I play in a home game. The stakes are moderate (2-5 typically, although some players buy in very very deep to $1500 or more). The house takes a modest rake. We play in a gated community with a guard and the game is invite only, so exposure to robbery, etc. is minimized. The players are a mix, but most are white collar professionals. There are even a few professional sports players in the mix. I make sure to play only when the dealers I'm good friends with are dealing, to ensure no one is skimming the pot or anything crooked is going on. I'm careful with the game I play in. I enjoy it alot, and additionally it's quite profitable for me.
If I had the option to play in a legal cardroom, I would. However, the card rooms here are restricted to $100 max buy in for their 2-2 NLHE. They take a 10% rake with a $2 minimum $5 max. Because they take that rake whether action ends preflop or not, and the buy in is $100 max, I feel that rake is probably unbeatable and marginal at best.
I know the home game isn't legal. Ed's commented before on his stance on this with regards to New York City. Whether or not it's legal doesn't bother me from an ethical perspective. My issue has to do with possible action that might be taken against the players if there is a bust. A rumor has gone round that the city is looking to crack down on underground poker playing. If that happend I'm concerned about having an arrest record hurting my military career. I fortunate to have a job I love and don't want to risk it.
We play in Florida, and it's not clear to me what action they could take against players. I've read the law, and it's clear to me that it is illegal to *run* the game, but is it illegal to *play* the game? I know the house is taking on a legal risk, and obviously I need to consult a lawyer, but I thought I'd post here to see people's thoughts/opinions/knowledge of the subject.
Cheers,
- HJ
Login
Register
Search 
Forums
Add a New Topic
Reply to Post
Quote and Reply
Topic RSS 