With graduation season upon us, we are reminded of how many times each year we deal with hosts of graduation parties who express surprise to learn that it is illegal to furnish alcohol to minors attending the parties. According to the Illinois Social Host Law, homeowners are held accountable for underage drinking that occurs in their home.
According to the Illinois Liquor Control Commission:
• If you host a party at your house and supply alcohol to people under 21 you are guilty of a Class-A misdemeanor which means you will be fined. Please pay attention to two special notes:
o You are still liable of you knew or should have known the underage persons were drinking even if you did not supply the alcohol.
o You are still responsible regardless if you supplied the alcohol AND whether you are home or not.
• If a minor who was drinking at your house injures or kills someone, you could be convicted of a Class-4 felony which will result in both a fine AND jail time.
• You will not be violating the law if you call us to help remove the underage drinkers and stop the gathering. BUT— You have to be the one to call. It does not hold true if we show up after getting a complaint (say, from a neighbor) and THEN you ask for help.
Be aware that besides serving jail time and paying fines in criminal court, you can also be held liable civilly. Party hosts can also be held responsible if an adult drinks to excess and then kills or injures a third party— whether or not they were on or off the property where the party is held.
Be Aware, Be Informed, Be Smart.
Shared with all areas in Aurora IL Police Department in Crime & Safety
