Title: Motorcycle seized while going 65MPH, due to a lack of oil lubrication on the highway. This resulted in over 6,000$ of medical bills and other damages. I payed for an oil change three weeks prior.

Question:
Hi R/legal advice.

Three weeks prior to my motorcycle accident I had a shop do a FULL service on the bike. I verbatim told the mechanic to "spare no expense", and asked him to replace even non-pressing items on the bike (Air filter, new chain, etc) for maximum safety.

Fast forward three weeks later and my bike engine seizes on the highway. The wheels lock and I was thrown from it going about 65 miles per hour. I was wearing full gear, and was thankfully not struck by any cars behind me, but it was a close call. I took the bike to a DIFFERENT shop for a post crash analysis and the mechanic says that there was no way the oil had been changed. The bike is a 2009 model, and even factoring some sort of leak it wouldn't have drained that quickly. My low oil light on the motorcycle did had not been on prior to the accident.

Yes I do have proof of payment for the service. How do i proceed from here? I am based in Northern California (Bay Area).

Edit: I'm specifically looking for advise on how to proceed with small claims. Should contact the shop and try to seek reparations?

Answer:
 I thought this sounded familiar.  Did you get in another accident or did you realize you were going slower this time because I believe you were going 90MPH last time this happened.  I am glad to see that the damages went down to $6K from $10K.

Edit:  Link:

https://www.reddit.com/r/legaladvice/comments/3cprsx/motorcycle_seized_while_going_90mph_due_to_a_lack/


Title: How to I get a car towed that is blocking a public road?

Question: [deleted]

Answer:
 You call the police.  They enforce the laws on public roads.

Alternatively, you *may* be able to call a local tow truck outfit yourself, but I wouldnt' recommend it.


Title: Marijuana confiscation mn

Question: Last night I got pulled over on my way to work. Not so much pulled over and followed into the gas station and he turned his lights on after I had parked my car. He said the car I was driving smelled like marijuana. He searched the car and found the end of a joint from weeks ago. He asked me if I had anything else on me and he said no. He then asked if it had any at home. I told him I did then he followed me to my home and proceeded to take my marijuana along with a bowl and bong and I got a possession ticket. I was just wondering if what he did was legal.

Answer:
 He can legally search the car based on the odor of marijuana.

He can arrest and charge you with whatever he finds in the car.

He can go to your house and search it and take your stuff **if you tell him that you have illegal drugs there and give him permission to go inside and see them**.

Which it sounds like you did.

So now you need a lawyer because you talked yourself into these criminal charges, which are very likely to stick.


Title: Company president pushes a political party during official meetings. I'm going to file a complaint and need to know options if I get fired for it. (US)

Question: The company I work for has monthly meetings to discuss profits, plans, and other company updates. During these meetings, our president takes time to push his political views. I feel that it is inappropriate to do this during an official meeting. I intend to file a complaint if he does it again next month, but I fear for my job if I do. Any advice?

Answer:
 What makes you think any of this is illegal?  Who are you going to complain to?Answer #2: If you're at a private firm, you have nothing to complain about. Answer #3: My advice is to just look for another job if you don't like it.

What he's doing isn't illegal, it's just obnoxious and inappropriate, but I seriously doubt the company president is going to be disciplined for something like that, whether you file a complaint or not.

If you do get fired, you can probably get unemployment but that's about it.  Nowhere in the US (to my knowledge) protects you from workplace discrimination over your political beliefs.  If you could plausibly claim discrimination against you based on your race or gender or something, though, you could potentially have a case.


Title: Landlord entered our apartment without permission or notice and we have items and money missing. [MA]

Question:
I recently found out our landlord has been entering our apartment without letting us know. The reason we found out was because I was missing money on that day. Because our landlords lie a lot, I thought it would be a good idea to set up cameras. We actually do have video of them trespassing on that day. However, the problem is that our cameras are set up to show the entrances of the house (can't afford more cameras) and doesn't show them actually stealing. Can they be liable for this? They also claim that the "Right of Entry" clause in our lease allows them to enter whenever they want. Do we have any claims?

Thanks

Answer:
 The first step would be to file a police report.

Show them the video of the entrance, and describe what was taken.Answer #2: If someone steals from you, you can definitely sue them to recover what you lost as a result.  I wouldn't say you have "slam dunk" evidence here, but if they are coming into your apartment without letting you know for no known reason, I would definitely tend to believe you.

You also have the right to quiet enjoyment of the apartment you're renting, and if the landlord frequently invades your privacy, that interferes with that.

So I would make a police report about the theft, and proceed to sue your landlord for (1) the amount of money missing that they stole, (2) return of rent, and (3) court filing fees.  I would ask for a return of rent sufficient to make (1) and (2) add up to $2000.  (The small claims limit in MA is $7000, but I don't know if you can really prove such an extreme interference with your quiet enjoyment that a $7000 claim becomes reasonable.  Stick to $2000, so that you don't unreasonably inflate the filing fee.)Answer #3: > They also claim that the "Right of Entry" clause in our lease allows them to enter whenever they want.

Not without reasonable notice.


Title: Virginia, USA - Delivery Driver for Domino's, Need Advice / Legal Clarification On Minimum Wage & other Violations, Particularly Insufficient Reimbursement for Vehicle Expenses

Question: [deleted]

Answer:
 Nope. You lost me at:

>points 1, 2, 7 and 13 below

The prospect that there were at least 13 items to consider (if not more), is daunting at best. Way too much to read.


Title: Is standing on the parking lot in front of an apartment building considered trespassing and illegal?

Question:
So im just casually biking playing some Pokemon Go lool when I see that there's a Pokemon gym nearby. I go over,and for some reason this apartment building is a Pokemon gym. So i just stand infront at the parking lot battling the gym, when 2 minutrs later some dude yells "HEY!" I look and hes like "do you live in the apartment?" I said no and he just yells "THEN GET THE FUCK OUT OR IM CALLING THE COPS!" I was like woah calm down why and hes like "YOU BEING ON THE PARKING LOT IS TRESSPASSING!! NOW GET OUT OR IM CALLING THE COPS!" I didnt feel like argueing so i was like "k...." And just left lmaoo

Im in Canada so laws may be different, but what I was doing, just standing in a parking lot considered illegal? I was alone and wasnt loud or anything. Maybe he was the gym leader and didnt like anyone defeating him lool

Answer: Yes. If you have been officially notified that you are not welcome on the property then the next time they find you there you can be arrested. Their parking lot is private property.


Title: Legality of erotic literature involving minors (US)

Question:
Let me elaborate a little on the question.

I'm planning on hosting a website with a collection of adult stories. Some of them are clear/cut vanilla or with unusual kinks. Some of them though involve minors. Some are clearly too young while others are close to (if not) general legal ages.

I've already spoken with someone from the host and they said I should get some clarification on whether or not my content would be legal for them to host.

And before you guys say anything: I accept any downvotes you send me and I am of course using a throw-away due to the nature of this question.

Answer:
 It would seem the logic would go like this:

 * A man killing another man - illegal.  A man writing about a man killing another man - legal.

 * A man raping a woman - illegal.  A man writing about a man raping a woman - legal.

 * A 30 year old man having sex with a 14 year old girl - illegal.  A man writing about a man having sex with a 14 year old -  should be legal, right?

Unless there are laws singling out that kind of writing about crime as some special case or circumstance. This may end up as more of a discussion than advice.


Title: [CAN]: Does the law require only a female officer to frisk a female suspect?

Question:
A general question. Not looking for legal advice specifically.

I know that in the USA, police are not required by law to have a female officer frisk search a female suspect. I bet this law seems outrageous to a lot of other women too. Anyway:

* Is this the rule in all states, or are there any exceptions?
* Is this the rule in other Commonwealth nations like Canada, New Zealand? Or does the law there mandate that only a female officer frisk search a female suspect? Any ideas?

Answer: I've done frisk/LE search training with police/military forces from a lot of different countries. Many of them have policies in place which require a female officer; or to have a male observer on hand to oversee the male officer conducting the frisk. But for most of the countries it was a policy in place to protect the officer from false complaints, not a law. The only two countries who told me that had an actual law in place preventing it was Oman and Saudi Arabia. I'm sure there are probably others; we typically only get students from about the same 40 countries.


Title: Rape

Question:
Hello, I'm not sure if this is the right place to post but I'll give it a shot. I'm sorry but I'm also giving a bit of backround

I am seeking some advice for my girlfriend who experienced rape, sexual, verbal, and physical abuse from a previous boyfriend when she was 15. She hadn't thought much about it until she dated me and she fealt how it was to truly be loved and realized all of the bad things that he did to her. I'm not a doctor but we both agreed that she suffered from disassociation amnesia because she had pushed all of those bad memories into the back of her head and thought that her ex wasn't all that bad.
Now she continues to be haunted with this pain and it is really effecting her outlook on life. I am encouraging her to seek out professional help but she is afraid that charges will be made against her ex and because this happened 3 years ago they can't prove him guilty. They are also cadets at two different military academies and she is afraid that if anyone finds out and this can't be proven then she will get kicked out, they have a strict honor policy.

I guess my question is are counselors submitted by law to report rape of minors? And secondly if we try to seek treatment through the military will confidentiality be kept in the case of rape? I understand this may be a little out there but I just want her to be happy, so any advice will do. thank you.
Edit: I'm sorry everyone, the rape occurred in Pennsylvania and we would seek counseling either in the state of Ohio or through the US military (for costs)

Answer:
 >  I'm not a doctor but we both agreed that she suffered from disassociation amnesia

Don't make medical diagnoses of pathologies that you know nothing about.

> because this happened 3 years ago they can't prove him guilty.

That is not necessarily true. But no one here can help you because you neglected to include your location despite the multiple prompts to do so in the posting process. Laws -- *including statutes of limitation* -- vary from country to country and state to state. Surely you know this.


Title: Neighborhood dog poses threat to pedestrian traffic

Question:
I am from Michigan. There is a neighbor that keeps his German Shepherd on a long chain on his back porch. Because his house is on the corner of the street his back porch is technically his side porch. When pedestrians walk near the house on the public street, they cannot see the dog on the porch. When the dog is visible, it is running off of the porch toward the pedestrians. The chain is long enough to have the dog reach 1/3 of the way into the street. This poses a threat to any unsuspecting person walking by, and the dog is barking, showing teeth, and charging at anyone passing in the street. There are no signs, fences, or anything else to make people aware of the dog, or keep the dog out of the street. What can be done to make sure the dog does not hurt anyone in my community?

Update:

I took advice from u/Napalmenator and contacted my County's animal shelter (animal control is part of the same entity.) I explained the situation this morning, and they called me back a few minutes ago. They are going to send someone out to 'survey' the dog owners property. Their concern was that the dog has the ability to reach public property. I asked if I would receive updates from them about the situation, and understandably, they told me that it would be unlikely. One thing they told me is possible, is that they may need me to file a police report.

Thanks for the help, and I will keep this updated if I can!

Answer: Call animal control or the police non emergency lineAnswer #2: you could talk to the people that live in the house and ask them to use a slightly shorter chain. Sometimes just talking to people is better then jumping into legal action. If you dont want to talk to them leave a note or somethingAnswer #3: IANAL and do not know much about Michigan law, but you might want to contact your local animal control who does know your local law. I know that my county in my state we have rules for dogs on chains. They have to have available water and shelter and they can only be out for a certain amount of time. If they say that your state has similar laws then you can tell them about the dog you're worried about and see the proper steps to take care of the situation.


Title: Won a suppressor at a raffle [TX, obviously]

Question: I need/want to setup an NFA trust.  Do I actually need a lawyer to do this or can I file paperwork on my own?  To that end, what are the steps involved in setting up the trust and then submitting the ATF application?

Answer:
 >Do I actually need a lawyer to do this or can I file paperwork on my own?

Let me compare this to buying a house. Can you do it on your own without paying people know what they're doing?

Sure.

But what happens if something goes wrong?

Hire an attorney. You're in Texas, so depending on where you are, you may be able to find someone locally who actually specializes in NFA trusts.

>To that end, what are the steps involved in setting up the trust and then submitting the ATF application?

Hire an attorney who specializes in estates/trusts/wills. Tell him you want an NFA trust. Figure out who is going to be a member of this trust vs a beneficiary. Work with him to get the trust completed.

Then, file the paperwork according to your state standards for irrevocable living trusts.

Then, you'll work with the transferring dealer to fill out your Form 4 and attach the trust to that document. File it with the ATF, give them their $200, and wait 6 to 9 months, and you'll get your stamp back and be the lawful owner of the only hearing protection device that's tightly regulated by the federal government.

And join us over in /r/NFA to become fully addicted to [stamp collecting](http://www.hunt101.com/data/500/medium/1498stampcollection.jpg). Answer #2: I'm just throwing this out there, but why exactly do you want the NFA trust? Do you actually plan to share the suppressor with someone else? From what I've been told, it isn't difficult to get the supporting documents from the local sheriff's office in most cases.


Title: What is the best way to get your wife out if she put shit into your fridge?

Question: What is the best way to get your wife out if she put shit into your fridge?

Answer: What


Title: [NC, USA] SEVEN breath tests returned "Mouth Alcohol", counted against me as Refusal

Question:
SCENARIO: I was pulled over for weaving out of my lane/wide turn. Officer asked if I had been drinking and I said at lunchtime (this was 11pm). I stepped out of vehicle and performed field tests. Officer took breathalyzer sample (only much later telling me that this registered 0.12), cuffed me, took another breathalyzer sample.

Back at the station, I was immensely cooperative through the entire process. I agreed to a breath test on the Intox EC/IR II, which happened after a waiting period of ~20 minutes. My friend that was in the car with me stayed in the room as a witness. First test came back invalid because of "Mouth Alcohol". Six subsequent tests were attempted, with 6-9 minutes between tests. EVERY test came back invalid because of Mouth Alcohol. The officer told me he would mark it as a refusal to submit to a test. I begged the entire time to tell me exactly what I needed to do, that I was doing everything in my power to cooperate.

THE ISSUE: Through research, I've discovered that there are rules from DHHS governing proper breath analysis procedures, including:

" "Observation Period" means a period during which a chemical analyst observes the person or persons to  be  tested  to  determine  that  the  person  or  persons  has  not ingested  alcohol  or  other  fluids, regurgitated, vomited, eaten, or smoked in the 15 minutes immediately prior to the collection of a breath specimen. The chemical analyst may observe while conducting the operational procedures in using a breath testing instrument. "

Of particular note is that the officer instructed me to drink water some time around the 3rd test, and again before the final test, maybe another time somewhere in the middle. He told me a Mouth Alcohol reading was caused by spit getting into the machine (incorrect?) and so all instructions he gave me were based on that assumption. My mouth was very very dry and I was having trouble swallowing, but he repeatedly accused me of trying to "chuck something up"??? All seven tests took place within 54 minutes. After a couple of hours, they eventually produced a warrant to draw blood, a test which I was not given the opportunity to consent to following the breath test debacle although I would have done anything to avoid "refusing" to be tested.

My court date is in a few weeks and I am trying to figure out if what I've just relayed could be the basis for a case that I did NOT refuse to submit to a breath test. It seems that the officer did not follow the correct procedures, especially with regard to careful observation/15 minute waiting period as necessary and having me drink water. Am I wrong? Any guidance on this issue is VERY much appreciated. I absolutely cannot afford to be without a license for a year.

(For reference, the above passage is from 10A NCAC 41B, which lays out the proper procedure for analysis.)

EDIT: Any other bits of advice to strengthen my case are also very much appreciated.

Answer:
 The truth is that while drinking water is against the procedures and against best practices, it will not affect the reliability of the test results in any way.

All mouth alcohol should be absorbed about 10 min or so after you stop drinking.  The 20 min observation period is done out of an overabundance of caution.

So, one of two things was likely happening.

1.) You were having some kind of reflux- burps that brought liquid up, throwing up a little, etc.

OR

2.) The machine was malfunctioning.

If it was #2, then the refusal will likely not count against you (though you can still be convicted of the DWI).

If it was #1, and the officer is able to credibly articulate that you seemed to be purposely trying to bring liquid or alcohol up, then the refusal likely WILL count against you.

Talk to your lawyer.Answer #2: You need an attorney.

I would come to that conclusion after reading your first sentence.

Even more so, since you are proposing a complicated defense.

And, really... the whole defense is going to come down to if you can be charged with a refusal.

You have a field breathalyzer result, the officer's observations, your admission to drinking, and a blood test.


Title: [NE] I have 30 day notice, but I’m unsure I’m well enough to move that quickly.

Question:
The landlord won’t give reason why. Won’t give extra time. First she gave option to renew with a rent increase April 22nd and said to let her know by the 30th by text.  Then gave 30 day notice before that day on the 26th by taping a note on my door and said she rented my apartment.

I’ve paid rent on time. I’m not in violation of lease. 800 credit score. Was at last two apts 4-5 yrs.  Currently month to month.

What are my options if I’m physically unable to get the move done?  I’m not sure what the medical condition is yet.  I’ve had pain and numbness in my hand and arm for about month.  Will a judge throw me out on the street even if a doctor vouches that I’m not well AND my rent is paid up?

Answer:
 > What are my options if I’m physically unable to get the move done?

The landlord will file for an eviction and you'll find it nearly impossible to rent any decent place in the future, so you really need to figure out how to move out in the proper timeframe.


Title: [Pennsylvania] Teacher Fired Over Photoshoot

Question: Can a highschool gym teacher be fired because she was in a bikini photoshoot? showing off her goods?

Answer: Yes.  Bikini model is not a protected class.  Yet.


Title: Is This Slander?

Question:
So a person at work who had bullied me in the past got fired yesterday, and they sent an email to my work saying I had bullied them. While I can't deny bullying them, I only did it for as long as they did it to me and I made it clear to them that I wouldn't stop picking on them unless they stopped picking on me. So my question is, can I sue this person for slander/defamation?

EDIT: Excuse me over explaining, I mean can I sue them for taking what I did out of context.

Answer:
 Are you 7? Because i need to know this because that is the last age that "they did it to me do I did it to them" is a valid defense

But no, it's not slander if it's true you did this. Truth is a defense. It's not libel either which would actually be the applicable  issue since the accusations were written. But you did this, so no.

For goodness sake, grow up.
Answer #2: Truth is a defense to libel, which this is. (It is also a defense to slander, which this is not). You could sue, but you would almost certainly lose,

Also, for someone who is old enough to have a job, "I wouldn't stop picking on them unless they stopped picking on me" is an absolutely terrible thought process and I would fire anyone who tried to use it as a defense.


Title: [TX] A girl just accused me of raping her our freshman year of college.

Answer: Don't talk to anyone about this. If you are contacted by police, an attorney, a detective, or anyone involved with law enforcement, refuse to speak to them without a lawyer and find a lawyer in your area. Answer #2: Get an attorney if you're charged, don't pursue her any further. Don't speak to the police without a lawyer. You could have internal problems with the school if she reports you. Answer #3: Don't speak to anybody (including her, especially including her) about this except an attorney. Right now nothing may happen. If the police want to talk, say nothing without an attorney.


Title: Did not read what i signed before renting a Hotel room.

Question: [deleted]

Answer: If their customer service won't refund the third night, you're on the hook for it since you agreed to pay it. They don't have to read the contract aloud to you for it to be binding, you're supposed to read contracts before you sign them and if you don't like the terms you negotiate in writing or go somewhere else.


Title: I got a speeding ticket and the CHP accidently put a wrong date, a futire date on the ticket. Anyway I can get out of it?

Question:
Let me explain a little more:

I got a ticket for speeding and while looking closer at the receipt ticket the highway patrol officer put the wrong date. In fact they put the 20th at 10:57 p.m - a date and time that as of the time this post being written has not yet happened - when in fact I got pulled over on the 19th of said time. Is there a way I can fight this off and claim that I was somewhere else when that ticket was given?

Answer:
 > Is there a way I can fight this off and claim that I was somewhere else when that ticket was given?

You mean lie to the court? No, you can't lie to the court. Clerical errors don't invalidate tickets. Either challenge it on the merits or accept it.Answer #2: Don't speed is how you avoid tickets.  No way to avoid being fined due to clerical errors unless the clerical error involves you but they got the wrong person (kinds of error).


Title: [California] Merchant fraudulently overcharged $225 on my credit card for a $25 purchase with fake signature; credit card company won't help!

Question:
Hi all! This is a throwaway account because I wanted to make sure I had a degree of anonymity in asking this question. This was also cross-posted in /r/creditcards.

**TL;DR: Merchant forged my signature, but Chase says they cannot pursue it as a 'fraud case' because I swiped with a chip card which doesn't technically require a signature for authorized purchases to go through. Help! What are my next steps?**

I recently had an unauthorized charge placed on my Chase Sapphire card. I went to a somewhat questionable convenience/liquor store by my friend's apartment in downtown San Francisco to purchase a ~$25 bottle of wine. The price was on a small easily removable sticker on the bottle of wine. (The vendor doesn't have tabs with prices on the shelves like a 7-11 or chain convenience store would.) The vendor took my card, swiped, returned my card, and then never gave me a receipt. They do not have a customer facing screen which displays the price of the products as the merchant checks you out. Since I was rushing to make it on time to my friend's holiday party, I forgot to ask for a copy of my receipt.

When I checked my credit card statement a few days later, I see that the merchant charged me 10x more than I was expecting to pay. They charged me $250 for the bottle of wine.

I immediately called Chase and asked them to investigate the situation, as I did not intend to pay for a $250 bottle of wine. (The bottle of wine was also a very cheap bottle of wine that retails for about ~$15 online. In downtown SF, prices are frequently marked up.) Chase is able to obtain a receipt from the vendor after a few weeks. However, the signature on the vendor's receipt is very clearly not mine. (I sent in copies of official ID as well as other credit cards with my signature to verify that the vendor forged my signature. The customer service representatives at Chase also acknowledged that my signature and that on the receipt from the vendor is different.)

Chase then sent me a letter saying that because I could not provide evidence that the merchant overcharged me, they could not address the situation. They also said that since I used a chip card, which does not require a signature to complete purchases they do not have standing to negotiate with the vendor. The Chase representative that I spoke with also stated that vendors preying on folks who use chip cards is a common issue, because customers technically do not have to sign for their purchase. All customers have to do is press "accept" or "decline" as they finish their transaction. The representative also said "...it's weird that the vendor forged your signature and gave us this receipt for $250, since technically using a chip card means you don't need to sign for purchases. They're clearly showing us that they are doing something wrong, but we still don't have enough evidence to make a counter-claim."

**Right now, I'm at a loss as to what to do. Clearly, Chase recognizes that the merchant forged my signature and that credit card chip fraud happens quite often. However, since I don't have a copy of the receipt for the bottle of wine with the "correct" amount of ~$25, I apparently cannot make a successful claim that I'm in the right.**

This made me think -- how are folks who get their credit cards with chips stolen able to argue their case? If credit cards with chips can be swiped here and there without authorized signatures, how do credit card companies know who to believe when they ask who made the purchase? If I got my Chase card stolen now and someone makes a ton of fraudulent purchases with my card, how can I be sure that Chase or any other card company can successfully argue my case and protect my account? My experience with this super shady convenience/liquor store has me shook. I will forever ask for copies of receipts now!!

All that said, suggestions on how to proceed with my case with Chase and/or other avenues of recourse would be much appreciated.

Thanks all!

Answer:
 Cop here, if you haven’t made a criminal use of a financial card case yet do it now.

Identity theft and forgery may also be included in the case. Make sure you bring all of your documentation with you when you go to make the report.


Title: Boss made me change nutrition labels so her products look healthier -I knew it was wrong but didn't want to lose my job. I'm in QC, Canada -what can I do?

Question: I don't want to give too many details because I don't want to get in trouble. All I can say is I was made to change nutrition tables and I am not feeling great about it. Was I under duress because I didn't want to lose my job? (I believe so) Can I sue? Should I contact some authority board?

Answer:
 You should contact [Health Canada](http://www.hc-sc.gc.ca/fn-an/label-etiquet/index-eng.php) if the labels you modified were ones they care about, such as nutritional info or the ingredients list. Keep it general: "My boss is demanding I modify the nutritional tables on our label and says I'll be fired if I don't, what do I do" rather than "I modified them, what do I do" for example.

You should do this immediately. The longer you let this go on, the harder it will be to argue that you are not complicit.


Title: Found out that someone already use same 3 letters as I am for my clothing brand.

Question:
So I am trying to create my own clothing brand and I just randomly googled the name to see if anyone else had something and I found someone who uses the exact same three letters as me.  I don't believe they have the name trademarked,  can I still use the name and what other ways can I confirm that the name is not trademarked?  Also although he both use the same three letter, mine actually stands for something unlike theirs.

I am based out of the United States and the other brand is based out of Australia.

Answer: Choose a different name. If this is really important to you, check whether he has used that name in the US.


Title: [CA]Received ticket for cell phone

Question:
I just received a ticket today for holding my cell phone in my hand. I was going with the rush hour after work commute and somebody sent me a snapchat and I was looking at a photo on my phone. When I look up there is some how a cop behind me. I wasn't operating my phone, I wasn't texting anyone, and I wasn't calling anyone. The phone was just in my hand.

I get pulled over. All he says is that he's pulling me over for the cell phone. He did not explain what he saw or what he thought I was doing. I try to ask the cop for a warning and he says "absolutely not". He asks for license and registration and comes back with a ticket and then asks me if I have any questions. I ask him there's a lot of people on their cell phone and why he picked me? He replies "I know, I can't stop everyone. You're just my lucky customer". That really pissed me off with him saying it like that. It's almost as if he had some kind of other motive to pick me for a ticket.

Anyways, I've tried to look this up and can't seem to find any solid answers. It seems the fine is around $160...but I was just planning to do some maintenance on my car that it seems like I won't be doing now. I'd rather not pay the fine and I'm wiling to work for it.

Not sure if there is any good chance I can get out of this or that I should just give up and pay the fine? It seem's like there's a website ticketninjaca.com offering to write all the documents for you to go to court through mail and get the case dismissed for $50.

Please Advise

Answer:
 The whole phone rule is so you don't get distracted, and focus on the road. You were holding your phone and got distracted. It looks like everything was followed correctly.

Answer #2: So you were on your phone and he ticketed you for it... Ok. He isn't required to give you a warning. Just pay the fine and move on with your life.


Title: (NH) Old landlord is telling me I owe him rent for June and July, even though I haven't lived there since January.

Question:
My girlfriend and I signed a lease for a year rental of an apartment. The lease stated that after one year's time the rental situation would turn into an "at will tenancy."(month-to-month) So after about 3 years of living there I broke up with my girlfriend, moved out, and got a different apartment. After about 6 months of her living there by herself, her landlord called me asking if I knew anything about an insurance refund she was getting, apparently she owed him 2 months rent and was coming up on her third month too and told him that she would pay him back with the refund thing. I obviously knew nothing about this and told him that I didn't know anything about it and that I hadn't even been living there since the end of January. Apparently every time he had talked to my ex she told him that we were still together but I just wasn't home. For six whole months.
So in talking to him, I was told that my ex's car had broken down and she lost her job. He then told me that I am also responsible for the money that she owes him and that I'm irresponsible for not helping her get a job by driving her around to apply and getting her rides to work.  So I gave her a call to see what the deal is and she just said "don't worry about it, I'm getting an insurance refund in a week or two that'll cover what I owe him." Fast-forward to today, a week and a half later, and her Landlord called me again asking if I knew anything about if she's gotten the check or not. For whatever reason, he decided to call me before her. I told him that I don't know, I'm not involved with her life anymore, and said his best bet would be calling her to find out. This was when he went off on me calling me irresponsible and said "her problem is your problem. You owe me that money too. This isn't just a motel, you signed a lease."
So what I would like to know is, if my lease said that after a year the lease would change to "at will tenancy," am I still technically under a lease and therefore responsible for the rent she didn't pay him? And if I am technically responsible for the money owed, would I be able to have her sign something that says that she owes him the money and not me? We are still on good terms so I know she would be willing to do that kind of thing.
Thanks for any help.

Answer: It sounds like you just moved out but did not actually terminate your tenancy (since you were a joint tenant with your ex, and she still lives there). You likely *are* on the hook for the rent.


Title: Scheduled job interview, saw I was pregnant when I walked into the office, told me they didn't want to mess with it and wouldn't even interview me.

Question:
Just had a very bizarre experience. I was scheduled for a job interview today at a dental office in my area. I am 7 months pregnant so it is pretty obvious that I am having a baby. I showed up to my interview and the dentist saw me and asked "are you alligator06?" I said yes and started following him to his office. He said "oh it looks like you're ready to pop!". It being obvious, I said "yes, I am expecting". He then said "okay well I can't do that". I thought he was joking but he was totally serious. I kind of laughed since it was very awkward. He said he wants to retire soon and doesn't want to mess with someones medical issues and that was the end of the "interview". As far as I've heard, you can't discriminate against someone who is pregnant with job hiring. This guy was blatantly saying he wasn't event going to interview me because I was pregnant. Is there anything I can do to report the business? I live in Utah Valley and I'm not sure what I should do (if anything).

EDIT: Thanks for all (most) the comments everyone. I talked to the Labor Department and gave them a quick run-down of what happened and he sounded surprised and sent me a discrimination form. I have other interviews set up and had another one today that I feel went really well so I'll try not to let this guy get to me too much. Should have done some more research before applying though, he has a lot of 1-star reviews on Google for being just an all-around douchey dentist.
Topic:
Employment Law

Answer:
 Seems a bit unfair on the employer. If they took you on, you'd need to leave on maternity leave about a month later for how long? In the U.K. You'd get nine months.

Why should an employer hire someone who will need to disappear (while still being paid) for nine months just one month after hiring you? They would be paying your wages for like a full year before you were productive in any way for them.


Title: Wrongful termination

Question:
I was discharged from a position I held for over 4 years after a new manager took charge. I worked at a major hospital as a per diem employee meaning I scheduled my own shift and times. The day before I was let go, I filed a sexual harassment claim against a visitor. The next day I was fired and told it was due to my attendance violation. They looked into the harassment claim and stated because I did not “look visually upset” it was a false claim. My attendance has never been an issue and all of the sudden it was and cost me a job of four years. Now I am unable to obtain employment anywhere due to their HR spewing lies. What can I do?
Topic:
Employment Law

Answer:
 That's pretty clear retaliation. Go talk to an attorney immediately. Answer #2: Not a lawyer. Consult an employment attorney ASAP. Being fired the day after making a sexual harassment claim sounds like retaliation. Answer #3: You should retain an employment lawyer to help with this issue.

If your employer has never discussed your attendance with you, it should be a fairly open and shut case of retaliation, especially if you have not received any kind of warnings about attendance from management.

However, if attendance has been an issue in the past, you have been told you need to improve attendance immidiately, and attendance has not improved, the case for retaliation would be substantially weakened.


Title: I feel that I may have a strong legal case

Question:
I am currently suffering defamation as a result of a hacked email account linked to a social media account that has as a result been compromised.
My full name is publicly displayed on the popular social media website alongside many posts which I never intended to be viewed by anyone other than the handful of followers the account had accumulated.
Neither the email service provider or the social media company have made any attempt to recover either account, or resolve any issue; though the email service has stated that it agrees that it believes the email account may have been hacked.

Is this grounds for a lawsuit? I feel as though employers are discarding my applications based on this social media website that is completely removed from my control.

Edit: I reside in the U.S., in the state of Arizona.

Answer:
 It's not defamation when it's true.

Depending on how the accounts were accessed you may want to try calling the police.


Title: With the covid slowdown, everyone in our department is being asked to sign vrh paperwork with a 10% reduction in hours to prevent any of our staff from having to be furloughed. I'm not a fan of the wording in this document.

Question:
What is this line actually saying?

"Because you have requested a voluntary reduction in the number of hours you are working, you are notified that for Wisconsin Unemployment Insurance purposes, your reduction in hours may be considered a quit. Any wages that you earn while you are working the reduced hours may not be used to satisfy the quit requalification provision."

Thank you in advance for any advice.

Answer:
 They are trying to act like you consenting to unemployment (which a reduction in hours is) bars you from claiming unemployment for the reduction in hours.

Make copies for yourself, report it to your state department of labor (they won't do anything), file for unemployment.

If you're really lucky, they will fire you for this. Then hire a labor attorney.Answer #2: Basically, they don’t want to be on the hook for the unemployment premiums by forcing you all to take less hours. All of you could apply for partial unemployment. It’s shady and I wouldn’t sign it.Answer #3: I suspect you're looking at two options: voluntary hours reduction (10%), or involuntary hours reduction (100%). This is their way of getting on paper that you took the former instead of the latter. Probably an attempt to get around language involving furloughs.


Title: [Kentucky] Doctors office told my GF that they would take her insurance. It wasn't until after treatment they called and hit her with an $850 bill saying insurance wouldnt cover treatment.

Question:
Does she have any recourse? I feel like it's bad practice to tell someone they are covered and then charge them a ridiculous amount for a normal checkup. I could be wrong but this doesn't feel right. Any help would be greatly appreciated. Not entirely sure if I got the flair right.
Topic:
Medicine and Malpractice

Answer: It's up to the patient to verify with their insurance that a particular doctor, hospital, or procedure is covered under the patient's very specific plan. There are thousands of health plan variations, and no practice can keep track of them all. And when they say "we take your insurance" that usually means "we take Purple Cross" but that doesn't mean the procedure is covered under each one of various plans that Purple Cross offers.


Title: If a criminal lawyer was denied access to the area his client has held, would that be "illegal"?

Question:
I was having a conversation in another subreddit, and someone mentioned that if a lawyer was denied access to his client that
> "Dollar signs would have shot out of his ass"

Would a lawyer have sued the PD in this situation?

Location: Assuming this occurred in America

Answer: Need more details. Does a lawyer have an unfettered right to go to where his client is at all times? Heck no.


Title: [WISCONSIN] Would it be smart to create a production company LLC before I start the production of a movie I've just secured $10,000 in funding for?

Question:
[WISCONSIN]

Hey there - I wasn't sure if this was better off in r/personalfinance or here...but I went with here.

I am a filmmaker, and I've just secured $10,000 from an investor to produce a film that I will write and direct. I know a lot about the business of HOW to make movies, but I don't know much about business itself, or the legal variables there may be.

My main concern is that I do not run into any legal troubles, whether it be with the IRS or somewhere else, because I didn't do something I was supposed to. I also have other worries about all things related to taxes I may or may not have to pay, and the fact that I'm just being a guy putting a random check for that much money in my account without there being some legal trail of breadcrumbs.

I have already drafted a Film Financing Agreement that covers all the terms and conditions I can think of that my investor will be signing, but I am wondering if it would also be beneficial for me to form an LLC for the purposes of this film. Or if such a thing just wouldn't be necessary. What would be the benefits of doing so, and what would be the cons?

And also, if there's anything else pertinent to this situation I ought to know, I would very much appreciate hearing it.

Thanks a lot, guys.

Answer:
 >I am wondering if it would also be beneficial for me to form an LLC for the purposes of this film.

It would be incredibly, incredibly negligent not to. I'm surprised your investor would even consider cutting you a personal check.


Title: How to ensure that baby will be safe when he's born?

Question:
TDLR: My adult sister is pregnant and my family are very concerned about the safety of baby.

We found out that she’s pregnant very early and we told her all options and she decided keep the baby (which shocked us very much since she never want a baby). She is very narcissistic, self-centered, and naive. Growing up, she NEVER care about anyone else except for herself. She isn’t smart as well (or just choose to not pay attention). Her boyfriend is an addict (cocaine and alcohol). My sister told me that he hit her as well (but she choose to stay with him despite our protests).

The baby is due in 3 months and she still haven’t done ANYTHING in preparation for baby’s arrival. She refused to register for birthing classes and parent classes. Let me tell you, that girl know NOTHING about birthing and raising baby (we asked her about stuff and she doesn’t know how to answer). I am pretty sure that she think the baby will just disappear from her belly and appear in her arms. It terrified us that hospital will leave a newborn in care of a woman who know nothing about raising a baby. We tried to convince her to move in with us so we can show her how to take care of a baby. She refused.

Her boyfriend hates us and she choose him over us. Now, we are hearing rumors that he is planning to take her to different state. We won’t be able to keep an eye on the baby if he take them away. Is there any legal options we can take to ensure the baby is safe and/or keep her in TX? Ideally, I would love to find a way before the baby is born. I am worried that baby will be dead or injured before CPS does something.

Can my parents find a way to become a legal guardian of my sister even if she's over 18? She is very good at lying and covering up so we did not realize how clueless she was until she's over 18. She can live on her own but she is extremely clueless when it comes to medical issues (like she doesn't care about  have safe sex because she think that STDs will not touch her).

She will not give up the baby for adoption due to her pride. She is worried how people around her will think. So we can't just convince her to sign the baby over.  Is there's any way that we can ensure that the custody of the child goes straight to my parents or someone in the family? Something like court-ordered or whatever.

Location: TX
Topic:
Custody Divorce and Family

Answer:
 >It terrified us that hospital will leave a newborn in care of a woman who know nothing about raising a baby.

If new parents needed to know how to raise a child to take one home CPS would be picking up a whole lot of new cases. Most first time parents don't know what they are doing.

>We tried to convince her to move in with us so we can show her how to take care of a baby. She refused.

Well that's not surprising, it is not exactly a great offer that can move in with you so that her whole family can scrutinize her parenting skills.

>Can my parents find a way to become a legal guardian of my sister even if she's over 18?

Not unless she has some kind of major disability that prevents her from being able to care for herself.

It is her child. If the child is being neglected or abused (after its born) then call CPS, until then she has the right to raise her kid how she wants. She is not required to take birthing classes or learn about parenting in advance.


Title: [NYC/Long Island ] Unsure what to do in my situation.

Question:
So several weeks ago a cousin's spouse gave me a phone as mine was broken. Didn't use the phone until a couple of days ago. Today as I was about to reset the phone as I hadn't been able to use the phone I accidentally hit the messages and see them. Curiosity gets the best of me and I start reading through some of these messages and start noticing that there are messages to do with large sums of money and cash being moved and etc etc. Ended up doing some math and calculated a figure only to discover a message from said spouse that this is only ~10% of the money moved. And on another note I've discovered that their is child pornography possibly of his daughters(there are 3 of em however one is over 18 at the time of the date stamp). As far as I know there's rumors that the spouse could be again committing either fraud, money laundering, or embezzlement of funds. I do know that the spouse had been caught once before and faced charges for Tax Evasion in the 20-25mil range. The spouse sent me a email today if I could come over next weekend so that way he could backup the photos and videos and for me not to reset it. I've already thought about making a backup copy of all the data(I can't get in trouble for the images if I'm copying it for evidence)

EDIT: Im on mobile so sorry for the wall of text. And no it's no the same phone as in post.

Answer:
 > that their is child pornography possibly of his daughters

You, police station, now!

> I can't get in trouble for the images if I'm copying it for evidence

Oh yes you can.

Go straight to the cops, as in like right this instant.


Title: Sorry for another prenup

Question: My fiancé gave me a prenup and I’m not sure what to do. He told me that he paid his lawyer and mine should be free, but I don’t know how to find said free lawyer. If a free lawyer exists, won’t mine be much worse than his 3k lawyer?

Answer: You definitely need a lawyer, and to add your location.  While legal aid exists it likely won't help with any of this.  You may have access to legal services through your employer or university. Answer #2: I don't know why your lawyer would be free. You each need independnt lawyers and yours is unlikely to care that your fiance already paid someone else.


Title: [Maine] Selected for jury trial this week, just found out I may have a conflict of interest?

Question:
A couple weeks ago I showed up to jury selection and was put on the jury for a civil trial. I thought the plaintiff looked familiar, but since I knew a dozen people in my jury pool and several others looked familiar (small town life) I didn't think too much of it.

Turns out the plaintiff is a regular at the business I work at, he's come in twice in the past week and today I had a brief conversation with him (only work related, but friendly). I also learned today that he's known my housemate since she was a baby and is an old family friend of hers, and that he has been involved with a community organization that used to employ me and which I still have some ties to.

Is this something I should disclose to the court? If so, how? Would I still be on the jury? The trial starts on Wednesday.

***tl;dr*** On a jury in a civil case, turns out I have some connections to the plaintiff.

Answer:
 >Is this something I should disclose to the court?

Yes.  You need to inform the judge of your personal relationship with the plaintiff.  Call the courthouse Monday morning and ask to speak to the clerk's office.

> If so, how? Would I still be on the jury?

I seriously doubt it.  There is almost zero chance that the defendant's attorney would have let you through jury selection if they knew this, and certainly could constitute grounds to remove you.  *The judge will likely ask you some questions about the nature of your relationship and whether or not it will affect your ability to remain impartial before making a decision.


Title: Lunch breaks and MA law

Question:
I work in Massachusetts for a national company. The relevant part of the employee handbook states "Employees are required to take requisite meal and rest breaks each day."

I frequently work through lunch and ask my HR rep to not deduct the lunch break from my pay (I am non-exempt, paid hourly). She is getting backlash from higher up because of the company policy. However, MA department of labor states "An employee may voluntarily give up a meal break by 1) working through his or her meal break... However, the employee must be paid for this time."

I brought this up with HR and they said "technically speaking, you are correct. However (company) considers it required, so perhaps the law is more strict in other states. Legality aside, studies continue to show that most people are more productive when they take a break and recharge, so it is strongly encouraged for that reason."

I was approached by my supervisor this morning and told that I cannot continue to work through lunch because the powers-that-be are not OK with HR paying me for my worked lunches.

do I have any recourse here?
Topic:
Labor Law

Answer: No you don't. You work the hours scheduled and you follow the company policy. Your recourse, should you not like the policies, is to find a different job.


Title: Can I get in trouble for making a discord bot for a client who uses it to nuke other people's discord server?

Question: So I got a project on a freelancing website where the client wants me to make a useful discord bot that serves a particular purpose but has a catch, using a hidden command the client can nuke any server the bot is added to i.e. to kick all members and delete all chats. My question is, does making something like this can get me in trouble, either from discord, the freelancing website or from law enforcements, given that its the client who uses it to commit the action. Thanks.

Answer:
 Regardless of liability, it's certainly unethical to create such a thing. I suspect you already know that.

You're clearly aware of the possible harmful uses of a bot like this, and would have to take deliberate steps to create it. If the client is liable in some context, it's certainly possible that you might be also.


Title: Uber driver won't give my purse back

Question:
Hi, about 2.5 weeks ago I left my purse in an uber. The driver emailed my friend (who had ordered the uber) and let her know that he had my purse and that I could text him to get it back. This was during my finals week so I texted him 3 days later and asked when I could come get my purse, he said he wasn't home and didn't have it on him but asked if I would still be around the next day. I said yes and that I would be in town for the next couple weeks and was flexible on when I could meet. After that he never responded, I texted him twice more asking when he could meet me and have received no response.

I have our texts where he says he has my purse at his house, but my friend thinks she might have deleted his original email. I'm thinking that since I took 3 days to get in touch he might have thought I wasn't going to bother getting it back and sold it? Is it illegal for him to not give my purse back or is it my fault for leaving it in his car? I'm in VT if that matters. Thanks!

Edit to add: if I do have the law on my side, what should I do? The purse itself plus the contents was probably worth about $100, not a ton but I'm a broke college student with 3 jobs so that's a lot to me.

Answer: Stop talking to the driver.  Uber has a resource on their website fo claiming lost items.


Title: Brother's apartment (Austin, TX) smells so terrible he is forced to sleep in hotel and look for a new lease. Do we have any recourse with the original landlord for not providing suitable living conditions?

Question:
Edit:  AutoModerator pointed me towards this section of the wiki: ("Habitability is not an easy thing to determine. Ultimately, it could be up the a judge. You could contact your local city housing department and talk to them.").  I'll probably start looking there, but if anyone has additional advice I'd love some more informed guidance.

&nbsp;

I am posting on behalf of my brother, hope that is OK.  He came home for the holidays after dealing with a terrible smell in his apartment coming from the ventilation, outside his control.  Before leaving he set up an expensive (~$200) air purifier to try to remove the smell of the apartment over break.  I haven't visited TX recently, so I cant say how the apartment smells, but when he got home, I could tell he had a quite strong and repulsive smell on his clothes/body.  He has just returned for the next semester, and has discovered the stench is stronger than before, to the point that he had to move out to be comfortable.  He is now in a hotel, looking for a new place to stay.

&nbsp;

I should note, my brother has a weak nose, and a personality that preferences putting up with an inconvenience rather than get anyone involved, so if he can't stand that stench, someone else like myself in that situation would be thoroughly miserable.  From knowing him I trust that an issue like this is not an overreaction.  He would rather let a letter of recommendation go unwritten (voiding an application) than bother a professor, so to see him moved to action is evidence of a serious problem.

&nbsp;

The landlord claims the stench is not toxic/harmful, and therefore no concern of theirs, but I imagine there are standards of living in place that go beyond "it won't kill you" that we can rely on.  I haven't seen his contract in particular, but with most lease agreements I understand that breaking the contract (leaving and refusing to pay) leaves you unable to recoup the security deposit.  I'm here to see if there is anything we can do to reclaim that deposit, as in my opinion the landlord first failed to uphold the contract by providing unacceptable living conditions.
 Furthermore, this may be a stretch, but would we have any grounds to seek reimbursement for the cost of the hotel my brother is currently staying at until he can find a new place?
Topic:
Landlord Tenant Housing

Answer: Can you in general terms describe this smell? Rotting corpse, mold, garbage, etc? Do you know the source?  There may be a dead body nearby. (not trying to be funny, people really have been found dead only after somebody complains about the smell)


Title: Was hired on Jan 1, 2018, was never offered health insurance. While filing taxes for 2018, there was a $650 fee for not having insurance all year. Is there anything I can do? In Arizona.

Question: I was offered a job in December of 2017. I signed all of my paperwork and started on January 1, 2018. I was not offered health insurance through my company, although they provide it. (Open enrollment is in December.) And I never signed paperwork denying the company’s health insurance. Is there any action I can take, so I either don’t have to pay the $650 penalty fee or get compensation back from my workplace for not being offered insurance?

Answer: If your employer does not offer insurance, or you decline theirs, you are responsible for getting your own insurance. Did you ever actually ask them about enrolling in theirs? Normally companies allow enrollment for new employees.


Title: Two speeding tickets at the same exit 3 hours apart (NC)

Question:
[Wake County, North Carolina]

I want to keep this as short and informative as possible.

In the first week of April I took a day off work to go hang out with my son and his mother. They live about an hour away from me. As I was putting gas into my car and getting ready to get on the highway. I noticed probably about 10-15 cop cars (no exaggeration) in the area near the gas station and right before getting on the highway. I’ve rarely seen cops in my area, so I aired on the side of caution.

This is when I got my first speeding ticket: The cop pulled me over while on the ramp before even merging onto the highway. When he got to my window he first asked me if I knew the speed limit (which I did, it's 55) then proceeded to tell me I was doing 68 in a 55. So I took my ticket and went about to see my boy.

A few hours later, I was heading back home. This time, it seemed as if the cops had transitioned to the highway area near my apartment (I have no idea what is even going on, the area I live in is really safe, **I see maybe 1 or 2 cops a week, there were ~10 in this .5 mile radius.)** I was breaking to get off the highway at my exit, and while I’m at a stoplight, completely stopped, a cop pulls up behind me and pulls me over right there. She also claimed I was going 68 in a 55! I almost lost it right there but as a black man, nothing truly scares me more than police interactions. **I received both tickets at the exact same exit, both were 68 in a 55.**

So I’m looking for some advice on how to proceed. Do I represent myself or get a lawyer? Can I defend both tickets on the same day? I have two court dates, one early June and the second is late June.

The only other ticket I’ve ever received was heading to the birth of my son a year ago.

Thanks for reading and any advice.

Answer:
 > Can I defend both tickets on the same day? I have two court dates, one early June and the second is late June.

No, you have two separate dates.

Simple question: Were you speeding or no?  It doesn't matter how many cops there were, where you were going, or what your color is.  Were you going over 55 or not?


Title: Legality of booby traps?

Question:
my dad lately has had trouble with two people coming to his truck and attempting to break in and steal his tools, we have cameras outside and theyve already stolen one, and the first time they tried to break into his truck they got some tools.

he doesnt want shoot anyone and resort to that because of the mental toll it can take, no matter how bad a person is.

a friend of his said he should make a booby trap and he said that if he ends up hurting them then they can sue, is that true? we have footage of them attempting to break in and our neighbors got their license plate but the cops have yet to do something.

(edit in advance, sorry for formatting)

Answer:
 If you use a booby trap you can be sued by the person who is injured, regardless of if they were on the properly legally. Public policy prohibits “man traps” because they harm criminals and innocents alike. As such if you create a hidden danger and harm someone they can sue.Answer #2: >a friend of his said he should make a booby trap

That is terrible advice.


Title: Our landlord is telling us to move out, over drama between my sister and his daughter.

Question: Our landlord called us today and has told us to get out of the house because my sister (12) and his daughter (12) got into a fight at school and his daughter came home crying. He told my dad that we were good renters but he doesn't want that kind of drama and to get out.  Can he do this? My dad is freaking out and my mom is crying in her bedroom right now, we will be homeless if he goes through with this. I am 18 so I'll probably try to find my own place with two of my friends who are currently out looking for homes, or go live with uncle. We live in Wisconsin

Answer:
 Unless your parents have a fixed term lease with an expiration date, then they are likely month to month renters, and their tenancy can be ended for any reason, or no reason at all. All that's required is *written* notice and the appropriate waiting period typically 30 days, but it depends on the jurisdiction. [Saw your edit - one [source](https://docs.legis.wisconsin.gov/statutes/statutes/704/19) I read says WI waiting period is 28 days).

So while it's a crappy reason to kick out a long term renter, there's nothing illegal about him basing his decision on disagreements between two 12 year olds.


Title: Mother taken advantage of by travel agent for $50,000 (MN/FL)

Question:
In September of 2019, my mother and an old friend  she recently reconnected with who both live in Minnesota traveled to Spain and France for two weeks. My mother informed the travel agent she wanted to spend no more than between $6,000-$10,000 total for the trip. My Mother's friend agreed she didn't want to spend more than $5,000 for her portion. My Mother's friend recommended her travel agent for my mother to use. My Mother's friend has some sort of agreement with this travel agent where their accommodations were supposed to be free due to 'points' my Mother's friend had with this travel agent. My mother was told the only expenses she would owe for their stays would be cleaning fees and that she would cover the security deposits. All other costs of the trip were to be equally split between my mother and her friend.

After reviewing my Mother's accounts over Christmas, I realized a third-party company, on behalf of a travel agent my mother used, has charged my mother more than $50,000 total between her credit card and checking account beginning from before her trip, right up until the end of December. The travel agent is unable to provide invoices for the majority of the $50,000 charged to this third-party company. I was informed that because my mother’s credit card and debit card have low daily limits, the travel agent partially paid for expenses for the trip with my mother’s credit or debit card and then used funds from the third party company to pay for the rest of the cost. According to the travel, the $50,000 plus was my mother having to repay third-party company for costs they incurred when booking travel and fronting money for my mother.

The travel agent informed me that my mother and her friend opted to not stay at hotels so my Mother's friend's point could not be used, so they were billed for their stays. Further, it turns out my Mother's friend did not pay for any portion of her trip as the travel agent is claiming my Mother said she wanted to pay for the trip as a gift, something my Mother never said. My Mother's friend has not offered to reimburse my mother for half of the expenses.

The travel agent gained access to my mother’s credit and debit card numbers by having my mother sign a letter of guarantee for payment. My mother had this letter notarized and provided it to the travel agent who was dishonest about the need for such a document. My mother did not understand the document she was signing and providing to the travel agent. Further, my mother did not authorize any of the charges that took place on her accounts after she returned from her trip.

The travel agent who defrauded my mother is based out of Orlando, FL and the third party servicer is said to be based out of the Dominican Republic, but all of the charges on her account are listed as taken from Florida.

The travel agent is able to provide information concerning account for around $20,000 of the $50,000. The travel agent is claiming $20,000 is related to two properties that are in a travel insurance dispute as the properties were dirty, moldy, and inferior to how they were presented before arrival. The travel agent is claiming that $20,000 is being held in escrow until the travel insurance pays out to the broker/servicer third-party company in question above. She says that when the insurance pays out to the third-party company, my mother’s $20,000 will be reimbursed. The travel agent will not provide me with any information about where the money is being held in escrow or with what company. The travel agent is unable to account for the remaining balance my mother paid to the third party company. Further, the travel agent never provided my mother with any estimated costs for the trip, receipts for purchases, or any information related to the total cost of the trip.

I have filed a fraud report with her local police, the FTC, and disputed the charges through her bank for the credit and checking account transactions. However, I am worried they will not accept this as fraud as the travel agent has my mother sign the guarantee of payment form and my mother volunteered her account information. I have also cancelled the card used for this fraud and opened her new accounts with a new bank.

My main question is does my mother have any case if she needs to civilly sue either her friend of the travel agent if the bank refuses to recognize these transitions as fraud?

Apologies for this being rambling, it's quite a strange story, I will answer any questions to help clarify.

TL;DR - My mother took a trip to Spain and France via a travel agent who ended up charing her cards over $50,000 under very strange circumstances. The charges are being disputed via her bank, but the bank doesn't know if they will be refunded to my mother. What are her chances if she choses to civilly sue?

Answer: It sounds like the old friend colluded with the travel agency to take your mother for a ride (no pun intended).  Credit check, credit freeze, and 50k is lawyer territory.Answer #2: This sounds like an interstate (possibly international) conspiracy. Contact her local FBI field office.Answer #3: Depending on the age of your mother it may be elder abuse, Florida is pretty harsh on Elder abuseAnswer #4: In addition to the other recommended actions, you should file a complaint with the state of Florida.  They have some strict seller of travel laws.  You can learn more at [https://www.fdacs.gov/Business-Services/Sellers-of-Travel](https://www.fdacs.gov/Business-Services/Sellers-of-Travel)Answer #5: A lot will depend on what exactly your mother signed. Given the sums of money involved, you should consult with a lawyer. Your state bar association should be able to provide a referral.


Title: (NJ) Neighbor charging us with harassment

Question:
I live in a rural part of NJ.

Little backstory:

When I purchased this land about 20 years ago the neighbor had a fit on the day we were drilling the well.

Apparently he had planned to buy the property himself and was extremely upset with us. He came over, he wanted to fist fight (really) and eventually when threat of police intervention was thrown around he left and we've had a cold war ever since.

Recently he decided to start piling trash directly on the property line, at first it was a massive tree stump that he pulled out of his yard somewhere now sitting a few feet from the road and my drive way. A few weeks ago a white early 90s car shows up next to the stump. Flat tires, rusted, with out of state plates.

We reported it as a potential abandoned vehicle. The police came and checked into it and said that the neighbors extended family said he owned it.

Now today I got a letter. I'm being charged with harassment by said neighbor for that call to the police and have a court date.

I'm not sure how to proceed, does this guy have a case or is this just him blowing smoke?

Answer:
 This means that they his guy has filed a lawsuit against you. You can look up the case number at the local court.

It is probably bullshit buy you still have to respond. Answer #2: Get a lawyer, and put up a very tall fence.


Title: [On, Canada] Legalities of working in cold temps? With crappy drawing done on my crappy phone

Question:
Sorry for any crappiness in this post. Everything has been done on mobile.

I work for a for profit thrift store in the back production area where we sort through the tens of thousands of donations recieved weekly. Its a shitty job with shitty managers but the hours and benefits are decent and it's close to home.

As everyone must know, we are experiencing extreme cold weather with temps dipping into the -35C to -40C. We're in a polar vortex at the moment i believe.

Usually work is tolerable with a little extra clothing and thick socks and the temp usually staysbetween 15 and 20 in the winter. This week has been something else. With the temps outside and wind, we've been working in 3 to 4 degrees. Even with uggs (yes I know they're called uggs for a reason) borrowed from my teenaged daughter, thermal socks on, jacket and a scarf and mitts all while working indoors we were all frozen. Shivering, feet numb, noses running, you get the picture.

Management is saying that because we have a door leading to the outside that needs to be open most of the time and we're "technically" a warehouse, we are exempt from the temperature by-laws which from what I read is 18 and above.

Is this really legal? I'm in a position where I can quit and sit on my ass if i really want, but there are people there who absolutely need the job and can't speak up.

Here is my crappy drawing.

https://imgur.com/gallery/F1BbTOw

The dark green doors are the ones that are open most of the time to allow people to drop off donations. The gray loading dock door is open for hours on end when we recieved shipments from other charities we pay for their donated clothing.

In between the donation centre and warehouse/production area, there are those plastic door things that you see in grocery stores and such between the meat departments to keep cold contained. It doesn't work when temps are so cold.

Thanks for taking the time to read!

Answer:
 [The minimum temperature in an enclosed workplace is 18°C](https://www.labour.gov.on.ca/english/hs/faqs/workplace.php#temperature). However, your boss may be correct about the warehouse.

If your boss is preventing you from wearing appropriate clothing, or if you believe the areas should be considered enclosed, contact the Ministry of Labour and talk to them about your next steps.


Title: Drivers License #

Question:
(California) I hit a parked car (a bumper scrape) and left my number.
The owner called and I asked him to get an estimate on the damage, which they've done. I'm coming up with the money to take care of this out-of-pocket, but in the meantime, they keep demanding my Drivers License #.
They have my name and number, but since the police were not involved, nor the insurance companies (yet), are there legal reasons for me to give this information? I'm reluctant to just hand over this info for such a minimal thing.

EDIT: Thank you for all the feedback. It was frustrating to see this turn into a hit-and-run debate, but the DL# matter's been clarified for the most part.

Topic:
Traffic and Parking

Answer:
 They want it so when or if you don't pay they can file a claim with their insurance. Answer #2: It's not a minimal thing. Not in the slightest. Technically, you committed a hit-and-run and caused danage to another's property. Yes, you left a note, but it is a hit-and-run, nevertheless.

They want to be able to file a report with their insurance and/or the DMV and/or the police. It is not unreasonable for them to want your DL#. It is unreasonable for you to refuse it. You should cooperate and give them the number. They are doing you a favor by letting you pay for this directly. They could easily report this to the DMV (accident report), their insurance to come after you (much more hassle for you), and even the cops to report you for hit-and-run.


Title: Just found out my parents may have lied about where I live to send me to a better school.

Question: Basically I thought they paid for me to go to the neighboring city school. Most of my friends went there, and I hated the one I attended. Was there for three years. Just recently found out they used our friends address to get me registered. What are the possible legal ramifications here? Would the school allow me to pay what is owed, or would this become a criminal matter? Or is this a school decision? For reference, this happened ten years ago, and I'm considering a run for public office, hence my parents recent admission. I can't add my location for obvious reasons. Thank you.

Answer:
 The school doesn't care about address fraud ten years ago.

/u/Ramady for the political aspectAnswer #2: You were a minor and had no say in the matter. Tell people you went to school where you parents sent youAnswer #3: 1. none

2. no, and it is possible the school knew or found out.  Many schools allow this if you pay a out of district fee (not in big cities mind you).

3. i wouldn't worry about it at all.  It's not likely to be an issue and if it does the "my parents did what they thought was best" is the honest and understandable answer.  Stuff isn't like tv, i highly doubt anyone is going to try and shame you over this.


Title: Are NDA’s always enforceable?

Question:
In the case of Harvey Weinstein and let’s say the case of Corey Feldman’s threats to reveal Hollywood’s pedophile ring, are NDAs always enforceable?

I get that in the case of a person accepting a settlement that the NDA would stick. But let’s say in the case of Weinstein’s secretary administrative assistant who most likely signed the NDA with the belief it was to protect film projects can she get nailed in civil
Court for braking her silence by confirming she witnessed any of the alleged events? What if the event witnessed was by the legal definition, rape?

Can you make someone sign an NDA as a term of employment only to use it to keep someone from coming forward and possibly testifying about your criminal acts?

Now let’s look at Corey Feldman.  He isn’t dumb and he knows whoever can drag crap out he longest in court will wn. He also knows one or possibly both of his parents signed NDA’s when he was a minor as a part of his contracts. If he was a minor and his parents signed it only for him to become the victim of a crime, does he have the right to speak out? Do his parents have the right to sign away his ability to say a crime as committed against me without him being victimized a second time by going after him for terms of a NDA someone else signed?

Answer: If you sue somebody for violating an NDA that was agreed to for the purpose of concealing criminal acts you will not win.Answer #2: NDAs can not protect/hide criminal acts.


Title: Small Claims Against a Private Seller

Question:
I am currently considering pursuing a small claims court case in Illinois with a private seller over a used car.  It is a 2002 Oldsmobile Silhouette with 130k miles that was listed for $4500.00.  After speaking with the seller over the phone, he agreed to sell it for $2500.00 if I paid cash today.  We agreed.  After work, I grabbed my wife and son, and we went to the city where the van was located.  The ad (which I have printed out) specifically claimed:

1. AC Works
2. New Battery
3. No Rust or dents
4. One Owner
5. No Leaks

On the phone and in person, he claimed that everything worked, no issues.  He also claimed that his Grandma had owned the car and that between the two of them they have had it for 10 years, and they were only selling it because they needed the money.  I grew suspicious when I saw on the title he had owned it for less than a month.  I bought a carfax, and I am the 7th owner of this vehicle, not the 2nd.  So far, I have had the AC filled and replaced the driver side window motor ($271.00).  The mechanic told me the battery is not new and needs to be replaced soon and the compressor (which is leaking)  will need to be replaced, quoting about $800.00 assuming nothing else is wrong.  There are small dents scattered here and there over the vehicle and one rust spot.  They were hard to notice as it was getting dark.

I've also been able to locate 8 other ads which he claims are his Grandma's car or one owner vehicles.

I have a family of 3 living on about $2000 a month, we borrowed this money from in laws so that my wife and son weren't stuck at home all the time when I went to work.  Paying $100+ in fees for a case might not seem like much, but to us it's a weeks worth of groceries.  My questions:

1. Is it worth pursing a small claims case?
2.  If so, how much should I try for?
3. Do I need to file in the county where the car was bought, or the county where I live?
4.  Any advice?

Answer:
 Not to put too fine a point on it, but you did just about everything wrong when it comes to buying a used car (no inspection, no carfax, bought at night).  Having said that, if you have it in writing that it's a one owner car, and it's clearly not, you may actually have a winnable case. (a very rare thing indeed with as-is used car sales from private sellers).

Even if you win you still have to collect, and the guy you bought it from probably spent the money already. Have you contacted him at all?


Title: Notary charging me $25 in CT to notarize my doctor’s signature.

Question:
I needed my endocrinologist’s signature notarized for a gender change form a couple weeks ago, and paid $25 for it. I assumed the $25 was for the notary, my endo’s fee, the office fee for such, and so on. The secretary took the fee, gave me a receipt, and said she’d have the form printed, signed, and notarized for me. I got it a couple days later, and thought that was the end of it.

Unfortunately, I had the form denied as it was on the wrong type of paper. While unfortunate, I can’t really blame the office for that. I mean, wrong type of paper? Really? It got me pretty upset...

When I returned with the correct form on archival bond paper and brought it to my endo’s secretary, she said that it would be another $25 fee for it to be notarized. Well, I really didn’t want to pay for the same thing twice, so I offered to just pay the notary’s fee, whatever that was. The secretary told me that no, the entire $25 was going to the notary. Now I’m not the smartest knife in the box, but I try to not be taken advantage of, at the very least. I ask why the fee was so high, since unless she’s traveling ~60 miles or so, I don’t think she’s allowed to charge that much. She told me that it was for the notary’s time.

Is that how notary pricing usually works, and I’ve just misunderstood it? I figured that if the law goes so far as to mention $0.35 per mile traveled and a $5 maximum fee that the time itself isn’t something that could be charged for.

I don’t want to end up paying $50 for someone to say “...yep, that’s a signature.” Am I just out of luck?

Answer:
 The law does say:

> The fee for any act performed by a notary public in accordance with the provisions of the general statutes shall not exceed five dollars plus an additional thirty-five cents for each mile of travel.

However, since you are not directly paying a notary (you are paying the doctor a fee to have something notarized, even if they do then pay the entirety of that fee to someone else), and it is not your signature being notarized meaning the contract is between the doctor and the notary, I am not sure you have standing to allege a violation of that particular law.

You may want to see if you can find your own notary to do it for cheaper.


Title: Landlord is having the siding redone on my house and its currently covered in Tyvek. This has made the house so much colder meaning that we have to turn the heat on. We have to pay our own energy bill, so can I make the landlord pay us for the extra cost?

Question: Pretty much the title. All of the siding has been off our house for 4 days now and its significantly colder. I don't think the landlord is being malicious, they probably didn't realize it, but I don't think we as tenants should be responsible for paying a higher energy bill when we never asked for our siding to be replaced.

Answer: You can ask, but you have no right to demand.  Also the r value of siding is extremely small.Answer #2: First step is talk to him about it.   It's not an unreasonable request and is easily demonstrated if there's a significant difference in energy costs.


Title: If I am parked legally on a street and a car hit my door as it opens, who is at fault?

Answer:
 If you open the door into a lane of travel you would most likely be at fault.
Answer #2: Fault can be shared.


Title: [NY] Hit parked car on way to Dr.

Question:
New driver, come to intersection trying to turn right. Small road on right and large mini van drives up to take up most of road. Couple is waiting for me to turn right, I wave them off since I didn't think I could fit. They cross, and I assume if they waved me off I could fit. Make the turn and hear enough to know I hit thug car. Continued driving as couldn't miss this appointment.

Currently in waiting room and want legal advice for what I should do now.

Answer: Well. That would be hit and run which is a crime. So..... Talking to a lawyer would be a good idea. Because this can go south quick


Title: moving out

Question: i’m 16, living in st louis missouri . i fucking hate my house , im severly depressed because of this place & i would like to leave when i turn 17 . i heard i can without force to come back home because of vague laws for missouri but id like that to be confirmed. thx 🙂🙂

Answer:
 Your legal advice is you're a minor and your parents have a say in where you live until you are not a minor.

If you're being mistreated call CPS.


Title: Concerned my cousin may be operating as a prostitute (Ontario, CA)

Question:
I was browsing Craig's List when I stumbled on this posting http://i.imgur.com/ful8aL7.png

This person I am quite confident is my cousin. I don't care to morally judge him but I suspect he is actually selling sex and am fearful he will get in trouble with the law.

I'd rather not have to confront this issue with him but what sort of risks legally are involved in offering this service? I feel if he ever got arrested it would devastate the family.

Answer:
 If your cousin is an adult, leave it alone. It is none of your business and is certainly not the business of anyone else but the person placing the ad and the people answering it.

Get a hobby and stop cruising Craigslist m4m ads if you find them so offensive.

Answer #2: He's not advertising anything illegal. Is there a chance he's negotiating something illegal in private? Sure. But that's none of your business. Answer #3: Not your problemAnswer #4: Prostitution is legal in Canada. It is also, generally, legal to communicate with the intention of selling sex, which includes advertisements.

It is illegal to sell sex near any area where a young person could reasonably be expected to be present (no parks, no schools) and buying sex is illegal.

Profiting from the sale of sex (pimping) is illegal and third-party advertising is illegal but rarely enforced (websites and advertisements in magazines, etc..)

Your cousin is not buying sex and he's not pimping (that we know of).  He's fine.


Title: Evidently I'm s bad neighbor

Question:
I live in a small somewhat rural community of about 1700 people.  It's a 4th class incorporated city,
My legal problem started a couple of months ago when I received a couple of summons in the mail citing open storage of automobiles and running a business without a license.
I did have several cars on the back of my 4 acres that I agree needed to go, hauled them off but still face a $500 penalty. I might mention there were no warning letters or visits and stored cars are very common here.
Now, the business lic I am at a loss for. I'm not running a business simply a hobby shop, occasionally I might sell a car or two to fund another project but I sell them in another city on a friends carlot.   City doesn't agree and wants me to stop my hobby altogether or get a business license.   I comply and apply for one only to be denied on grounds that I'm in a residential neighborhood.
I was blindsided by this as I was told that would be my fix by the code enforcement guy and due to multiple businesses around my house including an auto mech shop just down the road also zone residential.
Can the legally single me out like this or should I fight?
I might add the road I live on is a state highway and is far from peaceful, my shop is 800 feet off the road and my neighbors are fine with my activities.   I've been complimented by city employees in the past for how well my property is kept so I m really not that guy.   Even offered to privacy fence my backlot.
So,  any advice?

Edit
I'll add I'm in Missouri

Answer: Get an attorney.


Title: I’m 17 year old guy and I just want to see my son but ex’s parents won’t let me.

Question:
I posted on relationships and was suggested I post here. I’m 17, ex is 19 if that at all matters.

This is the post:

My ex and her family make everything impossible. Everything is a fight. I wasn't allowed at the birth. I wasn't allowed to visit at the hospital after. Or the week proceeding. I've seen my son all of a handful of times and I've not even been able to hold him. They won't let my mom meet him either.

My ex gf and I had a good thing until she got pregnant. Her parents never particularly liked me and that just ramped up when she got pregnant. I wasn't allowed to participate in anything. No classes with ex, no appointments. Nothing. They just kept demanding money. I got a part time job during last school year and gave them everything I earned. I went full time in the summer and still gave them everything (despite my mom telling me not to). I just went back to part time since I want to finish school. Her parents went ballistic. They always call me names like a piece of shit and no good and that sort of thing. But they said a lot more this time and basically said if I don't quit school and work full time to provide for their daughter and our baby I will never see him again.

My mom said there's no way I'm quitting and theyre just crazy. They told me to get a lawyer since they aren't letting me see my son at all now. I think they know I cant get a lawyer. My mom and I don't have money and just live in a one bedroom condo together. My ex gfs parents are well off, big house, big yard, nice cars, that sort of thing. My mom doesn't even have a car! She's never had one.

My exs dad has come by our place a few times demanding more money then I have. I feel like at this point I can't get away from these people. I could tolerate the craziness if I could at least SEE and HOLD my son. My mom wants to send me to live with her cousin a couple provinces away. She also said she'd she'd sell or maybe remortgage our place and she'd deal with childsupport until I was done school and working a proper job. She says she wants me to go away and have a real life and these people will never leave me be if I'm here.

I feel so guilty dragging my mom into all this. you have no idea. I can't sleep. Lost 20lbs from stress i think. I want to see my son and be a dad. At the same time I just want to get as far away from these people as possible.

Is there anyway to get through to them? I feel like its not fair to leave my mom. What do I do? How do I deal with all this? How do I see my son?

Answer: you need a lawyer.


Title: Can I be sued for a written loan signed 12 yrs ago with unclear terms about payment start date?

Question:
I had a relative that covered most of my college expenses, as a no-interest loan. Around 12-14 years ago, when I was an immature sophomore/junior in college, I signed a written agreement with my relative promising that I would pay them back after I graduate. I'm not sure if it said once or after I graduated or once I get a job, I don't think it had a total amount either, it might have said something to the effect that I would pay whatever amount the total would be. Unfortunately I don't have a copy of our written contract. Anyway, due to recent events, our relationship worsened, and now they are demanding that I start paying them back the X dollars I owe them at Y dollars a month, or else they'll take legal action on me. According to them, they asked a lawyer (not hired) and said that they have a legit case.

I've read about Statute of Limitations and was wondering if that would protect me from them coming after me. Note that at one point they almost gave the loan to me as a gift, but my recent decisions in life and life partner caused them to change their mind about things. I believe in Indiana the Statute of Limitations expires at 10 yrs after the contract was breached. However, if the written contract never had a specific payment start date, then how does that work? I'm trying to find a way to defend myself if they decide to sue me. For one, I can't afford the monthly amount they want, not as a single-income household with my wife and child to care for. I appreciate the fact that they don't want interest on it, but I'm sure if I can trust the total balance without them showing me receipts.

Can they legally sue me or set their own payment terms? The contract was made in Indiana, but we currently live in West Virginia.

UPDATE: Please don't lash out at me, I'm here for advice, not criticism. I do realize now that I failed to mention that I'm not trying to be a jerk to my family. They're the ones who don't want to work this out and talk it over. I owe them so much and I am truly thankful for all they've done for me. I just didn't expect it to come down to this. Without going into details about the fight, in short basically there was a huge misunderstanding, they heard a false rumor about me and they refuse to hear my explanation. Instead of giving me a chance to explain, they disowned me as family (over text message) and may sue me for the money I owe. I have every intention to pay them back, but I was planning to do that once I've paid my other school loans. If they can't sue me, then that will give me the power to control the terms of my repayment.

Answer: I don't foresee anyone helping you be a jerk to your relative who gave you money for free.  Be an adult and work out a schedule that you can afford.


Title: [PA] My mother is likely dying soon, she does not have much of an estate, but does carry debt. How should we manage this?

Question:
Hi LA,

Unfortunately my mother's health is deteriorating. She is still of sound mind but we are preparing for the worst.

She currently carries a little bit of CC debt ($2k) and has a car loan ($9k). She lives in a trailer that she owns but is not worth much (~$5k), and she has life insurance (~$20k). Additionally she will likely have a lot of medical bills as she has been in ICU for over a week now.

We're not sure what to do to help manage her funeral costs and close out her estate.

What bills will die with her and what do we need to make sure can be covered with her life insurance?

We would like to probably sell her car and trailer as no one in the family needs/wants it.

Also, she has a will from 1981 naming her sister as benefactor, this was made before her 3 children were born and my aunt does not want to have to deal with this and wants us (the kids) to get it taken care of before she passes.

I just don't know what to do.

Thank you

Answer: Do not use life insurance proceeds to pay anything toward her debt or medical bills. Use a portion for funeral expenses. Your mom’s creditors have absolutely no right to the life insurance proceeds. I’m assuming you are the listed beneficiary on the policy (or one or) on the policy- that money is contractually obligated to the listed beneficiaries. The rest (without more information) sound like unsecured creditors. You can let them fight over the trailer etc. You cannot inherit your mother’s debt, but the scenario changes if you are inheriting any of her assets.


Title: My husband agreed to raise my baby by another man. How do I legally protect us?

Question:
The affair is over and the biological father is in another country. I believe the bio father would be supportive of signing anything if it's necessary (based on his own words several months ago). I am four months pregnant. My husband plans to sign the birth certificate.

And yes I know my husband is a saint.

Edit: Husband and I are in the USA and the bio father is a native and lives in the EU.

Answer:
 >And yes I know my husband is a saint.

Not the word I would have used, but it's his life.


Title: Why do post offices in the US ban firearms on the property?

Question: I haven’t found much on it myself. hoping someone can give me some guidance.

Answer:
 Because they are federal property.

https://www.law.cornell.edu/uscode/text/18/930

Or are you wondering why firearms are banned on federal property (unless you meet the criteria in the link)?


Title: Gym is trying to send me to collections over unpaid membership fees, but I wasn't under contract and I haven't been going

Question:
[Texas]

I signed up for a gym in October 2015. It was a 1 year contract, that switched to month to month once the year was up. I paid throughout the whole year, and continued to pay until February of 2017. I had to suddenly move (long story) and in that same month got a new bank account, with new debit card.

In the hurry of the move, I forgot to cancel the gym membership or give them new card information. I didn't worry about it, because I wasn't under contract. Any other monthly service not under contract would cancel automatically once they stopped being paid.
This gym apparently is different. They made several attempts to call and inform me, but they were just random 1-800 numbers that I would never answer.

Just now, I got an email from them saying that if I didn't pay my entire balance within 5 days, they would be sending me to collections.

What can I do? It's several hundred dollars, because they've added some bullshit "late fees", so it isn't an insignificant amount of money. And in principle it frustrates me. Why should I pay for the membership when I wasn't under contract and I haven't been to that gym in over 6 months?

Answer:
 Month to month is a type of contract. Read your contract and see if they were required to cancel you if you stop paying (most gyms do not have that provision...gyms make money by people not going)

>  Any other monthly service not under contract would cancel automatically once they stopped being paid.

Not true at all.


Title: Can I call the police on people that come onto my property and go through my recycling cans?

Answer:
 Yes, you can. They are trespassing and stealing from you. Answer #2: You can.  This call would be extremely low priority for most police departments, unless they are damaging property.
Why do you care?  Are they strewing garbage across your yard and making a big mess?  Technically, they are recycling.
And people who go through other's bins looking for salvageables usually really need the money.Answer #3: Are you recycling cans behind a fence or can they be accessed easily from public.Answer #4: Trespassing is a crime, you can report crimes to the police.

Unless you are on Hoth, Galactic Imperial Law is a bit different.