LEGAL GAMBLING WHERE YOU ARE : YOUR GUIDE TO THE BEST OFFSHORE SPORTSBOOKS AND GAMBLING SITES
Guide to Online Gambling in Alabama
Alabama, known for its conservative stance, largely prohibits most forms of gambling. However, their laws are mainly focused on the operation of casinos and preventing the establishment of in-person gambling. Online gambling in Alabama is not explicitly covered by any laws. The state's legal interpretation of gambling can be found in Title 13A, specifically Chapter 12 - Offenses Against Public Health and Morals, Article 2 - Gambling Offenses. The state's gambling industry today includes three small casinos operated by the Poarch Band of Creek Indians, which offer bingo but lack traditional casino table games. Greyhound racing is also permitted, but horse racing hasn't taken place since 1992. Additionally, Alabama does not have a state lottery. So where is someone in Alabama to turn to when they want to gamble and don't want to travel? Online casinos.
There isn't specific legislation regarding online poker or online sports betting. Hence, while playing might be seen as a grey area, there's no record of any resident arrested for playing online poker. However, as always, residents should approach online gambling with caution and consult with a legal expert when in doubt.
Alabama Online Gambling Overview
-
State authorities have never attempted to prosecute anyone for gambling online
-
There are no laws or regulations that specifically address gambling with offshore casinos
-
Playing on offshore sites could be classified under Alabama's 'Simple Gambling' laws, which is technically a Class C misdemeanor, but this has never been enforced
Applicable Alabama Online Gambling Laws
Definitions
Section 13A-12-20
(4) GAMBLING . A person engages in gambling if he stakes or risks something of value upon the outcome of a contest of chance or a future contingent event not under his control or influence, upon an agreement or understanding that he or someone else will receive something of value in the event of a certain outcome. Gambling does not include bona fide business transactions valid under the law of contracts, including but not limited to contracts for the purchase or sale at a future date of securities or commodities, and agreements to compensate for loss caused by the happening of chance, including but not limited to contracts of indemnity or guaranty and life, health or accident insurance.
​
(8) PLAYER. A person who engages in any form of gambling solely as a contestant or bettor, without receiving or becoming entitled to receive any profit therefrom other than personal gambling winnings, and without otherwise rendering any material assistance to the establishment, conduct or operation of the particular gambling activity.
​
(9) PROFIT FROM GAMBLING ACTIVITY . A person "profits from gambling activity" if he accepts or receives money or other property pursuant to an agreement or understanding with any person whereby he shares or is to share in the proceeds of gambling activity.
​
Section 13A-12-21
Simple gambling.
(a) A person commits the crime of simple gambling if he knowingly advances or profits from unlawful gambling activity as a player.
(b) It is a defense to a prosecution under this section that a person charged with being a player was engaged in a social game in a private place. The burden of injecting the issue is on the defendant, but this does not shift the burden of proof.
(c) Simple gambling is a Class C misdemeanor.
What Do Alabama Online Gambling Laws Mean for Residents?
If residing in Alabama, one should be aware of the laws, but not overly concerned. Online gambling for players is not something that has ever been prosecuted, nor are there any records of anyone being charged with this from online gambling.
Nevertheless, potential players should be aware that, by an interpretation of the law, it could be considered as 'Simple Gambling'. Something that is a Class C misdemeanors, the lowest level of misdemeanor in Alabama.
​
The state is more concerned with major online Poker providers, providing much harsher punishments to casinos, bookies, and houses facilitating gambling activities. However, many operators still provide gambling action for residents of the state.
Want to Learn More?
Top Pages
Top Sites for Gambling in Alabama
Note: Please keep in mind that the following overview is a general guideline and it's important to consult with legal professionals or refer to the specific state statutes for the most accurate and up-to-date information.