Illinois Dram Shop & Liquor Liability Expert Witnesses

When litigating a case under the Illinois Liquor Control Act (235 ILCS 5/6-21), securing knowledgeable Illinois dram shop expert witnesses is crucial. Illinois law is unique: liability is not based on serving a “visibly intoxicated” person, but instead on whether the sale of alcohol caused the intoxication that led to an injury. With extensive experience in these cases, we provide the in-depth analysis of causation and damages necessary to support your claim in the District of Illinois.

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Why Choose

Why You Need Specialized Experts for Illinois Dram Shop Cases

Navigating an Illinois dram shop case requires an in-depth understanding of the state’s unique causation standard and its statutory caps on damages.

Deep Knowledge of the “Caused Intoxication” Standard

Unlike many states, Illinois does not require proof that a server knew a patron was intoxicated. The key issue is whether the alcohol sold by the establishment caused, in whole or in part, the intoxication that led to the injury. We conduct detailed analyses of consumption patterns, toxicology, and timing to establish this causal connection.

Understanding Statutory Damage Caps

The Illinois Liquor Control Act imposes strict, annually adjusted caps on damages for personal injury, property damage, and loss of means of support. We provide a clear understanding of these caps to help manage expectations and inform case strategies from the start.

Jury Appeal & Venue Experience

Communicating the nuances of causation and statutory limits to Illinois juries requires clarity and authority. We have experience effectively presenting these issues in Illinois courtrooms, including the Circuit Court of Cook County and other key venues across the District of Illinois.

Services

Our Illinois Dram Shop Consulting Services

We offer comprehensive support tailored to the challenges of the Illinois Liquor Control Act:

Case Merit Evaluation & Initial Analysis

Confidential review of case facts to assess causation strength and applicable damage caps.

Causation & Toxicology Analysis

Detailed evaluation of alcohol consumption, toxicology, and timing evidence to connect alcohol sales to intoxication.

Thorough Review of Evidence

Careful examination of receipts, BASSET certifications, training records, surveillance footage, and witness statements.

Expert Witness Reports

Clear, detailed reports that meet legal standards and articulate the causal chain required under Illinois law.

Specialization

Specialized Knowledge for Illinois Liability Cases

Our singular focus on dram shop and liquor liability claims allows us to provide deep expertise across all areas of Illinois liquor liability law.

DUI-Related Accidents & Wrongful Death

Linking alcohol sales to the intoxication that caused serious or fatal accidents.

Proving Causation of Intoxication

Establishing that the sale of alcohol was a material and substantial factor in causing intoxication—the central element of an Illinois dram shop claim.

Service to Minors

Analyzing unlawful alcohol sales to minors and their role in subsequent intoxication and resulting injuries.

Services Area

Service Areas Across Illinois

We provide expert witness services throughout Illinois, including:

Chicago

Aurora

Joliet

Rockford

Springfield

FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Do we need to prove the person was “visibly intoxicated” in Illinois?

No. Unlike most states, Illinois law does not require proof that a server knew a person was intoxicated. Instead, the issue is whether the alcohol provided was a cause of the intoxication that led to the injury.

What are the damage caps for dram shop cases in Illinois?

The Illinois Liquor Control Act sets strict, inflation-adjusted caps on recovery. These caps vary depending on whether the claim involves injury/death or loss of means of support. Understanding the current limits is essential for case evaluation.

What are your expert witness fees for cases in Illinois?

We provide a clear and detailed fee schedule upon request. Our goal is to maintain transparent and predictable pricing to assist in your planning and budgeting.

Free 30 Minute Dram Shop Expert Consultation

Contact Illinois Dram Shop Expert Witnesses Today

If you are preparing a liquor liability case in Illinois, you need experts who understand the state’s unique causation rules and statutory damage caps. Let’s discuss how we can support your case.

Preston Rideout

CEO and Founder