Is it illegal to serve an intoxicated patron?

Yes, it is illegal to serve an intoxicated patron in California. This is prohibited by California’s liquor liability law. This law states that any licensee or their employee who sells, furnishes, or gives away alcoholic beverages must not do so to any person under the legal drinking age or “to any obviously intoxicated person.” If an establishment breaks this law and serves an intoxicated patron, they can be held liable for any injuries or damages that occur due to the patron’s drunkenness. This means that the establishment can be sued by anyone who was injured by the intoxicated patron, or the estate of anyone who was killed. The injured party or the estate of a deceased person can recover the cost of medical bills, pain and suffering, and other damages caused by the intoxication. In addition to being held liable for damages caused by an intoxicated patron, an establishment can also face criminal charges if they are found to be in violation of California’s liquor liability law. This could result in fines, jail time, and revocation of their liquor license. Therefore, it is illegal to serve an intoxicated patron in California, and stores should be sure to check IDs and monitor their patrons’ behavior to ensure they are not serving anyone who is under the legal drinking age or obviously intoxicated. Doing so will help protect both the customer and the establishment.

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Is it illegal to serve an intoxicated patron?

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