Under what circumstance can servers feel justified in serving alcohol?

The justification for servers to serve alcohol fundamentally hinges on the legal drinking age. When a customer is of legal drinking age, they are recognized by law as capable of consuming alcohol responsibly. This is a core principle that servers must adhere to in order to comply with legal regulations regarding alcohol service. Being of legal age holds paramount importance, as it establishes a baseline of responsibility and accountability.

The other options, while they may provide context for serving, do not serve as solid justifications. Happy hour promotions, familiarity with a customer, or the mere request for a drink do not legally authorize a server to serve alcohol without verifying the customer’s age. It is essential for servers to prioritize legal requirements, ensuring they do not inadvertently facilitate underage drinking or violate alcohol service laws. Thus, adhering to the legal age requirement is crucial for responsible alcohol service practices.