Attorney: New Year’s parties are fun and games until you’re responsible

PHOENIX — After the champagne corks have popped and old acquaintance forgot, New Year’s Eve partygoers will likely have one thing on their minds: A warm, comfortable bed.

However, while a party guest may be tempted to jump behind the wheel, the host needs to be ready to stop that from happening because, in the end, they are the ones held responsible, a Phoenix attorney said.

Mark Lamber with Fennemore Craig said party hosts can be held liable for the actions of their guests, even after they leave the party. To keep things from getting out of hand, he said hosts should explore a few options before opening their door to revelers.

“A lot of people will hire a bartender for the evening to make sure that people aren’t being overserved,” he said. “Maybe to stop serving alcohol after a specific hour — one or two or three hours before the party ends.”

Lamber also said it’s illegal, even in a private home, to serve anyone under 21 alcohol.

For those who are planning on going home, Lamber said it is a better idea to be dropped off at the party and use a car service — think Uber, Lyft or a cab — when the night comes to a close.

Valley Metro will be providing free rides on buses, the light rail and the ADA Dial-a-Ride service beginning at 7 p.m. on New Year’s Eve.

KTAR’s John Roller contributed to this report.

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