Royce Graff, Debra Lynn Graff, Bobby Hausmon and Betty Hausmon, Petitioners v. Brett Beard and Dorothy Beard…

Summary

The Texas Supreme Court held that Texas common law does not impose a duty on social hosts to third parties for injuries caused by an intoxicated adult guest who drives, reversing the appellate court's decision and rendering a judgment that the plaintiff, Beard, takes nothing. The Court based its decision on legislative intent, the lack of a control relationship, and public policy considerations. A dissent argued that a common‑law duty should exist, citing Poole and other authorities.