A dram shop is a bar, restaurant, or business that serves alcohol. These laws allow injured people to hold establishments accountable when alcohol is served irresponsibly.
Each state handles dram shop liability differently. Both California and Arizona have unique laws that determine who can be held responsible and under what conditions.
Dram Shop Laws in California
California limits dram shop liability. Under Civil Code 1714, the person who drank the alcohol is usually responsible—not the person who served it. However, there are two important exceptions:
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Serving Minors: A business may be liable if it knowingly serves alcohol to someone under 21 who later causes harm.
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Serving Intoxicated Minors: A business that serves a clearly drunk minor can be held responsible if that minor causes a crash or injury.
So while California’s dram shop laws are strict, they do allow claims in cases involving underage drinking.
Dram Shop Laws in Arizona
Arizona provides broader protections for victims. According to A.R.S. § 4-311 and § 4-312, a business can be liable if:
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It knowingly serves alcohol to someone who is obviously drunk.
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That person later causes injury or death.
In Arizona, bars and venues must stop serving guests who show signs of intoxication. If they continue, and harm follows, they can be held responsible.
Arizona does not usually hold social hosts liable. However, if a host knowingly serves alcohol to a minor, they may still face legal consequences.
Why Dram Shop Laws Matter
It is easy to blame only the drunk driver. But in some cases, a business played a role by overserving them. Dram shop laws allow victims to seek justice beyond the driver who caused the crash.
Holding a dram shop accountable can help victims:
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Get support for long-term care or funeral costs
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Hold reckless businesses responsible
Dram shop cases require clear evidence and a strong legal strategy. You must prove the establishment overserved alcohol or ignored obvious signs of intoxication.
Why Hire Fielding Law
At Fielding Law, we help victims of alcohol-related injuries find answers. We understand the differences between dram shop laws in California and Arizona. Our team investigates quickly and thoroughly to hold all responsible parties accountable.
Whether you were hit by a drunk driver or lost a loved one, we are here to help. We treat our clients with compassion and fight hard to protect their futures.
If you believe a dram shop played a role in your injury, contact Fielding Law or call 833.88.SHARK for a free consultation.
Note: Information provided is for educational purposes and does not constitute legal advice. Always consult with a qualified attorney for legal concerns.
