Experienced Guidance for Businesses Navigating Liquor Licensing Throughout Maryland and Washington, D.C.
Obtaining, maintaining, or transferring an alcohol beverage license can be one of the most complicated aspects of operating a business that serves or sells alcoholic beverages. Whether you are opening a new restaurant, expanding a hotel, purchasing a package store, or responding to a license violation, the process involves strict regulations, detailed compliance requirements, and coordination with both state and local liquor boards.
Hillman, Brown and Darrow, P.A. has been serving Maryland families for nearly a century. Our attorneys bring more than 160 years of combined legal experience to family law and divorce cases, and our long history in Annapolis reflects our deep commitment to the community we serve.
Call 410.263.3131 or schedule a consultation through the Contact page.
Alcohol Beverage License Attorneys in Maryland
For nearly a century, Hillman, Brown and Darrow, P.A. has helped Maryland businesses navigate regulatory requirements, licensing challenges, and operational hurdles. Founded in 1929 by Noah A. Hillman, a respected Annapolis leader and public servant, the firm developed a reputation for service, integrity, and legal excellence that continues today.
Our attorneys work closely with restaurants, retailers, wholesalers, private clubs, nonprofit organizations, hotels, resorts, golf clubs, and specialty facilities to help them obtain and maintain the liquor licenses required to legally operate. From new applications to renewals to board hearings, our team brings clarity and confidence to a complex regulatory landscape.
Learn about our firm’s history on the Our Firm page
Comprehensive Legal Support for Alcohol Beverage Licensing
Liquor licensing is a highly regulated field that requires businesses to follow state and local laws precisely. A single oversight can delay an opening, jeopardize a renewal, or lead to costly penalties. That is why businesses across Maryland turn to Hillman, Brown and Darrow, P.A. for experienced licensing guidance.
Our liquor license attorneys assist with all aspects of alcohol beverage licensing, including:
We help ensure that every step of the process is completed correctly, efficiently, and in accordance with state and local regulations.
To explore additional firm services, visit the Practice Areas page
A Longstanding Annapolis Firm With Deep Licensing Experience
The attorneys at Hillman, Brown and Darrow, P.A. bring decades of experience in representing businesses before liquor boards across Maryland. Our firm’s deep community roots and generational history strengthen our understanding of local regulations, board expectations, and the licensing process.
A Legacy of Legal Excellence Since 1929
Founded by Noah A. Hillman, who went on to serve as an Alderman and interim Mayor of Annapolis, the firm has always prioritized community, service, and professionalism. Over the decades, respected attorneys including Samuel J. Brown, Michael P. Darrow, Daniel J. Mellin, and others helped the firm expand its services, including its alcohol beverage licensing practice.
Today, our liquor license attorneys continue to uphold that legacy, providing businesses with reliable representation for some of their most important operational needs.
Recognized Leaders Across Maryland
Hillman, Brown and Darrow, P.A. has been repeatedly recognized in the legal community through distinctions such as:
Leading Lawyers
Up and Coming Lawyers
Maryland Super Lawyers
Rising Stars
Best Attorneys in the Best of Anne Arundel County Readers’ Choice Poll
Our ongoing achievements reflect the firm’s dedication to thorough preparation, ethical representation, and local leadership.
Why Businesses Choose Hillman, Brown and Darrow, P.A. for Liquor Licensing
Businesses trust our firm because we offer the experience, professionalism, and clarity required for navigating the complex alcohol beverage licensing system.
1. Decades of Licensing Experience
Our attorneys bring extensive knowledge of Maryland’s alcohol laws, county regulations, and administrative requirements.
2. Strong Community and Regulatory Insight
With almost 100 years in Annapolis, we are familiar with the expectations of local liquor boards and enforcement agencies.
3. Strategic Guidance for Every Licensing Stage
Whether you are applying for a new license, transferring ownership, addressing a violation, or expanding operations, our attorneys provide clear direction at every step.
4. Comprehensive Legal Support for Business Owners
Licensing issues often intersect with other legal needs. Our firm also assists with:
5. Representation for All Business Types
We support a wide range of clients, including:
- Restaurants, bars, and nightclubs
- Hotels and resorts
- Golf and yacht clubs
- Community organizations and nonprofits
- Package liquor stores and convenience stores
- Wineries and special-use facilities
- Event venues
6. Strong Advocacy Before Liquor Boards
Our attorneys are experienced in attending hearings, addressing board concerns, and defending clients in violation matters.
Meet the Alcohol Beverage License Attorneys
Hillman, Brown and Darrow’s liquor license team includes attorneys known for their local regulatory knowledge, professionalism, and responsive service.
Our alcohol beverage license attorneys are:
These attorneys bring a combination of experience, legal insight, and practical guidance to help businesses obtain and maintain compliance with Maryland’s alcohol licensing requirements.
Learn more on the Attorneys page
Licensing Services Tailored to Your Type of Business
Alcohol licensing requirements vary depending on the type of business, its operations, location, and structure. Our team provides tailored representation designed to meet each client’s needs.
Restaurants, Bars, and Nightclubs
We assist with:
- Applications for on-premises consumption licenses
- Entertainment endorsements
- Outdoor seating approvals
- Compliance matters
Hotels and Resorts
Hospitality businesses often require multiple license types and operational adjustments. We assist with:
- Hotel liquor licenses
- Resort operational guidance
- Event-related licensing needs
Golf Clubs, Yacht Clubs, and Private Membership Organizations
We support both private and semi-private membership businesses with:
- Club licenses
- Special facility use approvals
- Compliance and renewals
Community Organizations and Nonprofits
We assist with:
- Temporary licenses for fundraising events
- Special event permits
- Ongoing compliance requirements
Package Stores and Convenience Stores
We help clients navigate the detailed requirements for:
- Off-premises retail licenses
- Ownership transfers
- Compliance audits
Wineries and Specialty Facilities
We assist with unique licensing requirements for:
- Wine production
- Tasting rooms
- Wholesale or distribution approvals
Navigating the Alcohol Beverage Licensing Process
From initial applications to board hearings, the licensing process involves many detailed steps. Our attorneys guide clients through each one.
Step 1: Initial Consultation and Business Assessment
We review your business plans, location, and goals to determine which license categories apply.
Step 2: Document Preparation and Application Submission
We prepare and file required forms, documentation, financial statements, ownership information, and background materials.
Step 3: Compliance Review
We ensure all zoning, property, and operational requirements align with licensing rules.
Step 4: Representation Before Local Liquor Boards
We attend hearings, address board questions, and guide clients through approvals.
Step 5: Renewals, Transfers, and Amendments
We support ongoing compliance and any future changes to business ownership or operations.
Step 6: Addressing Violations
If your business faces a complaint or violation notice, we provide representation to help protect your license and minimize penalties.
Frequently Asked Questions About Alcohol Beverage Licensing
Stay Informed Through Our Blog
Visit the Blog page for updates and insights on:
Schedule a Consultation With Our Maryland Liquor License Attorneys
If you need assistance with a new alcohol beverage license, a renewal, a transfer, or a licensing issue, the attorneys at Hillman, Brown and Darrow, P.A. are here to help. We support businesses across Maryland and Washington, D.C. with knowledgeable, thorough, and responsive legal guidance.
Call 410.263.3131 or schedule your consultation through the Contact page