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Tuesday, March 26, 2013

Massachusetts' Social Host Liability Law

A Social Host is a term for someone who furnishes alcohol to another person as an act of hospitality, and who also permits alcohol to be consumed on the property that the host either controls or owns. Social Host Liability means that host may be held liable for injuries suffered by their guests and third parties who are harmed by alcohol served to them as an act of social courtesy. The mere provision of alcohol to underage individuals is a criminal violation.

One Massachusetts mother has been accused of providing alcohol to minors and keeping a disorderly house. During a New Year's Eve party, numerous 17 to 19 year olds were found drinking and smoking marijuana by local police. A report was made to local police that an unconscious male was at the party. After the male was revived the homeowner stated that she had thrown the party for her daughter, age 17. Many of the teens fled but the several remaining were each served with a summons to appear on charges of minor in possession, including the homeowners daughter. The homeowner is currently facing fines and jail time.

Under Massachusetts' social host liability law, a person who provides alcohol or allows it to be consumed by anyone under the age of 21 can face consequences of a $2000 fine and/or imprisonment of up to a year; you could also be found civilly liable. These consequences become much more steep if one's guest leaves the social event and injures or kills someone.

Additionally, a conviction under this statute can have serious consequences resulting in a criminal record or employment issues. The penalties for violating the Social Host Law can be severe and a person facing these penalties needs to employ an attorney with an extensive understanding of the Social Host Law so they may be presented with the best defense possible. If you have been charged with a Social Host violation, immediately contact Massachusetts Criminal Defense Attorney Paul R. Moraski at (978) 744-1200.

Paul R. Moraski, Esq.
The Law Office of Paul R. Moraski
221 Essex Street, Suite 51
Salem, Massachusetts 01970
Tel: 978.744.1200
Fax: 978.825.1370
Email: attorneymoraski@yahoo.com
Websites:
http://www.northofbostonlaw.com/
http://www.massdefense.com/
http://www.massdrugdefense.com/

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