The alcoholic beverage industry is regulated by the Texas Alcoholic Beverage Commission (TABC). TABC is responsible for permitting and licensing restaurants, bars, and other establishments that plan to serve alcohol. TABC also regulates sales, taxation, manufacturing, importing, transporting, and advertising of alcoholic beverages in Texas.
If a complaint is brought against your restaurant, TABC will investigate the alleged violations of the Alcoholic Beverage Code and is authorized to suspend alcohol permits.
The following are the most frequent TABC complaints that are lodged against licensed locations, including restaurants, bars, and other stores:
- Selling alcoholic beverages to minors or intoxicated people.
- Selling alcoholic beverages after the legal hours of sale.
- Selling alcoholic beverages without a TABC permit.
- Entity is owned by someone other than the person named on the permit.
- Conducting illegal activity involving gambling, illicit drug use, or prostitution.
- Involvement in any other illegal activity.
If TABC issues a citation against your restaurant or opens an investigation into a complaint, the future of your business could be at stake. First, citations are costly. Penalties for violations are dependent on whether it is a first or subsequent violation, and if aggravating or ameliorating circumstances are present. Second, you could permanently lose your liquor license, which could spell doom for your restaurant. The Standard Penalty Chart suggests cancellation of a license, suspension, or a fine, depending on the specific facts of the alleged violation.
If your restaurant’s liquor license is under attack by TABC, it is critical that you hire a license defense attorney experienced in handling matters before the TABC.
Defending Your Restaurant Against TABC License Violation Allegations
If you are being accused of a TABC violation, we urge you to consult with an experienced license defense attorney immediately.
The attorneys at BERTOLINO LLP know how to build a compelling case to protect your liquor license – and your livelihood. If you have received a TABC complaint, we can help. We have successfully helped clients resolve a wide range of complicated legal matters involving license defense. Our honest, experienced attorneys will fight aggressively on behalf of your license and reputation. Contact us today or call (512) 476-5757 and schedule a case evaluation.
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