Substance Law is a Toronto-based law firm providing focused legal services for businesses regulated by the Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario (AGCO). We advise clients on cannabis and liquor licensing, compliance, enforcement, and regulatory strategy under Ontario law.
AGCO-regulated industries face strict oversight, ongoing compliance obligations, and significant enforcement risk. Our AGCO lawyers help clients navigate this regulatory landscape with clarity, efficiency, and confidence.
AGCO Legal Services
Cannabis Licensing & Regulatory Compliance
We assist cannabis businesses at all stages with AGCO-related matters, including:
- Retail Store Authorization (RSA) applications
- Cannabis Retail Operator Licence (CROL) matters
- Cannabis retail store transfers and changes of ownership
- Ongoing AGCO compliance obligations
- Regulatory strategy for new market entrants
We help clients understand and meet Ontario’s cannabis retail framework while minimizing regulatory risk.
Liquor Licensing & AGCO Alcohol Matters
We advise businesses on AGCO liquor-related matters, including:
- Liquor Sales Licence applications
- Manufacturer and retail licensing issues
- Licence renewals, amendments, and transfers
- Compliance with Ontario liquor laws and AGCO standards
- Advertising, promotions, and tied-house considerations
Our advice is practical and aligned with AGCO expectations.
AGCO Compliance & Regulatory Advisory
We provide ongoing legal support to AGCO-regulated businesses, including:
- Compliance assessments and risk reviews
- Policies and procedures aligned with AGCO standards
- Guidance on record-keeping and reporting obligations
- Proactive compliance strategies
Ongoing compliance reduces enforcement risk and supports business continuity.
AGCO Investigations, Audits & Inspections
If your business is subject to AGCO oversight, we assist with:
- Preparing for AGCO inspections and audits
- Responding to inspection findings
- Managing compliance orders and follow-up requirements
- Regulatory risk mitigation
Early legal involvement can significantly affect outcomes.
Responding to AGCO Notices, Letters & Allegations
We represent clients in connection with:
- AGCO Notices of Proposal
- Registrar’s letters and information requests
- Alleged violations and compliance concerns
- Suspension, revocation, or refusal proceedings
We act as counsel and point of contact with the AGCO to ensure clear, strategic communication.
Licence Suspensions, Revocations & Appeals
We assist clients facing serious regulatory action, including:
- Licence suspensions or revocations
- Refusals to issue or renew licences
- Appeals and hearings before the Licence Appeal Tribunal
- Enforcement strategy and resolution planning
Our focus is on protecting licences and business viability.
AGCO Transactions & Business Changes
We advise on AGCO-related issues arising from:
- Business sales and acquisitions
- Share or asset transactions
- Corporate restructurings
- Changes in control or ownership
We ensure regulatory requirements are addressed early in the transaction process.
Industries We Assist Under AGCO Regulation
Our AGCO lawyers regularly advise:
- Cannabis retail stores
- Cannabis operators and applicants
- Bars, restaurants, and hospitality businesses
- Liquor manufacturers and retailers
- Investors and purchasers of AGCO-regulated businesses
Why Choose Substance Law as Your AGCO Lawyer?
- Focused experience with AGCO cannabis and liquor regulation
- Practical, regulator-aware legal advice
- Experience with licensing, compliance, and enforcement
- Strategic support during investigations and disputes
- Toronto-based firm serving clients across Ontario
Work With an AGCO Lawyer in Ontario
AGCO matters are time-sensitive and high-stakes. Whether you are applying for a licence, responding to regulatory action, or managing ongoing compliance, Substance Law provides experienced legal guidance tailored to AGCO-regulated businesses.
Contact us today to speak with an AGCO Lawyer in Ontario.
Frequently Asked Questions About AGCO Lawyers in Ontario
What does an AGCO lawyer do?
An AGCO lawyer assists businesses regulated by the Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario with licensing, compliance, enforcement, investigations, and appeals related to cannabis and liquor. This includes licence applications, renewals, audits, and responding to regulatory action.
When should I hire an AGCO lawyer?
You should hire an AGCO lawyer when applying for a cannabis or liquor licence, responding to AGCO correspondence, preparing for inspections or audits, receiving a Notice of Proposal, or dealing with licence suspension, revocation, or refusal.
Can a lawyer help with AGCO cannabis licensing?
Yes. An AGCO lawyer can assist with Cannabis Retail Operator Licence matters, Retail Store Authorization applications, licence transfers, changes of ownership, and ongoing compliance with Ontario’s cannabis retail framework.
Can a lawyer help with AGCO liquor licences?
Yes. An AGCO lawyer can assist with Liquor Sales Licence applications, renewals, amendments, transfers, compliance issues, and responding to enforcement actions under Ontario liquor laws.
What is a Notice of Proposal from the AGCO?
A Notice of Proposal is a formal notice issued by the AGCO indicating an intention to refuse, suspend, revoke, or impose conditions on a licence. There are strict deadlines to respond or request a hearing, making timely legal advice critical.
Can an AGCO lawyer help with licence suspensions or revocations?
Yes. An AGCO lawyer can assist with responding to suspension or revocation actions, preparing submissions, negotiating with the regulator, and representing clients in appeals before the Licence Appeal Tribunal.
What happens during an AGCO inspection or audit?
During an AGCO inspection or audit, the regulator reviews compliance with licensing conditions, record-keeping, operational requirements, and regulatory standards. Legal guidance can help businesses prepare and respond effectively to any findings.
Can an AGCO lawyer communicate with the AGCO on my behalf?
Yes. An AGCO lawyer can act as your representative and primary point of contact with the AGCO, responding to letters, information requests, and compliance issues in a clear and strategic manner.
Do AGCO issues affect business sales or purchases?
Yes. AGCO licensing and compliance issues can significantly impact business transactions. Legal advice is often required to address regulatory due diligence, approval requirements, and change-of-control obligations.
How much does an AGCO lawyer cost in Ontario?
The cost depends on the complexity of the matter, such as licensing, compliance, or enforcement proceedings. Many AGCO matters are handled on a flat-fee or hourly basis, with estimates provided after an initial consultation.
