Online gambling is an exploding business. Since its legalization, it is all you see during any game or match. Apps now even let you gamble on random things, increasing the likelihood of gambling addiction. With more options available, people are inundated with ways to gamble their money away. What you may not realize is that companies have specialized tactics to encourage betting, which can be purposefully addictive. Whether you can file a lawsuit for the damages caused by a gambling addiction depends on many factors, but we know how to help.
At Edward O. Moody, P.A., our gambling addiction lawsuit attorneys are here to help. We help you understand the potential legal challenges and the compensation that may be available.
Online Gambling and Arkansas Law
Arkansas still prohibits most types of online gambling. However, it is still extremely easy for people to bet online, even within the state. Many of the gambling companies operate outside of Arkansas’s jurisdiction, meaning they can reach people that should otherwise be protected. This can complicate legal claims at times.
Even so, Arkansas residents may still have legal options if:
- The gambling platform engaged in deceptive or predatory practices
- The company targeted vulnerable users
- The platform failed to implement responsible-gaming safeguards
- The company violated consumer protection laws
- The platform knowingly allowed underage users to gamble
When Online Gambling Companies May Be Liable
Lawsuits involving gambling addiction are challenging, but not impossible. Courts in some states have allowed claims to proceed when companies engaged in misconduct beyond simply offering gambling services. Arkansas residents may have a viable case if the platform:
Used Deceptive Marketing or False Promises
Some online casinos advertise “risk-free” bets, guaranteed wins, or misleading bonus structures. If these claims induced someone to gamble or continue gambling, they may support a consumer protection claim.
Failed to Implement Responsible-Gaming Tools
Many gaming companies will have features that are supposed to help protect against addiction, such as:
- Self-exclusion options
- Time limits
- Deposit limits
If a company lets users bypass these features or operates them incorrectly, they may be liable.
Knowingly Targeted Problem Gamblers
Some companies purposely go for the people they know have a compulsive gambling problem. If they used data to encourage behavior such as this, it could create liability. They might encourage abusive gambling through:
- Bonuses
- Personalized offers
- Push notifications
Allowed Illegal Gambling Activity
If the company knowingly allowed illegal gambling on their site, they may also be liable.
Legal Theories That May Apply
Arkansas doesn’t have a specific law that permits a lawsuit for gambling addiction. Instead, it is filed under different legal claims that may apply to your situation:
Negligence
Companies are expected to act with reasonable care to protect people. Abusive tactics or failing to verify age could be considered negligent acts that result in harm.
Fraud or Misrepresentation
Many companies use false tactics to make more money. They might use false advertising or misleading bonuses to get you to gamble more. It may include deceptive payout odds as well to entice you to bid on things that are more likely to lose.
Unfair or Deceptive Trade Practices
Depending on the laws violated, you may be able to file in a different jurisdiction for unfair or deceptive trade practices.
When to Contact an Attorney
If you or a loved one in Arkansas developed a gambling addiction linked to an online platform, an attorney can evaluate whether the company engaged in misconduct that may support a lawsuit. A lawyer can review:
- The platform’s terms and conditions
- Marketing materials and promotional messages
- Your gambling history and financial losses
- Any responsible-gaming tools you attempted to use
- Whether the company violated state or federal consumer protection laws
Even if a lawsuit is not possible, an attorney may help you explore alternative remedies, negotiate debt issues, or identify other legal options.
Getting Help with a Gambling Addiction Lawsuit
Online gambling can leave you in a tough spot, but there may be something you can do about it. Reach out to our team to explore your legal options.
Let the dedicated gambling addiction lawsuit attorneys at Edward O. Moody, P.A. review your case. Contact us today for a consultation.