Iowa Dram Shop & Liquor Liability Expert Witnesses

When litigating a case under Iowa’s dram shop law, securing credible and trial-tested Iowa dram shop expert witnesses is essential. Iowa Code § 123.92 holds establishments liable for injuries caused by patrons who were served while a minor or while visibly intoxicated. With extensive experience in these cases, we provide the in-depth analysis and authoritative testimony needed to build your case and navigate the state’s strict procedural rules.

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Why Choose

Why You Need Localized Experts for Iowa Dram Shop Cases

Navigating an Iowa liquor liability claim requires a detailed understanding of the state’s statute, its strict notice requirement, and local service industry standards.

Deep Knowledge of Iowa Code § 123.92

Success in these cases hinges on a masterful understanding of Iowa law, which holds a licensee or permittee liable if they “sold and served” alcohol to a visibly intoxicated person or a minor. We provide expert analysis of whether the evidence shows the server knew or reasonably should have known the patron was visibly intoxicated at the time of service.

The Strict 6-Month Notice Requirement

A critical and often overlooked hurdle in Iowa is the requirement that a claimant must give written notice to the establishment within six months of the injury. This notice must specify the time, date, and place of the sale, along with the time, date, place, and circumstances of the injury. Failure to comply can be fatal to a claim. We help ensure cases meet this procedural threshold.

Understanding Local Standards of Care

We are deeply familiar with the operational standards and server training programs recommended by the Iowa Alcoholic Beverages Division. Whether evaluating the conduct of a bartender in downtown Des Moines, a server in Cedar Rapids, or staff at an Iowa City university bar, we can authoritatively assess whether industry standards were breached.

Services

Our Iowa Dram Shop Consulting Services

Our services are designed to provide comprehensive support for the unique challenges of Iowa’s dram shop law.

Case Merit Evaluation & Initial Analysis

Confidential reviews of the facts to determine the strength of the “visibly intoxicated” claim.

Notice Requirement Compliance Review

Critical assessment of case timelines and documentation to ensure the strict six-month statutory notice requirements are satisfied.

Thorough Review of Evidence

Meticulous analysis of police reports, receipts, server training records, witness statements, and surveillance footage.

Detailed Expert Witness Reports

Professionally prepared reports designed to withstand scrutiny and clearly connect the evidence to Iowa’s statutory requirements.

Specialization

Specialized Knowledge for Iowa Liability Cases

Our focus is singular, allowing for unmatched depth across the full spectrum of claims under Iowa’s dram shop law.

DUI-Related Accidents & Wrongful Death

Connecting tragic outcomes to an establishment’s decision to serve a visibly intoxicated person or a minor.

Over-service at Bars & Restaurants

Analyzing employee conduct and training compliance to determine if the service of a visibly intoxicated patron led to foreseeable harm.

Service to Minors

Investigating failures of age verification policies and procedures that result in alcohol being sold and served to minors.

Services Area

Service Areas Across Iowa

We provide expert witness services throughout the State of Iowa, including:

Des Moines

Cedar Rapids

Davenport

Sioux City

Iowa City

Ames

FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is the notice requirement for a dram shop claim in Iowa?

An injured party must give written notice to the licensee or permittee within six months of the date of injury. The notice must detail the time and place of the alcohol sale, along with the time, place, and circumstances of the injury. This is a strict statutory deadline.

What does “visibly intoxicated” mean in Iowa?

It refers to outward, objective signs of intoxication—such as slurred speech, unsteady gait, or disruptive behavior—that would lead a reasonable person to conclude the patron was intoxicated and should not have been served further alcohol.

What are your expert witness fees for cases in Iowa?

We provide a clear, detailed fee schedule upon request. Our goal is to offer transparent and predictable pricing to assist with case planning and budgeting.

Free 30 Minute Dram Shop Expert Consultation

Contact Your Iowa Dram Shop Expert Witnesses Today

If you are building a liquor liability case in Iowa, you must be prepared to address the state’s unique procedural hurdles from the outset. Let’s discuss how we can assist with your case. Contact us today for a confidential, no-obligation consultation.

Preston Rideout

CEO and Founder