regulatory compliance. He works with restaurants, bars, hotels, grocery stores, and other businesses to obtain, transfer, and maintain liquor licenses while staying compliant with state and local liquor laws. Jason regularly works with the Michigan Liquor Control Commission (MLCC), guiding clients through the complex regulations governing alcohol sales, marketing, promotions, and special events.

In the cannabis industry, Jason provides legal counsel on licensing, land use, and compliance, assisting clients in securing state and local approvals. He has successfully litigated disputes involving marijuana application scoring and has played a pivotal role in drafting municipal ordinances. His extensive experience in cannabis-related business agreements positions him as a key resource for industry stakeholders.

Recognized in The Best Lawyers in America for Commercial Litigation (2025), Jason R. Canvasser is an active State Bar of Michigan member and serves on the Birmingham Bloomfield Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors. His dedication to legal excellence and industry-specific advocacy makes him a vital partner for businesses facing complex legal and regulatory challenges.

Law Office Affiliations

• Member, Clark Hill PLC
• Member, State Bar of Michigan
• Member, City of Birmingham Board of Zoning Appeals
• Member, Birmingham Bloomfield Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors

Licensed State

• Michigan

Education

• Wayne State University Law School
  Juris Doctor (JD)
• University of Michigan
  Bachelor of Arts (BA)

Awards & Badges