McDonald Hopkins welcomes attorney Xavier Jaillet

McDonald Hopkins is proud to announce the addition of attorney Xavier Jaillet. Xavier is an Associate in the Business Department and a member of the firm’s Mergers and Acquisitions Practice Group. He also plays a key role on the firm’s cannabis and psychedelics team, with almost a decade of experience in the cannabis industry.

Xavier said McDonald Hopkins is his destination firm of choice because of its dedication to providing a full suite of business advisory services to its clients, along with the firm’s commitment to supporting its remote attorneys as much as its in-person attorneys. Xavier is based remotely in Denver.

“Growing my practice is a key focus of mine, and McDonald Hopkins’ diverse range of services ensures that my clients’ needs are addressed across the spectrum of legal issues they may face. The firm provides me with a strong network of qualified attorneys who are experts in their fields and who are willing to adapt to specific client circumstances,” he noted.

In his practice, Xavier advises both state-licensed marijuana businesses and federally compliant hemp enterprises, delivering strategic legal counsel across a wide range of corporate matters, including entity formation, regulatory compliance, governance, commercial transactions, and mergers and acquisitions.

Xavier’s clients benefit from his deep understanding of the legal and operational challenges unique to the cannabis space. His industry knowledge and expertise comes from roles that include managing operations and business development strategy at a national law firm cannabis practice, and hands-on involvement in operating licensed cannabis businesses and B2B product sales, as well as extensive experience selling software and industrial equipment to cannabis operators.

It’s that background that lends to his ability to provide insightful advice beyond legal standards.

“Cannabis businesses move quickly and can easily encounter pitfalls without proper counsel on how certain actions may affect their future. My ability to blend legal guidance with practical business advice allows my clients to move forward with confidence, understanding not just the legal risks, but also the broader business implications of their decisions,” Xavier said. “The cannabis industry is at a crossroads and cannabis businesses need strong advisory and legal support more than ever.”

Kevin Washburn, chair of McDonald Hopkins’ Cannabis and Psychedelics Practice Group, said Xavier’s addition is already making an impact. Having previously served as a law clerk at the firm, he is well-positioned to jump right into client work.

“Xavier is a tremendous asset to both our firm and our clients. He brings fresh perspective, strong relationships, and a thoughtful approach to this dynamic space. I’m excited to watch his practice develop and contribute to the continued growth of the firm,” he said.