North Carolina Dram Shop & Liquor Liability Expert Witness

When litigating a case under North Carolina’s dram shop laws, retaining an experienced North Carolina dram shop expert witness is essential. North Carolina has a hybrid system: liability for serving minors is statutory, while liability for serving intoxicated adults arises under common law negligence. With extensive experience in both types of claims, we provide the in-depth analysis, clear reports, and authoritative testimony needed to support your case.

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Why Choose

Why You Need a Specialized Expert for North Carolina Dram Shop Cases

Navigating a North Carolina dram shop claim requires precise understanding of which legal theory applies:

Serving a Minor (Statutory Claim)

Under N.C.G.S. § 18B-305, it is unlawful to sell or provide alcohol to anyone under 21. A violation of this statute can establish liability if the minor’s actions result in injury.

Understanding of Local Standards of Care

Our team is well-versed in operational practices and training requirements established by the North Carolina Alcoholic Beverage Control (ABC) Commission. These standards are critical in determining whether an establishment acted negligently.

Jury Appeal & Venue Experience

Explaining the difference between statutory liability and common law negligence to a jury requires clarity and authority. We have experience presenting these distinctions in courts across North Carolina, including the Mecklenburg County Superior Court.

Services

Our North Carolina Dram Shop Consulting Services

We provide comprehensive support for the unique challenges posed by North Carolina’s dual-liability system:

Case Merit Evaluation & Initial Analysis

Confidential reviews to identify whether the claim falls under statutory violation (minor) or common law negligence (adult).

Thorough Review of Evidence

Careful analysis of police reports, toxicology results, receipts, server training certifications, witness statements, and surveillance footage.

Detailed Expert Witness Reports

Well-supported, professional reports that hold up under scrutiny and clearly distinguish statutory violations from negligence-based claims.

Deposition & Trial Testimony

Clear, concise testimony delivered with confidence, designed to help juries understand complex issues.

Specialization

Specialized Knowledge for North Carolina Liability Cases

Our focus is dedicated and precise, allowing us to provide deep expertise across all types of liquor liability claims.

Claims Involving Service to Minors

We build cases around violations of N.C.G.S. § 18B-305 and establish the direct link between unlawful service and resulting injuries.

Common Law Negligence & Foreseeability

We analyze whether a vendor breached their duty by serving an obviously intoxicated adult and whether resulting harm was foreseeable.

DUI-Related Accidents & Wrongful Death

We connect serious injuries or fatalities to negligent alcohol service—whether by statutory violation involving a minor or by negligent service to an intoxicated adult.

Services Area

Service Areas Across North Carolina

We provide dram shop expert witness services statewide, including:

Charlotte

Raleigh

Greensboro

Winston-Salem

Asheville

Fayetteville

FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is the difference between a dram shop claim for a minor vs. an adult in North Carolina?

For minors, liability is based on the statutory prohibition against selling alcohol to those under 21. For adults, liability is grounded in proving common law negligence for serving someone who was obviously intoxicated.

What must a plaintiff prove in a common law negligence claim?

They must establish duty, breach, causation, and damages—specifically, that the vendor had a duty not to serve an intoxicated adult, breached that duty, and that foreseeable harm resulted.

What are your expert witness fees for a North Carolina case?

We provide a clear and transparent fee schedule upon request to ensure predictable budgeting for litigation teams.

Free 30 Minute Dram Shop Expert Consultation

Contact Your North Carolina Dram Shop Expert Witnesses Today

If you are pursuing a liquor liability case in North Carolina, you need experts who understand the state’s dual legal framework for minors and adults. Contact us today for a confidential, no-obligation consultation.

Preston Rideout

CEO and Founder