If you operate a convenience store, restaurant, or other retail business in Georgia, Coin Operated Amusement Machines (COAMs) can be an important source of revenue. Before signing an agreement with a machine provider (master licensee), however, you need to understand exactly what the contract entails. An Atlanta COAM contracts lawyer can help you review the fine print, identify potential risks, and avoid costly surprises later. At Wallack Law, our Atlanta commercial gambling attorney helps business owners make informed decisions about COAM agreements before disputes arise.
Choosing the right lawyer early can prevent problems later. Here is why owners trust us:
A COAM location agreement is a legally binding contract between a business owner and the company providing the machines. These contracts cover such things as how long the machines stay in your building and how the contract can be terminated. Because the Georgia Lottery Corporation (GLC) oversees these games, the contracts must follow strict state laws. Without a careful review, you might unknowingly agree to terms you did not intent to agree to, a contract that lasts several more years than you anticipated, unreasonable cancellation provisions you were unaware, or exclusivity clauses that last for years.
Many business owners do not take a close look at their COAM contract until a problem arises with the machine provider. By that point, the agreement dicatates and limits their options.
We have represented numerous business owners who were shocked to find they were stuck in a contract for far longer than expected. For example, many agreements contain an automatic renewal clauses that are very easy to miss. Some contracts require a cancellation notice within a tiny 30-day window after signing the contract and that notice period passed years earlier without the business owner realizing it. Other contracts include penalties if you sell your business or relocate. Discovering these obligations late in the process can create unnecessary stress and expense.
Investing a small amount of money upfront to have a professional review your agreement can help you avoid significant legal fees and arbitration costs later. Our review process includes:
Do not sign a long-term deal that could limit your business’s growth or trap you in a bad partnership. Get the peace of mind that comes with knowing your interests are protected. Contact Wallack Law today to schedule a consultation and let us review your location agreement before you sign anything.
