Hosting a Holiday Party?

Hosting a party is a blast-gathering your closest friends, family, or co-workers can be great way to get away from the everyday grind. But hosting a holiday party also comes with responsibility that goes beyond picking the champagne.

If you’re planning to host a party this holiday season, you need to know about your responsibilities:

Accident responsibility If a bartender serves another drink to person who is clearly intoxicated and that person gets in a wreck on the way home, you may be just as responsible as your guest who foolishly got behind the wheel. This is known as the Dram Shop Law and it applies to party hosts, too. You may not have planned on babysitting at your party, but your belligerent co-worker may need some extra attention. Print some cards with taxi numbers on them or provide a device with access to Uber. Some companies will even take your car home that same night.

Noise complaints Most communities have rules in place that prohibit excessive and unreasonable noise. Often times neighbors may be more receptive to the noise if you give them a heads up before your party or even invite them. Noise ordinances vary by city and county. Not knowing the law can be costly — In Woodstock, for example, fines can reach $1,000 for multiple violations of that city’s noise ordinance.

Serving underage It is illegal to consume alcohol under the age of 21. If your party includes minors, make sure to monitor what is in their glass. Otherwise you could be spending your Christmas bonus on a large fine or possibly even bail money. Serving a minor is illegal.

Enjoy your holiday party, but do so responsibly.