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4 Christmas hassles and important Christmas lessons to remember

The holidays bring not only gifts, but also legal lessons. Around Christmas, predictably recurring issues come into play: liability at a company party, dismissal and employment around the holidays, and hassle regarding gifts and purchases. With the right...

Published on December 23, 2022 by MKBjuristen.nl
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The holidays bring not only gifts, but also legal lessons. Around Christmas, predictably recurring issues come into play: liability at a company party, dismissal and employment around the holidays, and hassle regarding gifts and purchases. With the right preparation, you can prevent the festive spirit from costing you dearly.

Lesson 1: Be careful at the company party

A Christmas drinks reception or staff party is fun, but you also have a duty of care during festivities (organized by you). As an employer, you can be held accountable in the event of excessive alcohol consumption, accidents, or inappropriate behavior. Make clear agreements in advance, supervise, and arrange safe transportation.

Lesson 2: Work and dismissal around the holidays

Employment law issues often arise around the holidays: who works on public holidays, what about leave and allowances, and are you still allowed to dismiss employees around Christmas? Dismissal is possible during this period, but the standard rules and due diligence requirements continue to apply. Be mindful of prohibitions on termination and maintaining a solid file.

Lesson 3: fuss about gifts and purchases

Christmas is peak season for purchases, returns, and delivery issues. For consumers, the right of withdrawal and the rules regarding delivery and conformity apply in full. Ensure that your webshop and terms and conditions are in order, especially during this busy period, to prevent complaints and disputes.

Lesson 4: Record agreements, even in a celebratory mood

In the hustle and bustle of socializing, agreements are sometimes made too loosely. However, even a verbal or hasty agreement can be binding. Properly record important agreements—with staff, customers, or suppliers—even around the holidays, so that you are not faced with any surprises in January.

Frequently Asked Questions

Am I liable for an accident at the Christmas party?

That is possible, based on your duty of care for a party you organize. Make agreements, supervise, and arrange safe transport to minimize the risk.

Am I allowed to fire someone around the holidays?

Yes, but the standard dismissal rules and due diligence requirements continue to apply, including prohibitions on termination and a solid file.

Do consumer rules also apply around Christmas?

Yes, in full: right of withdrawal, delivery, and conformity. Ensure your webshop and terms and conditions are in order.

Get through the holidays well prepared?

Our legal experts advise on employment, liability, and consumer law. View our employment lawteam, our legal assistance, or schedule a free consultation.

Please note: an article provides general information, but your legal situation may turn out differently.

A contract, conflict, or legal risk must always be assessed based on the facts, documents, evidentiary position, and interests. Are you in doubt? Have your situation assessed before you act.

Legal question regarding this article?

A blog provides explanation, but your situation often requires a concrete legal choice. MKB Juristen helps entrepreneurs with contracts, terms and conditions, GDPR documents, employment documents, disputes, and customized legal solutions.

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