Legal Question in Civil Litigation in Washington
Bouncers at nightclubs
Last night my friend and I were at a bar that we attend regularly. We did end up drinking a little too much; however we were still in control. I know a lot of people that work there and they told me my friend had to leave. They did not say why just that he had to go. I was telling my friend he had to leave when three staff members came over and grabbed him. They forcefully tried to remove him from the club which he resisted. They put him in a choke hold and brought him outside. Once outside they let go of him and he ran off to avoid being arrested. I am curious as to whether or not the bouncer can just grab you and throw you out. It does not seem legal. He was intoxicated but not threatening anybody or being physical whatsoever. Just dancing on the dance floor. Any light you can shed on this would be greatly appreciated.
1 Answer from Attorneys
Re: Bouncers at nightclubs
A lawyer with vastly more experience than I once told me to never take a PI case that starts with a drunken brawl.
I can't sort out from your description of the incident what the basis for the bouncer's decision was. In your facts, there simply is no problematic conduct. I wonder if the bouncer would relate the same story or if it would come though a little differently.
And the next question would be: How was your friend harmed? Did he lose money, or just a certain measure of his personal dignity? The law can't compensate for dignity issues (unless there is a discrimination problem) and in the absence of any harm or damage, your friend hasn't really been injured such that he could reasonably expect a jury to compensate him. And finally, it isn't just a question of relating one's story, but proving it. The other side would be intent on proving that the story your friend relates actually did not happen, and then it's a credibility call for the finder of fact (judge or jury, depending).
And that's my take on it. Another lawyer might well disagree with me. Hope this helps. Elizabeth Powell
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