Volunteer Legal Counsel - Regulatory Affairs & Compliance

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Position Overview

We are seeking a Volunteer Legal Counsel with expertise in nonprofit tax law, regulatory compliance, and litigation, particularly in the cannabis and botanical medicine space. The ideal candidate will provide strategic legal guidance on regulatory affairs, compliance with state and federal nonprofit laws, and tax-exempt organization policies. Additionally, this role will support the foundation in navigating the complex legal landscape of cannabinoid research and botanical-based therapies.

Key Responsibilities

· Regulatory Compliance & Risk Management

o Ensure the foundation remains compliant with IRS nonprofit tax laws, reporting obligations, and charitable organization regulations.

o Advise on legal and regulatory requirements for conducting botanical research, including cannabis-related projects.

o Monitor and interpret changes in state and federal laws affecting nonprofit and cannabis-related research.

· Nonprofit Governance & Operations

o Provide guidance on corporate governance, board responsibilities, and fiduciary duties.

o Assist with drafting, reviewing, and negotiating contracts, MOUs, and agreements related to fundraising, research, and sponsorships.

o Support policy development for ethical research, patient advocacy, and funding allocations.

· Cannabis Law & Botanical Research Compliance

o Navigate complex federal and state regulations related to cannabinoids, botanical therapies, and research funding.

o Ensure compliance with DEA, FDA, and other relevant agencies for research involving phytocannabinoids.

o Provide counsel on intellectual property, licensing, and regulatory approvals for plant-based treatments.

· Litigation & Legal Defense (as needed)

o Represent or advise the foundation in the event of regulatory investigations, litigation, or compliance disputes.

o Assist with advocacy efforts related to pediatric cancer funding and botanical research policy changes.

o Coordinate with external counsel as needed for specialized legal matters.

Qualifications

· J.D. degree and active bar membership in at least one U.S. jurisdiction.

· Minimum of 5 years of experience in nonprofit law, tax-exempt compliance, or regulatory affairs.

· Expertise in cannabis law, botanical research regulations, or FDA/DEA compliance preferred.

· Experience with litigation or regulatory defense is highly desirable.

· Strong knowledge of IRS 501(c)(3) regulations, state fundraising laws, and tax compliance.

· Ability to work independently while collaborating with the foundation’s leadership and external stakeholders.

· Passion for pediatric cancer research, botanical medicine, and patient advocacy.

Commitment & Benefits

· This is a volunteer position, with flexible hours based on availability.

· Ideal for legal professionals looking to make a social impact in healthcare and nonprofit innovation.

· Opportunity to shape legal policies in botanical drug discovery and cannabis-based research.

· Recognition on the Kiona Foundation’s website and materials as Volunteer Legal Counsel.