Title: Gun charges.... don’t want em

Question:
Clackamas County, Oregon, U.S.
I am currently a free man, but have just received an indictment letter in the mail. Biggest thing I’m worried about in the list of charges, possession of a pistol. I am 18 and in college on scholarships... I don’t need to check off being a convicted felon quite yet. Theoretically speaking... I was driving around with two pistols in the car. They belong to the guys dad who was sitting in the passenger seat and also not of legal age to carry a pistol (19). The dad is willing to comply with whatever needs to be done to get us out of this mess... Another problem, the dad was out of town when we got yanked, however you are still capable of giving permission to someone if not in person. Could my uncle (22) who I can prove, I do indeed go to target practice with in Esdacada could’ve taken us out shooting earlier that day? Long shot. One of the guns wasn’t even operable so there’s that, but they’re trying to pin the operable one on me. Halp. I didn’t put the guns in the car if that helps, but they were both technically within arms reach.

Pray to lord I beat this case.

Answer:
 You need a criminal defense attorney. (and yes that is the best advice somebody can give you here.Answer #2:  Okay, so you need to stop doing whatever it is you are intending to do. This case depends a great deal on specifics, so any internet advice you get will be necessarily incomplete and therefore inaccurate. Relying on inaccurate advice is going to screw you here.

You absolutely need to retain an attorney. Having someone sit down and go over everything with you including how to word things when you talk to investigators is absolutely essential.

Doing this yourself or depending upon internet strangers is going to see you get gun charges.

It's [$35 to get a consultation](http://www.oregonstatebar.org/public/ris/) do it. Or, if your college has a legal aid attached you could try that instead.


Title: Can my boss change my job duties at a whim?

Question:
I work for a small company and learned we will be letting our Controller go - which is having a domino effect of my boss attempting to restructure the company and fill the gaps.

I am currently their IT technician - my boss wants to uproot me and put me in the accounts receivable department - so invoicing, bill collection, etc. and here's the best part: in addition to all of these extra duties, on top of what I already do, he wants to give me an additional FIFTY CENTS AN HOUR. I'm considering walking out and never coming back.

Is this legal? I live in California, LA county.

Answer: Unless you have a binding employment contract that states the contrary, yes, they can alter your pay, hours, and responsibilities at any time going forward.


Title: Do I have legal standing to sue my father for child support back pay?

Question: I have never met my father and he has never paid "official" child support. He and my mom had an agreement where he would send a check for a few hundred dollars a month, off the books. He recently stopped and I guess he figured he doesn't have to do it anymore because I'm over 18 (I'm 19 now, he stopped sending checks a few months ago). Am I entitled to the years of "official" child support he would've paid had my mom taken legal action when I was a minor? I'm in Pennsylvania, he's in New York.

Answer: No. The only person who could sue would be your mother and she could only do that if it was court ordered.


Title: Bought laptop, invoice was $0 they sent laptop anyways, then is now threatening to sue me, are they in the wrong?

Question: Bought a $1000 laptop from Lenovo, for some reason the invoice was $0 and they didn't charge my card, but sent me the laptop anyways. Weeks later some lawyer dude threatens that he's going sue me for all my money if I don't pay up. Am I in the wrong, is he, or are we both?

Answer: A clerical/billing error doesn’t mean you get a free computer Answer #2: They’re maybe wrong for being aggressive about it. But you should pay them and solve the problem.


Title: i got a ticket for using aux cord?

Question:
So i got pulled over for speeding in 35mph road near my house. There were two police cars on the side of the road pulling over several cars as they drove by. They sat outside their cars pointing their speed tracking device and the cars then walking into the road to force you to stop and pull over.

 When he walked to my window he said he pulled me over for speeding. Then noticed i had my cell phone plugged into a charger and aux cord. He said that i was streaming music which is an unlawful use of the cell phone. Music that was downloaded on my phone was playing on very low volume. He gave me a ticket for "unlawful use of wireless telecom device". Is using the aux cord illegal? Can i fight this? Location georgia

EDIT: I still got a speeding ticket. He made the determination about my cell phone by saying the only use for a cell phone is to make phone calls.

Answer:
 Ianal. Sounds like a dick cop. The statute specifically bans the use of a cell phone "that is used to initiate or receive a wireless communication with another person" so i think you are in the clear unless he can show you were using it ti communicate rather than listen to music. He was probably just fishing for over time. Get a lawyer and contest it and v you'll likely win.

http://law.justia.com/codes/georgia/2010/title-40/chapter-6/article-11/40-6-241-1Answer #2: NAL and I am not familiar with GA's laws at all - can you post what statute number is listed on the ticket? That'll help someone smarter than me.


Title: Does parent have the right to confiscate property of a non-minor child?

Question:
Location: Washington state

I realise this may be petty in the terms of this sub, but my father has done stuff that doesn't seem legal regarding my possessions.

First, I am an 18 year old son living under my father's roof. I am finishing up my senior year of high school, and plan to be in student housing when I go to college/University. I have my own job (that is not working for my father, if that makes a difference) and buy many of my own things. Among them includes my own computer, which I paid for 100% by myself. I also have my phone, which was given as a gift to me Christmas of 2014, when I was 17.

I make payments on my phone plan ($20/mo), that, as I understand it, is my part of the plan that my father is the account owner of. We agreed on this payment since before I received the phone, and I have "paid" it every month since. He takes the money from my bank account, which I don't have an issue with, I trust him there.

The issue is that he will demand I physically give him my phone and/or a major part of my computer often as punishment for seemingly small things, like forgetting to do a chore or choosing to stay up late (not even making noise). He takes physical possession of my objects and does not allow me access to them for weeks at a time, until he feels I may have them back. Since becoming 18, he has become quite hostile and critical of anything I choose to do that is my way and not his, and I'm afraid if I don't know my rights, it may escalate further.

My questions are these:

1) how legal is this? The computer is wholly my property, I bought every part in it with my money and the phone was a gift that is also my property under uniform transfers to minors act.

2) what rights do I have to refuse him my possessions?

3) what rights do I have to ask for them back?

4) what legal protection do I have from repercussions? Such as kicking me out of the house?

Thanks in advance for any advice or knowledge you may have.

**EDIT:** thanks guys for the advice, this got a lot bigger than I thought it would. I'll definitely be sitting down with him and having a talk with him about expectations and why he is changing. I don't have the time today or tomorrow, but I should on Wednesday. Also, I'll see if I can get him off my accounts with the credit union, if not, I'll open my own new ones.

Also, legal actions were always the last thing I would use, but I just wanted to know if I have a leg to stand on if he started becoming overly harsh.
Topic:
Other Civil Matters

Answer:
 1- if you give it to him then it is legal. You can refuse and he can legally end your tenancy, stop paying for food, housing, utilities. You can find a new place to live

2- you have the right to refuse

3- you have the right to ask for anything

4- whatever rights tenancy laws give you which is the right to proper notice to vacate. Which is a twenty day notice. Answer #2: He can't take your belongings if you purchased them but you may want to choose your battles more wisely. The service for your phone is on his plan which means he could shut off your service any time he'd like. Similarly, I imagine the internet and electric you use for your computer is also in his name.

Soon enough you'll be out on your own, doing your own thing. Why make your last months at home miserable? You're better off just getting your chores done if you have to and keep the peace. It sounds like Dad's provided you a pretty good life, don't take it for granted.Answer #3: Not what you asked, but you should put your money into an account your parents don't have access to. There are too many cases where parents clean out the bank account of their child, especially when the child refuses to comply with the parent. They never see it coming, and they never get the money back.
Your dad may be trustworthy, but better safe than sorry, no?


Title: [LA] 16 yo student of mine has an in invention and needs some guidance.

Question:
I teach Engineering Design to high school students and one of them has designed and built some prototypes for a pretty clever invention. He’s even sold a few.

Are there any resources out there for him to help him file a for a patent? All I understand about that process is that it’s complicated and you’ll probably need a lawyer.

He’s kept careful documentation of sketches and notes.

Any advice is appreciated!
Topic:
Intellectual Property

Answer:
 He can either file it himself or hire a patent attorney/agent to help him file the patent.

It is not a cheap process and, unless he is going to make a business out of it, unlikely to yield significant returns.Answer #2: Seconding the advice of the person who mentioned that the sale of the items starts the timer on getting a patent. But that isn't to say he's too late. Every intellectual property attorney I know does free consults on this. I would suggest to the student to get an intellectual property attorney, I'd suggest looking for one connected to an innovation district since those attorneys often work with college students on limited budgets already. A patent can be pretty expensive and I don't know that he'd qualify for a provisional with the disclosure already occurring.

Since you're a teacher, one thing you could do is actually have a patent lawyer present to your class one day on patents and how to protect what they make. I know attorneys who do this regularly and are happy to do it with advance notice because these students often keep inventing things through college and in their careers. Answer #3: If he has sold the invention then he might have screwed himself.

Under Section 102, you have a year from the offer of sale to file your patent. If you don't file your patent within the year, your intellectual property passes into the public domain.

I'm not a lawyer. I'm not your lawyer. This isn't legal advice. You should consult an intellectual property attorney.


Title: UPDATE 2! My neighbor cut my trees! (NH)

Question:
Previous posts are [here](https://www.reddit.com/r/legaladvice/comments/6hqze7/my_neighbor_cut_my_trees/) and [here](https://www.reddit.com/r/legaladvice/comments/6ivmck/update_my_neighbor_cut_my_trees_nh/)

It's been a month and we've finally gotten a detailed drawing of landmarks from the surveyor (to confirm that the surveyor got the lines plotted correctly), comprehensive estimates from a landscaper based on photos provided by the previous owner of the house and timber values from an arborist. Now that everything is all squared away in that regard, we're getting ready to submit a demand letter.

The one question my lawyer asked is if I should include a value in the demand letter or if I should invite them to contact my lawyer for further details. What would be the pros and cons of each approach?

Answer:
 Absolutely include a dollar value, and throw everything into it, even things that you're not sure of.  That sets the starting point of negotiation, which is valuable -- if you say $50,000 and they say $25,000, then they're being unreasonably by asking for half the value.  But, if they say $25,000 and they say $50,000, then you're being unreasonably by asking for twice the value.  (This is all mental -- it's not like a judge or jury is ever going to see this part.)

I'd also mention that they probably committed a felony.  But, don't make any threats about turning them in -- let that part just be implied.

And, finally, say that they should consult an attorney.  That helps them realize that it might get really expensive for them.Answer #2: That's an excellent question to ask your attorney.


Title: Was the rape/abuse response team wrong to force my 16 yo daughter to give a urine sample without my consent?

Question:
This happened in 2016 in Oregon: My daughter is developmentally delayed, and was sexually assaulted and bullied on her SpEd bus by another SpEd student late last year. Last week we went in to an organization that specializes in working with law enforcement of minors in rape/assault cases.

I was told during the phone intake interview that I could be present during the medical exam, but that I couldn't be in the room with them when they took an the official statement, but that there would be a two way mirror with a camera and police officer behind a glass mirror in the room. I can't remember if it was stated to me, or if I intimated it from our conversation, but I had the feeling that they would let me watch the proceedings as they happened.

When I arrived, I was told that they wanted to speak to me alone first, and that Caitlin would be interviewed after. While I was being interviewed, someone told my daughter that she had to go to the bathroom and pee in a cup, and they then asked her to fill out paperwork. This was all without my knowledge or approval. I was also told that there was a possibility that I could get a transcript and see the video of the interview, but now they are backtracking on that as well.

The minute I walked in, I felt as if they were treating me as the perpetrator, and I tried to give them the benefit of the doubt. Now I feel as if the coerced me into submission by making false statements they had no intention of honoring.

Many Thanks in advance for your feedback.

UPDATE: The agency just  called me, listened to me, heard me, and is making changes to their intake and clinic practices. They admitted that the testing they administered was not appropriate given DD's cognitive issues, and apologized. They are making arrangements for me to view the interrogation video asap. Thanks to all for feedback.

UPDATE : Thanks for all the down votes.

Edit: added the state of Oregon for clarification

Answer: I'm not seeing how peeing in a cup is a bad thing?  Am I missing something? It may be SOP with rape examinations.


Title: Any way to get out of breaking an apartment lease without paying the fee if it’s because my wife is pregnant?

Question:
Initially we signed a lease for a first floor apt. (Because we knew in a couple months my then (5) week pregnant wife wouldn’t be able to handle stairs so well).  The apt complex called me 5 days prior to our move over 1,000 miles to let us know that we can no longer rent that apartment because they found a dead bug inside.  Our only options at that point was sign a new lease for a 3rd floor apt. (No elevators), wait a month for the 1st floor apt to open up, or find a new place to live.  I started work 3 days after our move in date so I didn’t have a choice and signed the 3rd floor lease.  We found a house and are closing on it now (literally because of the stairs), but there’s a fee to break the lease.

Is there any way to get out of paying this fee?  My realtor mentioned that pregnant women were a protected class but I’m not sure this falls into violating that.

I did speak with the manager about it already and she said she’d see what she can do and call me back but took vacation the next day for two weeks, and the assistant manager was tasked with finding us a first floor apt (apparently our message got mixed up in translation) so now we are waiting for the manager to come back and I just want to be prepared with some helpful knowledge you fine people could give me.

Answer:
 > Is there any way to get out of paying this fee?

No.  You signed a lease and you're held to it.

> My realtor mentioned that pregnant women were a protected class

That's true, but that "protected class" status only protects her from being treated differently than other, non-pregnant people.  Holding you to a lease you signed is not treating you differently.


Title: Is there any way that selling this device is illegal?

Question:
Hello. Can anyone shed some light on the legality (in the USA) of this?

I use a 3D printer made by Stratasys that uses refill cartridges that cost $260. It has a small chip in it that tracks usage and once the filament inside reached 0%, you have to put in a new cartridge to continue printing. They are not designed to be refilled. But the kicker is that inside is about $35 worth of plastic filament. I believe it is very comparable to ink and inkjet cartridge refills. You might buy a cartridge that has pennies worth of ink inside for $50.

Anyhow, about a year ago I pieced together a device that allows me to reset this chip so that you CAN refill the plastic filament inside: [link](http://www.ebay.com/itm/261861705059?ssPageName=STRK:MESELX:IT&_trksid=p3984.m1555.l2649).

Before anyone jumps down my throat about how expensive these are, honestly that's not why I'm posting this. They are hand built, there is value here (it pays for itself in 2 uses then saves you a lot of money) and a market. So I'm asking you to please not devolve the comments into arguments about that.

What I want to know and what I'm asking for help with is to understand if or how this could possibly be illegal in any way. I personally don't see how it could be.

But I've had two types of responses. Some people are excited and interested. Others are nasty and confrontational, claiming that what I'm doing is illegal and basically that I'm going to get sued and/or burn in hell.

Again, I don't want to do anything illegal. And I'm genuinely trying to understand. I'm not recreating or selling anything that is patented. There are companies like http://www.argylematerials.com that sell filament refills and a replacement chip. And for that matter there is a huge inkjet refill industry. I don't see this as being any different.

Actually if anything what Argyl Materials is doing seems more questionable as they are actually selling chips that I could see having some sort of patent by Stratasys.

Anyways, again I genuinely don't want to do anything illegal. And I am open to someone explaining to me how this would be. And while I've had some seemingly unreasonably angry people contact me. But nobody seems to be able or willing to offer any actual useful information. I'm hoping someone here might be able to shed some light on the issue. Thanks ahead of time and have a great day.

EDIT:
Apparently many people seem to think I'm likely to get sued, whether or not it is legal. The likelihood of getting sued is a definite concern to me.

On a relate note, in the event that legal action would be taken, does that typically begin with a cease and desist, or just go straight into a lawsuit?

I'm starting to think about taking this down. I'm not trying to build a big business or retire off of this. It's really just a small side project. And I don't know how much that would effect the likelihood of getting sued or not. Thanks for the input everyone.

EDIT 2:
I took it down. Though I still don't have a clear understanding of how exactly would/could be illegal, I don't feel like it's worth the risk if there is a likelihood of a lawsuit. It was just a side project anyways. Thanks for the input.

Answer:
 It is going to depend on how it operates exactly, how you discovered how it operated, and how you recreated it. Also who did those things, were they parties to any contracts between themselves and stratasys etc.

Keep in mind that even if a judge finds it to be legal, that doesn't mean that Stratasys won't sue you and tie you up in very expensive ways for a very long time.

As an aside, I honestly have no idea why you would not just offer a "exchange/refurbish service", and not give away the jewels so to speak. Answer #2: Two things.

One:  These are usually tried under the DMCA, and there's a huge mess of lawsuits having to do with re-fillers and chip-defeat code that's been around for like 11 years. [Lexmark Case](http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lexmark_International,_Inc._v._Static_Control_Components,_Inc.)  is a good place to start.

Two: Upon practical concerns; even if you have some air-tight way that this isn't illegal, you almost assuredly will be sued for it; likely under the DMCA.    If you are going to go ahead, I would find a lawyer in this area of law, and get some information before you proceed.

EDIT: Fixed link per below.   Thanks!Answer #3: The chip does sound like a form of DRM and if I am correct on that theory, resetting the chip would be considered breaking the DRM.

I would talk to the EFF about this.


Title: Tx. Bf got "pulled over" motercycle.

Question: So he just got a new motercycle and is trying to get je yo it because it's been over 3 years since he last rode. There are roads that go between the apartments and he has been practicing shifting gears there. We pulled off to the gate of our complex and we're talking about shit and then a cop pulled up behind him and asked him not to ride around  here because someone called and complaind. Is this true? He is not doing this for fun. He needs to get comfortable before he goes on the main roads. Should he just find a different place?  That will be difficult since this is houston.. and there is traffic everywhere.. thank you for reading

Answer:
 >  We pulled off to the gate of our complex and we're talking about shit and then a cop pulled up behind him and asked him not to ride around here because someone called and complaind. Is this true?

Is it true that someone called and complained?  Probably.  I'd bet it has something to do with either noise, speed or just general creepiness of riding around in circles.

> Should he just find a different place?

Probably.  In any case, if he's annoying his neighbors it's better to find a different place.  You're in Houston; find an industrial park or office complex.  They often have long stretches of road that are virtually deserted on the weekends.


Title: (California) 2 coworkers were fired and 2 managers suspended without pay for 3 days last week for drinking on the job and having sex. The two managers have made up a story saying I was starting trouble in retaiation to defend their jobs. It's is not true.

Question: [deleted]

Answer: You can file for unemployment and look for a new job.


Title: [MO] Criminal Defense for Sex w/Minor. Was attacked and beaten senseless by PD officer while behind bars. Can the case be dismissed on these grounds?

Question: The person who was beat senseless is in critical condition. Can the case be dismissed on the grounds of his attack?

Answer:
 No, being a victim of a later crime doesn't excuse an earlier one.

The beat-ee's attorney should definitely pursue this, though.Answer #2: people not clear more words need

Cops arrested someone for sex with a minor, while in custody the cops tuned him, and that person's looking to have the charges dismissed on that basis? Answer #3: The prosecutor can do whatever (s)he wants.

But there's no legal ground there.

The actions of the officers can be addressed by filing a complaint with the department, asking the prosecutor to pursue criminal charges, or in a lawsuit.

But they are unrelated to the crime that the suspect is accused of committing.


Title: Importing a car to the U.S. ; is this model likely to be legal given that it's similar to a U.S.-spec car and built in Canada? (New York State)

Question:
Me and a friend had a day trip across the border, see some friends over in Canada, do some shopping.
But my question isn't about shopping and border allowances, it's about importing a car back from Canada.

A friend of mine saw an advert for a Pontiac Sunrunner online, in bordering Ontario (we're in New York) and he wants to know, can he import it to the U.S., even though there's the 25-year-rule for importing cars?

It's the same as the 1998 Chevrolet Tracker, according to his own research, except this one is a Canada-only variant, and is more sporting in terms of equipment.

Image of car (example one): http://www.carsandracingstuff.com/library/s/sunrunner03.jpg

Can it be imported to the U.S. because it's North American-made and identical to the U.S. car?

Answer:
 If you were in Michigan or Florida I'd say chance it and snow the Secretary of State with a confusing bill of sale. It isn't legal but it's close enough and thousands of people get away with it a year.

Since you're in NY, don't. The regulations, while not overwhelming, are not worth it for a disposable and cheap 17 year old car. Answer #2: > Can it be imported to the U.S. because it's North American-made and identical to the U.S. car?

IANAL (IAACPA), but I did just go through the importation of a vehicle from Ontario to NY. (I finally decided to bring a car that was gifted to me over in Canada after a good long while.) So, to get it across the border, it needs to follow two guidelines to ensure it's legally safe to drive in the US.

1) EPA certification. The vehicle needs to be in compliance with the EPA. You can read more about it [here.](http://www2.epa.gov/importing-vehicles-and-engines/importing-canadian-vehicles)

My car was relatively new, and it had an EPA label on the underside of the hood.

2) You need to ensure you have the DOT seal of approval. You need what I think is called FMCSA, mine was on the inside of the driver's door jam.

I am including the CBP website [article](https://help.cbp.gov/app/answers/detail/a_id/218) that has all the forms you need to ensure your car is in compliance.

The area where you might run into an issue is the DMV. They might charge you a retail tax.

Good luck!


Title: [USA] Does Netflix's new show, "Big Mouth" count as illegal child porn?

Question:
This is a serious question, I'm sure at least some of you have heard of Big Mouth and if you actually watch the show on Netflix, it's actually much more sexually explicit than shown in the video. It shows both underage male and female genitals uncensored, many of them, dare I reiterate are of 14 year olds.

So, my question is, does this count as illegal child porn? Could Netflix be legally implicated in such a crime? I know it's illegal to draw or animate underage people in sexual situations, does this show apply?

Answer:
 Nude video of underage persons is not, by itself, child porn.

Generally, a photo or video must display either minors involved in or present for sexual activity, or a "lewd and lascivious" display of the genitals.

The courts use the "Dost Test" to determine the latter.  It consists of six points:

* Whether the focal point of the visual depiction is on the child's genitalia or pubic area.
* Whether the setting of the visual depiction is sexually suggestive, i.e., in a place or pose generally associated with sexual activity.
* Whether the child is depicted in an unnatural pose, or in inappropriate attire, considering the age of the child.
* Whether the child is fully or partially clothed, or nude.
* Whether the visual depiction suggests sexual coyness or a willingness to engage in sexual activity.
* Whether the visual depiction is intended or designed to elicit a sexual response in the viewer.

All six need not be present, and other criteria can be used as well.

But those are the main ones.Answer #2: I'm 100% sure their lawyers went over it with a fine toothed comb.


Title: Can I be forced to work in a kitchen with the door open and freezing temperatures? Baltimore Maryland

Question:
Typing this on my frigid fingers.

Long story short kitchen at the takeout has their hoods blocked up by snow. In order to not die of smoke inhalation we have to leave the door open. So it's like 20 degrees in here.

Is this legal? Because it feeels illegal.

Answer: there are no legal requirements for temperature in a workplace.


Title: My job may be trying to fire me by tricking me into signing something. -Legal advice needed-

Question:
I've worked at a retail store in Washington State for 11 years and yesterday I was presented with the following document and asked to sign.

The document states, "This is to acknowledge that a copy of the crew member handbook is available to me in DayForce. I understand that it contains important information on "Company's Name" general personnel policies and my privileges and obligations as a crew member. I will familiarize myself with the material in the handbook and I understand that I am governed by its contents. I further understand that " Company's Name" may change, delete, or add policies from time to time at its sole discretion, with or without notice. I further understand that the employment relationship is based on the mutual consent of each crew member and "Company Name." Accordingly, either I or "Company's Name" can terminate the employment relationship at will, with or without cause, or advance notice."

I understand this is an at will relationship but I don't feel comfortable signing something that says they can fire me at any time with or without cause. Also, I find it alarming that they can change, delete, or add policies at any time with or without notice and I am bound by these policies.

What are my options here?
Can I refuse to sign?
Can they fire me if I don't sign?
What would you do in this situation?

Answer:
 >I understand this is an at will relationship but I don't feel comfortable signing something that says they can fire me at any time with or without cause.

They already can. Just like you can quit at any time.


Title: (N.S, Canada) Friend received a ridiculous fine for a noise complaint

Question:
Last night I was at my friends place with 7 other guys and girls. We were having 'pre-drinks' before going down to the bar. It was really low-key, all we had was a tiny bose portable speaker turned like not even a quarter up, volume wise. His place is a two bedroom + den and there is another tenant in the building as well (big old house). We were all pretty much sitting as well, there was no stomping or jumping around that evening, once again, very tame. It's also worth mentioning we are all 22 years and above, my friend who received the fine is 26, most of us done schooling and out of the party hard phase. Anyways, someone who will remain unknown to us, for some reason thinks that this get together is too loud for only midnight on a Friday. The cops show up, the usual, my buddy goes out and talks to them, expecting a warning or the shindig to just get shut down. The cop slaps him with a $500 fine! Aside from that being a huge chunk of change for just a noise complaint/disturbance, you're telling me, I can anonymously call the cops, provide no evidence, that someone is being too loud in their home and it's disturbing me, and they get a $500 fine? So obviously he's going to wait to the court date and see if there is anything he can argue. We aren't some young, snotty kids who were having a rager, just a few older guys and girls chilling and having a few drinks. Any advice for the court appearance would be hugely appreciated, thanks.

TL;DR My buddy got slapped with a $500 fine for a noise complaint with only 8 people in his home and one tiny speaker playing low music at midnight on a Friday.

Edit: Well thank you to those who actually accepted my claims and offered advice. To those of you that claim to be adults, that never have friends over around the hours of midnight, and only posted here to refute my claims and argue I was in the wrong, maybe consider what subreddit you are on and see if you're actually offering help ever. I'm aware of the subjective nature of my post but I was not looking to have people offer me life lessons and knowledge on how 'the real world works'. Regardless of whether it was loud/quiet or the neighbors lied/told the truth, it's an expensive piece of paper to write someone when a person loses a half-hour of sleep and the guy who pays if off loses probably a few days of work worth of time.

Answer:
 > you're telling me, I can anonymously call the cops, provide no evidence, that someone is being too loud in their home and it's disturbing me, and they get a $500 fine?

Well, if the cops showed up while you guys were all there, there is evidence. They can report what they heard and apparently they thought they heard enough noise to warrant a fine.

And just an aside as a 30 year old who used to party: you're not past your hard partying days if you're still pregaming at midnight. If I was the other tenant in the house trying to sleep (because I'm boring now and that's what I do at midnight every night) I would have possibly called on you guys too.Answer #2: How loud do you think noise needs to be at midnight to be a nuisance?  People are trying to sleep.  The fact that you say it was "only" midnight makes me think you and your friends aren't quite as mature as you perceive yourself to be.Answer #3: You were obviously loud enough for someone to call the police, and you were loud enough for the police themselves to hear it and fine you. It's not up to you to gauge how *other people* react to your loud parties.


Title: Cop slammed the door on my knee, what can I do?

Question: [removed]

Answer: Well, on the bright side, at least you didn't get shot!


Title: I'm an exempt employee but forced to use PTO?

Question:
Hi all! I'm a salaried, exempt employee and have a few questions since a new department head took over and has made some changes.

The company defines a regular full-time employee as working 32 hours or more for benefits, and exempt meeting FLSA. A timesheet presentation indicated exempt employees needed to record 40 hours (five 8 hour days or 4 10 hour days), and time off counted only if gone a full day on our timesheets. It indicated paid holidays are 8 hours, and to adjust our week's schedule as necessary.

Well, I just received 2 conflicting emails. One stating that we are being changed to a "flexible 40-hours-as-required schedule." It says we are still exempt and may only claim 40 hours per work-week. They requested we put in our actual work schedule, so if I say Monday I work a 12 hour day and call in sick, I need to take 12 hours sick time. It also said be sure holidays are reflected only at 8 hours even if that conficts with our regular schedule for the day, and PTO would need to be taken -- but policy states no other time can be combined with holiday time -- so in this email they say get an approved schedule adjustment froma  supervisor on those weeks. Is that fair or legal? Why could I not just adjust my timesheet week to week to the accomodate me for times I know I'll be sick or want to take PTO?

But then I received another email stating because of 4th of July holiday, we need to adjust our schedules to include 8 hours of holiday time. Then during the week of July 16-20, the offices are closing early and we need to adjust our schedule again to 5, 8 hour days.

What is the point of me recording "office hours" if there are times I need to adjust the timesheet anyway? Can they force me to take PTO on a holiday, even if policy says no in the handbook? If all my work is completed as an exempt employee, can they force me to sit there to complete "40 hours as required," or take PTO when I leave early?

Answer:
 Just talk to your manager.

If you really have a question, please explain what you would like to do for the holiday week, what you are being told about your timesheet, and why this is a problem.

FWIW, "no other time can be combined with holiday time" probably means that on a holiday you charge the 8 hours of holiday time and nothing else.


Title: I was just blackmailed what should I do?

Question:
I was chatting on omegle with a woman I thought turns out it was a scammer.
We both were masturbating but he recorded me...

Anyway i never gave him my real name just a fake name and my skype  which also had a fake name but it was connected to my email. which was linked to faceook or something.

Now He is blackmailing me and recorded me and put the video on youtube and he will send it to all my fb friends.
I deleted  all my friends on facebook and deactived my account...

Answer: Contact the police.


Title: Bought a car - seller saying he didn't get paid and now wants to get the car back. (x-post /r/cars)

Question: Hello, 3 days ago I bought a Mercedes-Benz CLA from a guy with $29,000 via bank transfer. We went to a notary, I paid in front of the seller and notary the whole amount via Internet Banking, both agreed that everything was fine and all and I got the title and left with the car. Yesterday the guy is saying he didn't receive his money and now he wants to go to the police saying I stole his car, can he really do something like this? I paid and the notary was there, I am not really scared but I am annoyed that maybe I might need to go a few times to the police just because this guy is trying to pull off a scam.

Answer: Contact your bank for confirmation of the funds transfer. Don't fret over his threats.  The money is out of your account?


Title: Friend is leaving her home [TX] to get away from abusive family.

Question:
So, she is moving out of her parents house and cutting them off completely.  She is a legal adult at 22, but her parents still have a lot of control over her.  Her parents have access to some very good lawyers so she wants to make sure she does things right while causing as little trouble possible for those assisting her.  Her parents dont currently know her plan and she'd prefer they didnt until she was already gone to a place they would never find.  Here are the main issues I didn't know the answer to.

* She has some money saved up, but its in a shared account with her parents.  Is it as simple as just moving it to a new account the day she leaves, or would they be able to use that against her?

* What would be the easiest way to get her legal documents (birth cert, social security, ect?) They are currently stored in her parents safety deposit box.

Answer:
 She can absolutely take all of her money when she leaves. They can try to sue her for it, she should print statements showing where she deposited the money and how she obtained it. Just in case they try to sue.

If they are in the safety deposit box, that is going to be kinda tricky. She may be better off just obtaining her own copies of those documents.


Title: Think I might be due overtime.

Question: Not sure if this is where I should post this so sorry if I was in the wrong. So here goes, I live in Ohio and was looking at the labor laws posted after an argument with my boss. Off topic argument but still got me pissed off and thinking about things. After looking online the only reason I might see them being allowed is the  administrative worker exception. Would loading a trailer for a driver to take fall under that category? And what if I'm staying late to unload for the next shift? It's not more than an hour or two a night but a that adds up and b it's annoying watching the other shift dick off while we do their work. Please and thanks to any advice.

Answer:
 >Would loading a trailer for a driver to take fall under that category?

No.  Loading a truck does not qualify as a "matter of significance" and it also lacks the "independent discretion and judgment" part.  You're told to load a truck and you load it.  There is no discretion there.


Title: [WA] I'm getting married at an Airbnb and would like to write up a contract for both mine and the owners comfort. Do I see a contract lawyer for that or someone else?

Question:
I'm renting an Airbnb for my wedding next September, and the owner has a few rules he'd like us to follow. I'd like to get a contract written up so that he has what we agreed to on paper, and also so that I have on paper that he agrees to let us have the wedding there. I've already purchased 1 million dollars in wedding insurance. I can purchase additional insurance if necessary.

&#x200B;

Do I write up something in advance and have a lawyer look over it?
Or do I tell the lawyer what I want the contract to say and have them write it?
Do I get a contract lawyer?
Do I just Google "contract lawyer" and see who comes up?
Do I even need a lawyer?

Answer: If you want a contract that is enforceable, then you should involve an attorney. It will theoretically be cheaper to draft the agreement yourself and then have the attorney review it, but that's assuming you do a good job drafting it. You can call up a few contract attorneys to see what they charge hourly for drafting and reviewing. Personally, I do think for a wedding you will want to have a contract in writing just in case. However, you should review the AirBNB terms of service to be sure that everything you want to do is allowed by them.


Title: Family threatening to evict me if I don't drop charges against a family member - NYC

Question:
A family blood related member recently tried to take my life. The 911 call records him threatening to kill me while trying to break the door down tot he apartment we both live in together. A deadbolt lock and the NYPD saved me. He was arrested after they saw the damage,  arraigned on bail two days alter with a temp. restraining order. He comes right back to the house to sleep in the basement secretly and gets arrested for violating the restraining order. Family is enraged I called the police to begin with. I started paying rent for 1 room at moms request back in January. They're threatening to throw me out in retaliation for my actions which actually saved my life. I can't just up and relocate my life in one night. I have lived here for 38 years. What do I do?

Please advise.

Answer:
 you are not able, as an individual, to press or drop charges against anyone. that is solely up to the prosecutor.

if they want to evict you, they will need to follow the legal procedures to do so. they can't kick you out overnight or change the locks, that's illegal.Answer #2: You are a month to month tenant. They can easily and legally end your tenancy with proper written notice (assuming no rent control) which is one month's notice

Edit: [link](http://www.nolo.com/legal-encyclopedia/new-york-notice-requirements-terminate-month-month-tenancy.html)


Title: [WA] Keeping a body part after surgery?

Question:
This is a throwaway because my question may be a bit strange to people that know my Reddit username.

I am having a total hip replacement on Monday (in WA state), and I have asked my surgeon if I would be able to keep my hip bone. He told me that it was against Washington state law to keep removed body parts after a surgery?

Seeing as the hip bone is coming from my own body, I don't understand why I cannot. I could understand an organ or soft tissue because of the risk of infectious disease. Does a bone really carry that same risk?

I teach high school biology and my students thought it would be neat if I could bring it in after summer.

Any information or knowledge would be greatly appreciated!
Topic:
Healthcare Law including HIPAA

Answer:
 >Seeing as the hip bone is coming from my own body, I don't understand why I cannot.

It's considered medical waste. Yes, bones can carry risks.Answer #2: I work in pathology.

It really depends on the state laws but most will not allow it. You can have a funeral home bury it if you like but probably not take it home.

A couple of states allow it... I have worked in a couple that allows you to take the specimen 2 weeks after the case has been signed out (finalized) by pathology. They have to sign about 10 forms to show they know the risks involved taking it home and won't hold the hospital responsible if anything happens once it leaves the department.

A LOT of people want their gallstones back. And medical hardware.

What you can DEFINITELY have done is have them take video and/or plenty of photos during the surgery and have pathology take photos of the specimen once it is removed from you.

Also, pathology will be cutting it up into smaller pieces to take sections for microscopic slides. It is much less interesting and holds very little (if any) resemblance of the anatomical figure of the bone.


Title: WI- Neighbor accusing me of damaging his car w/ fireworks.

Question: Hi all,  I recently received a notice from an insurance company stating that I caused body damage to my neighbor's vehicle with fireworks.  His wife claims to have seen me lighting them too closely to her vehicle.  Though I was lighting fireworks, I was not the only person lighting them in the area.  The fireworks I had lit were small fountain style fireworks, barely capable of exceeding 10' in height.  I have a photo of myself standing between the fireworks and the neighbors vehicle, seemingly at a safe distance.  Should I dispute this? What type of proof will they need to deem me responsible?

Answer:
 Have they demanded you pay or was it just notice that they are investigating the claim and would like your cooperation?

- If they demand you ignore.(edit: or tell them to pound sand your choice)
- if they investigate, ignore too. Either they find no evidence to support the claim or they do. At this point in time anything you say can only damage you. Insurance investigators are not the cops and have no authority over you, if they start to harass you call the police.
- If you are served, get a lawyer and show up.


Title: Car wash thinks they aren't liable for destroying my side mirror.

Question:
My SO took my car in on Wednesday to clean it out and get it washed. My car went into the automated car wash fine but came out with the driver side mirror dangling. The car wash ripped and twisted the metal holding the mirror to the car. Honda quoted me at around $500 for parts and labor.

I spoke with someone at the corporate office who claimed to be the corporate manager and that there was no one higher up than him that I could speak with. He claims that because there is a sign saying they are not liable for damage done to vehicles that are 7 years old and older, that I need to use my insurance and pay my deductible. I drive an 06 Honda.

I told him that wasn't good enough. I was offered free car washes for the value of the damage done. I turned that down.

This is very upsetting because I am having a baby anytime between now and three weeks from now. My hospital is 30 minutes away and I do not feel my car is safe to drive that distance. My SOs car was given to him by my grandmother before she passed. This car is 21 years old and has no AC. I also don't feel like it's safe and I'm terrified of my newborn being in that hot car for our 30 minute drive back home when August in Texas is absolutely brutal.

How do I get this started?

Answer:
 >He claims that because there is a sign saying they are not liable for damage done to vehicles that are 7 years old and older, that I need to use my insurance and pay my deductible.

Is he correct? There's a reason that sign is there, and your SO didn't heed the advice.

I don't see much in the way of recourse. They warned you.


Title: Start my own collection agency to collect a debt?

Question: My car was destroyed in NH (I'm from MA) by a drunk driver with a blood alcohol level of 0.24 at the time of the incident. He was uninsured at the time of the incident which has left me out my $500 car insurance deductible. The debt collections agency handling my case/subrogating for my insurance company is completely incompetent. I dug up more information about this guy from an hour of google searching than they have in three months and I'm getting to the end of my rope. I've confirmed the guy's address and phone number, meanwhile they had the wrong address and no phone number. I just this situation to be over so I can move on with my life and I don't have faith this incompetent agency will come through. Can I set up my own collections agency, collect the debt, then just not debt collect from anyone else? I realize there is licensing involved and what not, but is this legally an option?

Answer: No... Sue the guy in small claims and legally garnish wages if you can


Title: My father had a full-on stroke after he had a mini stroke (TIA) that went undiagnosed. Can we take legal action?

Question:
The day after Thanksgiving my father had what was a transient ischemic attack (mini stroke). He felt dizzy and wouldn't speak for about 15 minutes. He went to the emergency room. He felt fine by this point. They gave him a ct scan or mri. Can't timber which. But they didn't draw blood. Doctor told him it was just the effects of him drinking the previous night and to stop drinking.

Four days later he had a full on stroke. The doctor this time (a different doctor) said the previous incident looked like a mini stroke that went undiagnosed.

He's regained his ability to speak since them but he will be off work for a few months. Can we sue for malpractice?

Answer:
 Medical malpractice is very fact specific and it is unfortunately beyond the scope of this subreddit. It is highly recommended to speak with a medical malpractice attorney; your state's bar may be able to refer you to one. They typically work on contingency, meaning there is little up front cost to you. Similarly, consultations are typically free. It wouldn't hurt to meet with one, have them look over your info, and go from there.

*I am a bot, and this action was performed automatically. Please [contact the moderators of this subreddit](/message/compose/?to=/r/legaladvice) if you have any questions or concerns.*


Title: Caught Shoplifting at Sephora. How do I deal with the Civil Demand? (California)

Question:
Hello,

I was recently caught shoplifting in a CA Sephora for an amount less than $130. The LP Officer told me I was banned from the store (I signed a Trespassing Form) for life. She informed me a fine would be sent to my house in about 3 weeks time, and it would range anywhere from the amount I stole, to a max of $750. The items I attempted to steal were all recovered. She took a picture of my CA License and my face. No police were involved, but she said she would look up on "Records" to see if I had ever got caught stealing before. I have not. She said if I were lying, I would go to jail.

The fine is something called a Civil Demand; the state/police are not involved. It's essentially a private issue between Sephora, their lawyers, and myself. I researched the Civil Demand, and found it is not legally mandatory I pay this fine, since there would need to be a judgment in a court of law finding me guilty. The LP Officer informed me if I didn't pay this, I would go to jail, but I believe this is just an intimidation tactic. I am hesitant to pay the fine upfront because (1) this does not prevent Sephora from filing charges with the police/DA's office and eventually bringing me to court, where I would have to pay higher fines, and (2) if they did choose to bring this to court, they would already have an admission of guilt because I paid the fine.

I'm reading all this online advice with a lot of caution and wariness, knowing a lot is probably misinformed advice. Most posts are how big corporations have law offices (Sephora's law office is located in FL) who send hundreds of thousands of letters and make their money off shoplifters who pay the Civil Demand right away, and the amount of people who pay these Civil Demands make up the cost of all shoplifters, even those who ignore the fine. Importantly, it is allegedly much more cost effective for Sephora to let some shoplifters pay the Civil Demand, some shoplifters ignore it, than bring even a handful of shoplifting cases to court because of the cost of lawyers, paying Sephora employees as witnesses, etc. In other words, it's much more cost effective to pay lawyers to send out basically the same letter to thousands of people, than actually have lawyers show up in court in California multiple times for a shoplifting case where they essentially recovered all items.

Questions I have:

(1) Will paying the Civil Demand significantly reduce the probability that Sephora presses charges with the DA's office on me? Will this "appease" Sephora, or will it just make it easier for them to find me guilty in a court of law?

(2) How often does Sephora press charges against shoplifitng cases in which they regained all the stolen item immediately (no damage), and essentially did not lose any money?

(3) If I ignore the Civil Demands (I hear they keep increasing the fine, if you don't pay right away), about how long should I expect to see a Civil Suit for a court date, meaning Sephora has decided to press charges? In other words, how long do companies usually wait until filing suit after the shoplifting incident? I've definitely learned my lesson, and I'd rather not live the next year of life in fear, anxious every time I check my mailbox.

(4) Is it beneficial to me, the shoplifter, that the police were not called at the time of the incident? Could this help me later on in court?

(5) If I do go to court, is there a good chance I could get a dismissal if I agree to a diversion program?

I would like responses to people who have been caught shoplifting (in Sephora, or any other large business), have dealt with Civil Demands, have been to court for shoplifting, or any lawyers who have represented clients in similar situations. Thank you so so so much.

I immensely regret my decision to shopllift. I know now it was only a matter of time before I got caught, and in a way, I'm grateful I finally learned my lesson, even if it had to be the hard way. If it wasn't at Sephora, it'd be somewhere else. I am very ashamed of my actions, and recognize how selfish it was for me to believe I could just take items that other people work very hard and save up for. Makeup is not a necessity, it's a luxury or a hobby. I didn't need any of these things, and I don't deserve to have them if I didn't work hard enough to pay for them. I am truly sorry to everyone, because I now know shoplifters aren't just hurting big corporations like Sephora, but the regular consumers as well.

TLDR:: Caught shoplifting $130 at Sephora in CA. I regret it, and will never attempt it again. Should I pay the Civil Demand? If yes or no, how will this affect future a Civil Suit? Please share any relevant experience.

Answer:
 > How do I deal with the Civil Demand?

You choose to either pay it or refuse and risk being sued for a lot more later.

No one here can guess how likely it is that they will choose to sue you.

Also, the store has at least six months to charge you with the crime of shoplifting.  If you fail to pay the civil demand, they *could* (but might not) contact the police and report the crime.Answer #2: They are never going to go on record saying they will not go to the police if you pay because the implied threat is that if you don't pay they will go to the police and that's called extortion. That's not to say they can't file a civil lawsuit however.


Title: [Illinois] I'm terminating a lease, can the other tenants be charged for an additional security deposit?

Question:
So I'm in the process of terminating a lease agreement for a house of six tenants. The lease begins in June, so we have yet to begin paying rent, and I decided to leave for personal reasons. While I recognize that, by terminating my lease agreement, I will be forfeiting my security deposit of $333, the landlord is currently stating that if a replacement tenant is not found, the remaining tenants will have to pay a total of $333 for the security deposit that has been "lost" due to me leaving. Below I'll post any relevant information on security deposits and exit clauses in my lease agreement:

"Security Deposit: Landlord acknowledges receipt of payment of $2,000.00 to be held as a Security Deposit, to be held without interest. Tenant further agrees that no portion of the sum deposited by virtue of this item shall be used by tenant as rent. Tenant has deposited with the Landlord the Security Deposit stated herein for the performance of all covenants and agreements herein. Landlord may apply all or any portion thereof in payment of any amounts due Landlord from Tenant, and upon Landlord's demand Tenant shall promptly deposit with Landlord such additional amounts as may be required to bring the Security Deposit up to the full amount stated above Security Deposit will be refunded to Tenant less any amount spent repairing, cleaning, or restoring the premise to the condition existing at the beginning of tenancy, normal wear and tear accepted. Since water and sewer bills create liens on the premises, Tenants agree to present a receipt for payment of the final water/sewer bill before requesting return of said Security Deposit. Furthermore, it is the Tenant's responsibility to provide Landlord in writing of a single forwarding address where refunds owed, if any, can be forwarded."

"The unauthorized termination of said lease by Tenant will result in forfeiture of entire Security Deposit."

So my question is basically, can he legally declare that the security deposit I made is both nonrefundable and detracts from the total security deposit value of $2,000 in order to make the current tenants pay for the deposit of a nonexistent sixth tenant? It seems to me (and a friend) that, while the agreement states that the deposit is forfeit, the forfeiture doesn't detract from the total funds he's received from security deposits. Thank you for your time!
Topic:
Landlord Tenant Housing

Answer:
 It's a $2000 security deposit, not 6 $333 security deposits. The tenants on the lease have not left, because you 6 are all in this together, and the six of you have not terminated the lease. Good news for your roommates. Bad news for you, because you are still responsible for 1/6 of the rent until the lease is up. If you don't pay, the other 5 can sue you for it.

Or, the landlord charges an extra $333 deposit, and you happily pay it in order not to have to pay your share of a year of rent.


Title: I need a lawyer, but no one is calling me back or taking my case; what do I do?

Question:
I currently have three open misdemeanor/traffic cases. One case is set for trial where I am representing myself pro se (even though I requested an attorney), and the other two I keep showing up to court telling the judge I am trying to find an attorney, but can’t. Then the judge schedules another appearance about a month out, and I continue to come back with the same result. In these two cases, there have been no plea offers made to me. I have only said I am not guilty.

I applied to the state to be appointed an attorney in March, and was declined. I am a veteran, stay-at-home dad, and student. My income comes from the VA alone. I was told they wanted me to include that income, but that it would not count against the income threshold for representation.

So I was given a list for the Colorado Criminal Defense Bar attorneys who do pro bono or sliding scale work. First of all, the attorneys on that list that I have talked to are not agreeing to work pro bono or on a sliding scale. And the ones who ask for the documentation I have to consider, never call me back or send me a letter saying they can’t take my case.

I’m at a loss of what to do, I am facing jail time, can’t afford an attorney, and on top of all that I’m Autistic which is basically the reason these cases became anything at all (I am not polite to authority figures if I feel trapped or in danger).

Can anyone help me figure out what to do?
Topic:
Criminal Law

Answer:
 You’ll get more help if you state what you’re being charged with. Not many traffic violations come with jail time.

I understand that autism has had an impact in your life, but you should understand that your diagnosis is not why you’re facing these charges. Charges are being brought because the state thinks they can prove you committed a crime/violation, not because you were mean to police officers, and not because you’re on the spectrum.

CLS @ http://coloradolegalservices.org/ may be able to help you find representation at a lower cost. You’re going to want to contact the prosecutor if you’re looking for a plea deal.

^(edited contract to contact)


Title: Seller of our house lied on disclosure forms

Question:
My fiance and I purchased a house in Western Pennsylvania at the end of January. It is a pretty nice house for the most part, and I was super excited that it had a little closet in the basement that would be great for fermenting beer. Or so I thought.

One of the big things we looked for was water issues/damage. It was clearly stated in the disclosure forms that there were no known issues of water in the basement, or anywhere else, for that matter. The home inspector we hired also said that he didn't think there were any current water issues, despite the paint on the floor of the basement coming up pretty badly. He chalked it up to it being a 'high\-traffic area' (it leads from the bottom of the stairs to the washer/dryer). But things sound and look okay when we do a walk\-through, so we buy the house and start moving in in February. Mostly just cardboard boxes and plastic tubs, nothing big yet because we want to do a deep clean and stuff before we move in, and I have plans to paint most of the rooms. So these boxes and tubs are sitting in the basement.

I am painting one day before work and finish a room, so I go to put the electrical outlet covers back on. Can't find the screwdriver upstairs, so I figure fiance took it to the basement for something. Go to the basement and find a giant puddle of water on the floor. I mean this thing covered almost a third of the floorspace and was an inch deep in the middle. By some miracle, it only reached and soaked one of my cardboard boxes, but it happened to be a box with photos in it, mostly from when I traveled abroad at the age of 12.

But back to the puddle, it's huge. It's coming from the corner where the water heater is, but doesn't appear to be coming from that. It also somehow went right past a drain hole in the floor. The prior owners lived there for AT LEAST TEN YEARS. And they mean to tell me that nothing like that EVER happened to them? There is NO WAY.

So fiance gets a second opinion from a guy who deals with water issues in basements, and he starts pointing out all these issues that the home inspector we hired somehow missed. That water is basically leaking through the cinderblock walls, and there was an attempt to remedy this with those little pipes at the base of the wall, and it looks like the wall was recently painted in an attempt to cover this up, but the paint is flaking off already, etc, etc. And that beer closet I was so psyched about? It sometimes leaks like a sieve during heavy rain. The guy my fiance contacted for a second opinion says his company sees this all the time, and the best long\-term solution would be about $15,000.

We don't have that kind of extra money, nor do we think we should be responsible for it since the seller of the house stated that there were no known water issues and we wouldn't have even bought the house had we known. But we also do not have the $5,000 it would cost up front to hire a good lawyer that specializes in this type of issue. Is there anything we can do?

**TL;DR:** Seller of our house lied about water issues in the basement. Can't afford to hire a lawyer or do the required remodeling. What do we do?

Answer:
 The hardest part is to figure out if the previous owners knew. Yes all signs point to they but it could still be a he said she said thing. One thing that might help would be to keep calling a few contractors in the area to see if they ever were asked to come out to the property within the last few years. You could get lucky and one could have and this would point to the direction of the previous owners knowing of the issue.

Other options is a lawyer and you already stated it would be hard to go this route, but maybe one will take your case on a payment plan or something else you work out with them.


Title: Desperate plea for advice from Mom n Pop store screwed over by contractor

Question:
Hi /r/legaladvice

So sorry for the long post.  I’ve been losing sleep and my sanity for months now from the stress of this situation and I’m worried that going to a lawyer and filing a lawsuit might be way worse than nothing at all (if possible).  So I wanted to ask your advice before I go ahead and contact lawyers to begin a (presumably) long , expensive and arduous process…

I own a company (really it’s more of a mom-n-pop store but registered as an LLC) that buys used auto parts from wrecks, craigslist, junkyards and people that walk into our store.  Occasionally we come across new sealed, new-in-box items as well.  We repair the components and then sell them on eBay.  We are very good at obtaining inventory, repairing them and have a great rapport with our customers.  However, the process of photographing every item (from 10 angles), posting items online, answering online customer questions, packaging & shipping items (including ordering boxes, envelopes, bubble wrap, tape, etc), fraud/scammers, hiring employees for the online stuff/photography/shipping and handling returns became too much for our small store.

My business partner and I signed a 6-month contract with a 3rd party “fulfillment center” that said they would handle everything for us.  Essentially, we’d obtain and repair the items.  We put every item on a spreadsheet: name, description, category, condition and the price we wanted them to sell our goods for.  Every month, we would ship them pallets of goods (500-1000 items).  They agreed to photograph the items, post them online and handle customer support/returns.

The biggest reason we signed with them was because they promised us they could vastly increase our selling abilities.  Instead of simply selling on ebay.com (i.e. the American eBay), they would post to dozens of international sites (ebay.co.uk, etc), Amazon, Jet.com, Wal-Mart, etc.

Additionally, they also agreed to make us a website of our own to sell the goods.  The plan was, for example, to have them post a set of windshield wipers onto both eBay/Amazon/Craigslist as well as our online store.  We preferred if it sold on our online store because we’d be able to bypass eBay’s 7-9% fees.

The terms of the deal was that we would pay them a fee for each item processed and $5,000 to make our website.  Additionally, no matter how little we sold, we were required to pay a minimum of $5,000/month in fees (for reference, we wound up generating between $0-$3,500 in fees over the course of our contract yet still paid them $5,000/month).  We didn’t like paying $5,000 for $0-$3,500 in sales fees, but that was what we agreed upon (i.e. not the complaint I have here).  We also agreed to pay “storage fees.”  In other words – if we sent an item to them on January 1st, if it didn’t sell by February 1st they would charge us a $0.50 “storage fee” for every month it sat on their shelves.

We signed on with them in April 2016 and they received our first shipment to their warehouse a week later.  They told us before we signed that they would not post any items online for the first 2-3 months because they would be developing a robust system to quickly put our items online after this initial “ramping up period.”  In other words, for the first 3 months of our 6-month contract, we paid $15,000 and got zero revenue during the ramping-up phase.

Due to the zero revenue at the time, we took out $150,000 in bank loans at around 6% interest in April so that we could continue to purchase goods, pay our employees and keep the lights on.   We continued to purchase excellent goods -we got them cheap enough that we could afford to sell them as the “cheapest” on eBay and still turn a nice profit when the fulfillment center finally got to “full speed” sometime in the beginning of the summer 2016.

It took 3 months – the end of June 2016 for our first items to be placed online.  There were several problems here.  For the record, we (our company and the fulfillment center) live in a “1 party state” so it’s totally legal for us to have recorded these conversations without telling them.

1)	Our items were placed online at a snail’s pace.  As an independent Mom-n-Pop shop, we used to be able to post between 20-30 items a day online (i.e. photograph them at multiple angles, create a description and title, upload them to eBay, etc).  The fulfillment center, on the other hand, took over 5 months to completely post our initial shipment of 400 items (for an average of 2.7 items a day!).  The speed at which they posted items never increased over the course of the contract, giving us doubt that they actually developed a robust inventory posting system for $15,000.  Evidence: Sales Reports which included # of items posted online per month + sales Reports which included # of items posted online per month.
2)	As they were so slow to post our items online, our $0.50 “storage fees” piled up greatly.  Source: bills from fulfillment center + sales Reports which included # of items posted online per month.
3)	Our items were only on eBay.com (the American website).  We never got the “international selling ability” we were promised.  Evidence: Contract clearly listing how we will be paid from places such as “Amazon Marketplace” yet sales reports showing 0 items sold or listed on Amazon over the course of 6 months.
4)	As a matter of quality control, we wanted to review the eBay listings.  We wanted to check the pictures, look for typos, etc but they would not tell us which eBay username they were using to post our items.   We finally tracked them down by searching on eBay for items sold from (fulfillment center’s city).
5)	This one is insane. In June 2016, we noticed that our sales were lower than we expected (which they attributed to this slow ramping-up process).  However – it turns out our slow sales were due to something else as well.  Once we tracked down their eBay username and saw our eBay listings, we were shocked to see that our prices were all 10% higher than we the price we gave them to sell at!  For example, a $100 tool was being listed for $110.  When we asked why, the fulfillment center said that they “added 10% to the price to donate 10% to charity.”  Are you serious?!?!?!?  They took it upon themselves to change our prices!!!   When we confronted them about it, we demanded they take it off.  They claimed it would “take a week” to fix it.  Over 2 months later, in September 2016, we were livid to find items still online with charity donations – they DENIED these existed until we sent them an email with charity listings.  Finally, 3 months after we first discovered them, they were taken away. Evidence: recorded phone calls, emails.
6)	We also have no evidence that the “10%” money was donated at all.  For all we know, they added 10% to the price and kept it for themselves.
7)	Again regarding the charity listings, they said that they donated this 10% to charity.  I asked them if they were getting a tax deduction for these donations and they said yes.  I asked if, at the very least, we could also split the donation (i.e. from the $10 donation from $100 items, we each give $5 so each group gets a $5 tax deduction).  Fulfillment Center said no.  These donations were never discussed beforehand and obviously we didn’t specifically put “don’t add 10% to our costs to donate to charity without telling us” in our contract.
8)	Our sales revenue was horrible… and then got even worse.  When we initially complained about this in June (when items finally started coming online), they promised us that the slow initial sales were part of this ramping-up period and we needed to be patient.  As evidence, they pointed to the $0 of sales in March, April and May followed by small sales in June and larger sales in July.  However, our sales in August, September and October were all lower than July.  In fact, July’s sales were more than what we sold in August and September.
9)	Starting in June, when we began to investigate why our items were not being listed on Amazon, we were continually told that the fulfillment center was “waiting for approval from Amazon, Wal-Mart and international eBay” and this should be ready next week.  Every week it was always “next week.”  We never made it to any of these sites.  When we complained, they told us that they sold $50 worth of goods on a website we never heard of to customers New Zealand (as if this was as good as Amazon and Wal-Mart).  Evidence: Emails and recorded phone call conversations.
10)	When we similarly complained about why we were not on Jet.com, they told us that Jet.com only works with new items (unlike ebay or amazon where you can sell used goods).  This was puzzling to us because we told them from the get-go that we are a used auto parts store.  Secondly, we told them “fine, don’t post the used tools, but please post the 10% of our items that are new onto Jet.com.”  We were always told “ok sure” yet this was never done.  Source:  Emails and recorded phone calls.
11)	It was excruciating getting payment from them.  They do not return phone calls or emails for days.  Evidence: We eventually started video recording us trying to call them over and over, recording us leaving voicemails yet we didn’t hear from them for days (if at all).  We would have to hound them for payment despite them agreeing to pay us twice a month.  They would eventually hand-write us checks for amounts like “$10,000” or “$25,000” even despite the fact that the sales reports showed otherwise (example: $57,382 in July 2016).  Obviously there is no way that our sales, minus their fees, were perfectly even amounts.
12)	About 4-5 months into the 6 month contract, we contacted them in order to renew with them.  My business partner and I figured we were in too deep to leave now (as the “ramping up” part was over and we’d have to do that with another center).  We told them that we were very disappointed with their slow posting of items online.  They told us that for $5,000 they would develop a system to improve this.  We immediately countered with questions such as “If you’re trying to sell us a new system, then what were the 3 months and $15,000 of development for?”  They quickly backed off and said they would develop this for free if we re-signed with them.  Again, we asked then why we should have to pay this when it was supposed to be developed in June, they didn’t have an answer.  Source: Recorded phone calls.
13)	 In September 2016, we recorded a call to the CEO and COO of the fulfillment center.  We had sent them 800 items in mid-August.  By the beginning of September, not a single item had been posted.  By mid-October, only 200 of the 800 items had been posted.  In a phone call, we asked their CEO and COO straight up to judge how well they thought they were doing.  The CEO said they were doing “fantastic” work (he’s a piece of work) but the COO admitted that they were not so good.  She explained that they were slow to post items because they had some flood or power outage (or something) in their fulfillment center and that it was their fault.  When we complained and said that we therefore shouldn’t be liable for the $5,000 fee for September, the CEO said “nope” and demanded the fee, which we paid.  Evidence: the entire 90-minute phone call was recorded.
14)	We never got regular sales reports.  We received reports from 3 weeks in July, 2 weeks in August, 2 weeks in September and none afterwards.  Strangely, they did send us May’s sales report (which was $0).  I would love to tell you how we did in October or a the weeks in mid-July but we have no records despite repeated requests for this.  Every phone call or email about this was answered with “I’ll send those right over.”  Evidence: emails requesting this and recorded phone calls and missing sales reports.
15)	 If there was a typo or mistake on an ebay listing, they did not correct these for weeks.  Typos and other errors dramatically reduce the number of sales we can make.  Source: emails and phone calls complaining of this correlated with when the listings were changed.
16)	 As I stated before, we tried to renew our contract with them in September.  Our contract ended on October 1st.  We knew we wanted a WAY better contract with them (for example, no $5,000 minimum fees, etc).  We tussled back and forth and finally came to an agreement for a much-reduced minimum monthly fee.  So at the end of October, they sent us a contract.  We went sent our changes to them and they sent us a version 1.1 of the contract.  The tried to add a few extra things in there which we caught so we sent them back another revision.  We waited and waited for this to come back, but it never did.  November and December passed without a contract.  Despite our contract ending in October, they continued to sell our items.
17)	 Finally, in January 2017 we decided we had been treated too poorly to renew with them.  We sent them a letter via signature-USPS on January 2nd demanding 4 things:  A) An immediate cessation of selling our items.  B) All revenue owed us since October (we had not been sent a check in over 3 months despite them continuing to sell our goods… out of contract) C) All sales reports from April through January and D) an immediate return of all of our goods (we offered to bring a truck to their warehouse to pick the items up).  We gave them a very reasonable 45 days to comply.  They received the letter on January 4th (Source: USPS tracking) and replied on January 27th that they “estimate it will take 30-60 days to respond to this.”  Not 30-60 days to comply.  Not 45 days as we asked – but 30-60 days to simply reply to us!

So it’s now March 2017.  We have been out of contract for 6 months, we haven’t received a single check in 6 months, no word from them in over 4 weeks, they have tons of our items (items that lose value as time goes by) and we have $150,000 in debt.

I am at my wit’s end and I’m not sure what to do.  I thank anyone who actually took the time to read this “manifesto” and beg for your advice.

tl;dr: Mom & Pop used auto parts store got screwed by a fulfillment center, they are holding our items without consent, have basically ruined our business and driving us into serious, serious debt.  They screwed us so bad we don’t know if we can afford to pursue a lawsuit.

edit - Thanks for the replies so far!  I will contact a lawyer today!  My final question is this: My store is in Illinois while the fulfillment center is in New Jersey: in which state should I contact a lawyer?  Does it matter since it's interstate?

Answer: This is a very large amount of money. You absolutely need an attorney asap.


Title: [UK] A whale has washed up nearby and I want a tooth.

Question:
I'm not planning on selling it, trading it or otherwise profiting from it. SSPCA, DEFRA, UKCG all know it's there, scientific samples have already been taken. I live in a small, relatively isolated village and the coastguard plan on leaving it for nature to deal with.

EDIT - Feel free to register any moral objections as well, I'm not 100% myself.

Answer:
 Not a solicitor, but this is so interesting I'm going to post it without sources and hope someone can confirm what I've written:

I believe that whales are "royal fish" and when they wash up on British shores, they automatically belong to the monarch. You must therefore offer the tooth to the queen and can keep it if she declines your offer. A couple of years ago someone was prosecuted for selling a royal fish without first offering it to the queen, I think, but don't quote me on that.


Title: [Greater Toronto Area, Ontario] Sister is constantly emotionally and verbally abusive towards parents. Recently threatened to take their stuff and throw it out. Is there any way I can do anything?

Question:
My sister is 26 years old and living with me, 20 and my parents, 65 and 66. She, for the last four or five years has been verbally and emotionally abusive to my parents. She expects lunch and dinner to always be made for her, the lock to the house unlocked when she comes home from her job, and has taken no responsibilities in the house (i.e dishwashing or vacuuming).

My mother is a full time teacher with arthritis in her knees and my father is unemployed with many health problems, one of which is a very bad back. I am unemployed but full time in college and working a co-op placement for 7 (9 with travel) hours 3 days a week.

On one occasion, she broke something of my parents to prove that they did not need it in one of her angry fits. She has one of these angry fits at least once a month, where she verbally castigates my parents and often myself, telling them they never do anything and are stupid.

Generally, these fits are brought on by the amount of stuff in the house, which I admit is way, way, way, too much stuff. My parents are to an extent hoarders, and have trouble getting rid of stuff. This problem was exacerbated by moving to a smaller house, which, to be fair to them, they did get rid of at least 30 boxes, but our basement is still to the rafters. These fits have also been brought on by asking to pay rent, why my father doesn't get a job, and things not being done for her.

This morning, after blasting music through the night while emptying my parents book boxes onto a bookshelf, she revealed that she had taken some books and taken them to goodwill, and thrown some unknown miscellaneous papers in the garbage at the mall. She is now going to breakfast and expects the books that did not fit on the shelf to be looked through and out of sight before she gets back, or she will throw them on the curb/take them to goodwill.

Is there anything I can do legally to stop her not just now, but in the future? I have an 11 minute video of part of her rant today where she mentions throwing the stuff out as evidence, i guess.

Answer:
 Who is on the lease/mortgage? If this your parents house, they can give her notice to end her tenancy and kick her out. If this is her house, your parents can move out.  If she throws out thier items she can sue for the value of those items. If these items have no monetary value, however, they wont be able to get any recompense from a civil suit.  If she hurts or threatens to hurt someone, call the police.

Ultimately, this doesn't sound like your problem. You can move out. If she throws your stuff out, you can sue her.


Title: Me Wife's job is committing insurance fraud (TX)

Question: [deleted]

Answer: I'd suggest that, first thing Monday morning she lawyer's up and contacts the county's States Attorney's office.  They've already let management know. They need to be ahead of whatever retaliatory or cover up action the place does.


Title: NYC- medical malpractice- family member almost died, mistakes were made by ER staff. What can I do? Where can I go? What are my options? Can someone recommend an attorney?

Question: [deleted]

Answer:
 Medical malpractice is very fact specific and it is unfortunately beyond the scope of this subreddit. It is highly recommended to speak with a medical malpractice attorney; your state's bar may be able to refer you to one. They typically work on contingency, meaning there is little up front cost to you. Similarly, consultations are typically free. It wouldn't hurt to meet with one, have them look over your info, and go from there.

*I am a bot, and this action was performed automatically. Please [contact the moderators of this subreddit](/message/compose/?to=/r/legaladvice) if you have any questions or concerns.*


Title: Small business owner facing third injury claim (second fake claim)

Question:
My friend runs a small bakery business in NY. He was recently dropped from his insurance when someone had a slip and fall accident.

He got a new insurance company but was dropped by them once someone claimed a slip and fall injury, even though it was fake and got dismissed.

He's had a hard time getting a third insurance company to sign him up, and now Some lawyer has sent him a letter claiming his client had a slip and fall injury. The letter says they're willing to settle for a small amount, under $1,000, which seems suspiciously low if it was real. It's low enough that the store owner is considering sending the check to make the lawyer go away so he doesn't get dropped by his insurance again or have his premiums increase.

What's the best course of action?  Should he go through the insurance company?  If he does pay off the lawyer, how does he draft a letter to ensure the person who cashes it doesn't claim damages later?

Answer:
 He should speak to his own lawyer for advice.

If he's being a target of slip and fall scams, he should know what legal protections he has.


Title: My personal emails have been released as part of a discovery packet (GA)

Question:
My ex-boyfriend was arrested two months ago. We broke up immediately because of what he was accused of and my unwillingness to be associated with it. Yesterday, he called me and told me that private emails we exchanged were included in the discovery packet his attorney showed him.

In these emails, I talked about a controversial medical procedure I had- information that was never intended to be public. I also mentioned something that could be connected to his crime, but it wasn't.

I have not been called as a witness, and I am assuming since the case has already passed the discovery phase, I won't be. But my emails are now public and like I said, my procedure was controversial. I was incredibly upset by it. And now my entire family may find out.

If I called the DA or prosecutor or anybody... could I have that information redacted? I'm sorry if this is a stupid question, but I am at a loss.

Answer: You still could be called, but there's no privacy issue in the emails. You can talk to an attorney about filing a motion to have all of it sealed, and that's your best bet, but they are HIS emails too and if part of the evidence...


Title: Got rearended by friend and thought it was no issue but after getting it checked out, I have a problem.

Question:
(GA)
On the Friday of May 15th in my school parking lot, my friend rearended me while waving at a girl. A mutual friend of ours was in his car and saw the whole thing. After being hit, I pulled into a parking spot and he did the same. When I got out and asked him what happened he just responded, "I have no idea." Since I am not knowledgeable in cars at all, I thought nothing of the space that was created between the right side of my bumper and the headlight. So, I told him since it doesn't look like anything huge, it's fine but I would call him if something occured.

Fast forward a week or so and my mom sees my bumper. She asks me what happened. After a couple minutes of arguing I come clean and she makes me go to the auto repair shop to get an estimate immediately. Turns out my impact bar on the right side was smashed and the estimate came out to be around $1000. I called my friend for his insurance information. His parents are divorced so he has his mom contact my parents. They say that since his dad is a mechanic, we could go to him instead so we decide to do so. My dad tries to contact him with no avail. I keep telling my friend that his dad needs to call mine back and finally he does. My friend's dad starts getting pissed at my dad and arguments start. They decide just to let the insurance company handle it. After a couple more days of no answer from his dad about the insurance information, he finally calls back again and begins to blame my family for the accident. My friend has now decided to avoid the situation all together.
Reddit what should I do?

Answer: File an accident report and contact your own insurance.


Title: [WA] Fired due to absence because of work injury, should I attempt to claim unemployment benefits?

Question:
I was injured while working, was sent to ER, diagnosed with lumbar strain and severe sciatica pain.
I was released to modified duty the following week. I was late one day because I woke up in immense pain. I was absent one day because I was sick the night before, and had a bad reaction to pain meds the next morning. Was dizzy and couldn’t drive to work.

I was released to a full duty trial to try to work through the pain. During that week, I was called in because I exceeded the allowed absences for my job. I was told I was able to fill out time adjustment forms and use my protected sick leave to cover the absences. A few days later I was called in and told I couldn’t use the PTO anymore because I was a new hire. My 90 days was just a week away. They terminated me.

My reason for termination is ultimately attendance issues, but is it considered misconduct? Should I attempt to claim unemployment to help get through the next few weeks before I return to school?
Topic:
Employment Law

Answer: Workers comp lawyer? That’s what I would do.


Title: [New York] How can I increase my chances of getting accepted onto a jury?

Question:
I have jury duty and would really like to see the process up close and personal. I am lucky enough to have an employer who can pay for a few weeks of potential jury duty, so it would not cost me financially (on average, assuming).

But I've heard that people are dismissed for random reasons. How can I help ensure I get picked? I have a few concerns:

1. I have a degree from an Ivy and a job in finance/CS. Will this hurt my chances? Am I obligated to share this?

2. I have a sibling who is always in and out of jail. Will this hurt my chances? Am I obligated to share this?

3. I have a father who got himself killed driving while intoxicated. Will this hurt my chances? Am I obligated to share this?

4. I am aware of jury nullification (in short: Voting how you want even if the evidence obviously suggests a different verdict). Will this hurt my chances? Am I obligated to share this?

Answer: You can't. Jury selection depends on the case and the attorneys. All you can do is be honest. You are obligated to answer questions honestly. Answer #2: If you are asked specifically about any of those topics, you should answer truthfully. You don't need to just randomly bring up any of those topics.


Title: New roommate has more or less moved her entire family into our apartment. Landlord kicks them out they come right back, police are called new roommate claims they are just visiting. Police aren't being helpful.

Question:
Hi, my boyfriend recommended me to post this here as i wasn't able to get any help from the Landlord Tenant Board. I am in Ontario, Canada, and currently am on a year long lease.

Me and two friends signed a lease for an apartment, back in September. In February one of our friends decided to drop out of University and overnight moved back home. We ended up being forced to find a random, we ended up finding someone who i will call CB to sign on to our lease. CB moved in at the end of March.

CB's family has basically monopolized our apartment, she is renting a single room. Yet her family has been here almost every single day, taking over the entire apartment. A week after she moved in her teenage? brother also moved in with her family.

Our landlord has ordered them to leave several times, sometimes they have left. Other times they say "they are visting". Police have been called multiple times, on one occasion they removed them when CB wasn't there. Other times CB keeps insisting they are just visiting, and most recently they told us that this is a domestic issue, and we need to get our landlord to deal with it.

However even when they are removed they come back within a day, or less. I feel i have no privacy left in my apartment, i don't feel comfortable showering, when i have 3 other random people staring at me. On Saturday CB's father refused to let me boyfriend enter my apartment, and he lectured me about how it isn't "proper".

Our landlord told us that our options are to evict her, but that can take months. He didn't seem to have any options, other than us to call the police if we feel unsafe, or they are staying when CB isn't around. Police say it is a domestic issue because they are "visiting".

They have never done anything to hurt me, and have never entered my room (that i know of, but we both have decent locks with keys). But it is weird to me to have a whole family living in a small student apartment, when only a single person is supposed to be here.

Long Version:

When CB moved in her parents helped her move in on a Friday, and she asked if it was okay for them to stay the night, i was fine with it because neither me or my roommate were around that weekend. April 1st, we came back and discovered her parents were still there.

* \[April 1st\] Told her family needs to leave, she became upset about this. But her parents did leave by end of April 1st.
* \[April 4th\] Came back from work to find both her parents, along with her younger brother. Cooking. Whatever fine, i left for my boyfriends.
* \[April 5th\] Came back to find her entire family still here. I told her, that her family needs to go and it isn't fair that her family is basically monopolizing the shared areas of the unit. She told me they were just visiting. By 9pm her family was basically making beds on my couch, i called landlord.
* \[April 6th\] Landlord came and told them they needed to leave, CB kept insisting they were just visiting. Her family left. For \~2 hours, before they came back. I called landlord again, leading to a heated argument between CB/CB Dad/My landlord. CB family finally left.
* \[April 8th\] Came home late to find her entire family in our living room, watching movies. To tired to deal with this so i went to bed. My roommate told CB that her family cant stay and needs to leave. They refused.
* \[April 9th\] Get up find CB's parents/brother in our kitchen making breakfast with both me and my roommates food. I tell them they need to leave. They refuse, i call landlord, landlord calls police. CB shows up before police arrive, i explain situation to police. CB's family repeatedly says they are just visiting, police eventually say it is a civil issue, and i need to get my landlord to do something.
* \[April 9th\] Eventually i give up and my landlord tells me he will deal with it. I come back later that night to find neither CB nor her family present.
* \[April 10th\] Roommate finds CB's father and some random drinking in our living room in the middle of the afternoon. She calls police, police come both are removed from premises. CB spends the night screaming at us for hating family or something stupid.
* \[April 11th\] CB's father is back i am guessing he snuck in during the middle of the night. Landlord tells us changing locks is pointless, and they will just make new keys. I grabbed everything valuable, and left and my roommate did the same thing.
* \[April 13th\] I come back home to grab clothing, CB's father refuses to let my boyfriend into the apartment. I grab stuff and leave asap because i don't feel safe. I call my landlord, he says he will deal with it.
* \[April 14th\] My roommate tells me that they are still here, i notify landlord and he doesn't respond to any of my messages.

I have no idea what to do. Police say it is a domestic issue, CB says they are "just" visiting. Landlord keeps trying to do stuff but it doesn't seem to be making a difference. Frankly i cannot live in that apartment with an extra 3+ people.

Answer:
 This advice assumes that all three of you roommates are on one lease now. Please tell me if CB is not on your lease, because that changes things.

The LTB can't give you help because your roommate isn't doing anything illegal. Your roommate is allowed to have guests. So are you. Neither of you can restrict the other's guests.

Your landlord also can't interfere with her guests. He'd actually get in trouble with the LTB if CB made a complaint.


Title: Landlord altered checkout checklist after i signed and added a $376 charge. What are my options

Question:
First time poster, long time lurker. My NYC apartment lease ended in February and my landlord sent an employee to do the final security deposit checkout with me. He provided a pre-populated checklist of everything in the apartment and we walked through the status of each (damaged, dirty, good condition). Overall, the apartment was in good condition, with a few floor scuffs from 2 years of living, which i understood would be deducted from my security deposit. I signed the checklist, saying that I'd reviewed it and agreed with the status of each item listed on there. Anything that was listed as damaged would be costed and its deducted from my security deposit.

Earlier today, my landlord sent me my final bill and I noted an additional $376 charge for a dented fridge. I asked for a copy of the check list he had on file and after comparing it to the copy i signed, I saw that he had added this item to the checklist after i had already signed it. The checklist i signed says the fridge was in good condition and the one he sent to me today has been altered and now reads that the fridge is dented and damaged.

How should i approach this?

TL;DR: Landlord added a new charge to my checkout document after i had already signed it and is planning on deducting $376 from my security deposit
Topic:
Landlord Tenant Housing

Answer: Your landlord has attempted to defraud you.