<P> New Jersey permits social gambling (e.g., workplace football pool, a family poker game) insofar as the organizer of the game is on equal terms with the other participants, and does not take a cut of the gambling proceeds . Furthermore, it is never a criminal offense in New Jersey to be a player in a gambling operation . However, the New Jersey Alcoholic Beverage Commission prohibits bars and other holder of liquor licenses from allowing social gambling . </P> <P> Each year billions of dollars of illegal gambling takes place in New Jersey . Illegal gambling operations range from employees who make money on office sports betting pools to online poker websites to multimillion - dollar enterprises run by organized criminals . Despite the availability of legal gambling in New Jersey, studies have shown that illegal gambling persists because it offers options that are not available legally (e.g., casino gambling outside of Atlantic City), and because some gamblers prefer using a bookmaker whom they personally know . State law does not punish players, but a person operating an illegal gambling enterprise, or possessing equipment or records used for illegal gambling can face up to five years' imprisonment depending on the quantity and size of the bets . However, illegal gambling arrests are rare in New Jersey, and there is presumption of non-incarceration for first - time offenders . </P> <P> A person must be 21 years of age to gamble at a casino in New Jersey . It is legal for a minor to go to a casino, insofar as they do not gamble, consume alcoholic beverage, or remain on the gambling floor . Underage gambling at a casino is a disorderly persons offense (misdemeanor), punishible by a $500--$1000 fine and a mandatory six - month driver's license suspension, and plea bargaining of underage gambling charges is prohibited . The legal age for other forms of licensed gambling (e.g., lottery, horse race) is 18, but a person under 18 may take part in amusement games where the prize is an item (e.g., a stuffed animal), and not cash . There is no minimum age for social gambling . </P>

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