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 Maryland, social host liability is somewhat limited compared to other states. Maryland does not impose social host liability on adults who serve alcohol to other adults in a social setting, even if the guest later causes harm due to intoxication. However, Maryland law does hold social hosts liable if they serve alcohol to minors. Under Maryland's Courts and Judicial Proceedings Code § 3-601, an adult who knowingly and willfully provides alcohol to a person under the age of 21 can be held civilly liable for any damages caused by the minor's intoxication. This includes situations where the minor subsequently drives under the influence and causes an accident. It is important for social hosts in Maryland to be aware of the age of their guests and to refrain from serving alcohol to minors to avoid potential liability.