What are the consequences for failing to check IDs when serving alcohol?

In the District of Columbia, failing to check IDs when serving alcohol can have serious consequences. The first consequence is that a business or person can be held liable for any damage, injury, or death that results from the service of alcohol to a minor. This means that anyone serving alcohol without checking IDs can be sued by the minor and their families in civil court. The second consequence is that the business or person serving alcohol can be charged with a criminal offense for distributing alcohol to a minor. Depending on the circumstances, this could range from a misdemeanor to a felony. The third consequence is that the business can be fined by the Alcohol Beverage Control (ABC) Board, the governing body that oversees liquor sales in DC. These fines can range from a few hundred dollars to up to $25,000. Additionally, anyone serving alcohol without checking IDs can be subject to suspension or revocation of their business license. This means that, if convicted, the business could be shut down, leaving them out of business. Finally, the person or business can lose their reputation in the local community and face public shame for their action. In short, failing to check IDs when serving alcohol in the District of Columbia can lead to serious civil and criminal consequences, fines, license suspension or revocation, and public shame.

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What are the consequences for failing to check IDs when serving alcohol?

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