California law is an outlier, and general dram shop knowledge is insufficient. My expertise is tailored to the state’s specific statutes and the high burden of proof required to succeed.
Success hinges on navigating the interplay between the immunity granted in § 25602 and the narrow exception for serving an obviously intoxicated minor in § 25602.1. I provide expert analysis of the evidence to determine if it meets the dual standard of proving the patron was a minor AND their intoxication was apparent and obvious to the server.
Explaining the specifics of California’s statutory immunity and its narrow exception to a jury requires a clear and persuasive communication style. I have the experience to effectively convey these crucial points in California courtrooms, including the Los Angeles Superior Court and other key jurisdictions throughout the state.
My services are focused on the specific requirements for building a successful liability case under California’s restrictive exception.
A confidential review to determine if the facts of your case meet the stringent criteria for liability under B&P Code § 25602.1.
Meticulous analysis of ID-checking procedures, RBS training records, video surveillance, witness statements, social media, and toxicology reports.
Professionally written reports focused on the key issues: the patron’s age and the objective, visible signs of their intoxication at the time of service.
Clear, concise, and compelling testimony delivered with the composure and authority required for high-stakes litigation.
Strategic guidance on discovery and lines of questioning aimed at establishing the “obviously intoxicated minor” element of the statute.
My focus in California is on the rare but serious cases that fall under the statutory exception to immunity.
The sole basis for dram shop liability in California. I analyze the totality of the circumstances to opine on whether a server knew or should have known a patron was both a minor and obviously intoxicated.
Evaluating cases where an establishment’s failure to provide adequate security, combined with the illegal service to an intoxicated minor, leads to foreseeable harm.
Assessing the operational policies, procedures, and training (or lack thereof) in various licensed establishments to determine if their actions meet the high standard for liability.
I provide expert witness services for qualifying cases throughout the State of California, including
San Jose and Santa Clara County
San Francisco and San Francisco County
Sacramento and Sacramento County
Anaheim, Irvine, and all of Orange County
Riverside and Riverside County
Get answers to common questions about California dram shop cases, expert witness services, legal timelines, and consultation procedures statewide.
No. With extremely rare exceptions for specific prior written requests, Business and Professions Code § 25602 grants commercial vendors immunity from liability for injuries resulting from their service of alcohol to an adult patron.
It means the plaintiff must prove two things: 1) the person served was under 21, and 2) they displayed clear, outward signs of intoxication (like slurred speech, stumbling, or other impaired behavior) that a reasonable person would recognize. Proving only one of these is not enough.
I provide a clear, detailed fee schedule upon request. My goal is to offer transparent and predictable pricing to assist you with your case planning and budget.
If you are building a liability case involving the service of alcohol to an obviously intoxicated minor in California, you need specialized expertise. Contact me today for a confidential, no-obligation consultation.
Across hospitality, entertainment, and legal industries.
Providing objective analysis for plaintiff and defense.
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