About Thomas M.J.
Thomas M.J. Lavigne built a legal career that moves from a traditional law school classroom to the newer, fast-changing field of cannabis law. He earned his J.D. from Michigan State University College of Law in 1989 after studying English at Wayne State University, where he completed his undergraduate degree. Those early years shaped a practice that combines statute and policy work with transactional and regulatory advice.
Lavigne began practicing law in Michigan after completing his legal education. His background includes work on regulatory matters and business transactions, areas that later dovetailed with state-level developments in cannabis regulation. Over time he shifted his practice toward areas where business, licensing and administrative law intersect, often dealing with state agencies and municipal regulators.
That shift coincided with broader legal and policy changes in Michigan. Lavigne moved into the cannabis sector when opportunities opened for lawyers who understood both licensing systems and traditional corporate and regulatory frameworks. He brought to that work an ability to explain complicated rules to clients and to shape applications, corporate structures, and compliance programs that must answer to changing guidance from regulators.
His work covers licensing, compliance, regulatory strategy and business formation for companies operating in or entering Michigan’s cannabis market. He has experience preparing applications for state and local licenses, advising on corporate governance for regulated businesses, and counseling clients on recordkeeping, reporting and operational policies aimed at meeting licensing standards. Lavigne also handles contracts and transactional matters common to new and growing enterprises in the sector.
Colleagues describe him as practical and direct in client communications. He prefers clear, actionable advice over theoretical debate. That approach helps clients make timely decisions in a market where rules can change from one season to the next.
Lavigne currently practices as part of Cannabis Counsel®. In that role he represents entrepreneurs, investors and operators on regulatory and transactional issues related to cannabis businesses in Michigan. He spends his time advising on licensing, compliance, and day-to-day legal matters that affect businesses subject to state and local oversight.
His work remains tied to Michigan law and its administrative structures. He continues to represent clients before state licensing bodies and in drafting the kinds of policies that regulators review. He currently practices law advising clients on cannabis licensing, regulatory compliance, and related business matters.
