Bouncer and Bar Assault Lawyers in New York
Protecting Victims of Bar and Nightclub Assaults
At the Law Office of Michael H. Joseph, PLLC, our New York bar assault lawyers fight for victims who were attacked by bouncers, security guards, or other patrons. We represent clients across New York who were injured because bars and clubs failed to keep their premises safe.
Assaulted by a Bouncer in New York?
You may have the right to sue the bar or nightclub for your injuries.
In New York, bars are legally responsible for the actions of their employees, including bouncers and security guards. If a bouncer uses unnecessary or excessive force, the bar can be held liable for the harm caused.
What the Law Requires
- New York law requires bars and nightclubs to only hire licensed, registered, and properly trained security personnel.
- Property owners have a duty to provide a reasonably safe environment for their patrons.
- Bars that use unqualified bouncers, fail to monitor their staff, or ignore violent behavior can be sued for resulting injuries.
Common Injuries from Bouncer Assaults
- Broken noses and jaws
- Orbital fractures and facial injuries
- Concussions and traumatic brain injuries
- Spinal injuries from being thrown to the ground
- Injuries to women caused by inappropriate or excessive force
What New York Law Means for Bar Assault Victims
Victims of bouncer or bar assaults are not limited to medical bills. Under New York personal injury law, you may be entitled to recover:
Full Personal Injury Damages
This includes compensation for pain and suffering, permanent disfigurement, loss of quality of life, and emotional trauma caused by the assault.
Medical Costs and Lost Wages
Victims can recover past and future medical expenses, as well as wages lost due to time off work or long-term disabilities.
Liability of Bars and Nightclubs
Bars, taverns, and clubs are responsible for their employees’ actions. If a bouncer, bartender, or unlicensed security guard injures a patron, the establishment is liable for the assault.
If you’ve been assaulted at a bar or nightclub in New York, call (212) 858-0503 today.
“We’ve built bar assault cases on surveillance footage, liquor authority records, and eyewitness testimony — and we know how to win.”
Understanding Bouncer and Bar Assault Cases in New York
New York law gives victims strong protections when alcohol and violence mix. Too often, bars cut corners by hiring untrained staff, failing to follow licensing laws, or ignoring patterns of disorderly conduct.
Dangerous Bouncers and Security Staff
Some bars hire bouncers with criminal backgrounds, histories of violence, or training in martial arts with no oversight. When these individuals overreact, patrons can suffer significant harm.
Negligent Hiring and Oversight
New York law requires bars to conduct background checks and ensure all security personnel are properly licensed. Bars that skip these steps are responsible when their employees injure customers.
Video Evidence and Liquor Authority Records
Surveillance footage and State Liquor Authority records often reveal patterns of violence or violations of alcohol laws. Our attorneys act quickly to secure this evidence before it disappears.
Who Is Liable for a Bar or Bouncer Assault?
Multiple parties may share liability when a patron is injured in a bar or nightclub:
Bars and Nightclubs
Establishments are responsible for the conduct of their employees, including bouncers and bartenders.
Security Companies
If a third-party company provided the bouncers, that company may also be held liable.
Property Owners
Owners who allow unsafe practices or ignore violent incidents can face liability for assaults on their premises.
How Our New York Bar Assault Lawyers Can Help
At the Law Office of Michael H. Joseph, PLLC, we understand how life-changing a bar assault can be. Our attorneys will:
- Investigate quickly to secure surveillance video and witness statements.
- Obtain records from the State Liquor Authority showing prior violence or violations.
- Hold negligent bars accountable for unlicensed or poorly trained bouncers.
- Pursue maximum compensation for medical costs, lost income, and pain and suffering.
Why Choose the Law Office of Michael H. Joseph?
- Decades of Experience: Representing assault victims across NYC and Westchester.
- Proven Results: Successful verdicts and settlements in complex assault cases.
- Local Advantage: Offices in Manhattan and White Plains, handling cases in courts across New York City and Westchester County.
- Client-First Approach: We prioritize your recovery and make sure your voice is heard.
Frequently Asked Questions About Bar Assaults in New York
Can I sue if a bouncer assaulted me at a bar?
Yes. Bars are responsible for the actions of their employees. If a bouncer used excessive force, the establishment can be sued for your injuries.
What if another patron attacked me?
If a bar failed to provide adequate security, overserved alcohol, or ignored disorderly conduct, it may be held liable for patron-on-patron assaults.
Do bouncers need to be licensed in New York?
Yes. State law requires security guards and bouncers to be licensed and properly trained. Hiring unlicensed bouncers is grounds for liability.
What damages can I recover after a bar assault?
You may recover medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, emotional distress, and permanent disability or disfigurement damages.
How soon should I contact a lawyer?
Immediately. Surveillance footage and witness memories fade quickly. Prompt legal action increases the chance of securing critical evidence.
Take Action Today
If you were injured by a bouncer or assaulted at a bar or nightclub in New York City or Westchester, don’t wait. The sooner you act, the stronger your case will be.
Call (212) 858-0503 today.