Las Vegas Casino Markers: What You Need to Know
Casino markers are very common in Las Vegas. Simply by filling out a form at the casino, you get instant access to a large amount money to use in the casino. It’s a very tempting proposition. Be very careful: you can land in a lot of trouble if you don’t know how casino markers work.
Casino markers are serious business in Las Vegas. If you fail to repay a casino marker within the required time — usually thirty (30) days — and ignore inquiries about repayment, you may face criminal charges in Las Vegas, as well as a civil lawsuit by the casino to recover the money owed. The criminal charge can result in a significant fine, imprisonment, and even extradition to Nevada. You can end up with a permanent felony conviction on your record that substantially interferes with your life and makes it difficult to get a job and credit.
Casino Marker Laws in Nevada
Las Vegas visitors tend to think that casino markers are like a credit card or line of credit, because that’s how casinos treat them. That assumption is totally erroneous and full of risk for an unwary casino patron. Nevada law treats a casino marker like a personal check. Unpaid markers can be prosecuted under the state’s bad check laws. The law assumes that you intended to defraud the casino if you do not pay the marker on time.
When your payment date passes, the casino will try to collect the money from your bank. If you don’t have sufficient funds to cover the payment you owe, the casino will contact you. If you ignore the casino’s communications, they will file a formal complaint. Then you will hear from the District Attorney’s Office. If you ignore them, you will face felony charges, and a warrant for your arrest will be issued. You run the risk of being extradited to Nevada, especially if you attempt to travel internationally.
A single charge for an unpaid casino marker carries the possibility of a year in prison and a fine of up to $10,000. Depending on the circumstances, other felony charges may be filed at the same time.
What To Do If You Have an Unpaid Casino Marker
Casinos and criminal prosecutors in Las Vegas have a quick, tried-and-true process for following up on unpaid markers. Don’t even entertain the thought that they won’t catch up with you — they will. If you know you won’t be able to pay a casino marker, contact an attorney at the earliest possible time. Experienced Las Vegas casino marker attorney Joseph Gersten is just a phone call or email away, so there’s no excuse to wait. If you delay getting legal counsel, your situation will keep getting worse and more difficult to resolve.
In Las Vegas, the process for prosecuting unpaid markers is fast and simple. The ramifications for you and your life are anything but that.
Need Help? Contact an Experienced Las Vegas Casino Marker Attorney
Las Vegas criminal defense attorney Joseph Gersten has extensive experience with casino markers. If you are or anticipate having problems paying a Las Vegas casino marker, contact Attorney Gersten to schedule a free consultation.
