San Francisco, CA cannabis and hemp lawyer Shay Aaron Gilmore talks about the philosophy that guides his work and his service to the law community. He states that his work as a lawyer is guided by the philosophy of legal realism, which emphasizes the practical application of law based on empirical evidence and real-world observations. This approach informs his transactional practice by allowing him to understand the practical context of each matter, including market dynamics and client business needs. It enables him to craft agreements that align with clients’ objectives rather than relying solely on standard legal forms.

Legal realism also enhances his negotiation skills, emphasizing the importance of understanding the interests of all parties and finding creative solutions that satisfy everyone involved. Additionally, it fosters flexibility and adaptability, allowing him to adjust strategies as circumstances evolve and as other parties participate in negotiations.

He has held leadership roles in the bar and community throughout his 20-plus years of practice. He co-founded the Bar Association of San Francisco Cannabis Law Section, serving as its immediate past chair, and co-founded the California Lawyers Association Cannabis Practitioners Group, where he currently serves as chair. He is a member of the board of directors of the International Cannabis Bar Association and has served on its executive committee. In 2023, he was appointed by the San Francisco Board of Supervisors to the San Francisco Cannabis Oversight Committee as an expert in cannabis law and regulation, where he contributed to public discussions on cannabis law reform. Additionally, he has served on the Corporations Committee of the California Lawyers Association Business Law Section.