Halvorson v. Birchfield Boiler, Inc.

This appeal by plaintiffs raises the question of whether an employer is liable to a third party who is injured by an employee who has become intoxicated at a company Christmas party.

On December 24, 1964, a company Christmas party was given by defendants Birchfield Boiler, Inc., and Ace Fur*760nace and Steel/Company for their employees and limited other invitees. The party began shortly after noon on the employers’ premises. The employers furnished food and refreshments, including alcoholic beverages. The businesses had closed at noon that day and employees were not obliged to attend the party.…