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Is running a football pool for customers legal if there's no profit involved?

Is running a football pool for customers legal if there's no profit involved?

Q: How do you know when to cut someone off at a bar?

You should cut someone off at a bar when they exhibit signs of intoxication, such as impaired coordination, slurred speech, or aggressive behavior. It's crucial to act responsibly to ensure the safety of the individual and others. Bartenders should also be aware of local laws regarding alcohol service to avoid legal issues.

Q: Do bartenders have the right to cut you off?

Yes, bartenders have the right to cut off service to patrons who appear intoxicated or disruptive. This responsibility helps ensure the safety of all customers and complies with state laws regarding alcohol service. Bartenders should be trained to recognize signs of intoxication and act accordingly.

Q: Can you make $1000 a night bartending?

While it's possible to make $1000 a night bartending, it typically depends on factors such as the bar's location, clientele, and the bartender's experience. High-end venues or busy nightlife spots may offer higher earning potential through tips. However, earnings can vary significantly based on these factors.

Q: When should you cut someone off at a bar?

You should cut someone off at a bar when a patron displays signs of intoxication, such as slurred speech, unsteady movements, or aggressive behavior. It's vital to prioritize safety and ensure that the patron does not drive or engage in risky behavior. Familiarity with state laws on alcohol service is also important.

Full question:

My good friend recently had his business (nightclub/bar) shut down for 20 days and a $2000 fine because he ran some football pools at the bar. He does it just for the customers and takes NO rake or fee for himself. All of the money collected goes to the people who buy a $2.00 square. I'm sure I read somewhere that if no one profited from this type of pool, it was legal. Also there were other pools in the bar that the arresting officials did not know how they worked, so they just left them.

Category: Misc
Date: 04/07/2025
State: Texas

Answer:

Under Texas law, a person commits an offense if they make a bet on the outcome of a game or contest, including football pools (Tex. Penal Code § 47.02). However, there are defenses to prosecution:

Gambling occurred in a private place.
No one received any economic benefit other than personal winnings.
The risks of losing and chances of winning were the same for all participants.

If your friend ran the pools without taking a profit and met these conditions, he may have a defense. However, it’s essential to note that the legality of such pools can be complex, and enforcement may vary. If he believed his conduct was permitted under the law, that could also serve as a defense (Tex. Penal Code § 47.02(c)). Ultimately, consulting with a legal professional is advisable for specific guidance.

This content is for informational purposes only and is not legal advice. Legal statutes mentioned reflect the law at the time the content was written and may no longer be current. Always verify the latest version of the law before relying on it.

FAQs

When should a bartender stop serving?

A bartender should stop serving alcohol when a patron shows signs of intoxication, such as slurred speech, difficulty walking, or aggressive behavior. It's important to prioritize the safety of the patron and others. Additionally, bartenders must comply with state laws regarding serving alcohol, which may require them to refuse service to anyone who appears overly intoxicated.

How do you know when to cut someone off at a bar?

At what point do you cut someone off?

You should cut someone off when a patron shows clear signs of intoxication, including difficulty speaking, stumbling, or becoming overly emotional. It's essential to assess the situation carefully and ensure that the patron can get home safely. Bartenders should also be familiar with state laws regarding alcohol service to avoid potential legal repercussions.