Scottsdale-based Bianchi Brandt & Hale, a full-service law firm with an emphasis on the cannabis and hemp industries, recently announced the addition of paralegal Diana Johnson Wacholz and senior attorney Nicholas J. Scavio.

Ms. Wacholz will join the firm’s cannabis law practice where she will focus on business and real estate litigation, according to a press release. Mr. Scavio will join the firm’s business and commercial litigation practice where he will serve clients in areas such as cannabis, real estate, healthcare, transportation and logistics.

“We are excited to add Nick’s extensive litigation background to our practice,” Justin M. Brandt, shareholder and law partner, said in a prepared statement

“His multi-state expertise on business transactions, real estate, and employment matters is notable—Nick brings incredible value to the firm that will greatly benefit our clients.”

A graduate of Minnesota State University Moorhead, Ms. Wacholz received her Bachelor of Science in Project Management and went on to complete her Associate of Science as a Paralegal from Inver Hills Community College in Minnesota.

Prior to her position at Bianchi Brandt & Hale, Ms. Wacholz served as project manager at medical cannabis operator, Harvest Health & Recreation, Inc. Her background of experience covers civil litigation, business and real estate law, and estate planning.

“We look forward to adding Diana’s industry experience in medical cannabis to our business and real estate division,” Mr. Brandt said.

Mr. Scavio has been named a “Rising Star,” by Southwest Super Lawyers every year since 2016. The honor recognizes attorneys who demonstrate excellence in practice, a release states.

Throughout his professional career, Mr. Scavio has been involved in litigating a wide variety of disputes in courts across the states, including Arizona, California, Colorado, New Mexico, Oklahoma, Oregon, Texas and Washington.

He has represented clients throughout all stages of litigation and frequently serves as outside counsel to companies ranging from start-ups to large-scale businesses.

Mr. Scavio received his Juris Doctor from the Sandra Day O’Connor College of Law at Arizona State University and after completing his Bachelor of Art, also at Arizona State University.