Title: Apartment complex towed my second car because it had been 'sitting too long' and they thought it was 'abandoned'. 300$impound lot fee and will rack up more for everyday it's in there.

Question:
Virginia, USA

Title says it all, I have a daily driver which I use everyday. My second car had a tire with a slow leak so I never drove it and eventually the tire went flat. I've been trying to sell it anyway cause of a transmission issue, so I didn't care about the tire.

Car is gone, call the apartment and asked them for the towing company number.

Called the towing company and they said they didn't have it nor is it in transit.

SO call apartment back and ask them is this the only towing company you use. They said  'yes, they had sent a request in last week to tow the car so they should have your car.'

Call the towing company again and they said all sketchy that they got a request to 'relocate it' and she told me 'that its on the other side of the pool'

 um We don't have a pool  at this apartment....  I assumed they meant the apartment complex next door so I hang up and go look. But alas its not there, or anywhere in the neighborhood.

Called the towing company again and asked her where is my car is , we don't have a pool can you give me a address? she said its at the 14apartment. Um there is no such thing as 14apartment.

What are talking about, where is my car?

'That's what the notes say.'

You're telling me you took my car and moved it and don't even have a address as to where its at?

'I'm not from the area mam so I'm not sure what he means in the notes'

So I asked her if I can have the tow guys number so I can call him personally an just ask him where he put it.

She said 'we cant give you his number, company policy.'

So, you don't know where it's at, and you won't let me speak to the guy who moved it? How am I suppose to find the car that you have?

'i don't know maybe you should call the police department an report it stolen'

OHH SO Now you're telling you had it , don't know where it is, now you don't have it an I should report it stolen? WTF? I hang up.

Call the apartment up again, to reconfirm that they sent in  a request to tow it, and that the car is gone and that the towing company has it. She said yes, and I told her that they said  don't have it, and you towed my car, where is it?

'I'll shoot them a email requesting where it is' ok.

SO I call the towing company again  and ask them where is my car for the hundredth time, and they tell me '15 lafayette lofts'

Hang up and I look it up and no place exist.

Called again, threatened to sue for theft because my apartment confirmed you picked it up and now your giving me a go around as to where my vehicle is. Give me  a vague answer as to you 'relocating it' and 'not actually impounding it', then the 15 lafayette lofts adress which doesn't exist. You're telling me you don't know where it is?

Then she pretty much gave me back talk and took back previous things she had said and she will call the guy again as to where it's at.

She never called back, so I called her back and she said she finally talk to him and said it was at 3015  lafayette ave.

I drive over there, not sure whether its just a vacant lot that she said they 'relocated at' or if its a impound lot because she couldn't tell via paperwork.

Drove there, found the car, it's a impound lot. Go inside. And guess whose sitting in the chair, with the window right beside the desk and my car in plain site. The person who was on the phone with me the entire day WTF?????!!!!!!!  This person gave a run around and lied the whole time as to where my car was, which was right outside her window??!  I ask to take the tags  so I can surrender them to the state, this is such a fucking hassle and the car has a trans issue I don't want it anymore, she said 'it's company policy we cant let you do that.' Um, the tags belong to the state and I can decided to surrender them or not. I just ended up leaving after hearing the 300$ lot fee.

I've been trying to sell it since the trans issue, got lazy with the slow air leak then got a flat, my apartment complex towed it. It's 300$ to get it back and now I don't want it  anymore.

SO I call them up again to make a deal. I Sign over the tags and you guys can have the car and you deal with it.

They counter offered with me having to pay a 'initial tow fee of 125$ and sign the car over and the 300$impound lot fees is thrown off the table'.
I Agreed to do this tomorrow.

But this shit is literally the sketchiest shit ever. I feel like I pretty much got my car stolen and also have to pay additional 125$  I made the deal knowing if I don't do something, the lot fee can rack up and they can take me to court for it.

I pay my rent and my utility bills with two car spots per person and I expect my shit not to get towed whether I drive it or not. Nothing in the lease about abandoned cars. Not sure whether how to handle this with my apartment or if I even want to.

Advice?

Answer:
 You should have called the police at a non-emergency number from
go. That's what you do when your car is missing. In every state I've lived in, the tow company calls the police and tells them they have your car for this very purpose.

 You said you pay for two spots, exactly why was your car towed? Was it missing a sticker? Improperly registered w/the complex? Plates expired? What?


Title: [MO] left marital home

Question:
I told my husband that I was not happy in our relationship and that I would be pursuing a divorce once I find a job.

His reaction was not good.  He upended our living room furniture, cornered me while hitting the wall next to my head and posturning like he was going to hit me.  He then went into another room and destroyed it.  I did not call the police, but I did take pictures.

After he left the house I threw stuff in bags and left with the kids.  He knows where we are staying and I did tell him that I am not  keeping the children from him. I have no desire to be in the same house as him. How bad is it that I took the children?  Will this look bad on me?  I am pretty much forced to return since we have kids?

I will be contacting a lawyer on Monday.

Answer:
 >How bad is it that I took the children? Will this look bad on me? I am pretty much forced to return since we have kids?

Not bad at all. You are allowed to take the kids with you, and if he was going around destroying property and acting like he was going to hit you, taking the kids with you was 100% the right thing to do.

No, you will not be forced to return to the house yourself, nor do you have to return the kids until a court order says you must. He can go and ask the courts to rule on custody/visitation, and if he gets physical custody of the kids he *can* keep them from you until the courts say he cannot.


Title: My car got hit while I was at work. I was legally parked and the people who hit it gave me their number. Insurance totaled the car and there was only a ten dollar difference between what the car was worth and what insurance was going to pay out.

Question: *I'm getting a check in the mail for ten dollars. Obviously that is not going to help me get a new car in which I depend on for work  that is 35 miles from my home and school which is 12 miles from my home.  Am I entitled to sue them based on the fact that I may have to quit my job? Should I get a lawyer or could I go to small claims court?*

Answer:
 This doesn't make sense.  Give us numbers.

You should receive the entire insurance payout regardless of what the car was WORTH.

On the other hand... if you OWED $5,000 on a car that was valued at $5,010.  Then, yea... the bank gets $5,000 and you get $10.  But, you can go out and get another loan, now that that one has been paid.

You have been fully compensated for the loss of the car (as has the bank) you can't recover more than the car is worth in this case.


Title: Assaulted by mentally challenged person while working on their house

Question: [ cross post from r/Albuquerque ](https://www.reddit.com/r/Albuquerque/comments/7ocayh/please_give_me_youre_opinion_legal_advice_too/?st=JC2B1XEM&sh=27bdb534)

Answer: You were assaulted. You call the police when you're assaulted.


Title: [PA] If my name is misspelled on a bill, do I have to pay it?

Question: I'm going to pay it (it's only $5.77), but do I HAVE to? What would normally happen if this is a big deal to someone? I'm very curious.

Answer: If the debt is valid, then you have to pay it. Errors in billing don't invalidate a debt.


Title: Amazon’s Hidden Digital Subscription Charges

Question:
Yesterday I discovered that Amazon has been charging me monthly for a digital subscription I did not know I had. Not only was I unaware that I had it, but I had no access to the channel I was being charged for and I received no notification from Amazon that I was being charged each month.

The charge is not visible anywhere in my account. No receipt, no email confirmation, nothing. A notification popped up on my Apple Watch via my AMEX app that Amazon had just charged me $5.99. I hadn’t ordered anything so I went to my account to find out what it was. Couldn’t find anything. When I called to question the charge, I was told it was for a digital subscription to CBS All Access. According to Amazon, I signed up for a free trial in January and when the 7 days ended, they began charging me the monthly fee. They sent one email on Jan 25 telling me my subscription had begun - I admit that I am at fault for not seeing this email, but in my defense, I get Amazon emails constantly and it was easy to overlook. I have no recollection of starting this free trial in Jan but no way to prove that I didn’t. If I open the CBS app (on my FireTV), it tells me that I need to sign up for a subscription to watch most shows so I don’t actually have access.

So in addition to not notifying me of the charges each month, and also not actually getting what I’m paying for, Amazon intentionally hides these subscriptions so that you have to specifically search for them. They are not visible under your “Memberships & Subscriptions”(which you have to find in a menu of 15-20 different things under My Account) unless you click “Don’t See your Subscription?” and find it hidden amongst yet another menu of 9 different possible categories.

Is this kind of deception on Amazon’s part legal? Hiding subscriptions and not notifying customers they are being charged for them? I can’t be the only person this has happened to.

TL:/DR
Amazon charged me for months for a digital subscription I didn’t know I had, hid the fact that I had said subscription, and never notified me that they were charging my account each month. Is this legal?
Topic:
Computer and Internet

Answer:
 Amazon is a legit business with a team of 24/7 lawyers that make sure they are in compliance with applicable laws.

You 100% signed up for some sort of service or add on and forgot to cancel, hence the reason why you are being charged.

That being said, Amazon service is the best in the industry. I'm willing to bet if you called customer service (which should have been the first thing you do) they would credit you the charges back if you explain you had no idea where they were coming from.


Title: Car dealership hasn't given me a $500 gift card that was part of the deal.

Question:
I bought my car on black friday (just happened to line up with when I was ready to buy a car) and the special black friday deal was that I would get a $500 e-gift card. They originally told me that I could expect it in my email inbox by Sunday night or Monday - so only a few days after the purchase.

Well, I didn't get it Sunday night. Monday comes and goes... nothing. I text the sales rep and he tells me that I'll get it that week. I didn't get it that week. I texted him again. "Oh yeah my manager is just getting everything together that he needs to get that to you." Another week goes by. I go back into the dealership to pick up my plates and I ask about the card. "Yeah you should be getting it soon." Yet another week has gone by and it's now been 3 weeks when they originally told me it would be 3 days.

I have a signed document stating that I should be receiving a $500 incentive as part of my purchase. I also have the text messages confirming the specific type of gift card that it should be.

I'm starting to feel like they're trying to pull a fast one on me. I know that they accidentally gave away two of these gift cards when they only meant to give away one. We got to choose our incentive from a limited set of options that were supposed to be taken off the board so that each incentive went to only one customer. Later we saw that they had a screen with all the different people with the incentives they chose and someone else had the card next to their name. We pointed this out and they were confused at first but said "yeah we'll figure it out".

Three weeks later and I'm feeling like "we'll figure it out" means "string this kid along until he gives up and forgets about it". It doesn't take that long to sit down and buy a gift card off of a website. It's literally a few clicks.

What should I do? I think if I don't get it I will file a complaint with the BBB. Should I tell the dealership that I might do that and see if they react and give me my gift card, or would that come across as threatening and be bad for me? If I never get it, could I take them to small claims court? Would it be worth it?

EDIT: I live in Maryland, but I bought the car in Virginia. Sorry I forgot to include that part.
Topic:
Small Claims Procedure

Answer:
 >I think if I don't get it I will file a complaint with the BBB.

Keep in mind that the BBB is basically an analog version of Yelp. They hold no power and don't really help get things resolved.

I would contact the dealership's general manager and ask where your $500 gift card is. A phone call is fine, but if you don't have that card in hand within a week, follow up with a certified letter with a signature receipt. Keep it simple and direct: "Dear (dealership), This is my formal demand for the $500 gift card referenced in the attached contract. Please provide me with said card no later than (some date ten days from when you contact them; make sure it's a business day). Sincerely, (your name)"

If they still don't do anything, you may want to consider taking them to small claims court. You could also get your state's Attorney General involved. Businesses generally hate dealing with AGs, and AGs have the power to make businesses' lives miserable.Answer #2: My parents just went through the same thing. They called literally every day, sometimes multiple times a day, to complain to the manager. When they finally threatened small claims court, the manager caved and gave them the gift card.


Title: Other party asking for compensation month after accident?

Question:
Story: I was at a friend's house late at night (sober), it was dark and pouring down rain. I went to back out of the driveway and hit a black car that someone had parked blocking the driveway. The owner of the vehicle told me "not to worry about it" and that it was "his mistake." Since there was minimal damage to both cars, I went home not thinking any more of it.

Now: A month or two later, I get a text from the owner of the vehicle stating "Hi its Brandon from across the street, in case you didn't save the number. I'll be straight with you, the damage was $600 but im a friend of an autobody shop that would fix it for 300. I won't pay it myself obviously, you have 3 days to get back to me or I'll see you in court in 2 weeks. Police report, 2 witnesses and an already bad record against you from what I was told."

My Understanding: My understanding is that if no report was filed with me present, and insurance was not notified, I don't owe him a thing. Especially since he was parked blocking a residence's egress.

Location: VA

EDIT: To be clear, I have no issue paying if I am really in the wrong. I just don't think I am and don't want to get dicked over by someone.

EDIT EDIT: Looks as though I was wrong. I will just pay him before it becomes more costly for the both of us.
Topic:
Other Civil Matters

Answer:
 > My understanding is that if no report was filed with me present, and insurance was not notified, I don't owe him a thing.

Why would you think that?  You hit his car and caused damage.  Of course you owe for that.

Liability is not an either/or thing.  You can certainly argue that he's partially at fault for parking poorly.  But that doesn't absolve you of your responsibility for hitting him.  Answer #2: The time passing doesn't matter. I don't think the driveway blocking helps you much, because you should check what's behind you before backing out.Answer #3: >I don't owe him a thing

Of course you do. You hit his stationary vehicle causing damage. No report or insurance changes that.


Title: Can my boss stop me talking to coworkers [UK]

Question:
My boss hates the people who work in reception at our company. Recently I started eating my lunch in reception with them which my boss didn't like. She went to the managing director of the company and he has now told me I'm not allowed to eat my lunch there anymore but am still allowed to socialise with people as long as I'm not distracting them too much.

So this is fine, I have no problem with that, there is 1 person in reception with the same lunch hour as me so on Friday at lunch time I went in reception for 5 mins to grab this person and then we went out for lunch. When i returned my boss approached me and said that since I had tried to 'get around what the director said on a technicality' (?) that from now on, unless i got my boss' permission I wasn't allowed to talk to people from reception at all in work time, even regarding work

I'm not sure why this has gotten to this point but I now have a meeting on Monday with my boss and her boss to discuss the matter. They were also overheard discussing me and talking about what else they could 'pull me up on'.

Thanks for any advice.

Answer:
 I think you're confusing the issue. I'm almost positive their problem is with you talking to the receptionists while they are working. This is a pretty common demand when an employee doesn't understand the difference between saying hello and tying up an employee who is still on the clock.

The fact that he said "not distracting them too much" should be the clue here. You are distracting them, and he wants you to stop. You should do that. Why did it take 5 minutes to go to lunch with someone? A quick "I'm going to lunch, see you in the break room" is sufficient.Answer #2: OK - this is probably going to come over the wrong way but...

1) I can't think of a business where management would be happy to have their visitors confronted by a person eating their lunch in reception. It's not professional and it's not on. What were you thinking?

2) Bearing in mind you don't seem to be entirely aware of what is acceptable in a business setting, you may not be aware of other social cues. Specifically - are you sure this person in reception actually wants to go to lunch with you? It's not hard to envision a situation where you are not leaving him/her an opportunity to escape (the waiting 5 minutes sort of suggests that) and if that's the case, then the reception staff may have asked management to intercede.

In future, if you want to have lunch with someone, just say, before the working day starts "do you want to have lunch at 12?" And if they say yes, say you'll meet them at X. And if they say no, then that's the end of it.

P.S. I very much doubt your boss "hates the people who work in reception".


Title: Bullied and robbed from our home

Question:
"Get what you can carry and stand at the end of the driveway."  My truck mirror read 110°
That is what the officer told my 10 year old daughter. I was 113 miles away going to our storage locker.  My daughter calls me in a panic.  Said the COPS were scaring her! I had been fighting a retaliation eviction for a little longer than a month.  Finally my savings had ran dry.   So I was complying.  June 6th was the date on the eviction papers, posted on the doors and in the garage. So why on the 4th were there cops and robbers at my home?
They robbed us of anything valuable, then trashed our belongings for a mile down the street.  Smashing mirrors, ripping my daughters pictures off her wall. They literally robbed and  destroyed everything we own.  The constable informed me he'd be hated in this town and the next,  but right is right and wrong is wrong.  They did you very wrong.  He had to call in Texas Rangers because the sherrifs office wouldnt comply.  Refused to give him body camera footage from that day.   Now everything is silent because everyone is scared of the landlords old money??  I NEVER MISSED A RENT PAYMENT.  I think it's his hustle.  PLEASE HELP. I have videos galore

Answer: What is your legal question?


Title: (CA) Got ticketed for "failure to head-in park" on school parking lot. Can/should I fight this?

Question:
Hello all,

I attend a community college. Around 3:00PM last Wednesday, I walk out of class to my car which is parked in the school parking lot. As I'm eating my lunch while sitting in the car, the campus security officer parks right behind me, gets out, but does not approach me. He walks towards other cars, probably to inspect for parking passes.

I get out of my car to throw away my trash and use the restroom, so I'm gone for about 5 minutes before I return to my car. When I come back to it, there is a ticket on my hood. A $35 citation for "failure to head-in park". Something I had never heard of.

I'm guessing it was because the front of my car was facing the "wrong" direction, like this: http://www.mattwkane.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/08/parkingspaceinnovation

I asked the officer shortly afterwards if there were any signs saying "head-in parking only", and he said that there were such signs at every entrance to the parking lot. While all of the other entrances to the parking lot has a sign, the section of the parking lot I was in, Lot B, has NO sign at its entrance.

I took several pictures of the entrance on my phone.

The officer also gave me the standard "it is every students' responsibility to know the parking regulations" retort. I have looked on the school website, and there is no webpage or book of regulations for the parking lot, only an image of the ticket I received, with no further clarification of the rules.

So, in essence, I'm being fined $35 because my car was facing the wrong direction in the middle of the parking lot, and the officer waited for me to leave my car before issuing me the ticket. I had parked my car at 9:00 that morning, and I didn't back in to the space either; I drove forward to park.

I have an appointment with the hearing officer tomorrow at 1pm because I filed for an appeal. $35 isn't a huge fine, I know, but I'm angry that the officer didn't have the decency to talk to me and inform me that my car is parked in the wrong direction. What can I do?
Topic:
Traffic and Parking

Answer:
 I suggest you do your research before going in for the hearing.  Print out the relevant parking regulations for your campus and bring them with you.  Most college parking departments are quite forgiving of a first offense.  Answer #2: This is the most baffling fine I have ever heard of in my entire life.

It's SAFER to back into a spot because you can pull forward and have visibility for pedestrians that may be crossing your path as you're pulling out of the spot.

I'd raise a whole lot of hell about this policy if I were you.Answer #3: Leave issues with the officer behind; he was just doing his job. Your entire case is the fact that there was no signage. Lean heavily on it.


Title: If I caused a 50 car pile-up accident, am I screwed for the rest of my life?

Answer: Not sure how you can be found at fault for 48 cars not observing safe driving distance for their speed.


Title: Injured during a test drive with the sales representative behind the wheel. What should I do?

Question:
Texas. The person with me was going to test drive the vehicle and sat in the front passenger seat.  I was halfway in the rear passenger compartment of the vehicle when the car started moving forward. My foot was dragged for a few seconds across the pavement before the sales representative took notice of the situation and stopped the vehicle. I got into the vehicle. The test drive continued.  I struggled to get my seatbelt buckled as the sales representative continued to drive towards the parking lot exit. I was not able to get buckled until we had already exited the dealership. I noticed halfway through the test drive that I had a pain in my foot when moving it. I realized I was unable to put weight on my foot without experiencing  pain after we arrived back at the dealership. We proceeded inside the dealership. I asked to sit down in a customer waiting area. The sales representative who was driving the car during the incident offered to get ice and his manager. Some time later, I was advised that I could choose to seek medical attention at a facility of my choosing.  I was also asked to provide a detailed description of the incident on some blank pieces of paper. I wrote down the sequence of events to the best of my knowledge.  I was provided a copy of the event transcript.  An incident form was also filled out by the dealership manager. The clinic took x-rays and physically assessed the injury site. There was localized brushing and swelling in my foot where I had first noticed the pain. The dealership paid for the cost of the clinic visit. I talked with the manager afterwards to determine if there was going to be any action taken.  The sales representative was still in the dealership four hours after the incident occured. The manager advised that the sales representative's recollection of events did not match my statement. He indicated that an internal investigation would be done. We came home later that evening. What else should I do?

Edited: Grammar

Answer: Has the injury cost you any work time? You can always contact a personal injury attorney. They generally will give a free or low cost consultation and then will take their actual fees from any judgement you receive following a lawsuit against the company meaning little or no upfront costs from you. That said, they do often take 1/3 of the reward value.


Title: Crazy eviction in Nh

Question:
About a month ago i got a phone call from my landlord soon saying they would probably be coming out next week. To measure for new windows!! Hooray!! We needed them since we're moved in! He also said he wants to put hard wood floors in! Awesome!! So they never called and never showed up. Then a month ago they called and said they were hoping to be out with there carpenter to measure the windows tomorrow! Awesome,  i get up early head to the lake, wait all day no show. I drove 45 minutes back top my in laws,  the next day they call and said they might be out tomorrow, I said ok. I drove back,  up to the lake,  no show. Wednesday night now, they call me and tell me they would be there tomorrow.  So I drive up again,  no show.  They call again,  said they would go Friday,  i said i can't do Friday i am going for am mri on my knee because i had hurt it.  So Friday i go have my MRI and that evening i get a phone call and she didn't like the boys and she told them they have 2 weeks to get out of the house! I am shocked! Then out of the blue she shows up again on Saturday and walks right in! Calls me again.  Sunday,  apparently the boys through a party Saturday night she showed up threw them all out told them to get what ever is theirs out by tonight! Then she calls me and tells me I am evicted and i have 2 weeks to get my stuff out. I asked is this even legal? She yelled at me and told me she could do whatever she wants! So they changed the locks on us. My husband and I go up that Sunday and start packing our stuff, so the landlord and her son stop over,  they proceed to tells us that we have to take what ever we want today because they are getting a dumpster the my husband and I have to pay for and they ate throwing all our belongings in the dumpster. I had already sent them july's check, so they wanted to cash that 1500.00 to pay for the dumpster.  We're shocked! Completely speechless! I am on crutches you're my meniscus can't do much. Our neighbors came and helped took all the couches to the end of the street so hopefully someone who needs them would take them my daughter's came and got their belongings.  It went from a2 week eviction to a day because they wanted to start remodeling but they assured me no remodeling would be in the dumpster! So we had a lot of the big stuff out.  We're could not clean or anything we're did not have time.  We had to sell or boat that day and took a7000 dollar loss our camper over 1000, all my belongings kitchen stuff puts pans,  utensils bowls crystal. China everything,  broke my heart,  i cried all the way home and for quite a few days,  i lived there for 9 years! So a few ďays later I had top go up to sign the bill of sale on the boat and they paid me cash,  well the landlords soon wad there kind of pt me in a corner and told me i owed them 500 in labor so far for moving all the stuff out of the house! He said 34 hours,  they're was no way 34 hours to clean up,  in those hours he just happened to have all the carpets torn up! He is charged me for their labor!! He still insist the dumpster is just our stuff that night i got a text from my neighbor with a pic. Carpet and padding at the bottom of the dumpster! We go Sunday to get the rest of our stuff in the garage.  My husbands aircompresser , and chainsaw some tools stolen. My bins all gone through and things missing. What the heck??   The dumpster is still there and low and behold they're is more carpet and padding all over the top and wood! This was supposed to be just our stuff!  Iwas furious! Enough I stopped payment on the check.  About 10 minutes after we're left we're got a call and he wad very disappointed because he has to pay his emoyees and i owe him money for labor!! Then him mother calls me furious i stopped payment on the check! Threatened me if she didn't have her money in 5 days she was going to sue me and sue me well!! " you have 5 days"
  What do I do now? Lost in NH

Answer:
 Your story is a bit jumbled and has a lot of extraneous details, but what's clear is that you have been illegally evicted.

https://www.doj.nh.gov/consumer/sourcebook/renting.htm

Here is a website with more details. There are phone numbers toward the bottom for help.


Title: I am being sued... but I cant afford it?

Question:
For backstory, I'm being sued. I had just turned 18 when I was walking my two dogs out. A couple was walking their lab who started to freak out and made me nervous. My dogs reacted and attacked him. Long story short, they chose to sue. After over a year of long disputes, criminal charges, and back and forth with lawyers, we discovered that the minimum the settlement will be is somewhere around 35k. I work one minimum wage job and have less than 1000 in my bank account. But with medical bills, and lawyer fees, its come down to this. I don't know how to scrape up this much money, even with my parents' help (aka one person's worth of disability). Any advice would be amazing!
Topic:
Douche

Answer:
 Did your parents check with their homeowner's/renter's insurance to see if the insurance would cover this?Answer #2: You should consider filing Chapter 7 bankruptcy. That would stop this lawsuit in its tracks, permanently. Answer #3: 35k and up for a dog attack? Did you have a bad lawyer or was their dog some prize dog?Answer #4: Well the money isn't going to appear out of thin air. So they'll have to garnish future assets.

Or you can file for bankruptcy.


Title: I'm a condo owner and my live-in boyfriend is a felon. This is Minnesota. Rules state nothing about felons residing with owners.

Question: I am a new owner of a condo in Minnesota and my significant other is a felon. Nowhere in their rules does it state anything regarding him not being allowed to reside with me as an owner. The only area we see rules regarding this is under the renting section. As an owner, I can rent out my condo, and cannot rent to people with a serious criminal background (I would need to run a criminal background check and they sign a lease, etc.). The deal is, he is still scared to death that we might be missing something. I can't reassure him enough, so am looking for legal comments. Recently, some old biddies from the association started small talk and asked him outright what his first and last name was! This is disturbing. His name is not common, you could google his first name only and his record will pop right up. Any opinions would be appreciated. Again, this is Minnesota.

Answer:
 You're the owner so I assume he is not on the deed. If true then he is your tenant ("renter") whether or not he pays rent. Not sure how your HOA will interpret that. Answer #2: >Recently, some old biddies from the association started small talk and asked him outright what his first and last name was!

Being nosy is not uncommon...


Title: Little Sister - court ordered therapy for drug use, mom wants to peruse legal action to get out of it. Will it work? - Ohio

Question:
Hi, I'm in a bit of a rough spot at the moment. I'm 27 and my little sister is 15. I moved out when I turned 18, but I still visit on weekends.

My sister was recently busted by the cops for smoking weed with her friends and was court ordered to go to an anti-drug class. She told the instructor there she is depressed and suicidal and they recommended additional counseling 1 hour a week.

My sister wants counseling. My mom doesn't want my sister to go to counseling and says she's going to get a lawyer to fight this.

I also want to take my sister to therapy. I just want her to get all the help she needs including a therapist of her choosing, not just a state issued one. If my mom tries to stop me or press kidnapping charges against me for taking her how well might that hold up in court since I'm taking her for an hour and bringing her back right away. As an older sister can I do anything legally to help her?

My mom doesn't want my sister to go to either of these because she's very emotionally abusive and doesn't want my sister to spill the beans and get her in trouble. My parents also have a ton of money and I am very solid middle class 50k per year so I can't out money/lawyer them but I'd sure as sugar try if it would help her.

Answer: If your mother is not allowing your little sister to attend court-ordered therapy, your little sister can contact a school counselor, CPS, or another mandated reporter about this problem.


Title: (Louisiana) if my friend leaves her fiancee, does she have to give the ring back or does she keep it. Also other gifts over the course of their relationship.

Question:
My friend is engaged to a guy who is super controlling, mentally and emotionally abusive, and won't let her be involved in any of the finances. She has two kids from previous relationships and is pregnant with his child now. He refuses to pay for any care regarding her other kids (including child care so she can work, clothes for them, etc) and makes her feel guilty for even paying for groceries that feed her kids.

She has finally decided to leave him and move closer to her sister (about 3 hours away- still in La) to get on her feet. He has bought her a 10k engagement ring as well has several Michael Kors purses and stuff. She wants to be able to sell the ring and purses so she can use it for deposits toward an apartment and an attorney.

So what's the law here? What should she do (legally) to protect herself?

Answer: In Louisiana, an engagement ring is a conditional gift.  She has to give it back.Answer #2: Leave the ring. It is a "conditional gift", and gets belongs to the giver when the engagement is called off before marrying.  The purses are hers to keep, providing there wasn't an agreement to reimburse or pay him back.


Title: [Florida] Federal weed charge

Question: I was driving on a highway that just so happens to be in the middle of an Air Force base.  i got pulled over for improper lane change and when the officer asked me if there was weed in my car i was just straight up with him and told him yes. since i was so compliant i didn't go to jail but have to go to court for  my under 20 grams charge. My charges seem to be federal though since i was on federal property. i'm not sure sure what to do, i know this is going to stain my record and i probably won't be able to follow my dream of being a social worker. i'm not very sure how federal charges differ from state charges but i'm guessing i need to get a lawyer. i guess i'm just very lucky i didn't have to go to jail, but very scared of how this will affect my future.

Answer:
 >since i was so compliant i didn't go to jail but have to go to court for my under 20 grams charge

I mean, but your compliance also ensured that you'd be convicted of a crime.

You need an attorney on this one.


Title: Got a bill for 20k for an accident involving a car we sold a year ago.(TX)

Question:
I live in Texas. My wife and I sold her brother 2 cars back in 2013 or 2012 for $2,000.00. They paid us in installments and around November of 2014 my wife signed the back of the title for the Miata and gave it to her brother. We didnt find out until January of this year that he didn't sign the title and didn't register the car in his name and that he sold it in November of 2014. The person he sold it to then sold it the following month to another guy who in January 2015 rear-ended two vehicles, one of which was a commercial vehicle. We received a bill from the insurance agency of the commercial vehicle for a total of $20,000.00. The kid that was driving the car we sold had no insurance and no license at the time of the accident. Part of the correspondence that the insurance company sent me included the police report. I went to the regional DMV office and filed for and received the title history on the car. This is when I discovered that no one signed the title after my wife until April of this year. The guy that was in an accident must have sold it to someone else yet it looks like my wife sold it to this person in April because my wife never dated the title once she signed it. My brother in law can't find his copy of the bill of sale from when he sold it. We have a bill of sale from us to my brother in law. I have screen captured images of the guy's facebook who was involved in the accident. He has pictures and a video of him driving the Miata with the license plate clearly visible. I have left a message for an attorney that was recommended but I don't know what to look for in an attorney and I'm afraid of accruing a $10,000.00 bill. Any advice would be great! Thanks in advance.
Topic:
Insurance

Answer:
 You didn't follow the rules in Texas for selling a car.  You needed to submit a release to DMV within 30 days. You also should have removed the license plates.  That would have forced your brother to register it.

https://vision21.dot.state.tx.us/Vehicle/MainTransferNotification.aspx

Full rules for car sales in Texas

http://www.dmv.org/tx-texas/title-transfers.php#Selling-a-VehicleAnswer #2: Have you spoken directly to the insurance company?  They're trying to figure out the most likely source of recovery for themselves and obviously this unlicensed kid with no insurance isn't it.  But claims departments are judged on keeping their expenses down and they really don't like going to court either unless they're confident they can recover more than they spend.  (e.g. if they spend 10 grand to collect 20 grand, that's a pretty unimpressive 50% expense ratio).  No guarantee at all, but if you present the facts of the situation to them, they really might just drop it.Answer #3: Life lesson- always accompany the buyer to the DMV and transfer the title together to insure it is done correctly.

I realize that this is not helpful but may help others who blunder upon this post.


Title: Is it legal to bait-and-switch in a job interview? (IL)

Question:
I applied for a job listed as a Customer Service Representative, and after applying I was quickly given a short phone interview and asked to come to the office (about 40 minutes away) for an in-person interview.  One review I read about the company said the position you apply for is not the position that's available, and they try to sell you on being a salesman.

After doing a little more research on the company, it seems they do door-to-door sales of renewable energy home products or something -- I can see photos of lots of smartly dressed men and women in suits, going to conferences where they brag about which employees made the most money that week, etc.

I have no interest in door-to-door commission-based sales. Been there, done that, it was horrendous.

If I show up and there is no customer service job, but instead a door-to-door sales job, do I have any legal recourse? Am I owed compensation or anything for the time and effort and gas money I've wasted?

Answer: You can [file a complaint with the state AG](http://www.illinoisattorneygeneral.gov/consumers/filecomplaint.html), who would cover bait and switch scams.


Title: Laid off after moving whole life for a new job. Do I have any claims? [CALIFORNIA]

Question:
Hi folks,

I actually am an ex-lawyer, so I know somewhat about this already, but I figured I'd ask a bit here.

I was headhunted and offered a very high paying creative job at a creative agency. They knew I had little experience in some specific areas of the business, and essentially offered to mentor me as I developed those skills (I had other skills that were useful for them).

They encouraged me to move my whole life close to the job. I not only moved (to a place twice the rent I was paying), but I also bought a car which I didn't have. I informed them repeatedly that I was incurring all of these costs, and even asked for money to cover them. They declined.

Almost right off the bat I started realizing something was fishy. After a few initial successes, I was essentially removed off all the work. I was never introduced to clients. I essentially did nothing for two months, then I was let go. The person who let me go said it was a financial decision, nothing to do with me. Two weeks before Christmas, after I'd moved my whole life.

Later I found out that the company wanted to hire someone else, and they had just lost a client and were struggling financially, so they fired me to make room for the other person. I also found out that they thought some of my work was "subpar," yet I never once heard that from anyone there, despite frequent check ins with management. I was effectively removed from all business after the first month, and sat around and did nothing for two months.

Of course there was an at-will employment contract in place, but I'm wondering if I don't have other claims. Fraudulent inducement? Detrimental Reliance? Against the Public Interest? Reckless Infliction of Emotional Distress?

Let me know, thank you!

EDIT: To clarify, the work that was supposedly "subpar" was the type of work I had no experience in, that they hired me knowing I had no experience in, and promised to train me in. I also was never told that the work was subpar at any point.

Answer:
 In a fight between promissory estoppel and at will employment; at will wins 99.99% of the time; and your case is weaker than most. You actually spent time and performed the work; apparently to an unsatisfactory level. That right there likely negates any estoppel claim you could make.

Now, if they promised to pay relaocation expenses (which they expressly did not do), and then fired you when you showed up on the first day - then sure; you might have the inkling of a case. But not under your fact pattern.


Title: Am I liable

Question: If I were to poison my lunch put it in my work fridge with notes all over it about the fact that it's poisonous and non edible  will I be arrested for murder if someone eats it anyway. It's like how those packets say DO NOT EAT yet some people still eat it am I liable?

Answer: The police would reasonably ask why you brought a lunch full of deadly poison to work. Your answer to that would probably govern whether they decide that you did it intentionally to kill somebody, which would govern whether they charged you. There’s no “wink wink” exception to the law.Answer #2: Yes. No reasonable person would put poison in a common refrigerator. Some form of manslaughter or negligent homicide charge at a minimum. Depending on what kind of intent they can prove, possibly murder charges.


Title: (IA) Grandparents watching our daughter for 7 days want us to sign a Power of Attorney for them while we are out of the state.

Question:
We are going out of town for a trip with our youth group for 7 days. During that time, our 7 month old daughter will be watched by my wife's parents. They (particularly her mom) want us to sign a power of attorney for them while we are gone. First of all, is this even necessary? Second of all, can you take anyone to the hospital for treatment regardless if they are a minor? Would permission to give treatment over the phone suffice?

My concern is that while there is nothing to hide from them, I don't want them to have access to my daughter's medical records because of this POA. My experience from working in medical billing is that a POA is only needed to have access to someone's medical records and even then if the POA isn't there, we could simply speak to the patient and get permission over the phone for that one specific phone call only to discuss records with the person requesting it.

I know we can refuse to sign anything if we don't want to, but I simply don't feel comfortable with our daughter's grandma in particular having that kind of power when it comes to our daughter. I trust them both with taking care of my baby and I trust she will be taken care of well but grandma can get nosy and my baby daughter's medical history is not something I want her to be nosy in.

Answer:
 A PoA is overkill and they probably just don't realize it.  If they do have some sort of malicious intent you should reconsider letting them watch her.  You don't sign a  PoA when you drop your kid off at summer camp this is no different. They just need the authority to get her medical care.

edit: typoAnswer #2: Provide a medical treatment authorization form and insurance card


Title: Question about the presidency and the vice presidency

Question:
So. Let's say that President Biden steps down for whatever reason. Kamala Harris is immediately sworn in as President since she is the VP, as per the Constitution. And then, how is a new VP picked? Is the Speaker of the House the new VP? Or is there a Senate vote on a nomination by the now President Harris?

Let's say that Amy Klobuchar is nominated. 50 Dem senators vote YES. 50 Repub senators vote NO. Since there is no VP, the President of the Senate... what happens? Or does this whole situation not happen?

Answer:
 The 25th amendment says that the new President gets to pick his Vice President and both houses of Congress must approve it by simple majority vote.

In a deadlocked senate my guess is that the president either pulls the nominee and appoints a new one or works out some sort of compromise.

I’d be surprised if that sort of deadlock happened, though, it’s probably a political loser of an issue.


Title: "Pressing charges"

Question:
My random stupid question of the day:

I'm from Canada, where the whole concept of "pressing charges" is completely foreign to me.

The Crown Prosecutor can still pursue charges even if the lead witness (or victim) does not desire the charges to stick.

Is it true that, in the Good U S of A a victim can simply request that charges be dropped, and that's that? Or it it more like the victim can request^* to have charges dropped?

Answer:
 The victim can request it, but that does not guarantee that the prosecutor will grant that request.

It's a common misconception that people have here- if you read enough responses you'll see us correcting it when it comes up.


Title: (Western Mass) My landlord tried to extort me, wants to evict me

Question: [deleted]

Answer:
 > he let himself into our house without asking (he does this)

Call the police on him for trespassing each time.  Inform him you will continue to do this any time he trespasses in your home without abiding by the terms of the lease and Massachusetts law.

> I was scared, so I wrote him a check for $645 and he left happy. I stopped payment on the check as soon as he left.

Should not have done this.  Politely end the conversation and ask him to leave.  If he does not leave, call the police on him for trespassing.

> He's now telling my roommate that she can't break the lease

This should have been done in writing.  It will be difficult for her to prove in small claims court that he agreed to end the lease prematurely without penalty.

> I'm pretty sure he's going to try to evict me as soon as she leaves this week.

For what?  You have to have cause to evict a tenant.

> He tells me about how he's a big-shot landlord around here and any judge will rule in his favor on this.

Many, many people in this life say things like this.  Disregard.

> Is there anything I can do besides suck it up, get evicted

You don't want an actual eviction on your record; it will become very difficult to rent another apartment.


Title: Baltimore, MD - Landlord removing stuff from my pre-assigned locker without clear notice

Question:
Hi everyone,

In my apartment building, every tenant's apartment comes with a storage cage in the basement. I came back to the apartment building today at 4:30pm (Sept 26). When I had walked by another apartment on my floor, I had noticed a folded piece of paper near their front door and found it odd.

I found a piece of paper slipped by my door knob that notified all tenants (dated Sept 25) that they had cleared out the storage room and is "free of unwanted junk". This was the first time I had heard anything about them cleaning the storage room. I went down to check it out and everything in my locker was empty. I itemised my missing belongings and I had lost $3850-4000 worth of goods.

I called the property manager, and she said that she had "slipped a note between the door and the frame of every apartment". Both my roommate and I had no idea this was happening. I just couldn't fathom why the property managers didn't email us (our emails are on the lease and also on the portal we use to pay our rent).

I'm a college student and I don't know what my rights and what I can/should do about this. I'm reaching out to beg someone to advise me on a solution.

Answer:
 >I'm a college student

See if your college has a legal aid office. If they don't, there are other legal aid organizations in your city or state who could probably help.

What exactly does your lease say about the storage space? Most likely, you'll have to sue your landlord in small claims court for the value of the property.


Title: A man came to my house today accusing me of stealing his dog and threatened to steal it back?!?!?! Police said he didn't commit any crimes?

Question:
NSW AUSTRALIA

Okay, this man came to my house around 8am in the morning with his daughter who was around 9 years old. His justification was because it was the same breed. He started using threatening language and said he'd steal the dog "back". said he would bash me (only after things got nasty) and other stuff because I refused to show him paperwork (I honestly didn't have them, my dog is registered but I don't know where I leave the stuff) But then I also said I don't need to. If he's so sure, he should bring this to authorities. I did end up getting his plate number and said I'd call the police, but then the police said he did NOT commit any crimes. Can someone give me some advice? Were the police right or they just weren't bothered.

 He threatened to steal my dog, came here harassing me, tried to force entry onto my property and it was very distressing as my son was also there and he's been taking anxiety medication. He's been going outside whenever he hears a noise as he's scared it's the man climbing over the fence to steal the dog. The police said he would have only committed a crime if he DID get on my property. I was very confused but I didn't argue back with authority. That's like saying an ATTEMPTED murder didn't end up killing the person and you can't take legal action or press charges.

It was constant swearing, threats and trying to force entry. When I asked to see a photo of his dog so i could compare, he didn't show me it properly and it was a natural reflex to bring the phone closer and that was when he started swearing like "Get your hands off my fucking phone". He only left as I threatened to call police. I don't know this if anything, but he was verbally abusing us with swear words with his 9 year old daughter there, is there something wrong with that?

I was at fault too I think. I did start swearing back (only after he started swearing heavily, was polite when he was being extremely rude) because he was adamant it was his dog when I was playing nice. Also called me a great liar because I said my daughter was on holidays so even if i wanted to show him paperworks, I couldn't.

I don't plan on pressing charges, but if my dogs do go missing, I would like the police to consider his threats evidence........

Answer:
 The threats to attack you should be considered assault at the least. I would suggest going into your local police station as opposed to calling and filing a report in case the dog does get stolen.

I would also suggest you keep the dog inside at all times when you are there. That way if he does steal it we would have to break into your home. Sometimes the police do not take dog thefts seriously but they should take notice if he does break in.

A small CCTV can!era may also be useful. I hear lots of good things about dropcam.

Is the animal micro chipped? If not then make sure you get it done. If he is then the microchip will be registered to you and will have date of insertion so you should be able to easily recover the animal if stolen.


Title: Unable to work as childcare worker now, do i qualify for disability? NY

Question:
As the title says, I was a childcare worker in NY state for 20 years. I quit my job 2 years ago at the age of 47 due to increased pain and mobility problems with an arthritic hip. I did not tell my employer why I quit in case I was able to rehab it and come back in 6 months. I underestimated how bad it was at that time. My husband makes a salary in the mid 60k range. My hip was moderately arthritic on the x rays at age 45. X rays at age 49 are now showing severely arthritic and I'm told i should get a hip replacement as soon as i lose 50 pounds. I have difficulty walking more than 50 feet, I limp, I use a cane for any distance outside the house and i'm in a lot of pain for any weightbearing activity. Losing weight sucks without being able to walk it off but i'm down 10 lbs so far and looking forward to that hip replacement.

So should i apply for disability? Do i have any hope of getting it?

Answer: If you want social security disability you have to prove that you can not do anything gainful. You can talk it overt with a disability lawyer.


Title: How do I get custody of my niece?

Question:
So my sister has a lot of mental issues (bi polar etc.) Last week my sister kicked my niece out for her own selfish reasons. Here is a little back story...
She lost her house in her divorce last year. (She married a kid 13 years younger than her after dating 1 year) She kicked her 18y/o son out during that process (has not talked to him in 2 years almost) I moved in to help her with her mortgage, she kicked me out for being "irresponsible and unable to care for myself" so i turned off her phone i was paying for...and moved back into another one bedroom apartment...

While I was there, I saw the emotional abuse she put them through, blaming them for every thing. Throwing dishes in their direction for a messy room, calling her daughter a slut for kissing a boy. It was terrible.

Well she finally lost the house, was going to move into a studio with her daughter but I talked her into getting a 2 bedroom. During the final period of her losing the house, she decides she doesn't want me in her life anymore, and hasn't actually spoken to me since living there almost 8 months ago.

Well about 2 weeks ago I guess she decided she was getting liposuction, a tummy tuck and breast implants. (I know this from a Facebook message stating if she died to please care for her daughter.. which she promptly re blocked me so I couldn't respond) She recruited her daughter to care for her and give her meds every 2 hours or something like that. Well during this period of being on like 10 meds (including oxys) she decided to blame her daughter for not caring about her and not taking care of her and not giving her meds. and stealing and selling the pills.. So. She kicked her out.

How did I find out she kicked her out? She messaged me again on Facebook telling me that if I need a roommate her daughter is available and she will pay me child support.

So OF COURSE I would take her in. This is when I realized the real neglect. She didn't know what size pants, bra or underwear she wore, because she only had one old sports bra,  one pair pants, and a couple old underwears. She had a panic attack in target with all of the options. She has never taken her to do this before.

Anyways, now that she is in my apartment that I rent for about a week, I don't know what things I need to do.

I'm scared my landlord will kick me out, but I have to tell him. I'm not sure what to do about that..

She is in high school,  and needs someone to sign for school stuff, but I'm not technically her parent, can I just sign things?

Am I going to have to get a lawyer over this? Am I going to have to fight her mom potentially?

And the real kicker? I guess she has been relapsed on meth.

TL;DR
My sister is on meth and kicked my niece out. Is it going to be expensive and difficult to get custody of her?
Topic:
Custody Divorce and Family

Answer:
 You definitely need a lawyer, first you want to file for guardianship or emergency guardianship, that'll enable you to handle paperwork and emergency care.

CPS will need to be involved and it will help you to document things to bring them in. Encourage your niece to be truthful with them.

Custody can only be determined by a judge and it's a long process if she fights it, if there is a father still alive he might get priority for custody even if he's not in the picture.

 Print out everything you have from her in regards to your niece.

Answer #2: You do need a lawyer. It sounds like right now, your sister doesn't want your niece living with her, so she might be amenable to signing over temporary guardianship to you so that you can make school and medical decisions, etc. But definitely do get a lawyer to make sure everything is done correctly. You seem like a really good person and I hope it works out. Also, IANAL so I'm not sure if this is true, but typically renters have a right to live with their children, so if you end up with custody of her (maybe even guardianship), you may fall under that rule.


Title: Time theft is a felony?

Question: Throw away account so to not cause trouble but... Odd thing happened today at work.  I didn't catch all of it but apparently a girl clocked another employee in while she wasn't present.  She showed up 15 minutes later.  Long story short, boss found out and is threatening to press charges and has stated this is "company theft" and a 5th degree felony.  This kid is 19 years old and obviously freaked out.  My question is is this really a felony?  State is Ohio and it's a small business.

Answer: Possibly, depending on the "value" of the fraudulent time. They're probably violating the theft or fraud statutes in Ohio. Timecard fraud is serious. I would prefer to get fired for being late over going to jail for lying on a timecard.


Title: Who owns a house dog?

Question: I am currently living in a Fraternity house in college in Missouri. I have some rather valuable personal belongings in my room, and there are two dogs that live in the house. I am not a huge fan of dogs (sue me), especially not poorly house trained dogs such as these two. I am mainly concerned about property damage to my PC (around $3000) and my laptop (around $500). My question is this, if either of the dogs damages my property, who is responsible for the dogs actions, and therefore property damage. I would assume it would be the owner, but in this case, who is the owner? Two separate people adopted/purchased the dogs, so do they own them? Is it whoever filled out the paperwork? They claim they're house dogs, so do they belong to everyone, and I would therefore be responsible for my own property? Any help or advice in this matter would be greatly appreciated. Note, as of now, no property damage has occurred, I am just concerned about future incidents.

Answer:
 Does your room not have a door?

In what circumstances would the dogs damage your computer or laptop? How would they access it? Where would you be? Where were the owners of the dogs? Were there other people around?

Do you have renter's insurance?


Title: IL - Only other owner in Condo building died while major repairs were happening.

Question:
Chicago, IL

Last year I purchased the second floor unit in a 2 story, 2 unit building. The downstairs owner was very old and did not live in the unit, but rented it to a nice couple.

When we bought the unit, we had a thorough inspection done which revealed the property needed about $30-40k in work done (130 year old building with a failing roof and some crumbling masonry). We got a good deal on it because of that.

There are super old HOA documents which stipulate that we are required to split exterior building repairs like these. The previous owner has been very cooperative, and we generally don’t keep money in the HOA account - one of us would pay a bill and the other would just reimburse for half. Easy peasy. He was aware of the repairs and willing to pay half, but because we live in the building and he doesn’t, we agreed to front the money for the work/supervise it, and he’s pay us back half.

Well, the work started last week and yesterday, the downstairs owner tragically passed away. We can’t stop the work, but now we have no idea how to recoup 1/2 of the cost.

The only reason I know he died is because it was in the news. Otherwise, I have no idea how to get in contact with his relatives, or if he even has any. Downstairs tenants only had his contact info and also don’t know what to do about paying their rent etc. No idea if he was married or had kids.

My question is, what happens now? How should we go about getting 1/2 the repair money? Do we need to sue his estate or something? How do we even find out who to contact? What are the downstairs tenants rights?

To be honest, we’d be interested in purchasing the unit - owning the whole property is quite valuable (we’d keep the tenants). How would we go about doing that?

tldr: Only other unit in condo building’s owner passed away during $40k of repairs being done. No idea how to get in contact with estate. Would also maybe like to buy his condo.

Answer:
 The debt would transfer to the other owner's estate. Depending on how that estate is handled - will or no, heirs or no, etc - you may have to sue. Keep every document and bill you get for this.

Honestly, your best avenue to find the new owner will be the downstairs tenant. Sooner or later someone will come around asking for the rent, and you can have the tenants ask for their contact info.

You could also talk to a local real estate attorney. They have experience tracking down the new owners in cases like this.


Title: Fired for dating my boss

Question: I worked for this company for a little over 2 years, for the past year I've been in a relationship with my manager. He owns 50% of the company, his business partner owns the other 50%. When his business partner found out about us, she fired me right on the spot. There are no rules in the handbook stating anything about relationships. She is withholding my pay, which is over 2k. Can anyone offer any advice on what I should do?

Answer:
 You can absolutely be fired for dating your boss. It doesn't need to be in the handbook. There are generally few restrictions on what you can be fired over. If it isn't membership in a protected class (race, religion, old age, ect) or a public policy thing (whistleblowers, refusing to do illegal things) then they can fire you. They could fire you for literally no reason at all or they don't like your face. So, I don't see a good theory about there being nothing in the handbook.

When it comes to withholding pay it really depends. Most states require time worked to be paid out but not bonuses that require you to stay to the end of the time period. If it is a regular paycheck sort of thing that you're missing then in any state except Georgia or Florida you should complain to your state's wage and hour department. They have an administrative process that will get you paid out without costing you anything. If it's a performance bonus that hasn't vested then it's likely unrecoverable.

Your partner/boss is likely authorized to pay you out if he is a 50% owner. His unwillingness to do so would strike me a deeply problematic.Answer #2: What do you mean by "withholding your pay"?  Is this pay for time already worked?  A bonus?  Something else?


Title: Developed a personal relationship with a coworker, reported it in a timely manner through appropriate channels, and am now being fired.

Question:
I work in Chicago for a real estate investment firm. I developed a serious personal relationship with a member of the same department I am in, and we reported it in a timely manner both to our superiors and HR, wanting to be proactive about it and be upfront.

The company then basically said one of us (meaning me, as I am in an entry-level position whereas my partner is a VP and has been there for 8+ years) has two weeks left to work and then will effectively be terminated.

It will be incredibly hard to find a job being unemployed and only having worked in the role for 6 months. I feel as though my professional career is ruined.

I am deeply saddened, but at least I met the woman I am going to spend the rest of my life with. Is there any legal recourse available to me? I can provide a copy of the company's HR documents related to work relationships if need be.

Answer: you can be fired for this. an office policy regarding workplace relationships is not a promise that your work will accommodate your relationship.


Title: Almost died in military training [Ohio]

Question: [deleted]

Answer:
 So you're angry that the Army made you run?

Perhaps the military isn't for you.

Edit for a little less snark: You were out of shape, and it is the Army's prerogative to keep you in shape so they don't have to wash you out. You decided to take a laxative before a workout, which I am positive you've been told not to do. You got heatstroke from a rather mild exercise under fair conditions because you took a laxative and because you were out of shape. So you went to the doctor and you've been excused further workouts while you recover.

I don't see anything in this story that suggests you were mistreated.Answer #2: >I mean I could have lost my life due to a training program I was forced into because I wanted to see my family. What are even my rights as a soldier?

It's one of your jobs in the military to maintain physical standards.  You had to go to fat boy training because you couldn't do it on your own.


Title: I was away from my rented house for a month and landlord was checking on it weekly. She did not notice that the heater stopped working and now a pipe has burst. She is asking me to claim it with my renter's insurance. State of Minnesota, USA.

Question:
My mom just had a substantial surgery so I flew back to my home state to take care of her before and after.  Two weeks prior to leaving I told my landlord of my plans, and that I had arranged for someone to check on the place while I was away.  My landlord said she was uncomfortable with someone she didn't know having a key and being responsible for the place, so she said she herself would instead check the place weekly.

Apparently at some point my heat stopped working.  We are not sure exactly how long it was out, but the gas company says that my gas usage for the past 3 weeks has been the same as it normally is during the summer (when I'm not using the furnace) so we suspect it has been about 3 weeks.

The landlord apparently did not notice that the heat was not working until she found that a pipe had burst.  There was serious damage to the house, especially because it was left for so long.  The only reason we found out is because the utility company called me saying that they thought something was wrong because my water usage was shockingly high, and I called the landlord to ask her to inspect specifically for water issues.

She admitted that she should have noticed the house wasn't being heated and said she would take responsibility.  Two days later she called me again and said that it was a lot worse than she thought.  She asked me to claim it on my renter's insurance.

I would appreciate any advice, thank you.

Answer:
 Most renter's insurance policies only cover your personal property and exclude damage to the dwelling itself.  So take a look at your policy, because filing a claim might not make any difference.

You are responsible for damage you cause to the property if caused by your willful, irresponsible, or malicious actions (Minn. Stat. 504B.161, 165). Clearly your actions were not willful or malicious. And I would not say irresponsible either. 504B.155 requires you to give a landlord 3 days' notice before vacating during winter (and I do not think you vacated), and you gave her 2 weeks. To me, you went above and beyond. This just as easily could have happened if you went to Florida on vacation for a week.


Title: Father wants me to admit to hit and run

Question:
Continue from https://www.reddit.com/r/legaladvice/comments/5iltna/hit_and_run_jail/
Cop talked to me yesterday as soon as i pulled home from school, so he knows I drive the car that did the hit and run. Father told me night before to say he did it so the insurance isn't as high after this is all over. So I basically told the cop I wasn't the one diring the car at the time whe nit happened. My dad tried to call the cop yesterday but he didn't answer. Today my dad texted me saying that I should just go admit the truth to the cop even though I just lied to him yesterday. What should I do, should I confess to the hit and run? My gut tells me to just admit it, but would this be worst legally? or should we just wait it out and hop the cops forget about it.  Also it was a witness that called the cops when it happened, not the person who drives the car I bumped into obviously. Please help, I am 17 btw

Answer: Both of you should stop talking to the police. If you (or him) get charged get a lawyer immediately.


Title: Room mate got a ticket for running a stop sign and we want to fight it.

Question:
The ticket was written for not stopping at a stop sign at an intersection where I live in lafayette indiana, at the intersection of 199 N 11th st/Main Street but he never saw the sign as it was behind un-trimmed tree branches on city property. And when it comes to the ticket, his drivers license number, hair color, eye color, and date of birth are all listed entirely incorrectly on the ticket.

Can include a picture of the stop sign, and ticket information if needed, but I'd like to know my odds of being able to help him fight this, or how I should possibly stage my argument or related points I could make. Any and all help would be highly appreciated.

Answer: Get a bunch of photos and videos of the location before that branch gets trimmed.


Title: My electric bill is 74% of my monthly rent. Rental office says that won't fix it. How can I get them to fix it?

Question:
I'm new here, so hopefully I followed the rules.

I currently live in Columbus, OH, and I have an apartment that my fiance and our kids are occupying. My rent is currently $575 + $25 for pet, totaling $600/month. My apartment is a 2br townhome, with two sliding glass doors and older sliding single pane window upstairs and downstairs.

My electric bill was $400. We keep the heating around 69-70, we have a 15 month old, and he likes to pull his socks off, and can't sit still.

We asked our apartment complex if they were able to correct the problem, either by checking for leaks in the windows and sliding doors, and we were pretty much told to "F*** off".

When we first moved into the apartment, 4 years ago, the average heating bill was around $100-$150, even during the coldest winters. However, we are average $350-$400 a month.

I don't want to continue paying that bill. How can I make the apartment complex more reliable or at least make an attempt to help correct the problem? What can I do to correct this problem?

Answer:
 Why don't *you* check for leaks in the windows and sliding doors? It's not really their responsibility to figure out why your electric bill is high.Answer #2: > we have a 15 month old, and he likes to pull his socks off, and can't sit still.

I feel your pain. My kid is the same way.

> What can I do to correct this problem?

You're going to need to deal with this yourself. First thing you should do is contact the electric company and ask them why your rates have gone up so drastically. Is it a rate increase? Has the usage increased? Once you have those answers you can investigate yourself and try to pinpoint the problem. This really isn't your landlord's issue at this point.Answer #3: Call the electric company, ask if they will come out and look at your place and evaluate why your usage is so high.  Even if they charge for it, it could be well worth it.Answer #4: Not a lawyer, and not directly helping but I would consider investing $25 (I know, more money) on a 1-hour home energy audit from someone like [these people](https://www.aepohio.com/save/programs/In-homeEnergySavings/default.aspx?ctype=h).

**I have no idea if they are a reputable company** but if you google 'columbus ohio home energy audit' you should find a myriad of companies who will do audits for around $50. They're geared toward homes, but they might do apartments too.

My thought is that you could then have constructive things to bring to the rental office about why your energy bills are so high, and things they could do to the apartment.Answer #5: Was the increase gradual, or sudden?

Have you contacted the utility company to ask them what happened?


Title: An employee at a restaurant stole my purse. Should I contact the restaurant?

Question:
I was on the road and stopped at a fast-food place. I accidentally left my purse there and one of the employees took it. He charged thousands of dollars to my credit cards with a square card reader that night. I'm not liable for those charges, but I'm out a few hundred dollars for a new car remote and a few other things that were in my purse. He was arrested today, and the detective said that it's really unlikely that he'll be able to repay the credit card charges.

Should I get in touch with the restaurant to see if they'd be willing to reimburse me for the car remote? If so, should I send them a letter or is getting in touch with them through their contact web page okay?

Answer: The restaurant has zero liability here. The person that owes you money is the person that stole from you.


Title: [Canada] Police stating that they don't attend for noise complaints, telling me to call Bylaw, Bylaw saying they don't attend noise complaints, telling me to call police. What's the reality?

Question: [deleted]

Answer: Call you city councillor and get some answers as to whose responsibility it is.Answer #2: The answer hasn't changed since the last time you posted. You can't make police respond to any call they don't want to respond to. Just because they came out for one noise complaint doesn't mean they have to respond to every noise complaint. Answer #3: Keep complaining to property management. Have your other neighbors do the same.


Title: Delaware. My best friend just got assaulted by his gf. Then his gf told him she was calling the cops. He took her phone and left the house and is on the run. I need help, please.

Question:
They are both on the lease for the house. She punched him in the face and his glasses smooshed into one of his eyes. He says his face is very bloody.

After she punched him, she threatened to call the cops and report a domestic assault on him. Stupidly, he took her phone and left the house on foot. Cruisers are now patrolling the neighborhood. He's not going to be picked up if he doesn't want to be.

Most of what he owns is inside the house. She has to work tomorrow and so she will be gone during the day tomorrow. He is bundled up and can survive the night if need be.

What is his best immediate course of action?

Thanks people. He needs help, bad.
Topic:
Criminal Law

Answer:
 > He's not going to be picked up if he doesn't want to be.

Says every criminal ever.Answer #2: >She punched him in the face and his glasses smooshed into one of his eyes. He says his face is very bloody.

He ought to call 911 and file a police report for domestic violence.

>Stupidly, he took her phone and left the house on foot.

This was enormously stupid, although understandable due to the perception that men are the default defendant in all domestic violence charges.  This action is very likely a criminal act, both due to the fact that it's a theft and due to the fact that it prevented someone from calling 911.

>He's not going to be picked up if he doesn't want to be.

I hope this doesn't mean what I suspect that it does.  Regardless of the allegation, it's not worth a death sentence to avoid.

His best course of action is to call 911, report that he is terrified of the woman, and request that police meet him somewhere to file a domestic violence report. He should press charges against her, refuse to answer all questions regarding the stolen / taken cell phone, and request medical assistance if needed.


Title: Bought a game that's only selling in US while living in europe. Is it legal to play it?

Question:
Pretty much title. A friend gifted me a game that's only purchasable in the US. I'm living in europe and could only accept it using VPN. Is it legal for me to play it here in europe? Importing games on consoles isn't a problem either so this should be alright as well, wouldn't it?

Edit: Living in Germany and talking about the game [Sleeping Dogs Definitive Edition](http://www.amazon.com/Sleeping-Dogs-Definitive-Edition-PlayStation-4/dp/B00MA5TSFQ)

Edit2: I'll just buy the import for PS4. Better safe than sorry. Thanks for all the help!
Topic:
Computer and Internet

Answer: It wolfenstein or something?  If your on pc steam will say that your game is not for your country and a list available countries. I don't know about consoles but they will probably work if it's not. Multi-player Answer #2: That would depend on your country's laws about prohibited media content.


Title: Why can judges hold people in contempt?

Question:
I went to court today. At the end, the judge dismissed my motion. I said, "Yeah, I parsed that out 15 minutes ago." Then he said, "I should hold you in contempt for that." Then I said, "Is that how freedom of speech works?" As I walked out the door.

Why are they allowed to jail you for hurting their egos?

I'm in Illinois.

Answer:
 In short, "because the law allows them to."

Judges have fairly broad authority to control the conduct and procedure of their courtroom. Disrupting that procedure or indecorous conduct is grounds for the judge to censure you. Contempt for sarcastic comments would likely amount to a fine; if you seriously disrupt the operation of the court, you can be jailed.

Your right to speak to the court is limited. If you are blocked from presenting your case, there are remedies for that, but you are not generally free to speak your mind during the proceedings. If you want to editorialize, hold it until you leave the courtroom; you're free to speak at length, outside of the court.

If you want the judge to take your motions seriously, stop sassing the judge.Answer #2: >Is that how freedom of speech works?

No, that's how respect for the rules of court and procedure work, you petulant person. Acting in a way that shows contempt for the court is an offense pretty much everywhere there are courts, and judges have pretty broad powers to stifle any activity that takes the court's eye off the ball. The solution is not to make unnecessary comments during a legal proceeding.Answer #3: Curious, why did you go to court? There are certain cases and points in the legal process, where judges have less patience.


Title: Is it legal for me to pull out a firearm in a road rage incident if the opposite party gets out of their vehicle and approaches me with the intent to harm in California?

Answer: In addition to everything else, you'd also better have a concealed carry permit or be complying with all laws relevant to transporting a firearm in a car.Answer #2: It would be nearly impossible for you to justify this, absent a display of a firearm or other deadly weapon by the other person.


Title: Woman I worked with reported my old boss and I'm being dragged into it.

Question:
Hi legal advice. Thanks for reading. I just got a weird call from my company HR.  They informed me that a complaint was filed against my former boss and the complainant said I would back up the claims and provide additional details about this person.

I am almost certain I know who filed the complaint. Yes, the person we worked for was not a good boss. I had enough and quit several months ago. An old boss of mine from within the same company contacted me when he found out I was leaving and asked me to instead come back and work for him, so I did.  So basically I'm working for the same company in a different capacity. This is in Texas, and I know they can choose to fire someone without cause. I'm also aware that HR is there to protect the company, not me. I don't want to stick my neck out. I like my job and love my current boss.

I spoke to current boss and asked for advice. He said they called him last week and asked him not to talk to me. He also advised to tell the truth and everything I know. I also texted who I think the complainant is. She responded that she was not allowed to talk to me.

So, my call is tomorrow afternoon. I do not want to participate in any lawsuits. The person in question was definitely objectionable but I'm still working for the same company. Can someone please give me some advice on how to respond to questions to extricate myself from this and avoid being in the middle of a lawsuit?

Also, inevitably you'll want to know the gory details about douche - boss. Standard hostile work - environment stuff. Cursing and demeaning, yelling,  etc.  Some name-calling, unfair treatment favoring his beer drinking buddies. We work in construction/manufacturing but in a well-paid, higher-up capacity.

Thanks for the help.

Answer: Just tell the truth. And this isn't a "standard hostile-environment." It may be an unpleasant work environment but the law does not entitle someone to a pleasant work environment. It entitles them to to be free of harassment based on specific characteristic such as sex, race or national origin. Cursing, demeaning subordinates and favoring buddies is not illegal. If that is all your friend has she is wasting everyone's time with a frivolous lawsuit. Don't text here anymore. Just answer truthfully the specific questions HR asks. Don't embellish with your emotions or point of view. You will be involved in this to the extent that the company's lawyers feel you will aid their defense. It sounds like you may actually be helpful. There is no way to extricate yourself as a witness. Just be short and specific. Good luck!


Title: Is it illegal to go to work if there is an evacuation advisory?

Question:
Hi all,

I live in northern California that was hit by the Mendo Complex fires (River and Ranch). I am waiting to get PEL (paid emergency leave) declared for my work and my house being evacuated.

My question: I heard a firefighter mention that it is illegal to work if your workplace is still under evacuation advisory. Is this true and where can I find this documentation?

If this is true I could possibly argue to get another day of PEL so it wont take out of my already diplenished accurals.

Thank you for any and all help with this! I never knew living in a fire county was so legal exhausting.

Answer: Is it a voluntary or mandatory evacuation? I believe it is illegal under California Penal Code 409.5 to enter an area under a mandatory evacuation order, unless you are a member of the press.


Title: Is it legal to booby trap the INSIDE of my house?

Question:
I understand that booby trapping the OUTSIDE of your house is illegal for numerous reasons (i.e. - mailman, delivery guy, children, etc. could all get hurt unintentionally).

Is it legal to booby trap the INSIDE of your house to deter/incapacitate burglars?

Assuming it is legal and I set up a trap that causes bodily injury to a burglar, what are the chances of them winning monetary compensation if they sue me (and is this even justifiable)?

**Edit:** It seems like it is definitely not legal to set up a booby trap that may cause bodily injury. I want to rephrase my question into: Is it legal to set up a booby trap to capture and temporarily detain (until authorities arrive) a burglar that trespasses on my property.

**Edit2:** Location is within the US.
Topic:
Criminal Law

Answer:
 No, it's not. Deliberately setting out to harm people is a crime.Answer #2: Nope. Refer to State of Illinois vs Kevin McCallister as a precedent. Answer #3: Just get an alarm and/or some cameras like everybody else.Answer #4: Since you didn't provide a location, I'll give you the general common law answers -- The duty owed to trespassers is lower than the duty owed to invitees, but you still have a duty to not intentionally harm them through traps. Also - yes, it'd likely be a crime too.Answer #5: Ugh.. this again.

This needs to go into the wiki.

Paging /u/Napalmenator! LOL

Damn it, there was something else I saw earlier that needed to go in there too, but now I forget what it was. Answer #6: So your parents left you home alone at Christmas, huh?


Title: Have an Emotional Support Animal, Landlord is denying housing.

Question:
(Missouri)
I know these posts probably pop up now and then, and I imagine they're annoying because "emotional service animal" is apparently often used as a ploy rather than as a genuine need; so, I apologize in advance and I'm very appreciative of any advice you have to offer.

I was diagnosed with Generalized Anxiety Disorder, specific phobia, and depression when I was a teenager. Since then I've had a cat that greatly alleviates my symptoms. Again, I know ESAs are often debated because "don't all animals offer more happiness at the end of the day?", and you're not wrong, but the fact is that my therapist and I feel it makes a large difference and there are laws out there to protect my cat and I from being denied housing.

It just so happens I've been looking for an apartment for six months because it's very tough to find a good complex in my area. I'm not here to debate on whether or not it would be better to just find another complex and stop wasting my time, because I wouldn't be here unless I felt I had exhausted every housing option.

Anyhow, I finally found a place that wasn't a sinkhole of despair and was in my budget. It said it allowed cats in general so I wasn't worried. I get there to apply and tour, and I'm told cats are only allowed in the building of units that aren't renovated.  I tell her my cat is an emotional support animal, and she just says, "yeah, strictly no pets in your building." Legally, I thought my cat wasn't considered a "pet" in the regards of the landlord not even being able to charge a deposit or monthly rent. This isn't about the money; as I said in the beginning, I know some people use this to get free pet rent and to avoid fees, but truthfully I would pay if that was the condition. Landlord won't even let me do that. Regardless, no complex has ever asked me to pay for any damages upon leaving because my cat is perfectly behaved. Someone mentioned writing a "cat resume" including information on her lack of property damage and possibly more info on emotional support animals, but that sounds more like it would just make the landlord cringe than anything. I could be wrong.

I'm not a confrontational person, and this is literally my only housing option after months of looking. Part of me wants to print off the Fair Housing Act and be frustrated with this woman, but I don't want this landlord to think I'm some kind of handful before I even move in. I realize allergens are sometimes a landlords reasoning, but considering she said "because they're renovated units", I know allergens aren't the concern in this case.

I would just take an old unit, but there are none available whatsoever for the foreseeable future. I've also triple-checked to see if the general laws exclude this type of complex or any of it's conditions and I can't find any reasons other than this landlord is either in denial or doesn't know her stuff. I even feel bad because I'm sure landlords have to deal with a lot, and I don't like adding to the pile, or being the resident that forces them to take in an animal when they were probably excited to have a building with no animals whatsoever. I'm sure even some residents are happy about it.

I would just move onto another complex if it were that easy, or if my cat were admittedly a handful, even. Unfortunately, it's not that easy. What do I do? Print off a bunch of legal jargon and toss it on her desk, trusting that she'll care enough to accommodate me by reading it carefully? If I have to, I have to. Reporting her sounds over dramatic, and so does calling a lawyer. I just want her to understand I'm not trying to take advantage of their policy.

Thank you again if you have any advice.

Answer:
 Not all landlords have to allow ESAs. Certain apartments are exempt from compliance. For ESAs, you also need to provide supporting documentation from a mental health worker, such as a psychiatrist, psychologist, or *possibly* (I'm unsure) therapist, stating that you're disabled due to a mental condition. A note from your regular physician won't do, though there seems to be some debate on this point.

How many units are in the building?


Title: [FL] Please help, I am being stalked by a police officer and I have no idea how to protect myself from him.

Question:
Hello, I am really upset and scared as I am writing this. An ex-boyfriend from 5 years ago has suddenly started stalking me over the last 4 weeks. He has been repeatedly showing up while I am at the mall with my family, during my hair and nails appointments, calling my mother with spoofed phone numbers (different fake number every time).

What scares me is that he is a police officer with high ranking family members in the police force locally (his father, mother, and sister are all in the same department and have a lot of sway). I have tried to reach out several times to his mother and sister, but they seem to be in denial of the whole thing.

It has been very difficult to get much solid evidence of him stalking me. As mentioned, he is a police officer, and he is being extremely careful not to leave any hard traces of him following. Also, I am suspecting he has placed a tracker/bug on my car, as somehow he always knows where I am. Either that, or he is tailing me after work or from home.

Yesterday, things came to a head worse than ever. Up to that point, I did not know what car he drove, since he always was hiding. As I was heading home, I saw a car (he drives an unmarked police car) aggressively following my bumper on the road. The car then sped to my side and drove me off the road, and he got out and pounded on my windshield. I called my family to come immediately, and also frantically called his mother and sister, who came and while they were arguing, my mother and I sped home.

I was in such a panic and was frantically trying to call my family and his mother that I forgot to record anything on my phone. I feel like if I tried to start recording he would just escape and wait for another day to do the same thing.

This is getting out of control. At least I know his car now (although I'm not sure if he switches cars while on unmarked police duty). I am scared that he is getting more and more crazy, and I do not want to interact with him at all.

I am also afraid to call the police, because I feel that with him and his whole family in the force (and his father being high ranking in it), everything will be swept under the rug, or it will be twisted on me if I try to report it.

Please help, I would greatly appreciate any advice on how to proceed. He is extremely elusive since he is in law enforcement and knows tricks to keep hidden while still constantly conveying to me that he is nearby. I am now always looking over my shoulder afraid that he is nearby or watching, and I have no idea how much more crazy he's going to get.

Answer: Contact the police department's IA (Internal Affairs) department, or the state beauru of investigation.


Title: Broken condom..

Question:
So a few days ago i had a hookup with some girl. At some point during it all I realized the condom had broke so I immediately put a new one on.  Now a few days later I clearly have an std(most likely herpes)

I know I am now stuck with it for the rest of my life but is there anything I can do? I did save the broken condom

Edit location is Massachusetts

Edit 2: I plan on going to planned parenthood as soon as new years is over

And I'll an an edit 3: I was never warned by said person about any risks.. I have since gotten their cell phone number and maintained "contact" because they are clearly reasonable for this

Answer:
 You can go see a doctor for treatment. Answer #2: So it's her fault the condom broke?Answer #3: Assuming it's herpes: the good news is that modern antivirals are _very_ good. Once the initial flare-up is over, if you get treated and comply with the regimen, you're very unlikely to infect anyone else. Don't have unprotected sex during a flare-up, and do disclose your status to your partners, and you'll be fine.

No, seriously, _you'll be fine_. This sucks right now, but it's not a life-ender.

In principle, you could go after your partner for failing to disclose it. However, you'd have to show that she knew she was infected, and you're unlikely to gain access to her medical records. The cost of a lawsuit is going to outweigh the cost of treatment, and likely isn't worth it. If you do come up positive for HSV, let her know - and obviously if she's your only recent partner, odds are good you got it from her - but that'll probably be the end of it.Answer #4: wait you sure it manifests itself that quickly?Answer #5: Did you get a STD test, how did you show symptoms that fast, did you have sex with other people?


Title: Failure to Respond

Question:
I just got a letter in the mail saying I "did not appear in court and facing a traffic violation" in the State of Colorado. I looked up the citation number online, and it says I was speeding.

I have not been pulled over in almost 5 years, and have not received a speeding ticket in the same 5 years. I was not pulled over for this, given a ticket, or mailed a notice for anything, excpet for this "Failure to Appear".

The ticket citation from research is for speeding 20-25 over, a 4 point ticket and 225$. Would fighting it be my best option? I have some history as a kid that messed up my dricing record.. And i 225$ is a lot out of my budget.

Thoughts?

Answer: Sounds like you got a ticket based on some automated speed detector. Maybe. You need to start calling and finding out what happened. Look up the jurisdictions court phone number and call.


Title: [OH] Husband has cut me off financially after separating 2 weeks ago. I am unable to work. What are my options?

Question:
I am undocumented (overstayed tourist visa, from Europe) and my husband didn’t file his petition for my residency. Due to this I am unable to work legally. This probably doesn’t matter but in my home country I made a very good wage with a very good job.

We have been married for almost 8 months and were together for a year prior to that. He has been financially supporting me since April 2018, and makes roughly $70k a year (although he does not file taxes).

He has been physically and emotionally abusive to me which I have evidence of and will be self petitioning under VAWA. Two weeks ago, he told me he wanted to separate. He offered me $5k to leave him and to “help me get back on my feet”.

He also has stopped involving me in our finances and has started referring to it as “his” money and not ours. He won’t give me access to any bank accounts or financial information. I don’t even know how much money we have. He has actually told me he has “cut me off” which he sent via a text.

He paid rent today and told me he is handing in a 60 day notice to the landlord (we are now in a month to month contract), which will ultimately leave me homeless. He hasn’t lived at the apartment for weeks and the lease is in his name.

I have no idea what to do. I feel like my options are limited due to my undocumented status. I don’t even know which apartment he’s staying in to send any paperwork (I know which apartment complex, just not which apartment within it).

If I take the $5k does that mean I legally agree for him to not financially support me? How to I move forward from here?

Answer: You have a bigger concern here.  As a tourist that has overstayed your visa you can be reported to ICE and in the extreme case arrested and forcibly ejected from the United States.  In the more likely case though a report to ICE will jeopardize any current or future application to continue to stay and work here.  You may be better off cutting your losses and returning to your home country if you desire proper residency in the U.S.Answer #2: Unfortunately, with such a short marriage you have essentially no chance whatsoever of being awarded spousal support. You could get half the accumulated assets in the last 8 months. That is net of any debt accumulated in the same time. The $5k may be a good and fair offer.