Rosenfeld submitted a proposal for a panel discussion, which would be held at the famous SXSW Music Festival (www.sxsw.com/
The discussion, which is entitled “Two Guys Walk Into a Bar: Liability Realities,” must attract enough votes through the festival panel picker program to become a reality. The link to vote is http://panelpicker.sxsw.com/
A full description of the proposed panel follows: “Two guys walk into a bar – or so the old joke begins. Usually, it continues with one or both saying something amusing; and ends with a crowd pleasing punch line. In the modern world of bars and nightclubs, the two guys are more likely to end up fighting. Rather than a punch line, it is a punch which ends up being thrown. Next, the injured party will bring a lawsuit against the bar or club alleging that the failure to provide adequate security was the direct cause of his or her injuries. Nationally, bars and nightclubs are far more likely to be on the receiving end of lawsuits based on negligent security than for assault. Negligent security claims are almost always advanced in conjunction with a claim that the bar or club served alcohol to a patron or patrons who appeared visibly intoxicated and/or were habitual drunkards, known to the bar or club, in violation of the Dram Shop Act.
“Claims of assault by club employees or independently contracted security guards remain problematic, as to more traditional liquor liability claims involving the operation of automobiles by people served illegally – e.g., when they appear to have been intoxicated or are underage. Our panel will explore the obligations and burdens nightclub and bar owners face: (1) providing security to their patrons; (2) managing the conduct of security personnel; and (3) managing the service of alcohol – while also providing advice on risk management and loss control.”
About Havkins Rosenfeld Ritzert & Varriale, LLP
Havkins Rosenfeld Ritzert & Varriale, LLP is a law firm that makes a difference. From the beginning, HRRV vigorously works with its clients to develop innovative and effective strategies to achieve the client’s objectives. The firm’s practice includes sports, recreation and entertainment counseling and litigation. HRRV has offices in New York City, Mineola and White Plains, New York.
For more information, contact the firm at (212) 488-1598 (New York City), (516) 620-1700 (Mineola) or (914) 682-2636 (White Plains) or send an e-mail to info@hrrvlaw.com.
# # #
About Havkins Rosenfeld Ritzert & Varriale, LLP
Havkins Rosenfeld Ritzert & Varriale, LLP is a law firm that makes a difference. From the beginning, HRRV vigorously works with its clients to develop innovative and effective strategies to achieve the client’s objectives. The firm’s practice includes sports, recreation and entertainment counseling and litigation. HRRV has offices in New York City, Mineola and White Plains, New York.
