Long Island Personal Injury Lawyer

New York Social Host Law: Hosting an Underage House Party

Jul 16, 2019 | Family Law Articles

There are no shortage of concerns that come with being the parent of a college-aged teen. The concerns only continue to grow if your child is away at college during the school year. When your child is home on a break from school, you may breathe easier having them under your roof, but with them home, there are an alternative issues to look out for. Your child may desire to have, or attend, a house party to catch up with friends with or without letting you know. It is important to understand the New York social host law surrounding hosting a house party with underage kids and social host liability.

 

House Party Laws and Regulations in New York State

The number of teenage car accidents have been on the decline as well as the number of alcohol related accidents in minors. Even with this positive progress, is still an extremely important issue to acknowledge and monitor.

New social host liability law has emerged to make homeowners legally responsible for underage drinking taking place in their homes. In 2007, Nassau County social host law was adjusted, making it illegal for anyone over 18 to allow minors to drink alcohol, even while at someone’s home. Social host law consequences could extend to the owner of a home, an older child, a relative or even a babysitter.

 

New York Social Host Law does not require any harm to a third party.

The act of serving a minor alcohol is a violation, regardless if the minor is intoxicated or not.

 

Preventing House Party Dangers & Underage Drinking

 

Avoiding social host liability law violation starts with proper education.

 

Reinforcement of the lessons taught to your children in school are critical. Informing teens of the consequences of their actions is important. These consequences could include arrest, serious injury, loss of job, and loss of educational opportunities. Parents who are responsible and careful when they drink will be good role models for their children.

Being present during a party is key and exercising actual supervision is critical. Limiting access to liquor and preventing liquor from entering your home is important. If underage drinking is discovered, immediate steps to end the drinking and/or party is mandated by new york social host law. It isn’t enough to set a “no alcohol” rule, then leave or go to another area of the house and not monitor the party, there must be active supervision at all times.

Aside from house party dangers, having a party at your home does give you the ability to make sure social host law are being followed. Education is the key to keeping you and your children safe.

 

Is New York Social Host Law still unclear?

 

If you are unsure at all about social host liability law give us a call at (516) 822-7866 or continue to our contact page to get in touch with us. We offer free legal consultations, especially if you are facing legal issues related to social host law consequences.

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