Mitchel “Mitch” Chargo is a partner at Hinshaw & Culbertson LLP and a nationally recognized attorney specializing in cannabis law and regulator affairs, commercial real estate, and business transactions. With more than 30 years of legal experience, he advises companies, Tribal governments, and business executives navigating complex markets during periods of regulatory transition.
Chargo is widely known for his role in negotiating Minnesota’s landmark Tribal–State cannabis compact, the first in the United States to authorize Tribal cannabis operations beyond sovereign land. He continues to advise cannabis operators, Tribal nations, and Tribally-owned business enterprises nationwide on compliance, licensing, site acquisition, and market development, bringing a practical, business-minded approach to evolving cannabis regulation.
A frequent national speaker and media commentator, Chargo has spoken on cannabis law, regulatory compliance, tribal cannabis, and the business implications of shifting federal and state policy. He also chairs his firm’s cannabis committee and serves on the board of the Indigenous Cannabis Industry Association.
Beyond cannabis, Chargo has decades of experience advising clients on commercial real estate transactions, corporate governance, financing, and complex business transactions. He is a trusted advisor to C-suite leaders and management teams, valued for his ability to translate legal complexity into clear, actionable guidance.
Chargo is also deeply committed to education and ethical leadership. He was the founder and president of The Institute for Holocaust Research and Education, where he focused on historical literacy, combating antisemitism, and examining how misinformation and propaganda influence modern society.