Q: How can I recover funds owed from a poker game played online?

A: Recovering funds from an online poker game can be complicated because gambling agreements, especially across state lines, are often treated differently under the law. Many states, including Maryland and Virginia, have strict rules regarding online gambling, and contracts based on illegal activity may not be enforceable in court. This means that even though you have texts agreeing to payment, a court might view the debt as arising from an illegal gambling agreement.

You could attempt to resolve this outside of court by negotiating a repayment plan or using a mediator to document an agreement. If you want to pursue legal action, you would likely need to frame it as a general debt or loan rather than a gambling debt, depending on the laws of the states involved. Gathering all communications, receipts, or proof of transfer of money will strengthen your position.

Before filing any claim, it’s important to confirm the proper jurisdiction, as the defendant was in Virginia while you were in Maryland. Small claims court might be an option if you can frame the issue as a civil debt, but be aware of limits on the amount recoverable and the enforceability of judgments across state lines. You also need to consider whether pursuing this through legal channels could expose you to claims related to gambling laws. Carefully documenting all attempts to collect the money and communicating clearly in writing will help you preserve your options.