A “dram shop” is the legal term for a bar or any other establishment that sells alcohol to members of the public. As a matter of public policy, many states impose strict liability on establishments that serve alcohol to individuals who cause injuries or death as a result of their intoxication. These laws vary from state to state—some apply to all intoxicated persons, while others apply only to minors. Some limit liability to cases involving intentional conduct on the part of the bartender, while others require only negligent conduct.
Below, we’ll take a look at Georgia’s dram shop law and what you need to prove to establish a claim under it.