Legal Services

Patrick M. McHugh was an attorney for the Pennsylvania Liquor Control Board in Harrisburg between 1977 and 1984, serving the last two years as Deputy Chief Counsel. Since 1985, I have conducted a private practice focused on alcoholic beverage law. I have represented industry members, of all types and sizes statewide, before the Liquor Control Board and in the courts. 

Securing a Liquor License

I will represent to your business through the application and an interview process required by the Pennsylvania Liquor Control Board in order to obtain its approval of the transfer of the liquor license. I shall ensure that your application receives assistance in getting prompt consideration and spotlight any regulatory problems which may cause delay. I have and will serve as co-counsel to your attorney for the liquor license aspects of your transaction. Often the liquor license transfer is part of a greater transaction where the timing of the transfer of a liquor license is important. With my assistance, your attorney can concentrate on the real estate and financing aspects of your transaction without concerns for unexpected problems with the liquor license transfer. I can also assist in obtaining new hotel liquor licenses and new restaurant licenses under the resort area exception.

Defending your License

I have represented licensees in hearings before the Administrative Law Judges, Common Pleas Courts and the Commonwealth Court in liquor citation cases since 1985. I have successfully defended many liquor citations and have won reversals of license revocations before the courts. Where violations have occurred, I am able to present the mitigating evidence in such a way to minimize the possible penalty. I can offer experienced representation when the Board indicates it is going to refuse to renew your liquor license, or when a district attorney brings a nuisance bar action against your license.

Consultation and Litigation Services

In addition to the above, I can provide consultation and litigation services concerning other legal and regulatory issues encountered by licensees in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania including advice on advertising and promotion, defending Dram Shop lawsuits, beer distributor territorial rights disputes and securing return of seized property. I can also provide representation in business disputes and employee relations problems.