Protect Your Rights. Protect Your Livelihood.

Pay Attention To Liquor Laws For Businesses

Business owners know that small mistakes can lead to big problems. That’s especially true when your business depends on alcohol sales, which are closely regulated and carry a stigma due to the minority of consumers who overconsume and behave inappropriately.

Minor mistakes by you or your employees can lead to fines or license suspension. Tolerating a drunk bartender, failing to check a patron’s ID, playing music too loud and serving over-intoxicated patrons are all actions that can temporarily derail your business. Most liquor licenses come with conditions that licensees must follow.

For example, most restaurants are required to serve an even mix of food and drinks. Other conditions involve limits on live entertainment and dancing. Unhappy neighbors can summon law enforcement at will, and there is no way to predict when the California Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control (ABC) will conduct random, undercover inspections. If the department believes a licensee has violated its conditions, it can seek revocation or suspension of your license.

Licensing Disciplinary Matters Including Suspensions And Revocations

At Winship & Friedrichs APC, the firm will help you respond to complaints against your business. Whether you are facing a small fine, a suspended license or a revoked license, the firm will analyze your situation and take all possible steps to reduce the penalty you are facing and keep your business in operation.

The firm will work with regulators and California ABC administrators to negotiate a settlement that has the least impact on your business. If you are facing a suspended license for less than 20 days, it can generally be paid as a fine so that your business can stay open.

The firm will also work with our clients to
proactively avoid disciplinary action by working with neighbors and law enforcement to comply with the law and maintain a positive relationship with all relevant parties.

Don’t Let A Suspended License Derail Your Business — Call A Lawyer Today.

Our highest priority is to protect your liquor license so that your business can run smoothly. If your liquor license is under threat or you would like to take steps to pre-emptively avoid that situation, schedule a free initial consultation in our San Diego office. Call 619-297-0066 or
email us to get started.