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Having a Holiday Party at Work? Great! But First, a Few Thoughts


Robin Shea has a great article on the potential issues, liabilities, and pratfalls that can arise when a company hosts a holiday party.  It is no surprise that mixing food, liquor, music, games, etc. in the workplace is a lawsuit waiting to happen.  With that being said, if planned properly, potential risk can be minimized and inevitable lawsuits can be avoided.

Robin's article dives right into to the issues and covers everything from how an employer can limit liability for drunk driving accidents after the party, to how to address the issue over the actual name of the party (ie Holiday Party v. Christmas Party), all the way to whether an employer can require employees to attend the party.  

While not exhaustive, the article includes some good thoughts and strategic pointers for employers to consider.  While parties at work can be fun (I always think of some of the parties from "The Office" which looked like a good time...while other work parties in some of the episodes were walking lawsuits), it is important for employers to take steps to limit the potential liability that often arises.


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