The law firm of Kephart Fisher is pleased to announce the establishment of an Of Counsel relationship with attorney Gary Jones. Jones brings his considerable experience and expertise to a new practice area for the firm that will focus on matters related to liquor licensing and the hospitality industry. Jones is well known throughout the state for his work with clients in the hospitality industry, advising developers, restauranteurs and others on issues related to the manufacturing, distribution, licensing, regulation and merchandising of all legal beverages.
“We are delighted to welcome Gary Jones to our team of seasoned professionals, and excited about the prospect of opening a new practice area that will be especially beneficial for our clientele,” said David Fisher, Principal at Kephart Fisher. “Gary has decades of experience in this arena, and has become the go-to expert when it comes to providing guidance through the often difficult process of pursuing and securing liquor licenses, as well as protecting these assets.”
According to Ohio’s Department of Commerce, the number of Ohio’s licensed alcohol manufacturers is at an all-time high. This growth is attributed to Ohio’s business-friendly regulatory environment and the popularity of quality craft and artisan products made locally. With the Division of Liquor Control issuing new licenses, renewing licenses annually, and approving license transfers, Jones’ practice has never been busier.
Jones entered private practice following his graduation from Franklin University. In 1971, he was offered a position with the Ohio Department of Liquor Control, where he led a division that handled inspections and the issuance of all permits. He left the department in 1974 to return to private practice, but continued to focus on this area of the law, representing retailers, wholesalers and manufacturers across the state. His impressive list of clients includes many nationally known companies, businesses and industries, some of which he has represented for more than 30 years.
“I am very much looking forward to this next phase of my career, and especially happy to be working with the excellent team of professionals at Kephart Fisher,” Jones said. “I have devoted most of my professional life to this area, and have every expectation that we will grow this practice over the coming months and years.”
About Kephart Fisher
Established in 1986, Kephart Fisher is a boutique law firm specializing in real estate development, zoning, planning, finance, private equity formation, organization, syndication and general business representation for closely held businesses. The firm’s “Selling Solutions Not Time” operating model incorporates a unique alternative to traditional time keeping and billing, with clients charged on a value added or project centric basis rather than for billable hours. For more information, visit Kephart Fisher’s website at http://www.kephartfisher.com.
