It’s a big weekend, with football season openers, good weather, and holiday events. Read these quick tips so you can be informed before you host or attend a party! For more information on potential offenses that you could be facing, click on the links.

HOSTING A PARTY OFF CAMPUS

Party prep

• Post “No drinking under 21 signs” throughout property, and especially where alcohol is going to be located: Violation for Hosting an Underage Drinking Party
• Talk to neighbors, make friends, provide contact information, ask them to call you first if music or noise is too loud: Noise Violation
• Post fencing or barriers to keep party from spilling onto public sidewalk or street, or neighbor’s property: Disorderly Conduct, Open Container
• Lock doors to private areas, such as bedrooms: Theft

Party time

• Check IDs at the door
• Only provide alcohol to those 21 and older: Furnishing Alcohol to Minors 
• Do not provide alcohol to anyone who is visibly intoxicated, vomiting, or unable to comprehend/hold a conversation
• Do not leave alcohol unattended
• Provide non-alcoholic drinks for those under 21
• Keep noise and music at a reasonable level: Noise Violation
• Do not let guests overcrowd places where a specific capacity is recommended (decks, roofs, porches)
• Do not set fires
• If the party gets out of hand, call campus or city police for assistance

The aftermath

• Clean up any trash and debris immediately: Littering Violation

ATTENDING A PARTY OFF CAMPUS

• Do not drink or possess (hold) alcohol unless you are 21: Violation for Underage Consumption & Possession
• Do not purchase alcohol unless you are 21: Violation for Underage Purchase
• Do not use a fake ID: Falsification
• Do not provide your ID to anyone else for use: Lend / Sell / Transfer ID Violation
• Do not drive if you are impaired: OVI (link coming soon)
• Do not “sleep it off” in your vehicle: Physical Control (link coming soon)
• Do not over consume; be conscious of your surroundings; stay with at least one trusted friend at all times
• Call police immediately if you are uncomfortable, lost, or sick

Remember: all colleges have a Code of Student Conduct that typically include portions dedicated to rules governing off-campus parties. Even if you are not charged criminally for any of the above offenses, your school could still discipline you for various reasons which could mean suspension or dismissal. Contact us immediately if you have any run-in with law enforcement or school representatives. 

Questions? Call us! 614.745.2001