In many states a social host—including the guest’s employer—who does not charge an adult guest—18 years or older in some states and 21 years or older in other states—for alcoholic drinks and who does not serve the beverages under the authority of a license or permit—is not liable for the guest’s actions or injuries to himself or others.

But in most states an adult social host is liable for personal injuries and property damage caused by a minor to whom the social host provides or furnishes alcoholic beverages—especially if the social host knew or should have known the minor would drive a motor vehicle under the influence or if the minor was obviously intoxicated when the social host provided or furnished alcoholic beverages.

Laws regarding social host liability vary from state to state and are usually located in a state’s statutes.

In Connecticut, social host liability is governed by state statutes that address the responsibility of individuals who provide alcohol to guests. Under Connecticut law, a social host can be held liable for damages or injuries caused by a minor who was provided alcohol by the host. This liability applies particularly if the social host knew or should have known that the minor would be driving a motor vehicle or if the minor was visibly intoxicated. However, for guests who are of legal drinking age (21 years or older), social hosts generally are not held liable for the actions of their guests unless they serve alcohol under the authority of a license or permit. It is important for social hosts in Connecticut to be aware of these laws to avoid potential legal consequences.