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 Washington State, social host liability is somewhat limited compared to other states. Under Washington law, a social host who provides alcohol to a guest of legal drinking age (21 or older) generally is not liable for damages or injuries caused by the intoxicated guest once they leave the host's premises. However, Washington does impose liability on social hosts who serve alcohol to minors. According to RCW 66.44.270, it is illegal to furnish liquor to a minor, and if a social host knowingly serves or provides alcohol to someone under the age of 21, they can be held liable for injuries or damages caused by the minor's intoxication. This includes situations where the social host knew or should have known that the minor would drive under the influence. The law aims to discourage adults from allowing underage drinking and to hold them accountable for the consequences of providing alcohol to minors.