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Venue Types
Host Liability, Catered Events & Open Bar Management
Overview
Event venues and banquet halls host weddings, corporate events, fundraisers, and private parties — environments where alcohol service is managed by a combination of venue staff, catering companies, and event hosts. The allocation of liability among these parties, combined with the challenges of managing open bar service for large groups, creates complex liability questions that require an expert with experience in both venue operations and catered event management.
Case Types
Claims arising from events where the host (corporate, private, or organizational) provided alcohol that contributed to a subsequent incident. Ryan opines on the respective responsibilities of the venue, the caterer, and the host under applicable state social host and dram shop statutes.
Claims arising from open bar arrangements where unlimited alcohol service contributed to a patron's intoxication. Ryan evaluates whether the venue's or caterer's open bar policies included adequate safeguards — including service monitoring, cutoff protocols, and last-call procedures.
Claims involving the liability of the catering company that provided alcohol service at the event. Ryan opines on whether the catering staff were adequately trained, whether their service protocols met the applicable standard of care, and how liability should be allocated between the caterer and the venue.
Claims arising from falls and injuries in event spaces, including dance floors, outdoor tent areas, and parking lots. Ryan evaluates the venue's maintenance and inspection protocols and whether the physical setup of the event created foreseeable hazards.
Claims arising from alcohol-related incidents at weddings and private events. Ryan opines on the venue's and caterer's responsibilities for monitoring service and whether the event's alcohol service plan was consistent with responsible service standards.
The Operational Advantage
Event venue liability cases often involve multiple parties — the venue, the caterer, the event planner, and the host — each with different responsibilities and different levels of control over alcohol service. Ryan's ability to address the operational responsibilities of each party makes him an effective expert in these multi-defendant cases.
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.