Title: Friend being kept against his will by a hospital in CT.

Question:
Hello everyone. A friend of mine from college just called me. I was hoping I could get some advice.

My friend has always been open with me about his depression. I just received a call from him this morning. He is being held against his will by a hospital in Connecticut. The hospital is claiming that he is a danger to himself and/or others. Knowing him I find it unlikely that he tried to commit suicide and he certainly didn’t try to harm someone else.

The hospital is holding all of his personal possessions and refusing him access, which made it very difficult for him to contact me. He had already decided to take a semester off of school and work through his mental health issues with his psychiatrist in New York City with whom he already had a relationship.

At this point, I have tasked my friend with (1) discovering the name and contact information of the doctor who signed off on the order to hold him, (2) getting copies of all the records the hospital has on him, and (3) getting access to his property particularly his cell phone.

Is there anything else I should tell him he needs to do? What authority do they have to continue to hold him and for how long can they do so? Is there any way to expedite the process by which he can be released upon his own recognizance? What are his options at this point in time?

Thank you, I'm trying to give him the best advice during such a crazy situation.

Answer:
 You are not a Dr and cannot determine if someone is at risk of harm.

You should tell him to work on his mental health. They can hold him for whatever time the law allows in the state and then can ask the courts to hold him longer. Answer #2: >Knowing him I find it unlikely that he tried to commit suicide and he certainly didn’t try to harm someone else.

Clearly, someone who is qualified disagrees.

[Here](http://www.cga.ct.gov/2002/rpt/2002-R-0848.htm) is the CT involuntary commitment law. It looks like if he has been held longer than three days, two doctors have independently evaluated him and decided it was necessary.


Title: (IN) Typical Workplace Harassment Issue Has Now Become a Huge Ordeal

Question:
(IN) I started working at this company as a temp to full time hire a month ago. My first day a guy made it known in his department, different from mine but right next to me, that he has a crush. I was warned by several people about this and also that he's "weird" and that he has the tendency to harass other women that he finds attractive.

Over the past month I could hear him randomly scream my name, he and his friend would follow me out on breaks and also follow me to my vehical after work and try and talk to me. I never incorraged this and in fact told them I was in a relationship. It was getting to a point where I had planned on telling him that he need to back off and leave me alone this past Wednesday after work when he would normally approach me. My plan was if he continued the harassing behavior then I would take it to HR. However things happened during work that day that made me uncomfortable to even confront him. He got into a loud arguement with several people during work about me and then after work he came outside and started cursing out a few of his coworkers in the parking lot.

I made the decision to tell my supervisor what was going on so he and the other supervisor over the neighboring department would take care of it. Yesterday I had a conversation with my supervisor about the harassment and he told me he would handle it and to not worry about it. 3 hours later I was told by a coworker in the neighboring department where this creepy guy is assigned that their supervisor (not mine) went around to everyone in the department and told them "you are not allowed to talk to 85shoty, stay away from her." Several people confirmed this. I told my boss and it now has been elivated to HR and 2 investigations have been opened up. One against creepy guy that was harassing me and one against the supervisor for being a dumb ass and instead of taking care of the issue, he decided to just tell everyone to not talk to me.

What the hell do I do now? It could have been handled quickly and quietly but now it's a full blown scandal that is making the rounds around the plant. I have to be able to work closely with the neighboring department along with that supervisor but now I'm uncomfortable talking to that supervisor or dealing with anyone over there. What he did was malicious, he never even talked to the creepy guy. I feel like I was being punished for saying something. I've told HR all of this.

I'm just so incredibly pissed off. I never wanted any of this and none of it was my fault. I'm rambling now but my questions are what the hell do I do now? What if HR gives the supervisor a slap on the wrist (likely to happen) and he decided to retaliate against me. Being a temp, what if the company decided that it would be easier to get rid of me?

Answer:
 >What the hell do I do now?

Let HR do its investigation. Relax. Don't get bogged down in what-ifs. Answer #2: Sounds like the company is doing the right thing in investigating both issues. Good for them. Sit back, do good work, and let things play out.


Title: Public organization jamming FCC controlled frequency

Question:
a school I attend jams any 2.4ghz wireless network that interferes with their own wireless network and should a router still be interfering they will flood it with packets in order to deny service.

are they allowed to do this because they are a school or is it still illegal. the packet flooding is a distributed denial of service attack and other other is intentionally jamming an FCC controlled frequency which are illegal for citizens
Topic:
Computer and Internet

Answer:
 no. Report it to the FCC. Marriott just got slammed recently for this. Answer #2: Nope, it's not legal. This hotel in my area run by Marriot was recently in the news when they were fined for jamming:
https://www.fcc.gov/document/marriott-pay-600k-resolve-wifi-blocking-investigation

Specifically addressing schools:
https://transition.fcc.gov/eb/jammerenforcement/jamfaq.pdf

I am a principal or school teacher and would like to use a jammer to limit cell
phone calls and texting during school hours. May I do so?

No. It is a violation of federal law to operate a jamming device within the U.S. Cell phone
jammers do not distinguish between social or other cell phone conversations and an
emergency call to a family member or a 9-1-1 emergency responder. In an emergency,
use of a cell jammer can pose a threat to both students and staff by preventing
communications with police or emergency services.
In other words, jammers, even if carefully targeted, create risks of interference outside
their intended zone of operations and can thereby disrupt critical communications by
public safety providers, as well as the legitimate communications of passersby.

More info and how to file a complaint:
https://www.fcc.gov/encyclopedia/jammer-enforcement1


Title: Letter from so called lawyer all signs point to scam... but my father wants to make sure.

Question:
My dad has been getting these calls from these "lawyers". I have been very skeptical so i googled their address and its a pack and mail... their excuse? Its a po box. I also found that there is another company called KJ financial that uses the same phony address. Also their website is only 4 months old. And the debt is past the statue of limitations in illinois (10 years).

The "lawyer " does not want to send us any kind of documents or to tell us if it time barred. He said they wont send us anything they are going to send it to the judge.. and "see you in court"
And he said even if the statue of limitations is over they can still sue us because they are no longer creditors... they are litigators. They also gave us a "tax number" 32-0464925 which i cant seem to look up.
Attached is the letter they sent us that looks like it was made with microsoft word. What do you think?
Any help is appreciated. Thank you!

https://imgur.com/a/OPeLC

Answer:
 There is no firm by that name registered as either a corporation or an LLC in the State of California.

Source: CA Secretary of State


Title: My ex paid off some of my medical debt and a few other bills, he’s now threatening to sue for the money.

Question:
(Kinda long, but it’s a good story... tldr at bottom).

I have some unpaid medical bills from when I was in my 20s (which I understand is completely my own fault, but I was a poor college student). My dad got laid off from his software engineering job in 2009 and I had my health insurance through him. I know I still had it for a while after that, but we didn’t talk much (I was away at college, not close overall), so I didn’t know for sure when it was going to end, but I wasn’t TOO concerned because I was young and healthy.

Fast forward ~3 years (I was 23), and I had an emergency requiring an ambulance ride and around $20k in debt for that, the ED visit, and a few follow up appointments. Turns out, the health insurance coverage had already ended. I couldn’t pay and tried for a while to pay a little every month. I think I even got some of the bills reduced from the hospital. I was in college for about 5 more years and worked part time jobs for most of it.

Fast forward ~5 more years (I was 28), I graduated college twice (yay!) and finally got a real job. This debt had been weighing me down, but then I also had student loan debt and other expenses, so the medical bills got put on the back burner.

Then, when I was 28 I started dating this guy that was honestly a little crazy, but I didn’t know at first. He made way more money than me and tried to get me to quit my job and go back to school offering to pay (he knew I wanted a master’s degree, but I was not comfortable doing that without a solid savings). I moved in with him after a few months and my mail started going to his address.  I was getting bills from collection agencies for various amounts (all related to the medical bills). Some were so cheap ($23) and others weren’t ($600). My bf at the time began paying off these bills without me knowing.

About 6 months later, I got into a car accident and my health insurance wouldn’t pay the bills because the accident was the other drivers fault and they said car insurance needs to cover the medical bills. The guy I was dating paid a few things upfront that I needed (physical therapy and ortho consults), because I wasn’t working. My lawyer told me he thought I easily had a policy limit case (guy was ODing on opiates and drunk, whole accident is on video, and I had several broken bones). The lawyer came and told me this in front of my bf at the time. My boyfriend took that as a guarantee that I’d get a $100k settlement. It ended up being more complicated, because I wasn’t driving my car and the guy that hit me was uninsured. The case was drug out for a year before Covid-19 lockdowns. In that time, I broke up with him and he didn’t know where the case was. He also started saying I owe him when I get my settlement, because that would be the right thing to do. I didn’t really respond, but basically said maybe if I get $100k, that’s fair. And he told me that I can repay him what I think is a fair amount.

I’ve since settled for a muchhhhh smaller amount than the $100k, because my lawyer was basically unwilling to go to trial and we didn’t even know when that would happen. Instead of waiting years to get $100k or possibly nothing, I accepted a smaller settlement and my lawyer reduced his fee.

**tldr; without my knowledge my boyfriend at the time started paying my medical collection bills, directly to the collection agencies and a few other bills from a car accident that happened while we were dating. He asked if I noticed I’m getting less of the bills and then revealed what he was doing. I told him he didn’t have to do that, but he said “I care about you”. He paid around $3,000 total and he’s now threatening to take me to court if I don’t reimburse him. His reasoning is that we were together at the time and he thought it would last, so it was an investment in OUR future. **

Side note, this guy is pretty rich and vindictive, he’s said he would pay three times the amount I owe him, just so I have to pay. He paid most of my bills without me knowing and I feel like that’s considered a gift. I don’t know. Does he have a chance at succeeding in this? I never expressed clearly that I would pay him back, it was more hypothetical, like IF I get~$70- $100k, I’ll pay “the relationship” back (paying for a trip, part of a down payment on a house). Should I get a lawyer?

This is Ohio, USA.

Answer:
 These would be considered a gift, and can't be recouped by him. You didn't ask for it. You didn't sign for it. And you are not responsible for his generosity.

Let him sue you - whats the worst that will happen? You'll be ordered to pay? Make him prove to the court that you owe him every penny he claims. Other than that, tell him to pound sand. That's what the court will tell him.Answer #2: If you get served with actual court papers, do not ignore them. Until then, ignore him.

Edit: That second part is just life advice.Answer #3: Let him take you to court. Unless he has proof that you agreed to pay him back then he won't win. Don't let him have control and power over you when in reality he doesn't have shit.Answer #4: No, you shouldn't get a lawyer, because the dispute is only $3,000 and you haven't been sued yet.

If he sues you in small claims court, walk into court and tell the judge, "these were gifts, not loans, he incurred these expenses without any agreement that I would pay him back, he's being vindictive now because we broke up."

The judge will listen to both of you and then decide if you owe the money.

If he sues you for a lot more than $3,000 and/or in regular district/circuit court and not in small claims court, then you could consider getting a lawyer. But lawyers are expensive.Answer #5: >**His reasoning is that we were together at the time and he thought it would last, so it was an investment in OUR future**

Tell him not all investments pay off.


Title: I think I'm being discriminated against.

Question:
So I am looking for advice on how to approach a rental situation in Pennsylvania.

My family and I have moved back my home state of PA due to health concerns for my daughter. Howeve we have had to stay with family because the rental market is just awful in the area. Very difficult to find a suitable 3 bedroom home for rent.

In any case it had become so difficult that we considered just moving back out of state.

That is when we came across the perfect home, in the perfect location at a great price. We went to view the property and it was great. The property manager said that the owner wants someone in immediately so the process should be quick. She said we where the first person to view the place and it should be no problem.

So here is where it gets weird. The house is listed as no pets. I then mentioned that I am a disabled veteran and I told her I have a trained service dog. I said that would be okay right? I told her that even though not legally required i would be willing to pay a deposit and give the credentials because the owners where uncomfortable with dogs for whatever reason.

I said that wont be as problem right? She said "it's not supposed to be, it should be fine" I gave her the filled out application and went on our way.

That was 1 week ago.

The house is still listed, I know they are still showing it. I inquired about this to the realtor and she said the owner just wanted to review all applicants. She said that the owner is okay with the dog, but is concerned with our toddlers on the steps. I told her to let the owners know that we have a baby gate for the steps and it would not be an issue. She said she should know by Monday, Tuesday at the latest. Today is Wednesday and I got nothing. Meanwhile the holidays are rapidly approaching and I dont have a place for my family to live.

We meet all income requirements, have great references, and they do not do a credit check.

What the hell is going on here? Should I seek legal advice? Are they within their rights to keep doing this?

I feel as if they are trying to string us along hoping for a candidate without a service dog and/or toddlers come as long. Both, by my understanding would be discriminatory.

Answer:
 > Should I seek legal advice?

For a one-week delay before getting your answer?  No, you shouldn't seek legal advice.  They don't have to take you just because you apply.  Answer #2: If the market is that hot, they may also be trying to get a higher rent from someone else. Answer #3: It's a house? Like single family? Do you know how many houses the landlord owns?


Title: Stalker made accounts online pretending to be me, Stalker was jailed and I was told I could request the sites to take the accounts down. Sites won't help.

Question:
Hi everyone. (Accidentally posted this on my actual account)

This started back when I was in middle school (I am now 18 and in college and still trying to finish this up :( ). Someone from my old neighborhood started stalking me via online when Facebook started and all that. They originally just knew my name and general location but not where I had moved to.

I was about 11/12 when this started and didn't know about it until I was in 8th grade when this man started showing up in my neighborhood and a few other places. He found my new address by pretending to be me and adding my middle school friends on Facebook. He also made accounts on Twitter and deviantArt with my name attached to them and just the general location of where I am.

He was finally jailed last year when he broke into our home. I was told by my lawyer that I could start requesting the sites take down the accounts because we had printed out screenshots of all the accounts he made and everything he posted on them. I'm going into a career that would require me to use my actual name (First and last both very uncommonly spelt) and I did not want my stalkers accounts coming up.

Many sites have been extremely helpful with taking down a majority of the accounts, but deviantArt and Twitter will not budge. I requested a DMCA on deviantArt in May and they have not replied to me. I keep requesting the account on Twitter be taken down for impersonation, but they deem that it isn't because the only thing on it is my name and location even though I explain why I'm requesting it be taken down.

I don't know what to do anymore, I need help. I just want this done and over with :( It has affected me horribly and I just want it to be gone.

Answer:
 If a site won't comply voluntarily, you need to sue them.  The court will be able to order them taken down.

I'm not completely sure that the DMCA is the proper authority here.  DMCA is used for taking down copyrighted material that is improperly used.  Unless the sites in question are posting things that you hold the copyright to, DMCA isn't what you want.


Title: [Washington State] I got a parking ticket today for "Illegal parking- Parking prohibited by signage 'No parking any time'"

Question:
As the title states, I was given a parking ticket today for parking near a sign that said "No parking any time." The problem is the sign was on the street ahead of where I parked. The crubs were separated by a drive way. Here is some photos http://imgur.com/a/E0tL0

I want to contest the ticket. Thoughts?

Edit: I wasn't aware of the "10ft from the sign" portion. I just assumed the sign applied only to that stretch of street. Thanks for the advice!

Answer: If the curbs were separated by a driveway, I hate to break it to you, but that's the same street.  Having a driveway there doesn't mean the street stops and starts again.Answer #2: That sign does refer to only that stretch of street. A driveway doesn't break up a street. It's all the same stretch.


Title: An Australian, white owned clothing company, is sending C and Ds to other businesses, including aboriginal-owned, claiming copyright of the Aboriginal flag. (News article)

Answer: It's not an ancient cultural symbol or something. Looks like it was designed by an aboriginal artist who was just like "I made this" in the 70s. Why shouldn't he be able to make money off of his art?


Title: Police calling me daily over petty theft (NY)

Question:
Hey Everyone,

So I got a call 3 weeks ago from a guy I shoot photos for in the winter as an independent contractor. He is claiming I stole 2 strobe lights ($750 total value) from a hockey rink.

He said the scorekeeper "saw me do it, and said it was me when shown a picture" I asked when this happened and he claimed in early May but I had not been to that rink except twice in July (I play hockey)

I vehemently told him I did not take his lights but he said he would take it further if he did he not get them back.

Fast forward to this week and I am recieveing daily calls from that towns police department wishing to speak with me. I let them all go to voicemail and don't call back.

Today is the one that shook me. This is exactly what the officer said: **"I've tried leaving you several message, if you don't return my phone call and try to, uh discuss this matter and put and end to it, uh then we're gonna have no choice then to issue a warrant for your arrest."**

I cannot afford an attorney at all. I feel like I'm trapped. I have been to that rink in the past few months & the only witness is claiming it was me. I have no idea what to do. I am 26 years old and never committed a crime in my life! not even a speeding ticket!

Please help in anyway you can!

Answer:
 don't talk to the cops, it sounds like they are bluffing: if they had enough evidence they would have already picked you up, so don't give it to them even inadvertently
Answer #2: Do you know for sure that this is the police calling you?

Is the officer on the towns police website? Is the number to the town police?

Or is the guy just having your friend try to scam you out of $750


Title: Dog bit another dog. Vet bills are getting out of control.

Question: We’re in California.  My dog is a 30 lb and got off leash (I literally) and ran after a lab and bit him.  There was no blood as my dog is tiny but now the owner is saying they’re taking the dog to vet.  I said I would cover all costs and apologized.  Vet came back and said it’s going to be $1200 as they need to sedate and do X-rays.  What are my options?  I was at fault and will be putting my dog down but this vet seems to be very high and unnecessary with their bills. It’s a tough situation because I’m gong thru a lot as they are and I want to help but what if the bills keep coming?  I can’t afford this and feel horrible I made a mistake and want to make it right.

Answer:
 $1200 is not all that high for vet bills. If you believe they are inflated you can make them sue you.Answer #2: #1: I don't think this really warrants putting down your dog if this hasn't happened before, and the fact that it didn't draw blood.

#2: Make them sue you for the money. If you don't wanna pay it and they still wanna pursue it, a lawsuit will determine who has to pay.Answer #3: Wow. Was the dog limping?  I am wondering why they thought the dog needed xrays from a nip.  While I would pay the visit and the xray, I wouldn't pay the sedation.  Make them sue you for that part.  My dog has had five xrays in the last two months due to an ACL tear and at no time did they sedate him. If I didn't read the vet tech comment, I wouldn't believe a vet would risk the complications of general anesthesia for an xray instead of a mild sedative for $50 bucks if the dog isn't trained.  TIL.


Title: Flying with legal weed WITHIN a state that has legalized recreationally?

Question: [deleted]

Answer:
 You answered your own question. It's not legal, because you aren't 21.Answer #2: Air travel is regulated by the federal government. I sure wouldn't want to risk being arrested by the federal marshal on a Pot charge  because marijuana is still illegal under federal law. Just buy some when you land in Reno. If you can't find marijuana in Reno with like two minutes of effort I think you have bigger problems.Answer #3: So you are going to go into a place with drug sniffing dogs with a product that is illegal for you to possess.

Not a smart idea. And man, i you get busted your friend can't get your off since there really isn't a get out of jail free card someone can play.

What you are talking is very stupid and could create a lot of expensive problems.

And it is in your checked luggage. You now that bags that are connected to your name. So yeah, they might track down your age by knowing who you are. Answer #4: Airspace is federally-regulated. Going into a federally-regulated place with something against federal law is a bad idea.

I can't imagine "how do I score pot in Reno" is a question that comes up a whole lot.


Title: [CA] Landlord May have given away my parking spot?

Question:
Been living at this complex for about a year. The lease states that we have use of one garage and one spot (assigned)in the parking lot. My car broke down about 2 months ago so I have been without a car. I’ve noticed another person parking in our spot lately, I’m not sure if they live here or our friends of another tenant.

My husband is like whatever we don’t have a car anyways, my thing is it’s the principle. If it’s included with my rent shouldn’t that spot solely be ours car or not?  I should mention about a month ago the complex said they were with a towing company and we will be getting permits to park (which we have not gotten yet) any ideas on what I should do? Or should I just let this go. Thanks
Topic:
Landlord Tenant Housing

Answer: Have you tried reporting the car that's in your spot? Have you tried following up with the landlord about the parking permit?


Title: Being sued for something I thought was taken care of and done.

Question:
 Hey legaladvice, So I need help with an issue to clear up some confusion that I have. So here’s a background story, i live in Southern California and in January they filmed a movie at my house so I had to transport my dogs to my friend’s house.
This is the first time I’ve ever had my dogs in my car and it also happens to be the first time my dogs rode in a car. Anyway, it just so happens that one of my dogs pushed down on my automatic windows in my backseat and fell out of my car.

This caused an accident where vehicle A swerved and crashed into vehicle B which caused vehicle B to crash into a pole. The people involved in the accident were two young adults in their early 20s (Vehicle A) and another adult mid 40’s driving a van with two people, one young, one old, with Cerebral/Spastic Palsy (Vehicle B) who were not able to speak due to their disability, idk if that is relevant or not, apparently to the cop it was because when asked for their information the driver spoke on behalf of both of them.
He immediately called another handicap van which picked up the two people and drove off because they had somewhere to go.

 We dealt with the insurance and all and my insurance stated that I was found to be at fault for the accident and treated it as an object falling out of my car. I accepted that loss and thought it was all over until last week my parents get a call and say we are being sued for bodily injury. I guess one of the other parties hired a lawyer to do an investigation and our homeowner’s insurance got involved.
My parents are scared they can lose the house because of this incident. I thought this was all done and taken care of. Apparently a police report could not be found even though a police was on the scene and took down everyone’s information. The lawyer wants to speak to me and ask my side of what happened. So how do I go about dealing with this?

This is my first time dealing with anything like this so any advice would be much appreciated.

Answer:
 Call your auto insurance and let them know that one of the parties in your collision is now suing you, and let them deal with it. If your auto insurance refuses to cover you, your homeowner's might. If not, then get an attorney.

The plaintiff's attorney does not work for you and does not have your best interests in mind. I would be very hesitant to speak to the plaintiff's attorney at all, and absolutely not without speaking to your own attorney first.


Title: Was in an accident. I thought it was mutual fault and that we would just pay for our own cars damage. They are asking for cash from me now. What should I do?

Question: The accident took place in Washington State. It was in an Intersection with 2 left turn lanes ( like this http://i.imgur.com/H2at2Kb.jpg ). The intersection was just paved and there were no turn lane guide lines. We both just gradually came together as we turned. I hit his back left bumper with my front right bumper. We exchanged phone numbers and licenses but not insurance information. The other person was in a big hurry and said they would call me about it later. They said it was a small dent and wouldn't cost much to fix. 1 week later they said it would cost them $1200 to fix and that they could manage if I just gave them $500-$600 cash. I told them I would think about it and get advice on what to do. Another week goes buy and they text me saying the damage is 1500+ now and are asking for $700 in cash by next week. I've never been in an accident so I'm sure I made some stupid mistakes in this exchange. Going forward what should I do?

Answer:
 Notify your insurance and move on.  The second you give them the cash, they'll immediately claim you didn't and will demand $1,200.Answer #2: Are you pink or blue ?

Pink appears at fault for failing to maintain their lane from your diagram.


Title: Is it legal for a business to falsely claim it supports a charity?

Question:
My competitor owns an online apparel clothing shop. Under each product description it mentions that they support a specific charity. They mention it in some of their advertising as well.

There's no accounting of their philanthropy anywhere on their web site, which (among other reasons) makes me think they are making the whole thing up.

Is this legal?

Some clarifications:

•They do NOT ask for donations on behalf of said charity.

•They do NOT claim that a portion of purchase proceeds go to charity.

They only claim to "support" the charity.

I am in NYC, my competitor is in Florida.
Thanks

Answer:
 You don't have grounds to pursue legal action over this, but the charity might. You can get in contact with the charity and let them know that a business is using them as part of marketing.Answer #2: Are they accepting money under false pretenses?  That would be illegal.

Just saying you support a charity isn't illegal.  Support doesn't necessarily mean financial support.


Title: Landlord provides wifi, I just found out I was violating terms of use. What do I do?

Question: Basically I've been watching porn for like two days since moving in, turns out I reread the wifi terms of use for the landlord and it explicitly states not to use the wifi to watch any type of porn. What are the chances of getting caught (assuming I stop now), and are there any legal repercussions? (Didn't watch any illegal porn, did watch some hentai though but idt it's illegal.)

Answer: If you think your landlord is spying on your connection, you might want to consider a VPN.


Title: [PA, USA] Mom's Boyfriend's Brother Used his identity when he got pulled over using Meth.

Question: So My Moms Boyfriends Brother is a pretty big meth head, and earlier this week he got pulled over under the influence and gave the officer my Mom's boyfriend's license (which he illegally copied). The Brother was going to court on the 16th of January to turn himself in and do court items. Fast Forward to today when my mom's boyfriend was driving and got pulled over for not using his turn signal, he then got arrested and put in jail and is getting tried for Meth possession even though it was his brother, they will drop the charges only if we can prove it was his brother. They look exactly alike. What can we do? We need your help reddit

Answer: Sounds like he needs an attorney.


Title: Ohio tobacco free hiring policy

Question: I live in Ohio and I got an offer from a company. I had to do a drug test which is no surprise and nothing I'm worried about. But when I was there I found out that they were also checking for nicotine to see if I'm a smoker. I do smoke occasionally and will definitely show up on the test. My question is, can they rescind their offer for something that is legal?

Answer: Yes. Smoker is not a protected class.


Title: My 15-year-old Step-Daughter doesn't want to visit her abusive Bio-dad anymore

Question:
I live in Oregon. Bio Dad is in Utah.  I'm step-dad I know I can't personally do anything.

The only reason why he has vistations at all is because Bio-dad's best friend paid for his mandatory court classes, and forced him into it. He seemed to have no interest otherwise.

My stepdaughter doesn't want to visit her biodad anymore because the abuse got so bad. This last summer she was there for 6 weeks. Her Bio-dad and stepmom fought loudly and frequently on a regular almost daily basis. When the fighting started my daughter would leave the room to not have to watch it. After several days of this, the stepmom yelled at and told her that she wasn't allowed to leave when they started fighting. She's not allowed to hide in her room anymore. Instead, my daughter tried to console her almost 3-year-old half brother who started banging his head on the floor and wall when the arguing started.

Two days ago he DEMANDED his Christmas vacation. There are two problems with this.

When we moved out of Utah he sued us to try and prevent us from leaving. the Judge said that he didn't have grounds to prevent us from leaving. He is responsible to get the kids from us, and we are responsible to get the kids from him. The intent for visitation needed to be established in writing In snail mail or in an email no less than 30 days in advance. He gave us 4 days notice. My Daughter was furious. She called him and said that she didn't want to go because they can't stop fighting. Bio-dad said that it doesn't matter how she feels about it. He hung up then called my wife told her that it's BS and that she's 15 doesn't get an option, what she wants doesn't matter. He'll relent this year but he demands that she spend the next two christmas breaks with her doesn't matter what she wants or who's year it is.

The second problem is that it's not his year - compounded by the fact that my daughter never wants to see him again.

I know that the rule of thumb generally speaking is "if the child is under 18 they have to go" But at what point are they old enough to make the decision on their own, especially given the circumstances. and do I open a court case here in Oregon or in Utah? I know for a fact that Their fighting like that in Utah is child abuse, hands down without question.

What options do I have? Who do I talk to? is this even reasonable request of the court system? Help!

Edit: spelling
edit: Shortened took emotion out

Answer:
 Ok, lets establish one thing right off the bat. Legally speaking, you are not her dad. There's a court order in place that her mother and her (legal) father. When she turns 18, she'll be free to never contact him again.

With that being said, the legal parents have to follow the court ordered custody plan. You shouldn't give a fly-f*ck what he wants. The only thing the (legal) father needs to know is that "This year, we will be following the court-ordered custody plan. It says it is our year. Sorry and Merry Christmas".

Now, it may be possible to petition the court to change the custody order. At 15, the judge may or may not listen to her, but there's a good chance she will have some say (but then it is Utah...).


Title: I fell for a scam involving Apple Pay.

Question: Go ahead and Call me stupid but I recently tried purchasing a PS4 from someone on let go. We agreed on 220 on Apple Pay and he even face timed him dropping off the stuff at the post office. Well as soon as I sent the payment he ended the call and sent me a picture of the receipt. Which ended up being a stolen image off of google after I looked it up when he didn’t answer. He blocked me and hasn’t responded since. Is there anything I can do? I’m 220 dollars short and feeling like a dumbass. I called my bank to see if I can dispute it and they’re trying since it’s still pending on my account. Apple said they’d try sending the case to a supervisor but also said I should try filing a report to the police. Would they even do anything ? All I know is his phone number and the app shows his area but idk if it’s reliable or not. Thanks in advance.

Answer: You have nothing to lose and everything to gain by reporting this to the police, and it will lend you more legitimacy in your requests for reimbursement from your bank or Apple. Report it to the police and continue to follow up with them, the bank, and Apple until this is resolved.


Title: [FL] Dad died three years ago. Just got a letter from a life insurance company.

Question:
My dad died in September 2012. Before he went into the hospital he added me to his bank account and made a list of his IRA accounts. I was the executor of his estate. The estate was closed out about a year later.

A week ago my older brother gets a letter in the mail [(scans)](http://imgur.com/a/Hwm4t) from a life insurance company I have never heard of, but seems to be a real company. They say that he had a life insurance policy with them and want a certified copy of the death cert. listing the cause of death, completed and signed copy of their paperwork, current letter of administration listing the executor of the estate and our social security numbers.

I never heard of the company or found any of their papers in my father's papers. He also wasn't the kind of person who would have bought life insurance.

Edit: The whole thing seems fishy to me and I'm not comfortable giving my Social Security number to companies I don't know. They have an office about an hours drive away.

He worked for a sheriff's office in Ohio when my brother was young, but quit and moved to Florida just after I was born.

Answer:
 Western and Southern is a legitimate life insurance company. Answer #2: It's a real company. Your father could have had a policy through his employer, or an insurance broker might have sold it to him.

I'm not sure what your question is.  If you want any money from this policy, you have to complete the paperwork.

Answer #3: My dad passed away in 2003 (I was 17 & my brother was 18). We didn't find out until well after the funeral that he had a life insurance policy (parents were divorced, so funeral arrangements fell to my brother and I).... The man sold pre-paid funeral plans for a living, and never seemed to think it'd be a good idea to purchase one himself... Never mind life insurance... Turns out my grandfather had purchased a plan for each of his kids when they were born.... As far as I know, my dad didn't even know about the policy.


Title: Company claims I am not a leaseholder, locked me out.

Question:
Canada. Company claims I am not a leaseholder, despite having made a lease agreement, and been paying rent for 17 months.
They called the police, and asked for me to be removed from the property. When the police arrived, I presented my lease agreement, and they confirmed that I did have right to be there. Then, the property manager said that my lease agreement was "for bookkeeping purposes only" and invalid. I was shortly after removed from the property, and asked to leave all possessions behind, and recommended by the police to fight it in court.

The property management company refuses to provide me with any information, and continues to insist that I am not a leaseholder.

I have no access to my possessions, which are now in possession of the company.

I want to milk this as hard as I can. I have receipts for payments and expenses, and photo evidence of all of my belongings on the property. What can I do to further pressure the company into providing me with proof or acknowledgement of my right to be there?

Answer:
 Why did you leave the property? Doesn't matter what the police recommended. You have a right to be there, and it's up the company to prove you dont and win an eviction ruling in court to remove you.

Contact the police and let them know you have been illegally evicted and need assistance getting access to your space.

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Edit: can you clarify if this is commercial or residential?Answer #2: Is this residential or commercial?Answer #3: Which province/territory please? Each has a distinct set of laws.


Title: Update on my friend trying to move out (AL)

Question: This is an update on [this](https://www.reddit.com/r/legaladvice/comments/6j6gxe/friend_being_threatened_legally_by_mother_to/) post. The deadline for the list is up, and the mother has taken my friend to the courthouse. Now, she hasn't done anything (yet), but if my friend doesn't change her mind, the mother will press some kind of charge. Here's what she's threatening to do: she is threatening to place any kind of charge on my friend, and force her to need to hire an attorney. According to an adviser (?) at the courthouse, that will cost her $5000. She can't afford one, but according to this woman, she will HAVE to hire an attorney and if she can't pay him, she will go to jail. This sounds incredibly fishy to me but my friend is terrified right now. The mother has issued an ultimatum; either move with her, or she will sue and force my friend into bankruptcy and force her to have to move. I'm asking for any kind of information right now. We're going to call a lawyer and get a consultation, but right now I'm hoping someone here can give us some hope through all this bs. She is 19, and a civilian currently living with her active duty Army step-father and civilian mother in Alabama. My question is, will the mother actually be able to go through with all this? Will she actually be forced to hire an attorney? Or is this all an intimidation tactic that would never actually get to a court? Thanks in advance for any info.

Answer: There's no way in heck you're getting the full story here.


Title: What happens if you drink a beer in a grocery store on a day when they're not legally allowed to sell alcohol?

Question:
Sometimes when I go shopping I'll get a 6pack and drink one of the beers in the store while I shop. One day when I was checking out they told me that they're not allowed to sell beer till 8AM and it was 7:45. So I had to sit on a bench and wait 15 minutes till I could check out. It wasn't a big deal because it was only 15 minutes, but what if I was in a state like Texas, Alabama, or Mississippi where you can't buy alcohol on Sunday at all?

What would happen if you drank a beer in a store on a day when they couldn't sell alcohol? Would they let you come back and pay for it the next day? I know a store can't charge you with theft until you leave the store with something you didn't pay for, but if they can't legally sell something to you that you've already consumed, how do they handle it?

Answer:
 > I know a store can't charge you with theft until you leave the store with something you didn't pay for

Consuming a product without paying for it is theft.

I'm mainly commenting to tell you how impressed I am that not only are you drinking beer at 7:45 am, but that you are in such a rush to drink it that you can't even wait until you leave the store. Answer #2: > I know a store can't charge you with theft until you leave the store with something you didn't pay for

That's false, at least in many states.


Title: Scammer jumped in front of car and got "injured" , tried to get details but we drove off (UK)

Question:
Was with my father in law driving back home yesterday evening and rounded a corner when some idiot (who I had seen from the passenger side) literally runs alongside us then dives out from behind a park car and into the front of our vehicle, bearing in mind I had shouted at my FIL to brake at this point and we had stopped but this guy still jumped into us.

Obviously we stop just to see what's going on in case the guy was mentally ill/on drugs or something and he's making some exaggerated noises, groaning in pain and he's got a bloody nose even though there wasn't any on our car so I'm thinking he intentionally bashed it on the ground. He's also complaining "I think my leg is broken" even though it wasn't even near the car when he touched us.

Literally out of the woodwork comes another fellow with his phone camera pointing at us saying "bro you just fookin smacked into him" and starts making out we were going too fast and to call an ambulance, but I quickly pointed out we saw this guy jump out and sensed it was some insurance scam.

My FIL has some anger management issues and in the heat of the moment he lost his temper, practically hauled this guy up to his feet and said "it's not that broken is it?" when he miraculously found himself standing on it.

Meanwhile camera bloke is shouting at us saying to call an ambulance and provide our details or he'll report us to the police, got up close to me and I swatted fhe camera out of his hand and told him to fuck off. Got back in car, FIL went to get bsck in until the "injured man" tried to block him so he pushed him out of the way. Had half a mind to call the police ourselves but they're understaffed round here and we didn't have time to waste dealing with idiots.

I know you're supposed to report/stop for a collision but I don't think this would apply, would it?

EDIT: This is Derbyshire England BTW

Answer:
 So, if they are true scammers, it is unlikely they will file with the police.  However!  Leaving the scene could put you in jeopardy if indeed they weren't (from your story it certainly has all the hallmarks of insurance fraud or simply a shake down).

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"Swatting the camera out of his hand" sounds like assault and potentially destruction of property.  Perhaps a solicitor could make the case you felt threatened, but the fact you didn't call the police might make this more difficult.

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Once you started having a physical confrontation you should have called the police.  Not doing so could have ended up much, much worse.

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A sound investment would be front-and-rear facing dash cams.  They can be had for a minimal up front cost these days.Answer #2: While technically your FIL committed a crime here, a pair of insurance scammers sure as hell arn't going to call the police over it.Answer #3: r/legaladviceuk would be better suited to answering this question than anyone present here as this is mostly a USA/Canada forum.Answer #4: Just to add what others have said, get a dash camera as scams like this in some areas are becoming more common.

Don't tell anyone you have it even after an "accident". Wait till the police show up.


Title: Is it legal for my ex-wife to say I cannot attend a doctors appointment for my child? Texas is the location.

Question:
Title
Topic:
Custody Divorce and Family

Answer: You seriously have to give more context than this. Is this like your 16 year old daughter and it's a gynecological exam or is this your this like your toddler's vaccinations?


Title: (CA) Landlord leased one bathroom house to six of us when city law says five to a bathroom. What happens?

Question: Is this shittier for us than for him?

Answer:
 >Is this shittier for us than for him?

Yes.

He's not the one sharing a toilet with 4 other people.

serious: Likely makes the lease void or at least voidable as against public policy.  You can stay quiet and continue to live there, or try to cancel the lease if you like.

If your city has laws on tenant:bathroom ratios, it almost certainly also has a department in charge of housing issues, with some sort of tenant advocate you could talk to.


Title: My bank will not accept coins unless they are rolled, is this legal? (Chicago, IL)

Answer: Yes it is. They don't even have to accept them if they are rolled.Answer #2: It is legal, but I guarantee that if you look around you can find another bank in the Chicago area that WILL accept them. This isn't a legal issue it's a customer service issue, and usually customer service issues our best solved by finding a company that offers better customer service.Answer #3: My bank no longer accepts coin rolls because they have a coin counter that's free for members to use. Before that they didnt accept any coins unless they were rolled. So yes, it's legal. But they should give you coin wrappers for free. Never met a bank that didnt, and I've never bought coin wrappers.


Title: Subpoena says be there Monday, lawyer says wait till Tuesday

Question:
A couple years ago I witnessed a car accident here in Louisiana and I was subpoenaed to testify in the resulting civil lawsuit. The subpoena states that I should show up to court on Monday at 10am, however the defendants lawyer (the one who served me) says Monday will just be jury selection and not to show up till Tuesday.

The subpoena says if I don't show up I'm violating the law. So do I follow the direction of the subpoena or the lawyer who is going to call me?

EDIT: Added some words
Topic:
Traffic and Parking

Answer:
 As a civil trial attorney, I disagree with the suggestions to just call the Clerk of Court.  They will have absolutely no idea when you should really be there.

What happened, is that a paralegal at the defense attorney's firm put together the various witness subpoenas and likely just put down the first date of the trial as the start date. But now that the trial's approaching, and the trial attorney is giving more thought to how the trial will actually proceed, he's realizing that your testimony won't actually occur until Tuesday.

To cover yourself, and to avoid a later dispute, ask someone at the defense attorney's firm to mail/fax/email a brief letter to you confirming that your testimony won't actually take place until Tuesday. Also try to pin them down on the time you have to be there, so you don't have to show up at 9:00 in the morning when you're not actually going to testify until the afternoon, for instance.


Title: My brother had a warehouse lease and missed some payments. They are suing him AND me, how is that possible? I'm not on the lease. Help!

Question:
Here is the long version. My brother had a warehouse lease from August 2014 to August 2015. After August 2015 no lease renewal was sent and he was not asked to vacate. He continued to pay but missed a couple payments 6 months later. He was then asked to leave in July and left the premises.

During that time my brother let me store a car there. I didn't pay any money, nor was I on the lease. Now the landlord has filed a small claims suit against my brother and me. The landlord claims I was unjustly enriched.

 I have never met the landlord. I don't even know how he knows my name or that I had anything at the warehouse. How can he sue me when I am not on the lease?

This is in the state of Georgia.
Should I get a lawyer? If so, what kind?

Answer:
 He can sue you by listing you as a defendant when he files his case. It's not hard. What _is_ hard is winning, on the facts presented. The lease is the agreement he's suing to enforce, and the judge will not enforce it against someone who is neither a party to the contract nor a guarantor for one of the parties. The "unjust enrichment" theory here is _really_ marginal.

That said, you're being sued, so you do have to respond. Talk to a lawyer for advice on your next steps. You likely can't bring a lawyer to court, as the case is in small claims, but you _can_ seek professional input on how to assemble your defence and how to exit the suit as quickly and cleanly as possible.Answer #2: If the vehicle was in your name then he may have just looked up the plate or VIN to find out who the owner was so he could get it removed. When he saw that you have the same last name as the previous tenant he probably just figured you two were related.

Also, what /u/derspiny said.


Title: Verifiability of images that have no other features besides breasts

Question:
There is a situation going on in which there are two images of just breasts. Person A may have possessed these two images but deleted them as they may have been illegal but not sure but wanted to be safe.  Person A got images from someone else with no proof of who is in the image or how old that person is.

The true identity or age of the person in the images are unknown since its just breasts. Should the person who had the pictures be worried that they had them

&#x200B;

NJ, USA

Answer: I hate to be a boob about this but if you’re unsure it’s breast to be safe and just delete the photos.


Title: [USA - CA] Person wants to return item purchased on craigslist, what are the laws regarding this?

Question:
Earlier today I sold someone an item on Craigslist and they paid for it in cash. I received an email from the person's spouse about 4 hours after the sale asking if they could get a refund for the item because *they* accidentally purchased it on their own so now they have two of the same item and would like to return one.

I know that there are laws governing the private party sale of cars (lemon laws), but what laws are there regarding private party sales of general items? Is there any law saying something to the extent of "all sales, unless otherwise stated, are final"? I checked craiglists TOS and nothing was mentioned.

Thanks.

Answer: You don't have to return their money, you can *choose* to voluntarily but essentially yeah, all sales are final, it's not your problem.


Title: I beat up a guy harassing my boyfriend (nyc)

Question:
Location NYC. throwaway. My boyfriend and I were walking home yesterday evening (Saturday) when two guys from the opposite direction come at us and throwing slurs at us - f\*g, ch\*nk, getting really in our face, wouldn't let us walk by them. One of them made a move like he was going to punch me and I literally don't remember what happened next but the next thing I knew my bf is holding me back and there's blood on my hands and the guy is barely unconscious on the ground. We all ran. this took place after dark but it was in a small parking lot of a lit-up shopping complex we were cutting across.

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I'm afraid the cops are going to show up any day now.  My boyfriend said it was like 3-4 punches max but they were all to his face, is there some defense for self-defense or a hate crime? I know I could have stopped earlier but he 100% deserved it and like I said I literally don't remember it happening (though I'm not denying it did). Should I expect security cameras to have caught us? what should I do? thanks.

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Answer:
 Technically the guy could go to the police, although I doubt it would go anywhere and you have a strong criminal defence.

I strongly doubt some homophobic redneck is going to walk into a police station and make a statement alleging he was beaten up by a gay dude's boyfriend. My strong suspicion is he will scurry away with his pride shattered and never speak of the matter again.


Title: University requests us to remove Trump Flag from Window.

Question:
We have had a Trump flag hanging in our apartment’s living room window since we moved in.  On Wednesday night the Area Coordinator from “Residence Life” knocked on their door and told us they had to take it down, with the reason being it is not in political season.  We were taken aback by the request and did not think that it was a demand, but rather a request so we did not remove it, because we deemed it did not violate any of the Universities Policies.  A few hours later an RA was sent to convey the message that if they didn’t take it down, they would be “written up”.   We were shocked by this request and temporarily removed the flag from the window and sent an email to Residence Life, stating our belief on why we should be allowed to hang the flag in the window as the university supports Freedom of Expression.  Their policy is:

 "Students enjoy the full expression of their thoughts, positions and opinions on all contemporary and intellectual issues while at the University. This expression includes, but is not limited to, the freedom to communicate, dissent, assemble, demonstrate and distribute literature in support of particular positions. The University upholds this freedom of expression and inquiry as a primary support for the education of its students. It recognizes that at times such expression may be controversial and may provoke criticism from academic, civic and religious communities. In upholding this freedom for its students, the University requires that the expression of opinion not interrupt or disrupt the teaching, learning, research, administrative functions of the University or any other activity or proceeding on campus which is generally accepted as a legitimate University function."

&#x200B;

Although Trump is controversial, I should be able to support him with a flag in the window as the flag is not directly offensive, nor derogatory.  Its says "TRUMP, The 45th President of the US, Make America Great Again"

Political belief aside, is there anything legally that would prevent us from hanging a Trump Flag in the window.

&#x200B;

&#x200B;

Answer:
 > On Wednesday night the Area Coordinator from “Residence Life” knocked on their door and told us they had to take it down, with the reason being it is not in political season.

That's not a valid basis to compel removal under the school policy you quoted, as I read it.

If this is a public university, they cannot compel you to remove the flag on the basis of its political message (whatever it might be). ***However***, if this is a private university, you might not have any legal recourse if they compel you to remove the flag. The First Amendment doesn't apply to private institutions.Answer #2: >because we deemed it did not violate any of the Universities Policies

You're allowed to hang random junk over the windows in your apartment? Are you sure your lease has no provisions about window coverings?Answer #3: Do you go to a public (or state) university?Answer #4: Have you gotten an email back yet? You may need to speak further with someone in Residential Life higher up than a coordinator. Be polite but clear that you have no intention of taking the flag down unless they can clearly explain to you why they are making the demand. It is very possible that the area coordinator was weirded out by it and made this demand without actually looking into the policy.

You might want to attach a picture or describe the flag. I'm not sure what a "Trump Flag" is. If there is anything threatening or explicit about the flag you might be out of luck, but if it's just his face or something there's not much they can do, unless there actually is some kind of policy.


Title: OH, my roommate confessed to killing my other roommate and has been arrested. What are the laws regarding moving out early due to my apartment being a crime scene?

Question:
Edit: I lived with a couple, of whom I'd become good friends. Nine months ago, I met the boyfriend first, then the girl. We became friends immediately and 3 months ago I decided to move in with them. They had been in a relationship for a long time (7+ years) so I figured it was a stable situation. Turns out it was not. Two months later, the boyfriend confides in me suspected her of infidelity, and that she may have cheated once before. I told him to end the relationship, I could tell upon reflecting back on previous dialogues between them that she had checked out of the relationship a long time ago. He told me how much he had put into her: putting a down payment on a new car, helping her move to the city and a bunch other financial favors. I told him he had been foolish to put so much money on a woman who wasn't his wife, especially one that had be unfaithful before. I told him that he shouldn't make the fallacy of thinking that because he had invested so much time, money and energy into her, he had to continue doing so. He was about to graduate with a lucrative degree, he would be just fine without her.  It looked like they were going to breakup, however he was deep in love and hung on for dear life. I went through another month observing a dead relationship and a clinging boyfriend. But I never suspected he might kill her. He had never made a threat towards her or even hit her as far as I knew. There hadn't been any bruises on her and she hadn't complained of any abuse.

I was at work when I got a call from one of the apartment receptionists asking where the victim was. She hadn't shown up to work. I said I hadn't talked to her in a while since I had been out that weekend and I go to work  the morning while she worked nights. I texted them both, but didn't have much time to think of it as I'm an engineer at a construction site and we were getting ready to hit a critical site milestone. I did get concerned when another friend called me again asking where she was. I decided to check out of work early and when I arrived back at my apartment, there were police everywhere. Turns out he had killed her that weekend. I'm staying at a friends place, but I want to move out as I don't want to be reminded of the incident every time I come home. Landlord still wants to keep me on the lease.

UPDATE: I got out of the lease by contacting the main office of the rental company and going over the manager's head. I have another problem. All of my things are in my apartment. A friend was good enough to let me stay and I bought a few clothes and toiletries, but I'm running out and I don't want to have to buy a whole new life. If I end up having to, is there any way I can get compensation?

Answer: Talk w/the manager or landlord. Tell them you would prefer to be released from your obligation to the lease because of this extenuating circumstance. Have them put something in writing w/ both your signatures on it as an agreement to extinguish the lease early and vacate the apartment. Make sure you get your own copy of the incident report from the police through FOIA and take pictures of the condition of the apartment the day you move out. Cops shouldn't hold the apartment for longer than 3-4 days.Answer #2: Story?Answer #3: Well...Are you all on the lease?Answer #4: Would the landlord be required to put OP up at a hotel until the crime scene is released and while it's being cleaned (assuming the murder happened there)? If so, would OP be able to negotiate a release from the lease in exchange for the landlord not paying for hotel?Answer #5: Sadly, it probably depends on the wording in your lease.


Title: My parents kicked my brother (20M) and me (20F) out today w/o notice. what can I do?

Question: [deleted]

Answer: You can call the police non-emergency line and ask them to come out and help convince your mother to let you stay (or just report it as an illegal eviction), but if that doesn't help your only other option for recourse is to sue your parents for illegal eviction which, obviously, isn't going to help you find a place to stay tonight or anytime in the short term, so you may be best off trying to solve that particular problem first and foremost.


Title: Is it right for my brother to go to prison for 3 years?

Question:
So the story is when he was 15 he was jump so he used chairs to protect him self. this was all on school property. The other kids was expelled my brother was only charged with a $ 120 fine. Now keep in mind my brothers 15 no job or anything. But his dad my stepdad didnt pay the fine and they moved to GA he is 19 now and he got pulled over for a tail light being out and they find he has a warrent in CO. Now they are gonna ship him here back to CO for him to spend 3 years.

Question is is that right his dad not paying the ticket of 120 my brother has to spend 3 years in prison?

Answer: You may not have all info. If thats what the judge ordered, thats what judge order. He should have been given an attorney


Title: A local newspaper published a picture of my house on the front page

Question: So a picture of my house made the front page of a local paper for a building code violation (which will be corrected). Without my consent.  I complained to the editor-on-chief about the safety of my family. He was very condescending. Do I have a legal foot to stand on?

Answer:
 HAHAHAHAHAHA.

No. The code violation is truth. The photo of your house was taken from a public space and depicts publicly visible things.

I can report truth and take photos of publicly visible things from public places all day.

I mean, shit, have you never picked up a newspaper or watched the news? The fronts of people's houses are depicted on media every day.

And why would your family be unsafe due to a code violation? Were you cooking meth?


Title: Italian passport denied

Question: My grandfather is Italian, as all of his relatives before him. He went to venezuela with his dad because of the war. In Venezuela he quitted his Italian nationality to get a job in vzla. When he decided to become Italian again, he already has my mother and she already turned 18. I asked a lawyer if I could get the citizenship from my grandfather or his dad but he said no, the I needed to stay in Italy 3 years without even working, and I wanted to go to study and work, in vzla the things are very difficult. Could you help me giving me advice to get my Italian citizenship? Thanks in advance and sorry for my sloppy grammar.

Answer:
 So this lawyer you spoke to, was it someone who is actually familiar with Italian nationality law? Have you contacted the Italian embassy in Venezuela?Answer #2: OP, I don't think you have a right to Italian citizenship.  If your father became venezualian before your birth, then Italy won't recognize your right to citizenship.

Here is some info for Canadians looking to become Italian - same rules apply.

http://www.constoronto.esteri.it/consolato_toronto/en/i_servizi/per_i_cittadini/cittadinanza/ius%20sanguinis%20ita.html


Title: My very sensitive health records were accessed by co-workers. Texas.

Question:
I don't know why I'm writing this. I guess its because I am so fucking mad and I just can't take it anymore. I wake up angry everyday. I try my best to ignore the rage bubbling inside of me, but eventually it forces its way out.

I have PTSD. I had a fucked up childhood, but I know others had it worse. I was sexually abused by a family member at a very young age and my father was physically and mentally/emotionally abusive. I didn't remember a lot of the abuse until I was in my 20's. When I started to remember my family noticed something was up with me and forced it (abusive history) out of me. Our family hasn't been the same since. I feel like I ruined everything.

I was in therapy for three years and was getting better, but the only way I could afford it was if I received therapy from the place I was working for (a non-profit health center). They waived the 20$ copay for employees. I was assured many times my records were safe and secure and only my therapist had access to them.

Well guess what! They weren't! Several of my coworkers, who were providers, accessed my psychotherapy notes and read about my fucked up childhood. I don't want to go into a lot of detail but this was something that was very personal and private to me, and they had no right or cause to read. Before therapy I was terrified that people could tell I was damaged and all messed up just by looking at me, I barely went out. With therapy it got a lot better, but at some point I started to take a turn for the worse, I was getting paranoid, vomiting every morning before work, barely eating, etc. I took a leave of absence from work for several months because I thought I was crazy and couldn't handle it anymore.

I came back when I felt better, but it wasn't long before those feelings started coming back. I thought people were treating me weird. Some people seemed uncomfortable around me, others were reeeaaallly nice (suspiciously so) and some just brushed me off. This is when I requested an audit of my medical record and found out that people (providers) had read about the most private, embarrassing, traumatic, and dehumanizing experiences of my life. They fired one person, but only because she had been caught doing it before, and she easily got a new job. Everyone else that read through my records is still there.

And now its a year later and my life is a wreck. Both my husband and I had to leave the company (we both worked there). He took a substantial pay cut so we could move (75k a year to 45k). I've had to stop my college classes, and now I'm on disability. We are in litigation with the company but their lawyer has dragged their feet every step of the way, while my husband and I out thousands of dollars from lost wages, not to mention the toll this has taken on our health and our marriage.

I can't seek therapy because any therapy I receive could be subpoenaed for the case, and I can't afford it. I feel so powerless. I'm so angry all the time, at the providers, my family, and myself.

I feel like a useless piece of shit. I'm trying to finish school online but even going part time seems impossible.

For years I feel like I've been trying to pick up the pieces of my life and stuff them into my pockets, only to find out that my pockets had holes in them.

I am just so angry and I don't know what to do with it. I take a kickboxing class and that takes the edge off, but it isn't enough. I have nowhere to direct my rage. I haven't been able to confront these people and I haven't received an apology. I'm so angry that they get to keep their jobs, their community, and their reputations while I just vanished off the radar. Sometimes it feels like I've been molested all over again.

I have no idea how to help myself or how to keep myself together. I get so angry with myself for being this helpless nothing that I hit myself and just cry. Somedays I feel like I am literally just trying to survive until the next day.

I'm so isolated. Its so uncomfortable to be around people that know me.

I don't know why I'm posting this here. I just feel like I need to tell someone and this community feels safe to me. How should I deal with this anger? I just want to punch their stupid faces in until they are unrecognizable to their friends and family, but I think even that would only make me feel better for a little while.

Any suggestions?

Thanks for listening, I'm sorry if this was hard to follow. I'm just really upset.

Answer:
 TL;DR:  OP's personal psych counseling details were disclosed to co-workers.    OP & husband who also worked there left the job as a result, taking a pay cut.

Does OP have a cause of action?

I suspect there may be a cause of action for public disclosure of [private facts](http://www.dmlp.org/legal-guide/publication-private-facts-texas).Answer #2: >I can't seek therapy because any therapy I receive could be subpoenaed for the case

This isn't a reason to ignore your own mental health needs. Answer #3: If they had no right or cause to read this info then they committed a HIPAA violation. I work in a lab. We are told over and over that we can't look up records of people we know just because. It has to be related to work. Answer #4: I'm really sorry all of this is happening in your life.


Title: Termites in newly purchased home

Question:
Boyfriend and I just purchased a duplex in Texas. Closing date was February 7th.

All inspections were done during negotiations.

1 1/2 months later, we walk into a huge termite breeding explosion in our dining room.

Exterminator shows up the next day and greets me as "Name of Previous Owner". My visible confusion lead him to offer the information that their company had been here before for a termite treatment estimate in December of 2018.  They did not treat at that time, and he assumed this was about the same issue.

Scheduled and paid for termite extermination.

Check paperwork of the purchase of the house.  Previous Owner did not disclose knowing about termites. Put a definite "NO" on presence of termites.

I have photographs of the documents stating that "Pest Control Company" had been to the property to give an estimate for termite treatment in December of 2018.

Fraud?

Answer:
 All inspections were done?  Including a termite inspection?

I would retain a lawyer.  If he failed to disclose the existence of termites, and you have proof he knew about them, you should be able to sue him for the cost of the termite remediation and repair of any damage caused by them.

In Missouri, that disclosure notice is a legal document he lied on.  I don’t know about TX, but I’m guessing the language is similar.


Title: I have received a letter from my ex-landlord, billing me for damages that were present when I moved in. (Colorado)

Question:
They intend to keep my deposit of over $1000, and have demanded that I now pay over $1000 more by mid-August, or it will be turned over to collections.
We moved in in 2014, finishing out the previous tenant's lease. At that time, it was noted closet doors were missing and the walls were badly patched where previous tenant's son punched holes. We are also being billed for a broken smoke detector we were not aware of, 2x Deep Clean, and supposedly 3 dumpsters worth of trash.

I have moved across the country. What course of action do I need to follow, now?
Topic:
Landlord Tenant Housing

Answer:
 I would suggest you make a copy of the move in inspection and mail it certified-return receipt to the landlord with a demand for payment. Include a copy of any relevant documents, and laws regarding the deposit.

If they don't pay, then small claims court. You might be able to include your costs to travel to court as damages, or hire a representative to appear in court for you (although, choose wisely!)

https://www.lawyers.com/legal-info/research/colorado/colorado-small-claims.htmlAnswer #2: Was their a separate inspection done between the prior tennants leaving and you taking over the lease? We're these damages recognized then? Or since you took over the lease was there not an additional inspection? What was the agreement when you took over the lease? What did you sign?Answer #3: Where are they getting “3 dumpsters worth of trash” did you leave stuff in the apartment for them to remove?


Title: My brother just got served an order or protection from his wife on fabricated accusations. What is next?

Question:
My brother’s wife, “Jen,” had an affair last month and my brother, “Dean,” decided to move in with me while they sort out the divorce. Dean and Jen have two children together and were civilly discussing how to go about the divorce in a fashion that would least harm the kids up until about two weeks ago. It was then, about two weeks ago, that Jen starting spinning stories of abuse to their church, their counselor of three years, and to her side of the family. She finally decided to legally act on it and had an order of protection put into place. The order is on behalf of her and their two sons (6 and 1 y/o).

Everybody Jen is spinning stories of abuse to does not believe her and has informed Dean of that. I lived with Dean, Jen, and their sons for a couple months while I recovered from a brain surgery and I know first hand that he is not an abusive father or an abusive husband.

Dean and Jen are both Illinois residents. What comes next in this process? What should Dean do to ensure he is not robbed of his children on behalf of a lie? I’m going to spend some time reading up on the matter and also celebrating Dean’s birthday. I appreciate whatever you can share!
Topic:
Custody Divorce and Family

Answer:
 Dean goes directly to an attorney to review the order and file for divorce and for an interim custody order restoring his access to his kids. Until then, he complies perfectly with the order: breaching it is going to land him in legal trouble that will last even if the order is reversed or amended.

When one's wife files a restraining order, the marriage is over for all intents and purposes, and your brother will have the best shot at having an outcome he can live with if he gets professional help navigating the process.


Title: Colorado Child Support Help from stalker.

Question: [deleted]

Answer:
 You're going to need a family lawyer in CO.  It is possible to dispute your paternity, but trust me, the whole process will go smoother and quicker with an attorney.  The actual paternity of the child will determine the answer to all of your other questions.

You can't take precautions like that to protect your nest egg.  Joint funds will be considered and (in my state at least, not sure about CO) child support is determined based on current income.  The only way your savings would be attacked would be if it is determined that you owe back child support.

If this child is yours, it is an unfortunate truth that this woman will be a part of your life forever.   Keep in mind that if you are found to be the father and are asked to pay child support, you can also use this proceeding as an opportunity to request custody and visitation.  It could be a hidden blessing if you do gain another child out of this.Answer #2: 1.  Judge will determine if you owe back support
2. No, you will potentially owe more since you are exercising 0 visitation and CO does take overnights into consideration.
3.  They won't go after your nest egg unless you owe back support
4.  No idea, call tricare and ask
5.  Your current child likely won't factor into it--your income and her income are what will be used to determine the support amount.


Title: [NY] Should I call the cops if I suspect tenants are using drugs like Pot?

Question:
Theres a few things occurring that make me suspect the tenants are using drugs like pot. Throughout the day theres many random strangers coming over and leaving their apartament. Every once in a while theres a strange Oder that fills the whole building that comes from their apartament. When asked, the teants try to say "no were not using drugs", but  the smell says otherwise.

Should I call the cops? This is a health concern, more so since drugs are illegal here in the city.

Answer:
 It isn't a health concern.

The police will laugh their asses off if you call them and say "I'd like to report the crime of marijuana smoking."

Also, the people coming over during the day isn't a behavior associated with drug use. It's a behavior associated with having friends.Answer #2: Okay a couple things before I answer.

Your capitalization of the word "Pot" makes me think you are already very anti-drug. Bear in mind that most marijuana smokers are not dangerous to society and New York has decriminalized small amounts of marijuana (essentially, it is nothing more than a small fine).

Also, I'm not sure where you think there's any health issue here.

In addition, having people over is their right as tenants. You really have no business complaining that someone has guests over.

That all being said, if you really insist on being the nosy neighbor here, you could call the police. They may or may not do anything about it. Don't use 911 because it isn't an emergency. Use the non emergency line.
Answer #3: That's a personal question.  Legally, you *can* call the police to report suspected illegal activity.  I don't know that I'd expect much of a response for a simple possession of marijuana charge.  It's not a high priority


Title: [New York] I am currently being harassed by a former parter after a break up. I feel action needs to be taken. What are my options?

Question:
I ended a relationship with a long term partner in late November 2015. Since then I have been receiving abusive text messages.

While the messages sent to me are semi-regular, each one is very abusive. Messages have included threats to myself and others, enclosing personal details with the intention to harm, and at one stage feigning serious injury in order to open communication. These threats were take seriously due to minor incidents of violence in the past. There is no documentation of any violence however.  I have not replied to any messages since before Xmas 2015, and the latest one received was today.

Messages have also been sent to direct family members and friends, with the intention of damaging these relationships. It should be noted that most of these people are not in NY and not inside the US.

I feel at this stage, some formal action needs to be taken in order for the harassment to stop, as it is beginning to take a toll on existing relationships. What are my options in the state of NY?

Thanking you in advance for your assistance. I'll respond to any questions ASAP.

Edit: Added details regarding message contents.

Answer:
 i can't speak to how things work in NY, nor am i a lawyer, but i'm going to disagree with /u/nimble, because i think you have a very good case for an RO, especially given your evidence (i successfully obtained an RO 12 years ago based on my documentation of verbal threats and excessive - like, 40 a day - phone calls to my place of employment; i didn't have any 'proof' whatsoever other than said documentation; the TRO was granted, and then extended in court for three years when he admitted to contacting me "but it's because i know she still loves me").

i had contacted a local (los angeles) anti-stalking / harassment group, and they walked me through the filing of the RO, served it for me, and went to court with me.

i don't know what area of NY you're in, but you might start by contacting these folks:

http://www.safehorizon.org/page/new-york-state-stalking-laws-28.html


Title: [Florida] Son [18/m, ASD] wants to work at Hooters, where does Americans with Disabilities Act come into play?

Question:
I have an 18-year-old son, we're from Florida, our son's autistic, well, high-functioning autism, he's got "special interests" (as defined by books on autism) but you'd probably call them obsessions, and one of them is Hooters, amongst other things. Legally speaking, he's classfied as a vulnerable adult, and currently, he's unemployed. I'll keep it to that since you said:

>Posting personally identifiable information will get you banned.
> If you're worried about your identity, create a throwaway.

My question relates to employment; he wants to work at Hooters, said "at least it's a job", said he didn't mind wearing the uniform (the crop top and hotpants, which is a pop culture thing, isn't it??), said "I get good money".

Could Hooters turn him away on the grounds that it's a male applying for a job normally done by women, or does the Americans with Disability Act apply here?

I don't want this to get into flaming over crossdressing and the like, that's not relevant, it's just the legal issues I'm looking into here.

IIRC, men can work at Hooters, just not in jobs that involve contact with the public or is this some Snopes-y urban legend?

This is a throwaway account, specifically for here.

Thanks, all advice welcomed.

Answer:
 There are lots of jobs that he can have at Hooters as a guy.  Cook, dishwasher, manager, etc.

Hooters does offer some gender neutral front of house positions as well.Answer #2: Hooters has settled [numerous lawsuits](http://www.law360.com/articles/82868/man-hits-hooters-with-new-sex-discrimination-suit) from men seeking to be waiters, although they continue to insist that there is a Bona Fide occupational requirement for the servers to be female. But as part of the settlements they have positions throughout the restaurant for men too.

It's not an ADA issue, it's an EEOC/Gender discrimination issue. Answer #3: There have been several lawsuits regarding this.  Hooters offers front of house positions to men, but I can assure you that he will be wearing the male uniform, not the female one you describe.Answer #4: Talk to him about why he wants to wear the Hooters uniform. I can promise you it's not about the outfit itself but what the outfit symbolizes for him. Figure out what the Hooters Uniform is a symbol for and address that.

In the mean time there are several jobs that he can apply for at Hooters. He won't get a waiter position, but there are jobs available.Answer #5: While he legally can get a job at Hooters -- even a serving job, which they do have for men -- it sure doesn't sound like it would be wise.


Title: [Iowa] On Grindr, someone wanted me to draw their nudes back in October. Last night they made the claim that they were underaged in the photos that they sent me, therefore my drawing is now "child porn." Any advice?

Question:
Grindr, an application which gay men use to communicate for each other for sex, this guy that goes to my university sent me a picture with the intent to get drawn. In order to join Grindr you have to agree that you are 18+, and so any picture I get from Grindr I assume to be automatically of age. I drew him, and he was happy with it. My friend told me he even showed off the drawing to him and was laughing.

It was not until last night, months after I drew him, did he start to get angry. He saw that I used his drawing as part of a collage. It was glued with other drawings I did of other people. I never included his actual name in it. The only way one would be able to tell the drawing was of him is if they recognized his penis. No face was in it. He told me to take it down, which I thought was funny because it was already down considering yesterday was the last day of the art show. Upon finding out I thought it was funny he instantly became furious.

He not only threatened to hurt me, but claimed that he was 17 in the photo that he sent me to draw, and therefore my drawing was child porn. He filed a police report for harassment- even though I had not talked to him since October- and I filed a police report against him for the threatening messages. I have to talk to campus police this Monday to make a statement. As I was explaining my situation to the officer over the phone- HE STARTED TO GIGGLE- and he reassured me that he was "pretty sure I would be OK." Regardless, I can't happen to feel like he'll manage to hurt me, whether physically or legally speaking.

I've been googling like crazy trying to find out how he could possibly take me to court or something, but I don't see anything. In Iowa, there is no right of publicity. The only thing I can find is against the usage of spreading actual photographs of people without their consent, but these are drawings. There seems to be no law against drawings of people's private parts, or am I wrong?

I realize I have posted something similar in the past, but this a whole new situation. I have no one else to seek advice from, and now it's starting to actually involve the police. Half of my university is supportive of me and thinks it's funny that I drew them, while the other half is absolutely livid and angry and calling me a "slut shamer," and "perv." What's the best thing for me to do, wait until I'm actually arrested? Thanks in advance.

Answer:
 Your drawing is not child porn.  The photos potentially are if he was under 18.

Answer #2: NAL. Start by deleting any photos you might still have.

Grindr has a function for reporting abuse, might want to use it.  Also block him on all social media. Answer #3: This may be the gay version of the common “the father is calling me” scam.

Dude, block, ignore, stop drawing and move on.  Answer #4: Under the federal statute:

(a)In General.—Any person who, in a circumstance described in subsection (d), knowingly produces, distributes, receives, or possesses with intent to distribute, a visual depiction of any kind, including a drawing, cartoon, sculpture, or painting, that—
(1)
(A) depicts a minor engaging in sexually explicit conduct; and
(B) is obscene; or...

I don't see the US Attorney's office wasting time on a drawing. Wouldn't hurt to consult with a lawyer though.


Title: Can I sue my school? Or this person? Washington

Question:
Two years ago I was falsely accused of sexual assault by the boy who assaulted me. I filed my own counter-complaint with the school against him. The long story short is that they threw the book at me and expelled me for it. I had plenty of evidence on my side saying his statements were false. I did appeal through the school and the schools president but they were both denied.

Appealing through the county and having an actual court case was an option within 30 days of the final appeal but I decided not to do it. Now it's been 2 years and life is shitty. Is suing the school or the person who falsely accused me even an option? I did hire a lawyer for my first appeal and he's probably the only reason they let me finish the semester while everything happened.

I filed a complaint against my school with the department of education a year ago but so far they've only decided to investigate and received the case files from the university. They still have multiple staff members to interview from the school so it could be years for this to be resolved, if it even goes my way.

Answer: If you are fixated on this series of events being the cause of your current "it's been 2 years and life is shitty", then that might be better resolved in therapy since it doesn't look like there is any viable legal recourse here.


Title: [CA] Signed a lease and now an "emergency" for the current tenant pushing out lease date to a date past where we can move in.

Question:
We are moving and have signed a lease and put a deposit in for it. They called us and have told use that the current tenant has an emergency so the date has been pushed about 3 weeks. Our stuff is in storage right now so we'd not only be unable to get things we need, but we're supposed to leave our temporary place before the new date. They're trying to now offer us a smaller apartment. What rights do we have here?

*We've solved our problem with the leasing agents...thanks!

Answer: What does your lease say? This isn't a particularly rare issue, and is probably addressed in your lease. Answer #2: Ok thanks for all the advice here. We were able to negotiate out of our lease and are finding a new place. Never going to sign for a place with a current tenant again!


Title: Phone lost, then found and held for ransom

Question:
A friend of mine dropped and lost her phone on the New York City sidewalk, near her home. she was remotely able to set the lock screen as "this phone is lost, please contact ... etc."

a few days later, a man called from the phone and asked how badly she wanted it back. she could see on find my phone that he was located in an apartment a few blocks away, and said if she wanted the phone she would have to buy it back from him for $150.00. He was an older man and she did not want to get into any dangerous situation, so offered a public place to meet, paid him the money, and got the phone back.

What could her options have been here? Is it finders-keepers after being left on the sidewalk? Could she call a non emergency line and bring a LEO with her and have the LEO demand it be given back at the meeting place? Would they waste their time on this?

The situation was really gross to me so I am wondering what options somebody has in this situation.

thanks in advance.

Answer: It's theft. She could absolutely have talked to the police about it.


Title: Landlord charging me 200$ more for exact same apartment.

Question: Hi /r/legaladvice currently living in Syracuse NY, and just signed a 12 month lease for July 2019 to July 2020. There's no exit clause that I can see, but I also just found out that the landlord is charging me 200$ more for the place than another similar apartment right down the street. It's a long shot, but I was wondering if there was anything I could do about it?

Answer: Improve your negotiation skills for next time is what you can do.


Title: [US-FL] Dad wants to sue at-fault party to repair a totaled car?

Question:
Got into a fender bender last week where a driver hit me because he wanted to change lanes and didn't shoulder check. This caused me to swerve, the other driver's momentum sending me towards another car's rear bumper.

The lane-changer has accepted full liability for the accident, but their coverage is only $10,000.

GEICO has offered me $2,263 for my "totaled" 1998 Lexus ES300. While I do love this car, I was expecting $2,000. My dad's expecting the whole shebang (salvage title, repair costs, rebuilt inspection) and wants to sue the at-fault driver should the settlement for me and the collateral-damage driver exceed the $10,000 limit.

I don't think the whole legal ordeal will be worth it and feel like we should just take the check. Am I dumb or is my dad overreacting?

EDIT: Thanks guys!

Answer: You're entitled to the fair market value of the car, nothing more.


Title: A patient keeps asking us to give him prescription information we have on his file instead of his doctor's office

Question:
Hey all. I live in Texas, a two-door state. Basically what this means is that if you're not a private practice office that owns it, you need to have two separate entrances for the doctor and the glasses sales, and must be separate entities. Our doctor can't give us prescriptions until the patient gives us the prescription and we put their prescription into the system, keeping it on their file, and fill it for them.

I had a guy call us this morning and ask me to give him his glasses prescription. I said "yes sir so your doctor is actually the one who owns your prescription, so--" and he cut me off and said "no, according to HIPPA I own my prescription." and hung up. A minute later, I got a call from another glasses shop with the associate asking for the same guy's prescription. I pulled up his profile and let the rep know that he had seen the doctor next door and they would be able to give the prescription out. They took the number and hung up.

A few minutes later I got another phone call, from a rep at a different store selling glasses. I let them know again that the doctor is next door, and they would be able to release the information. I requested that they also let the patient know that we are separate entities from the doctor.

Hours later, the same shop calls again. I let them know the doctors office is now closed, but they can call tomorrow to request the information. They thank me and hang up.

This guy is getting people to call our business and ask for a prescription that we can't give out. I searched on google if you can give out patient information that is on file if you aren't the doctor who made it, but nothing came up. I guess it's too specific of a search. As far as I know, it would breach HIPPA to give this guy's prescription to Warby Parker, and I am assuming it would create liability issues as well if the prescription is wrong because the information came from us instead of his doctor's office. Am I in the wrong? How do I stop the calls? Is there a website I can point them to to show them that we dont have the authority to release this information?

Answer: It wouldn't be a HIPAA violation to give the patient his own prescription info. Do you not have a boss you can ask these kind of questions to, or a policy manual to refer to?


Title: My settlement came to be $15,000. The attorney’s fee is 33 1/3% of net recovery. I have a medical lien of $4000. Why does my invoice say I have to pay him $6670 ?

Question:
The contract says that if the matter is resolved prior to filing a lawsuit or formal initiation of proceedings, then attorney’s fee will be thirty-three and one-third percent of the net recovery.
It also says I agree to pay for all costs, disbursements and expenses paid or owed on my behalf and which have not been previously pod or reimbursed to attorney.

The invoice says I have to pay the attorney’s fee: $6000, invoice copies: $10, processing service: $75, filing fee: $585.

If there is also a medical lien of $4000, shouldn’t he get his cut based off of $11,000 and not $15,000?

Can someone always double check  the calculation because $6k seems high when I’m getting less than him.

Thank you!
Topic:
Personal Injury

Answer:
 >The invoice says I have to pay the attorney’s fee: $6000, invoice copies: $10, processing service: $75, filing fee: $585.

1/3 (or 33.3 percent) of $15,000 is $5,000, so I guess I would ask the office how they computed the attorney fee portion.

The rest sounds like normal costs.

>If there is also a medical lien of $4000, shouldn’t he get his cut based off of $11,000 and not $15,000?

No.  He gets his percentage of the total net recovery which was $15k.

>$6k seems high when I’m getting less than him.

We warn people about that all the time with relatively low value cases.  If you'd settled this yourself for $10k, would you be any worse off?

>what is the point of putting 1/3 after 33 as well? How would you calculate Thirty three and one third percent?

So it's the same as 1/3.  It's 33.3 percent.Answer #2: 33 and 1/3 is one third of 100%. Thats what happens when you turn fractions into decimals.Answer #3: Are you sure your attorney didn't file suit??? If not then what is the filing fee for?

Most agreements are 33.3% if they don't file suit, 40% if they have to file (doesn't matter if they go to trial or not).

40% of 15k is 6000


Title: Pedestrian traffic law - hypothetical scenario based on real life situation.

Question:
There is a road behind my house that is uphill and then curves to the right. Last night at around 9PM I was driving up along this road. I suddenly noticed there was a pedestrian standing on the side of the road at the last minute. The pedestrian was not wearing any reflective clothing or holding a flashlight. This is a tight two way street with no side walks and a very narrow shoulder if any. Both sides of the road are populated by a number of trees. I moved slightly to the left, but I couldn't move too far due to an oncoming vehicle. This particular area on the road has no street lamps and I couldn't see the pedestrian until I came around the curve. If this had resulted in the pedestrian being struck, who would be at fault?

Location: PA Suburbs

Answer:
 You would have been at fault. If it is too dark and you are approaching a curve and you are driving fast enough that you cannot stop in time upon seeing a pedestrian, you are driving too fast for conditions.

Though, as you neglected to include your location (despite the multiple prompts to do so) this is only general advice as laws are different from country to country and state to state.