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Avoiding the Hangover: Minimizing Liability for Holiday Parties

Posted on December 9, 2010 by Littler Mendelson

Cupcakes.jpgThe end of the year is a time to celebrate. Employers often take the opportunity to join the celebration by sponsoring holiday parties for employees and sometimes their families. Employers consider such events an opportunity to foster team spirit by letting employees know that their work is appreciated. In turn, employees appreciate the chance to celebrate with coworkers outside the often hectic workday.

While the holiday party offers many positive rewards, it can also carry with it some unintended negative consequences for employers. This is especially true when alcohol is served, as alcohol consumption can quickly turn an otherwise innocuous office party into a minefield for employer liability.

Holding true to the maxim that "no good deed goes unpunished," employers may face liability for the conduct of employees who become intoxicated during office parties and thereafter behave inappropriately or illegally.

For a discussion of the types of claims that can result from holiday parties and a list of actions employers can take to minimize risks, continue reading Littler's ASAP, Avoiding the Hangover: Minimizing Liability for Holiday Parties, written by Alison Hightower and Gary Bethel.

Photo credit: cooknken

Tags: Alcohol, Negligence
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