When a Celebration Becomes a Lottery – The Legal Risks Behind “Enter to Win” Promotions in the Court Reporting Industry

A well-intended recruitment promotion can cross a legal line. When participants must provide referrals or testimonials for a chance to win a prize, the offer may become a raffle — and commercial raffles are prohibited in California. For court reporters, whose work supports the judicial record, the issue extends beyond marketing compliance to professional integrity and public trust.