HOLIDAY LIABILITY.(office party legal liabilities)(Brief Article)

Don't let your company crash the party

If grandma gets run over by a reindeer, you better hope that reindeer wasn't drinking alcohol at your holiday office party.

Liability during holiday parties is something more and more companies in Central Ohio are concerned about, says Columbus attorney Susan DiMickele.

"If the party is a mandatory party or if employees are strongly encouraged to attend, the risk for liability is greater," says DiMickele. "Arguably the party could substantially become seen as company business."

And that becomes quite a dangerous situation for companies, DiMickele says. Many companies in Central Ohio "require or strongly suggest" their employees attend the company holiday party. After all, what better a way to build camaraderie among co-workers and your staff? But, DiMickele says, if it's understood that everyone must attend the party, you re walking a fine line.

"There is a line for off-duty or …