Uncovering The Legality Of Home Poker Games In Indiana

Like your old pal Kenny Rogers famously said, "You've got to know when to hold 'em, know when to fold 'em, know when to walk away, and know when to run." If you fancy yourself a gambler, you have most likely attended a poker game at someone's house, or maybe even hosted one yourself. Have you ever wondered if that kind of activity is legal in the state of Indiana? You might be surprised by what the law says.

Is It Legal in Indiana to Gamble at Home Poker Games?

Are you breaking any laws by gambling at a poker game at someone's house? Let's first break down the question to determine the legality of "gambling" and "poker games." Let's see if this verbiage from in.gov answers the question. First of all, how does the law define gambling?

"Gambling" means risking money or other property for gain, contingent in whole or in part upon lot, chance, or the operation of a gambling device. If one of these elements of the gambling definition is removed, then the activity is legal.

So by law, the act of "gambling" can be both legal and illegal in Indiana. Got it. But what about poker? Is it considered gambling and is it legal or illegal?

The illegal gambling statute specifically provides that “a card game or an electronic version of a card game is a game of chance and may not be considered a bona fide contest of skill." Thus, games like poker and euchre are considered gambling if played for money.

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There you have it, playing card games like poker, euchre, blackjack, or even Uno, is perfectly legal as long as you're NOT playing for money.

What About Betting a Few Bucks While Playing Golf?

If you're a golfer, you have almost certainly made some kind of wager out on the course. Is that legal to do in Indiana? Once again, the answer is yes and no. You are legally allowed to wager as much money as you want as long as you're betting on yourself and your performance. It becomes illegal when you start wagering on the performance of someone else.

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If you'd like to get thoroughly confused and possibly have your eyes crossed, I recommend this Illegal Gambling FAQs - a handy dandy three-page document full of clear-as-mud legal jargon.

Indications Of A Gambling Addiction

Here are some indications you may have an addiction to gambling. There is help available. Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit ncpgambling.org

Gallery Credit: Dr. T

25 Movies You May Not Have Known Take Place In Indiana

Just to be clear, this list isn't about movies that were filmed in Indiana - although some were - this is all about movies that are set, or take place in Indiana.

Gallery Credit: Bobby G.