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Venue Types
The Most Common Setting for Dram Shop & Overservice Claims
Overview
Bars and taverns represent the highest-volume category of alcohol-related civil litigation. As establishments whose primary purpose is alcohol service, they are held to a heightened standard of care — and their operators are expected to have robust training, clear overservice policies, and consistent enforcement. Ryan Dahlstrom has spent decades working in and consulting for bar operations of every size, from neighborhood taverns to high-volume sports bars.
Case Types
Claims arising from the service of alcohol to a visibly intoxicated patron who subsequently causes injury to a third party — including DUI accidents, assaults, and falls. Ryan opines on whether the bar's service practices, staff training, and overservice policies met the applicable standard of care under state dram shop statutes.
Direct claims against the establishment for continuing to serve a patron who exhibited visible signs of intoxication. Ryan analyzes POS records, surveillance footage, and staff conduct to opine on whether service should have been cut off and whether the establishment's response was consistent with industry standards.
Slip, trip, and fall claims; injuries from inadequate lighting; injuries from physical altercations between patrons. Ryan evaluates the physical conditions of the premises, the establishment's maintenance and inspection practices, and whether known hazards were addressed in a timely manner.
Claims arising from assaults, fights, stabbings, or shootings on or near the premises. Ryan opines on whether the bar's security staffing, training, deployment, and response protocols were adequate given the foreseeable risk of violence at that specific establishment. Learn more about his negligent security expert witness services.
Claims involving excessive force by bouncers or security staff in the course of removing or restraining a patron. Ryan evaluates whether the force used was proportionate, whether staff were properly trained in de-escalation, and whether management protocols were followed.
Claims and regulatory actions arising from the service of alcohol to a minor. Ryan opines on whether the establishment's age verification policies and practices met the applicable standard of care and whether staff training addressed this risk.
The Operational Advantage
Ryan has personally managed and consulted for bar operations serving thousands of patrons per night. He understands the operational pressures that lead to overservice and can speak with authority on what a reasonably prudent bar operator would have done differently.
Services
Case review, written expert reports suitable for Rule 26 disclosure, deposition and trial testimony — plaintiff and defense, in all 50 states.
Other Venues
Submit a case inquiry for a confidential evaluation. Ryan responds to all inquiries within one business day.