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In Ohio, social liability laws allow the courts to hold party hosts responsible for the consequences if you provide alcohol to someone under the age of 21. To avoid social liability charges and understand how a competent defense attorney can help, below are a few common questions about these laws.

Understanding Social Host Liability Laws in Ohio

Who can be liable under these laws?

Homeowners, renters, or other guests are subject to social liability laws for providing alcohol to people who then go on to damage or injure another party. This can take place at house parties or in public venues where guests under 21 consume alcohol. This can also affect those who keep alcohol in their home if an underage guest takes it without their knowledge.

How can you prove social host liability?

defense attorneyUnder Ohio law, people under 21 may drink alcohol if their parents are with them, consent, and supervise their consumption in a restaurant, bar, private residence, or similar social space. Luckily, social hosts aren’t liable for self-inflicted injury or death on the part of their guest, nor are they liable for harm caused to third parties by their guests. However, they are responsible for damage caused by underage drinking by those who aren’t their children, or for their children if the minor consumes the alcohol without their knowledge or supervision.

How can you protect yourself?

Most homeowners insurance policies include social liability coverage, but since these typically only cover up to $300,000 in damages, they may not cover every expense, and your premiums may increase. You can also host an event in a hired space with a liquor license like a country club, hotel, or bar, which typically have liability coverage. Finally, a reliable defense attorney can help construct a thorough defense if you think you are liable for a guest’s damages while intoxicated.

How can you protect the guests?

If you’re at a social function with underage guests, prohibit them from consuming alcohol. Limit the drinks per legal guest, or hire a professional bartender who’ll recognize when a guest has too much to drink. You can also offer non-alcoholic beverages to avoid pressuring your guests to drink, and always make sure intoxicated people get a safe ride home.

 

If you believe you are liable for damage caused by an intoxicated guest, turn to James F. Bogen, Attorney at Law, in Cincinnati, OH. Since 2002, this defense attorney has been providing his clients with a wide array of resources and exceptional legal expertise to gather evidence and establish the best defense possible. Call (513) 503-7251 to schedule a consultation. Visit the website to learn more about his practice.
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