Since the advent of adult-use cannabis legalization in Connecticut, Matt Rosenthal has dedicated a substantial part of his legal practice to navigating the complexities of cannabis law. He focuses on licensing and permitting at both the state and local levels and advises clients on the operational compliance of cannabis establishments within Connecticut. With a deep understanding of the regulatory environment, Matt has effectively guided several Connecticut cannabis businesses, including some of the first adult-use cannabis establishments to open in the state, through the intricate process of obtaining licenses and approvals from the Department of Consumer Protection and the Connecticut Social Equity Council.
Matt has substantial experience in reviewing and assisting in developing comprehensive operating procedures and social equity plans which comply with state regulations and contribute positively to the community and navigating local zoning laws. Matt’s clients have achieved successful zoning approval of cannabis establishments and amendments to local zoning regulations to facilitate the industry’s growth.
Beyond regulatory and compliance aspects, Matt advises his clients on matters of corporate structuring, including tailoring operating agreements and partnership agreements to his client’s interests and needs and the unique legal requirements of the state’s cannabis laws.
Matt also advises clients on commercial real estate transactions, which frequently go hand in hand with his clients’ cannabis businesses. His practice encompasses a wide range of real estate activities, including representing tenants or landlords in lease negotiations, negotiating sales and acquisition agreements for various types of properties, advising clients on securing loans, and structuring financial agreements.
Prior to working with MRG, Matt Rosenthal had a decades-long history in the financial services industry, having worked for several national and regional banks in roles focused on loan underwriting, credit policy and risk, and banking operations management. While at GMAC Mortgage, Matt oversaw risk management and regulatory compliance with multiple agencies and secondary markets for a team producing over six billion dollars in mortgage loans annually. During his tenure with United Bank in Hartford, he managed the mortgage operations teams, improved operational efficiencies, and implemented a title guarantee program for local attorneys.
Matt currently lives in his hometown of West Hartford with his wife and daughter.
