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  4. Holiday Parties: Minimizing Employer Liability
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Holiday Parties: Minimizing Employer Liability

December 3, 2024

The holiday season is here, and many employers will host their annual year-end celebrations in the weeks to come. These events are generally meant to reward employees and foster camaraderie—but employers could be on the hook for holiday-party mishaps.
4 Holiday-Party Considerations for Limiting Employer Liability
SHRM

Holiday Party Memo
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Law Firm Articles

Remind employees prior to the event that workplace policies still apply. Re-circulating policies, especially sexual harassment policies, may remind employees of the standards of conduct and prevent problematic behavior.
Office Holiday Party Dos and Don’ts
Wyatt | Nov 2024

Many employers host company parties to create a bonding experience for employees where they can have a good time and enjoy themselves. Unfortunately, some attendees overindulge and act inappropriately. Employers that intend to host a holiday party should consider risk scenarios that could arise during and after the event.
Avoid the Holiday Hangover: How to Mitigate Company Party Risks
Marsh McLennan | Nov 2024


You might consider establishing a drink ticket system so that your guests are limited in their alcohol consumption, are less likely to become drunk, and more likely to leave the party with their dignity fully intact. Moreover, you should ask a few managers to forego drinking for the night. They can spot problems before they get out of hand, and hang out near the exit doors to prevent people from driving home if they walk out of the party more lit than the holiday tree.
The Die Hard Survival Guide To This Year's Office Holiday Party
Fisher Phillips | Nov 2023


Let's discuss compensation for attendance at a holiday event. If attendance is mandatory, then employees would be paid for their time. The same holds true for employees organizing the event, whether it's meeting with a caterer or spending time ordering supplies for the function. Also consider the agenda of the event. Is it strictly festivities or are you planning to cover goals for the following year and a recap of the practice's productivity? If you're talking about work and people are required to attend, it sounds like work and people are paid to work, especially if the party is held during normal business hours.
ABC's of an Office Christmas Party
Olivia Wann & Associates | Nov 2023

Ahead of the holiday season, both individuals and companies should be aware of their responsibilities when it comes to social host liability. Whether you're attending your company holiday party or having to plan/host one yourself, here is what you need to know about whether you can be found liable for an employee's poor decisions.
Company Liability for Employee's DUI After a Holiday Party
Chopin Law Firm | Nov 2023

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