Now is the time to eat, drink and be merry. But, office holiday parties can create dilemmas for employers. Many states hold “social hosts” accountable if an intoxicated party guest is later involved in a traffic accident.  Keith Clouse, a Dallas employment law attorney, provides the following guidance for employers who want to bypass problems:

• Host an alcohol-free party, such as a family event or a charity service project.
• Limit alcohol consumption by providing only two drink vouchers to each person or by limiting alcohol service to a cocktail hour prior to dinner.
• Hold the party on a weeknight.  Employees are less likely to drink heavily if they must report for work the next morning.
• Serve plenty of food at the same time drinks are served and make sure that festive non-alcoholic beverages (such as punch or cider) are readily available.
• Instruct bartenders not to serve any person who is visibly intoxicated and to check the identification of any person who may be underage.  Ask bartenders to notify a designated company official if an individual appears intoxicated.
• Arrange for alternative transportation.  Have the phone number of a cab company handy and ask that employees who plan to drink appoint a designated driver.

By following these tips, an employer can host a fun and safe holiday party. To speak with an employment law attorney about company policies or another employment law matter, please contact the employment lawyers at Clouse Dunn LLP at info@cdklawyers.com.