Indiana Dram Shop & Liquor Liability Expert Witnesses

When litigating a case under Indiana’s dram shop law, securing specialized Indiana dram shop expert witnesses is not just an advantage—it’s essential. Indiana Code § 7.1-5-10-15.5 sets one of the toughest standards of proof in the nation, requiring plaintiffs to prove the vendor had actual knowledge that a patron was visibly intoxicated. With extensive experience in these demanding cases, we provide the rigorous analysis required to meet this high standard in the District of Indiana.

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Why Choose

Indiana’s “Actual Knowledge” Standard: A High Burden of Proof

Pursuing an Indiana liquor liability claim means facing a heightened legal threshold designed to shield vendors. Unlike in many states, simple negligence is insufficient to establish liability.

The “Actual Knowledge” Requirement

Success depends on proving that the person who furnished alcohol had actual, subjective knowledge that the patron was visibly intoxicated at the time of service. Demonstrating what a server should have known is not enough—you must show what they did know.

Understanding Local Standards of Care

We are well-versed in operational protocols and training programs recommended by the Indiana Alcohol and Tobacco Commission (ATC). When servers ignore ATC training, it can strengthen a case for actual knowledge or deliberate disregard.

Jury Appeal & Venue Experience

Explaining Indiana’s strict “actual knowledge” requirement to juries requires clarity and authority. We have the expertise to present these complex issues persuasively in Indiana courtrooms, including the Marion County Superior Court and other venues across the District of Indiana.

Services

Our Indiana Dram Shop Consulting Services

We tailor our services to the unique requirements of Indiana’s liquor liability statute, providing comprehensive litigation support:

Case Merit Evaluation & Initial Analysis

Confidential, detailed reviews to determine whether the “actual knowledge” threshold can realistically be met.

Actual Knowledge & Willful Ignorance Analysis

Focused investigations into server actions, witness testimony, and circumstantial evidence to build a compelling argument.

Thorough Review of Evidence

Careful evaluation of video recordings, receipts, training logs, and statements to establish an evidentiary record.

Deposition & Trial Testimony

Precise, credible, and persuasive testimony designed to withstand aggressive cross-examination.

Specialization

Specialized Knowledge for Indiana Liquor Liability Cases

Our expertise is centered exclusively on providing the specialized analysis necessary for dram shop claims under Indiana’s challenging statute.

DUI-Related Accidents & Wrongful Death

Building evidence that directly connects tragic outcomes to a vendor’s service of alcohol with actual knowledge of visible intoxication.

Proving “Actual Knowledge”

The foundation of every Indiana dram shop claim. We piece together documentary and testimonial evidence to demonstrate that servers were not simply negligent but were consciously aware of a patron’s intoxication.

Service to Minors

In addition to intoxicated adult claims, Indiana law provides a cause of action when alcohol is furnished to minors. We investigate age verification failures and policy breaches in these cases.

Services Area

Service Areas Across Indiana

We provide expert witness services for dram shop cases across the State of Indiana, including:

Indianapolis

Fort Wayne

Evansville

South Bend

Carmel

FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is the “actual knowledge” requirement in Indiana?

It is a demanding standard requiring proof that the server or establishment had direct, subjective knowledge that a patron was visibly intoxicated. Proving what they should have known is insufficient—you must prove they knew.

How do you prove what a server actually knew?

This is built through circumstantial and direct evidence, such as video footage, witness testimony, server statements, or evidence showing that training was ignored in the face of clear intoxication.

What are your expert witness fees for cases in Indiana?

We provide a transparent and detailed fee schedule upon request, ensuring predictability for your case planning and budget.

Free 30 Minute Dram Shop Expert Consultation

Contact Indiana Dram Shop Expert Witnesses Today

If you are pursuing or defending a liquor liability case in Indiana, you need expert witnesses who understand the state’s exceptionally high burden of proof from the outset. Contact us today for a confidential, no-obligation consultation.

Preston Rideout

CEO and Founder