What happens if I serve alcohol without a liquor license?

If you serve alcohol without a liquor license in California, you could be subject to criminal penalties. Under California law, it is illegal to sell or give away alcohol without a valid liquor license. Depending on the circumstances, penalties for violating liquor license laws include fines and jail time for both the seller and buyer of alcohol. The consequences for serving alcohol without a license can be serious. For example, California Penal Code Section 25602 makes it a misdemeanor offense to purchase, possess, or consume alcohol without a valid license, and further makes it a crime for someone to purchase alcohol for another who is not licensed. This means that not only the person serving alcohol without a license can be charged, but also any person that receives alcohol from the unlicensed seller. Moreover, violating California liquor license law may also lead to civil liability. This means that any person who is injured or harmed because of the unlawful and negligent sale of alcohol could sue the unlicensed alcohol seller. This could lead to the alcohol seller having to pay substantial amounts of money to the injured parties. In short, it is not worth it to serve alcohol without a liquor license in California. Doing so can lead to significant penalties, including criminal and civil sanctions. The best way to protect yourself and your business is to obtain the necessary permit or license before selling or serving alcohol.

Related FAQs

What are the common defenses against liquor liability claims?
Is there a difference between "social host" liability and "dram shop" liability?
What should I do if a patron becomes overly intoxicated at my property?
What are the laws regarding liquor liability in my state?
Are there any exceptions to dram shop liability?
Are there any regulations or laws related to advertising alcoholic beverages?
What should I do if I suspect a patron is faking an ID?
Are any bars or restaurants immune from liquor liability lawsuits?
What is the legal drinking age in my state?
What are the consequences of serving an intoxicated patron?

What happens if I serve alcohol without a liquor license?

Related FAQs

Related Blog Posts