Susan Johnson

Practice Areas

Commercial & IP Transactions

Alcoholic Beverages

Business & Corporate Finance

Consumer Brands

Food & Beverage

Hospitality, Travel & Tourism

Sports, Arts & Entertainment

Professional Memberships

- Former Director, Washington Wine Industry Foundation

- National Association of Licensing and Compliance Professionals

- Alliance of Alcohol Industry Attorneys & Consultants

- National Conference of State Liquor Administrators

- National Alcoholic Beverage Control Association

- Brewers Assoc1ation

- Washington State Bar Association

Career

For more than two decades, Susan has advised clients across the alcoholic beverage industry on regulatory compliance, business operations and legislative developments. Producers, distributors, retailers and hospitality companies appreciate her strategic counsel on the business and legal impacts of federal, state and local alcohol regulations.

She works with breweries, wineries, distilleries, grocers, specialty retailers, restaurant and hotel chains, sports facility concessionaires and common carriers to address liquor licensing requirements, tied-house laws and distribution agreements. Her counsel includes structuring compliant sales and marketing strategies, assessing promotional partnerships and advising on corporate ownership changes that require regulatory approval.

Susan also represents clients in administrative enforcement matters, regulatory proceedings and compliance reviews. She has contributed to legislative initiatives that modernize industry regulations, including those affecting licensing structures and business models. By working directly with state and federal agencies, she helps businesses address operational challenges, implement policy-driven changes and anticipate regulatory shifts impacting the alcohol sector.

Expert in these Jurisdictions

Washington