Teaching a Brew Class Questions

[bknifefight]

I have taught a few classes on brewing through a local organization and did it for free, donating my time. Part of the reason was the organization would take on any liability of people sampling my beer and driving home.

I would like to teach the class on my own, but have some sort of waiver each person must sign so that I am not responsible if they crash their car or something. Is this something that I need to get drafted by a lawyer or can I make one myself?

Is there anyone here who has dealt with such a thing? If you had to go through a lawyer, how much did it cost you?

 

[isurf]

Could'nt be that much different than people who go to a bar pay for drinks and drive home, just a guess.

 

[libeerty]

Bars are highly regulated and have to get various federal state and local permits. Giving samples of beer requires permits in most states too. If I were you, I'd teach brewing classes without giving samples out until you find out your state's laws.

 

[Whattawort]

What you want is a liability waiver. There are several samples out there (use your google-fu daniel-son). I don't know how much this will legally release you from liability should something happen, but at least your participants will have signed a document stating that they are aware that you are not responsible for their actions/choices. After all, it's their choice if they want to imbibe. I doubt you'll be forcing it down anyone's throat.

 

[GrogNerd]

In Pennsylvania

Pennsylvania Liquor Code, SECTION 4-492

Malt or brewed beverages may be produced by any person without a license if such malt or brewed beverages are produced not for sale and total production does not exceed two hundred gallons per calendar year. Malt or brewed beverages produced in accordance with this paragraph may be used at organized affairs, exhibitions, competitions, contests, tastings or judging provided it is not sold or offered for sale.​

 

[i4ourgot]

You might wanna talk to a local homebrew shop lots of them do classes and give beer away in shop and I have never signed a waiver when drinking or taking a class

 

[markm2151]

Liability waivers don't mean anything. You need to file paperwork with the Secretary of State setting yourself up as a limited liability company (LLC). Attorney can do this quick and cheap. Call your local bar association.

 

[bknifefight]

Thanks for the comments, everyone. There is a lawyers office near where I work. I may stick my head in today and talk to them.