Ricardo joined Lawrence Stephens as a Director to head up the Regulatory Solutions Department. He has over 16 years’ legal experience (in private practice and in-house) in dispute resolution with a particular focus on regulatory and compliance when it comes to cannabis-related businesses as well as the Cryptoassets & Blockchain industry.
Ricardo is regularly instructed by global cannabis companies in either the CBD wellness markets or medicinal cannabis sector (CBPMs). These instructions range from advising on aspects of regulation in the UK, EU, Asia and beyond regarding the legality of vaping products (e-cigarettes and e-liquids); cosmetics; food products / supplements; and medicinal cannabis products. He often advises clients looking to obtain a Home Office licence such as a controlled drugs licence or cultivation licence.
Ricardo has also developed an interest and practice regarding Cryptoassets and Non-Fungible Tokens (NFTs). He has assisted businesses operating or wishing to operate in this ever growing space helping his clients navigate the complex and novel legal issues whether it be a business looking to setup an exchange or issue a token.
Due to the nature of the above sectors and the legal nuances involved, Ricardo regularly works closely with other legal departments such as Corporate & Commercial, Employment and Dispute Resolution to ensure his clients benefit from a full suite of legal services specifically tailored to their immediate business needs and future objectives.
Ricardo’s in-house and international coverage makes him commercially incisive and instrumental to his clients when handling their legal and strategic requirements both in the UK and abroad. He is regularly described by his clients as a pragmatic, strategic and solution-focused business partner.