Nightclub Security Training Initiatives: The discussion focused on trends in litigation and liability impacting nightclubs and entertainment venues. Larry’s approach in representing clients in these industries in Illinois, Wisconsin, and Florida is “litigation mitigation” and the expansive elements of an effective venue system.
Security Training and Liability Concerns: The discussion continued on the importance of security training and awareness, particularly in the context of alcohol service and liability issues. This highlighted how ineffective training can be without the full support of policies and training recommendations, and support by management when staff intervention is necessary to reduce risk.
Venue Liability and Compliance Strategies: The discussion concluded with a list of priority strategies for reducing regulatory and civil liability.
• Proper screening of employees with formal employment contracts.
• On-going training for alcohol service and security. Regular monitoring and retraining as required.
• Procedures for report preparation to document interventions to reduce risk.
It was also highlighted that benefits for venues investing in safety measures and training, will not only mitigate legal risks but also enhance business profitability. This includes working with police and fire departments, as well as alcohol regulatory compliance officers, in building consistency among venues in policies and practices through on-going communication and training.
Lawrence Byrne is a partner with Pedersen & Houpt's Litigation and Dispute Resolution Practice Group, with a specialization in Nightclub and Entertainment Venue Law. In his representation of nightclubs and entertainment venues, including In-house Counsel, E11ven Miami, Larry has taken a litigation mitigation approach, understanding that an ounce of prevention is often the equivalent of 10 pounds of cure. This approach includes addressing employment and independent contractor agreements, employee training, security training, including bringing in outside experts in deescalating conflicts and conflict avoidance. Additional mitigation has included reviewing insurance policies and assuring vendors and performers have their own insurance naming the venues as additional insureds.
