Los Angeles Alcohol Beverage Compliance Lawyer

Los Angeles Alcohol Beverage Compliance Attorney

Once your Los Angeles business chooses to step into the alcohol industry, you are subject to Alcohol Beverage Compliance laws. Crossing these laws, even accidentally, can carry significant penalties. If you are aiming to get a license or have been accused of a violation, it is important to speak with a skilled Los Angeles alcohol beverage compliance lawyer.

Experienced Los Angeles Alcohol Beverage Compliance Lawyer

Navigating Los Angeles ABC laws can be complicated, and the potential consequences for failing to be compliant can be extreme. When the stakes are this high, it is essential that you speak with a legal team that has notable experience with the specific services you need.

With over 100 years of combined experience, the Blake & Ayaz team has likely encountered situations similar to yours and can provide support throughout the process. Regardless of the ABC services you need, our team has the skills to see you through from start to finish. Areas of alcohol beverage compliance where we can be a resource for our clients include:

• ABC Accusations and Violations
• ABC Hearings and Appeals
• Liquor Licensing Applications
• Liquor License Transfers and Acquisitions
• Liquor License Enforcement
• Liquor Licensing
• Beverage Labeling
• Beverage Formula
• Beverage Permits

Alcoholic Beverage Control in Los Angeles

The California Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control (ABC) is a California agency charged with regulating alcoholic beverages. Created on January 1, 1955, the ABC acts as an independent department of the state’s executive branch. The agency’s mission statement is to provide the highest level of public safety and equitable service to Californians through licensing, education, and enforcement.It regulates the import, manufacture, and sale of alcoholic beverages in the state.

Agents of the ABC are fully sworn peace officers who enforce the provisions stated in the ABC Act. The ABC Act is broad and covers a wide range of topics that impact the alcoholic beverage industry in California. The act specifies the basis for the liability of licensees for owners, establishments, and their employees.

Fighting ABC Violations With Skilled Legal Representation

ABC violations and the resulting penalties are only a part of what is covered by ABC, but it is a significant part that can have disastrous impacts on your business and livelihood. Between July 2023 and July 2024, ABC found more than 1,500 violations. Though these violations only impacted a small number of the roughly 98,000 licensed establishments in California, any investigation or accusation should not be taken lightly.

Potential consequences of an ABC violation are dependent on the type of violation and include:

• License suspension ranging from 5 to 45 days, typically in five-day increments
• Indefinite suspension until the issue is corrected
• License revocation

Although most violations have a specified penalty, the potential penalty attached to each violation type is not restricted to that specified penalty. The circumstances of the violation can impact the actual penalty. Mitigating factors can reduce the penalty you face and include:

• Positive action to correct an issue
• Cooperation with the investigation
• Length of time without prior problems or discipline
• Documented training of employees and licensees

Aggravating factors can worsen the penalty you face and include:

• Prior warning letters
• History of disciplinary action
• Premises located in a high-crime area
• Licensee involvement

With the potential for a wide range of penalties, anticipating the penalties applicable to your specific circumstances can be challenging. Speaking with a knowledgeable alcohol beverage compliance attorney with Blake & Ayaz can help you explore potential outcomes for your case and develop a strategy to achieve a favorable result. They can also help you implement new policies to prevent future violations.

What to Know About ABC Agents

ABC agents, as well as police officers and sheriff’s deputies, are sworn law enforcement officers who have the power to arrest. Whether the ABC officer is in plain clothes or uniform, they have the right to visit and inspect any premises with an alcohol license at any time during normal business hours.

The search does not require a warrant, and access must be given to all locations, including bar and back bar, office, store room, kitchen, safes, locked/closed cabinets, or any area covered under the license. Though the general public can be excluded from some areas, law enforcement cannot be denied access. Licensees cannot deny entry to, obstruct, delay, or assault a peace officer.

Why Hire an Alcohol Beverage Compliance Lawyer With Blake & Ayaz?

Understanding and complying with the laws pertaining to alcohol in California can be difficult. Retaining the right attorney can make all the difference in obtaining a license, ensuring compliance, and preventing violations. Retaining the Blake & Ayaz team is recommended because we are:

• Compassionate. Acquiring a license, facing a violation, or maintaining compliance with ABC laws can be challenging. The consequences of any delays or violations can be disastrous for your business model. We understand the crucial nature of our services and can approach your situation with the dedication and compassion you deserve.
• Experienced. In-depth knowledge and experience are essential when handling clients who work with alcohol. The Blake & Ayaz team has more than a century of combined experience supporting our clients in California. With each case in our history, we expanded our knowledge base and became an increasingly vital resource for our community.
• Transparent. When working with our clients, we want you to understand what is happening at each stage. If you have questions, we are committed to answering them thoroughly and in a clear and understandable manner. We are also transparent with our fee structures.

Though it is possible to handle many alcohol beverage compliance issues without the support of an experienced legal team, the difference in the result between not having this support and having it can be immense. When considering actions that could have a significant impact on your business’s success, selecting skilled support is the right choice.

Alcohol Beverage Compliance With Blake & Ayaz

Regardless of the legal services you need related to alcohol beverage compliance in the City of Angels, Blake & Ayaz is the team for you. We strive to be a pillar in our community and can handle your case with the care and dedication you deserve. Whether you have a business in West Hollywood, Santa Monica, or elsewhere in Los Angeles, if you need alcohol beverage compliance services, reach out to our team today to schedule a consultation.