Dram Shop Laws

Master Account • December 12, 2025

Arkansas Dram Shop Laws: What Students Should Know

Most University of Arkansas students know that underage drinking is illegal — but what many don’t realize is that bars, restaurants, or even individuals can face serious consequences if they provide alcohol to someone who later causes harm. These cases fall under Arkansas Dram Shop Laws, and they can lead to major civil liability and even criminal penalties.


At Taylor Law Partners, we represent students and Fayetteville residents who may find themselves caught up in these complicated cases. Whether you’ve been accused of overserving a guest at a party or you’ve been injured by someone who was negligently served, our attorneys know how to navigate Arkansas’s strict dram shop laws.

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Key Takeaways

Arkansas Dram Shop Law Found in Ark. Code Ann. §§ 16-126-103 and 16-126-104, it allows lawsuits against establishments or individuals who knowingly serve alcohol to minors or visibly intoxicated persons.
Civil Liability Bars, restaurants, or even party hosts may be sued if their actions contribute to injuries, accidents, or deaths.
Criminal Implications Providing alcohol to minors may also lead to misdemeanor charges under Ark. Code Ann. § 3-3-202.
Student Impact UA students hosting parties could face lawsuits or university discipline if minors are served.

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Why Dram Shop Laws Matter in Fayetteville

Fayetteville is home to a large student population, where house parties, fraternity events, and tailgates are common. Under dram shop laws, liability doesn’t only apply to bars — private individuals can also be held responsible if they knowingly provide alcohol to:

  • A minor (under 21), or
  • A person who is already visibly intoxicated.

If that person later causes a car accident or injures someone, the provider of the alcohol can be sued for damages.

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Arkansas Dram Shop Statutes

Ark. Code Ann. § 16-126-103 — Establishes liability for knowingly selling alcohol to a minor.

Ark. Code Ann. § 16-126-104 — Establishes liability for knowingly selling alcohol to a visibly intoxicated person.

Ark. Code Ann. § 3-3-202 — Criminal statute prohibiting the furnishing of alcohol to minors (Class A misdemeanor).

Penalties & Consequences

  • Civil lawsuits: Victims of drunk driving accidents or other alcohol-related harm may sue the provider of the alcohol for damages.
  • Criminal penalties: Jail time, fines, or probation for furnishing alcohol to a minor.
  • Student-specific consequences: Loss of scholarships, campus housing discipline, or suspension from the University of Arkansas.

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Protecting Students and Fayetteville Residents

For University of Arkansas students, a single mistake at a party or tailgate can lead to lawsuits, criminal charges, and university discipline. Taylor Law Partners has the experience to defend your rights in both civil and criminal proceedings.

If you or your child is facing a dram shop claim or charge, contact Taylor Law Partners today. We proudly defend students and residents in Fayetteville and throughout Northwest Arkansas.

   Call: (479) 316 – 6300
   Office: Taylor Law Partners, 211 E. Dickson Street Ste. 1, Fayetteville, AR 72701
   Website: https://taylorlawpartners.com

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