Tips to avoid lawsuits from holiday office parties

Holiday office parties can be a potential minefield for lawsuits so the international law firm Bryan Cave LLP is offering some helpful hints to employers who want to celebrate the season without ending up in litigation.

Herewith are some of Bryan Cave's tips:

Avoid salty foods such as chicken wings because they may result in excessive consumption of alcoholic beverages.

Consider having adequate security.

Make employee attendance voluntary.

Check relevant insurance policies for possible coverage.

Set the tone with a series of pre-party memos. Memos should note that the party is a business-related function, and they should also remind everyone of the company's anti-harrassment policies. Pre-party memos should suggest that everyone should give gag gifts and provocative decorations a good leaving-alone.

If party plans call for music, tell the band or DJ, "No slow dances."

And after the party, investigate all harrassment complaints.
(By Chris Reidy, Globe staff)

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