Gaming Law Definition
Gaming is one of the most heavily regulated industries in Canada, involving all three levels of government (federal, provincial, and municipal). The framework for gaming law in Canada is governed by the federal Criminal Code of Canada, and depending on the type of gaming activities taking place, is supplemented by provincial and municipal regulation. Gaming lawyers advise on the legality of new and proposed gaming operations/ventures, and assist new and existing participants in obtaining and maintaining all required provincial registrations (or exemptions from registration) to either operate a gaming business or to conduct business with a gaming operator. Gaming lawyers regularly deal with many types of gaming operations, including commercial and charity casinos, Internet gaming, lotteries, fantasy sports, horseracing, and provincial gaming corporations. Gaming lawyers advise on commercial and regulatory matters associated with gaming operations, including casino development, the negotiation of operating agreements, regulatory investigations and compliance, compliance with privacy laws, intellectual property and information technology matters, player loyalty programs, supplier registrations, marketing, and advertising. Gaming lawyers also provide gaming specific advice in the context of significant transactions (such as mergers and acquisitions, financings, public offerings, bankruptcy and insolvency, and reorganizations) and gaming litigation. The practice of gaming law often requires a multi-disciplinary team that understands the gaming environment, including commercial, financial services/banking, labour and employment, privacy, real estate, land use planning, taxation, intellectual property, information technology, and litigation.
Bryson A. Stokes and John M. Tuzyk
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