If you are having a hard time getting or keeping your ABL permit or other kind of alcohol license, a skilled and experienced Hanahan, SC ABL lawyer might be just what you need to make you less stressed about this by taking the weight of your ABL legal issues off of your shoulders so that you can focus on running your business. At Viva Beverage Law, we understand how stressful alcohol licensing can be for business owners, and we are here to help. Give us a call or fill out our online form to set up a time to speak with our exceptional attorney, Lauren Acquaviva.
Hanahan, SC ABL Lawyer
An ABL permit allows a business or individual to legally manufacture, import, distribute, sell, or serve alcohol within the City of Hanahan. ABL permits are issued by the South Carolina Department of Revenue (SCDOR) and are regulated by the state’s alcohol beverage licensing system. Businesses are not allowed to engage in activities involving alcohol without an ABL permit.
There are several types of South Carolina ABL licenses, each designed for specific businesses and their corresponding activities. These include a Retail Liquor Store License (PRL), On-Premises Beer & Wine Permit (PBW), Off-Premises Beer & Wine Permit (PBG), Beer & Wine Special Event Permit (TBP), Temporary ABL License, Local Option Permit (LOP), Business Liquor by the Drink License (PLB), and Nonprofit (Private Club) Liquor by the Drink License (PLC). A prerequisite for getting any of these is to have a valid South Carolina Retail License before you apply for them. An experienced Hanahan ABL lawyer can help you to determine which license is best suited to your current needs, and they can simplify your life by guiding you throughout the process.
Getting a South Carolina ABL permit can be an arduous process because of all of the state's rules and regulations around alcohol licensing. Laws require retail businesses that sell liquor to be a minimum of 300 or 500 feet from churches, schools, and playgrounds. Community members can protest you getting your license, which can put your licensing process on hold until you have, and prevail, in a contested case hearing. And even when everything goes smoothly without any difficulties, it often takes upwards of 8 weeks to get an ABL application approved.
Because so many things can go wrong when a business owner is applying for an ABL permit and because so many things can jeopardize it once you have it, many people recommend enlisting the help of an alcohol lawyer at the very beginning of your licensing journey.
Why Experience Matters When Hiring An ABL Lawyer
When you have an experienced ABL lawyer in your corner and you no longer need to worry about the legal aspects of obtaining your license and staying in compliance, it will allow you to focus more of your time and energy on running your business. When you hire Lauren and her team, you are hiring an attorney who:
- Worked for six years for the South Carolina Department of Revenue (SCDOR) litigating alcohol licensing and tax matters on behalf of the Department.
- Because of her experience working for the SCDOR, has a unique advantage in helping her clients with their SC alcohol licensing issues because of her understanding of how the Department works internally.
- Tried over 100 tax and alcohol license cases at the South Carolina Administrative Law Court.
To learn more about how our highly experienced and understanding Hanahan ABL lawyer Lauren can help you, contact Viva Beverage Law today.
Types Of ABL Cases We Handle
At Viva Beverage Law, we focus our work on representing individuals and businesses involved in Alcohol Beverage Licensing (ABL) matters across South Carolina. Our Hanahan, SC ABL lawyer team provides clear, direct legal guidance for clients seeking licenses or defending their rights to keep them. We have tried over one hundred tax and alcohol license cases before the South Carolina Administrative Law Court and have handled appeals in the South Carolina Court of Appeals and the South Carolina Supreme Court. Our experience helps us handlea wide range of ABL cases from start to finish.
New Applications
We help clients apply for ABL permitsfor bars, restaurants, grocery stores, and other retail locations. Our focus is on making sure the application is complete and accurate so clients can avoid delays and move forward with business plans.
Public Objections
When a license application faces opposition from residents or law enforcement, we represent clients at protest hearings. These cases often come down to how well a business can demonstrate that it will operate within the law and with consideration for its surroundings.
Disciplinary Hearings
Clients may be called to a hearing for alleged violations such as underage sales or sales during restricted hours. We represent them during these proceedings and help present a clear defense, aiming to minimize penalties and protect future operations.
License Suspensions
Temporary suspensions can significantly impact revenue. We help clients respond to enforcement actions and seek fast resolutions to reduce downtime or loss of income.
Appeals After Denial
If the Department of Revenue denies a license, we work with clients to identify the reasons and appeal the decision. Our experience with ABL cases allows us to build a strong argument for reversal or modification.
Transfers And Relocations
Changing ownership or moving locations requires updated licensing. We help prepare and file the correct documents and address any legal requirements related to changes in operations.
RestrictedLicenses
Sometimes a license is issued with restrictions. We work with clients to review those terms and, when needed, help revise or contest them through proper legal channels.
Temporary Licenses For Events
Many events—like festivals or fundraisers—require temporary alcohol permits. We guide clients through the application process and confirm the correct license is obtained before the event date.
Manufacturing And Wholesale Licensing
For brewers, distillers, and importers, the licensing process is different than it is for retailers. We support clients in securing the right licenses and staying current with ongoing requirements.
Alleged Violations And Citations
When a business is accused of breaking ABL rules, the consequences can range from fines to closure. Our Hanahan ABL lawyers help clients respond to allegations, prepare defenses, and represent them at hearings if needed.
Speak With Us
If you’re facing any kind of issue related to alcohol beverage licensing, we’re ready to help. At Viva Beverage Law, we serve clients throughout South Carolina. Contact our Hanahan ABL lawyer team today to discuss your case and protect your business.