Legal Question in Business Law in Pennsylvania

An Organized Poker Game with 10% proceeds to charity

I am aware that poker is illegal when somebody profits directly or indirectly. I am considering having a 100 player tournament with $20 buy in each with top 10 paying out and 10% of the pot going to a charity.

I want to know if this game would be legal as long as I donate money to charity. Is 10% not enough to make it legal or is it just plain illegal no matter how much you are donating?


Asked on 8/04/06, 4:53 pm

2 Answers from Attorneys
Roger Traversa Arjont Group (Law Office of Roger Traversa)

Re: An Organized Poker Game with 10% proceeds to charity

You asked if it was legal to have a poker tournament where a percentage of the buy-in went to charity?

There are certain circumstances where gambling is legal in each state and often by local jurisdiction. Whether or not any particular scheme is legal is a highly detailed analysis of the proposed event and transactions.

My suggestion is that you look to see if there are any similar events and how they are licensed or permitted. I don't recall seeing any such legal tournaments, but that does not mean much.

I would be happy to look into this matter further for you. If you would like to pursue it please contact me.

Regards,

Roger Traversa

Email: [email protected]

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Answered on 8/04/06, 5:58 pm
Greg Artim Law Office of Karen L. Myers, P.C.

Re: An Organized Poker Game with 10% proceeds to charity

to add to what Attorney Traversa posted, it usually is up to the local municipalities as to what is legal. i have seen a few of these tournaments in my area, that were played after a permit was obtained, but where the charitable donation was 50%. i would not expect you to be able to get a permit with only 10% going to charity.

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Answered on 8/07/06, 11:39 am


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