GAMING LAW

Online gambling in the United States is a rapidly evolving industry, making it challenging to navigate the complex and ever-changing regulations on your own. Our founding attorney, Drew Jacobs, developed a passion for gaming law during law school and continues to contribute to the field by organizing the annual Gaming Law, Compliance, and Integrity Bootcamp at Seton Hall Law School.

Gaming law plays a critical role in ensuring fairness, transparency, and ethical practices across the gaming and gambling industry. It addresses the financial, social, and legal risks associated with these activities, providing vital protections for businesses, organizations, and individuals alike. Whether you’re an industry professional seeking legal guidance or a business needing compliance support, our firm is here to help. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and ensure you’re equipped to succeed in this dynamic field.

What is Gaming Law?

Gaming Law is an area of law that governs gambling activities, including the operation of regulation of casinos, lotteries, sports betting, online gaming, and other gambling-related activities. It encompasses a combination of federal, state, and local laws, as well as tribal regulations, and requires a nuanced understanding of various legal disciplines.

Gaming Law is becoming an increasingly important area of legal practice in the United States:

  • It protects the integrity of gaming industries.

  • It safeguards consumers and operators from fraud or exploitation.

  • It ensures fair and equitable operation of gaming activities.

  • It balances economic growth with ethical considerations, including responsible gaming initiatives.

Who Needs A Gaming Law Attorney?

Casino Operators and Owners

  • Legal compliance is critical for opening, operating, and managing casinos, as operators must navigate a complex web of licensing requirements, gaming permits, and adherence to local, state, and federal regulations. Additionally, casino owners must be prepared to handle disputes related to winnings or operational matters, ensuring fair practices and maintaining the trust of their patrons.

Online Gaming Companies

  • The regulation of online gambling platforms, including sports betting and casino-style games, requires strict compliance with jurisdiction-specific internet gambling laws. Operators must also address emerging issues related to digital currency and blockchain in gaming transactions, ensuring secure and lawful operations in a rapidly evolving technological landscape.

Video Game Developers and Publishers

  • Intellectual property protection is crucial for safeguarding game design, branding, and content in the gaming industry. Developers must also ensure monetization compliance, particularly regarding loot boxes and microtransactions, to align with regulatory standards. Additionally, esports-related contracts, sponsorships, and legal protections are essential for fostering fair and transparent partnerships within the competitive gaming ecosystem.

E-Sports Organizations

  • E-Sports organizations must navigate key legal aspects such as player contracts, sponsorships, and broadcasting rights to ensure smooth operations and equitable agreements. Tournament licensing and intellectual property agreements are also critical for protecting the interests of all parties involved. Furthermore, effective dispute resolution mechanisms between players and organizations are essential for maintaining fairness and fostering long-term partnerships.

Players and Gamblers

  • Players and gamblers require protection from fraudulent operators to ensure fair and transparent gaming experiences. They also need effective mechanisms for resolving disputes over winnings or terms of service. Additionally, understanding their rights under gaming laws is essential for safeguarding their interests and navigating the gaming environment confidently.

Hospitality and Entertainment Industry

  • Resorts, hotels, and entertainment venues that host gaming activities must adhere to zoning, licensing, and operational gaming laws to ensure legal compliance. This includes meeting regulatory requirements and maintaining a lawful environment for gaming operations as part of their broader hospitality offerings.

Social and Mobile Game Companies

  • Social and mobile game companies must address gambling-like mechanics in games, such as loot boxes, to ensure compliance with evolving regulatory standards. They also need to adhere to advertising laws and consumer protection regulations to maintain ethical practices and safeguard players' rights.