Title: Father banged up and car totalled in hit and (literally) run by a drunk driver.  What should we expect? [South Carolina]

Question:
A few days ago, my father was driving my car on a Wendy's run while my wife and I studied.  On his way, a drunk driver blew through a stop sign, taking off the front end of my car and pulling him into oncoming traffic, where the passenger side was T-boned by a jeep.  The drunk driver then ran into the woods on foot and was subdued by K-9 units a few minutes later (he initially denied being involved at all but later confessed).
My dad was taken to the ER by ambulance, as he has had several heart operations, and is on blood thinners (a broken rib in the wrong place could cause enough bleeding to kill him).  He was released a few hours later with a head contusion, bruises all over his body, and several either broken or bruised ribs (X-rays were inconclusive).  He is in one piece but still in a lot of pain.
Although the driver's insurance company has not yet seen my vehicle, everyone who has seen it agrees that it is a total loss.  The vehicle was a numbered, special edition vehicle that was purchased with my grandmother's inheritance after I received a full academic scholarship to college in 2006.  My whole life since then has taken place in that car, and it holds a ridiculous amount of sentimental value to my entire family.
What should we expect?  Do fear for my fathers life, sentimental value of the vehicle, or the incredibly reckless behavior of the driver at fault play into the settlement value at all, or should we just expect the current KBB value of the car?

Sorry for being long winded, and thanks.

Answer: You should expect the blue book value of your car. That's it for you. Your father will also be contacted separately for his issues.


Title: Going Back To School In The Fall, Can Schools Legally Require Masks?

Question: Simple question. Can schools legally make me wear a mask while also forcing me to attend school when I go back in the fall?

Answer: yes, they can.


Title: Received Overtime Parking Violation while Valid Paid Ticket Was Unexpired.

Question:
Hello,
Thank you for taking the time to read this post. I wish to receive some advice for contesting a overtime parking violation ticket. On March 10th, 2015 in Hoboken NJ, I parked my car & paid a meter two dollars for 2 hours of time. Before the ticket had expired, I had received a parking violation ticket on my windshield. From the [picture](http://imgur.com/Bt1298z), you can see that there is a difference of 2 minutes.

Please advise on the best arguments & questions to make. Thank you so much.

Update:
Went to municipal court, checked in, waited to be called by the prosecutor, declared not guilty, gave evidence, waited for the judge to take my case, stated my name & address, judge sees evidence, & dismisses the violation. Total time wasted: 2 hours.

Answer: Good god I've waited my entire life to say this. It's the holy grail. Your legal argument is to say: "Your honor res ipsa loquitur! Then drop the microphone and walk out the door.


Title: Landlord is selling the house I live in currently [PA]

Question:
So this is not the first time posting here about my luck with renting. The title is pretty straightforward. My landlord is selling the house I've been living in with my brother for the past year and a half. I guess my question is how does that work? Shouldn't a lease bind him to let us stay until the end of our lease?

Basically what I'm saying is my degree in bird law just isn't cutting it and I could just use some advice or even just an explanation as to how this all works? Thanks everyone. Y'all rock.

Answer:
 The buyer of the house would acquire your lease, and have to abide by the terms of that lease.

The new owners can choose not to renew your lease when your lease term is expired.


Title: Can I sue/get some sort of compensation from my grandmother throwing away what some would consider an illegal substance?

Question:
To make a long story short I moved in with my grandmother several months ago since she is getting older and I wanted to help her around the house.  Also I have been between jobs for a while now and fugured this would be a great way to spend some time with her.  Last night I went over to my friends house to have a few beers and when I pulled into our driveway I noticed my bedroom light was on.  I went in and my grandmother was fuming and had trashed my room.  Apparently she was doing some of my laundry and found a little bit of weed in my jeans pocket (which is legal where I live, Colorado) then she went through all the shit in my room and found some more of my weed along with some other substances that may be considered "illegal" by some people.  Well she ended up flushing all of it.  Almost $1.5K worth of shit.  It pissed me off as she had no right to trash my room and invade my privacy.  I told her that she would need to pay me back but flat out refused.  Can I take her to court over this?  Destroying someone's property whether it's legal property or not is still destroying someone's property.

Tl;dr Grandmother flushed my drugs and I'd like compensation for it.

Answer:
 > I moved in with my grandmother several months ago since she is getting older and I wanted to help her around the house. Also I have been between jobs for a while now and fugured this would be a great way to spend some time with her.

Translation: I'm a jobless burnout who can't take care of myself, even tough I'm an adult, so I moved in with my poor grandmother so I can mooch off her.

> Grandmother flushed my drugs and I'd like compensation for it.

Too bad. Next time don't bring drugs into your grandmother's house, you fuckwit.Answer #2: > may be considered "illegal" by some people

like... the police? are they the people you're referring to? Answer #3: You can sue her.

And any admissions you make during the case about knowingly possessing illegal substances can be used to prosecute you for that crime.

Answer #4: Its not "illegal". Its illegal you idiot. Sure call the police and tell them you want your grandmother arrested because she flushed your meth or coke or whatever
 I'm sure that will work out well for you.Answer #5: You don't need /r/legaladvice, you need /r/lifeadvice and /r/hownottobeaprick.


Title: Why do lewd/lascivious offenses have such a long statute of limitations, for what reason?

Question:
State-Fl

&#x200B;

I don't understand why for essentially most sexual battery charges but especially lewd/lascivious offenses involving a minor the statute of limitations does not start until sometimes the victim turns 18. What is the reason for that? Also, there's a separate section that states once DNA is collected/ or preserved the statute of limitations is indefinite. Why? Why would they randomly wait 3-5 years for NO reason unless they don't know who the person is?

Answer: We toll the statute of limitations on sexual assault involving children because as a society we think that the sexual assault of children is one of the most heinous crimes.   By tolling the limitations period we give abuse survivors more time to recover from their abuse and come forward to report those crimes, thereby identifying people who commit such crimes.


Title: Am I required to report a relationship with my coworker? (Kansas)

Question:
I'm in a new relationship with a coworker of mine. She's a part-time employee who started in January and I've been here for almost two years.

Here's the personal relationships section of our handbook:

    PERSONAL RELATIONSHIPS POLICY

    Company strives to provide a work environment that is collegial, respectful, and productive. This policy establishes rules for the conduct of personal relationships between team members, including supervisory personnel, in an attempt to prevent conflicts and maintain a productive and friendly work environment.

    A "personal relationship" is defined as a relationship between individuals who have or have had a continuing relationship of a romantic or intimate nature.

    A team member who is involved in a personal relationship with another team member may not work directly for or supervise the team member with whom the team member is involved. Team members who allow personal relationships with co- workers to adversely affect the work environment will be subject to the appropriate provisions of Company's disciplinary policy. Failure to change behavior and maintain expected work responsibilities is viewed as a serious disciplinary matter.

    Company reserves the right to take prompt action if an actual or potential conflict of interest arises concerning individuals who engage in a personal relationship that may affect the terms and conditions of employment. Supervisors and managers are prohibited from dating subordinates and may be disciplined for such actions, up to and including termination.

    When a conflict or the potential for conflict arises because of a personal relationship between team members, even if there is no line of authority or reporting involved, the team members may be separated by reassignment, or terminated from employment. If such a personal relationship between team members develops, it is the responsibility and obligation of the team members involved to disclose the existence of the relationship to the department manager, director, or to Human Resources.

    When a conflict or a potential for conflict affecting terms and conditions of employment arises because of the personal relationship, the individuals concerned will be given the opportunity to decide who is to be transferred to another position, or terminated, if no position is available. If no decision is made within 30 calendar days of the offer to resolve the situation, Company will determine who is to be transferred or, if necessary, terminated from employment.

The portion that I believe might state that we must report is in the 5th paragraph second sentence:

    If such a personal relationship between team members develops, it is the responsibility and obligation of the team members involved to disclose the existence of the relationship to the department manager, director, or to Human Resources.

However, to me, it seems this is about the type of relationship described in the sentence before it (a conflicting relationship). To me, my relationship doesn't seem to cause any conflicts as neither of us are superior to one another. I will say, that we are in the same department but in two different types of work as well as physically separated in different parts of the office.

I'm honestly okay reporting this relationship, but I feel that a company doesn't have any business being involved in my personal relationships unless there is an obvious conflict of interest. But maybe this is up to the company to decide? Anyway, I'm mainly just interested in knowing if I'm legally obligated to tell them.

Thanks!

Answer:
 This isn’t a legal question. It’s work policy. You don’t have to tell them anything barring a specific contractual obligation. Your handbook isn’t that.

Barring a union or contract stating otherwise you could be fired for not disclosing the relationship, or virtually any other reason.


Title: Ordered to turn myself in for 45 day sen. 2 weeks ago.

Question:
I was ordered to do a 45 day jail sentence. I was meant to go in 2 weeks ago tomorrow to begin my sentence. I was sick and had to go to hospital. Then both my kids became ill. I was lucky to be able to find a childcare provider that would take them for more than a month. But she couldn't take them if they had a fever still. I got an email from the receptionist at my attorneys office that said that my plea deal was in jeopardy and they could charge me with the original felonies and I could go to prison.  (It was originally 2 felony  charges that I would do 45 days  jail with 2 years probation after and they're dropped to misdemeanor) Now, I'm scared to go and turn myself in because I'm scared if I go in, they will try to keep me longer send me. prison, and I can't leave my kids/home/etc. Any longer than the 40 days (I have a 6 day credit) I'm also wondering how long I'm actually going to have to be there. Is there good behavior time or something? Help please. I'm scared. What are they going to do to me?
I'd like to add that I was making just slightly too much money to qualify for the public defender. Certainly not enough to pay the attorney I did retain another $4,000. Now I have no job and no job to come back to.
I'm innocent of this crime and pled guilty with an Alford plea only because I couldn't afford to pay my attorney to take it to trial and I was afraid of dragging it out and then ending up worse off..
I'm not asking for advice on what I should do.
I'm asking if anyone KNOWS what could happen when I did.
Will they keep me for longer than the 40 days? Will I be otherwise penalized?
Are there any actual criminal defence lawyers that answer questions here?

Answer: You need to speak with your attorney. Every day you put this off is going to make it worse


Title: Can my employer do this?

Question: I work in a phone store and there was an situation where a costumer bought 2 iphones with a credit card they bought the phones and later that day canceled the transaction ,i was the one doing the transaction so my employer is making me pay the 1,700 that they stole ! I never signed anything to allow this and they already took 200 out of my pay Can they do this ...shouldnt my employer have insurance that covers this ... someone help?! Location is baltimore , maryland

Answer: Your employer should dispute the cancelled transaction with the credit card company.  Your location is also important.Answer #2: If they took money out of your pay without your permission that is illegal. File a wage dispute.


Title: Can I legally lock someone in a room if they sign a waiver?

Question:
Hello, I am launching a new Escape Room location in South Carolina, and I cant seem to find a solid answer on whether or not I can lock somebody in a room or a cell within my game (They are monitored through CCTV at all times). Im also curious about the laws on handcuffs. Of course I will have waivers, I just dont want to get sued. At the moment my fix is to just not lock the door and to use an "Imaginary lock" in which if they open the door before the last clue they lose. But I really want to be able to lock the door.

Thanks for any help you can give.

Answer:
 An easier solution is to have 2 exits from the room.  One locked, and the other is the 'I give up' door for if they give up.  Or include an emergency key that is a duplicate of the one that is part of the last  clue, and put it in the open with proper signage.

You don't want to have people locked in a room they can't escape from in an emergency situation.


Title: Child Custody Issue

Question:
My ex and I have a custody agreement. I have primary custody through the school year, and we do week on, week off in the summer. For the past 2 weeks, when I get my son back, he tells me that his dad is leaving him alone with his 9 year old brother for unknown periods of time. My son is 6. This on top of a highly probably drug addiction. I'm working a case with CYS, but he's supposed to go back with his father today.

What will happen if I refuse to send him back, for fear of his safety? Will that be taken into consideration? I'm so torn over what to do.

Answer: you have the option of filing an emergency full custody order with the local family court.  write down what your son has told you on the forms. if you do not return your son then that will be settled at the emergency custody hearing, he can not storm in to your place and grab the kid .


Title: Holiday pay. [Ohio]

Question: So im a little confused on holiday pay in ohio. I have tried too look it up but it didn't really help. I work for a country club in ohio. I have worked holidays such as memorial day, labor day and other federal holidays but I have not recieved holiday pay. Am I entitled to holiday pay? Im a part time employee.

Answer: Unless you are a member of a union or have some other employment contract that says otherwise, a holiday is just like any other day. There are no state or federal laws requiring any pay beyond your normal wages for working those days.


Title: Upcoming Divorce

Question:
Ontario, Canada

My wife and I separated almost a year and a half ago.  Legally speaking we can now file for divorce.  My gf and I are thinking about getting married and settling down.  She is an old friend and things took off really quickly.  Obviously I need to file for divorce.  The separation was surprisingly amicable.  We didn't have any children together, didn't own a house (rented) and our possessions were divided up through an email agreement which I still have.  Financially there was a $10K/year difference in our income but she has never hinted at the prospect of alimony (I made more).

My concern is with the money we received in gifts from our wedding.  There was about $5K in cash.  At the time I let her handle the finances.  She told me that almost all of it went to paying off the wedding but I never saw any records of it.  I knew we owed some money to pay it off but I highly doubt it was that much.

Would it be worth my time to investigate this or should I just "finish packing" and move on?

Thanks!

Answer: Anything left of that 5k is worth letting her have if it is amicable.


Title: [Hypothetical] Can you call 911 if you feel medically threatened by an overheated plane that is been on the tarmac for an extended period of time?

Question:
I was wondering about this post: https://np.reddit.com/r/news/comments/6jsclr/colorado_mom_angry_at_united_after_infant/

In short: A plane was on the tarmac for over two hours and they did not have any air conditioning running. The interior was over 90 degrees. A four month old baby began showing signs of medical distress. The flight crew offered ice packs, but did not do anything to help the situation, or let her off the plane.

You can get brain damage from being dangerously overheated, and infants can die. If the flight crew is clueless, can I call 911 myself and demand that the police/ambulance intervene? Would they have to be let through by the TSA? What legal options do you have if the flight crew is neglectful?

Answer: It's crazy that parents get charged with abuse if they leave their kids in a hot car but the airline makes you pay for that privilege and has no obligation to assist you. Answer #2: You can call.  You can't demand that they intervene.  They also don't have the authority to get through TSA or to open the plane.


Title: [US] [Auto] Vehicles stored on property, Rent unpaid for 4 years

Question:
Afternoon all,I was recently at my sister's farm cleaning up after a number of large trees fell on their property. While fixing my chainsaw (a number of times) in their barn I spotted a few vehicles that definitely tickled my fancy and I inquired on them. She has a few sports cars from the 1960's in her barn and shed. The owner of these vehicles pays her rent to keep them stored there, but is over 4 years behind in rent (I understand that it was a verbal agreement made years ago). He has had other vehicles stored in the past that he has sold, and she made him pay the rent he owed before he could get his vehicles out. Currently he owes her several thousand dollars in rent and he has not paid.

Can she simply send him a certified letter that if he does not bring his account out of delinquency she will treat the vehicles as abandoned property in a storage facility? Can she do this? Does anyone have any experience in this? The farm is in Nebraska; not sure where the owner of the vehicles lives.

Answer: She might be able to file a lien against the titles of the vehicles in question, but it would take a lawyer to do properly.


Title: I have a traffic ticket as a minor, but don't want my parents to find out. Help?

Question:
Hey r/legaladvice,

I was wondering if I could show up in court, pay me fee for speeding, and deal with the consequences of GDL without my parents finding out. Considering I have the funds to pay off my own ticket, would this be possible at the age of 17?

thanks

Answer: Are you on their insurance? Cause if so, they will definitely notice when their rates go up because of this.  Depending on how fast you were going and where you live, you may be able to do some damage control, like asking to take defensive driving. You should talk to your parents. And a lawyer.


Title: Injured at workplace in the same way others have, can I sue?

Question:
I am in Le Mars, Iowa.

I work in a ice cream factory and today I tripped over one of the comfort mats we stand on and rolled my ankle. The mats are about 2 inches thick and the sides slope up.

After I fell, first aid was called and they decided to take me to the hospital for Xrays. Nothing is broken, just sprained. I was sent home with a splint, pain meds, and a couple days off.

My work paid for the hospital visit.

But the thing is, the security admin who was with me was very sympathetic and told me that they have had at least 4-5 other people trip and hurt themselves on those mats; they are thinking of getting rid of them because of the accidents that have happened and that the mats also carry bacteria that they cant really clean.

My question is that because I was told that they know that the mats are dangerous can I sue them for negligence or something? I'm not sure of any legal term and I know nothing of how to go about this or if I even should.

Any advise would be appriciated!

Topic:
Personal Injury

Answer:
 If you want to lose your job, go ahead and sue them. I'm not sure why you would want to sue them if they were willing to pay for the injury that happened, and I don't know what damages you would sue them for other than a court order to remove the mats.

If you are truly concerned, make an anonymous complaint to OSHA.

Tell your plan owners to start producing blue bell ASAP. It's getting desperate in Texas Answer #2: Work place injuries are covered by workers compensation; you can speak to an attorney who practices in that area and see what they have to say.


Title: Landlord enters apartment often with no notice. 4 bedroom, all guys, most younger. I'm in my early 30s and am sick of it. Massachusetts

Question:
He has been told by one of the tenants verbally that he needs to give us notice. He sent two of the four of us a message once that he was going to be by. There has probably been a dozen times in the last few months he just comes by, sometimes to fix things, sometimes to pick up a check left on the fridge by one tenet, sometimes no real reason and we only find out because he's opened the windows (he has a thing for fresh air in any apartment he owns, always talking about fresh air is good in good weather).

Just recently one roommate moved out and he just came by yesterday to show the apartment to someone, I was prepping making dinner for my girlfriend. If he'd shown up an hour later he'd be in the middle of my date (other roommates were working). We could have been up to other stuff in my room for all he'd know just blindly showing up, and me and my girlfriend in our 30s are not cool with that possibility, real mood killer when you hear a knock then Hello as he walks in using his keys, not even waiting for anyone to get to the door.

Once, right after I moved in some six months ago, he walked into my room as I was sleeping (10 am on my day off, I was sleeping in). He was there to fix the faulty door lock on my door. He thought I was at work and apologized and said he'd come back another day as I scrambled out of bed in my boxers to find out what was going on. I just fixed the lock myself (misaligned door strike).

Another time I was shaving in my boxers and he just walked into the place, bathroom door open and visible if you come in the door. I'd just showered, nobody in the place, opened door and window to defog the mirror. I'm just standing there with my face covered in shaving cream wearing boxers looking at him like "wtf?" he acted like it was nothing.

I sent him a text today explaining if he wants to come work on something we love that but he needs to give us 24h notice. I explained if he'd shown up a little later he'd be in the middle of my date and we knew we had the place to ourselves. So I have text documentation of me telling him not to do that.

He did not write back, usually he writes back right away or within an hour if he's busy with his office job.

The place is month to month, I figure this is just how he is and he might just evict me in a couple months to be able to keep doing it.

Besides "just move" (financially difficult at the moment) what should I do past sending what I wrote this morning to him?

Answer:
 It appears there isn't a law on the books requiring a specific amount of time between notice and entry, aside from it being "reasonable".

That being said, he does need to give you "reasonable notice" before entry, which in most cases is 24 hrs.(With an exception for emergency repairs)

According to mass.gov,

> If the landlord insists on entering your apartment in an unreasonable fashion, you may file for a temporary restraining order at your local district court (M.G.L. c. 186, §§ 14 and 15B).

While this is an option, I would recommend discussing this with the landlord first before going nuclear.


Title: Apartment air conditioning not cooling properly, can I withhold rent?

Question:
I live in a huge apartment complex and I live on the third floor, which is the top floor.  I live in Missouri so it's usually around 90 degrees outside and when I get back from work around 5pm, my apartment is usually 80 degrees.  I set my AC around 68-70 and by 10 PM it is only 76 degrees, 74 if I'm lucky.  Maybe I've just had good AC systems my entire life but back at home it will hit the desired temperature within an hour.

I have complained to the main office and they said this is normal for AC systems, especially since I am on the top floor.  They said if I want it to be 75 degrees when I get back to my apartment, I should leave my AC on while at work, which I absolutely will not do since it will probably double or triple my current electric bill.  My electric bill is also relatively high considering I live in a one bedroom apartment and have to keep my AC running more than I would like to since it's so hot in my apartment.  The AC that I am used to will run for about 30-60 minutes before it reaches the set temperature and will turn on every so often to maintain the temperature.  I have put in several maintenance requests but I do not think the maintenance guy actually does anything.

What can I do?  Can I ask them to pay half of my electric bill?  Can I withhold rent?  I just want to be comfortable in my own apartment.  Please let me know if there's anything else you would like to know about my situation.

Answer:
 Your apartment complex is right. If you let your apartment heat up all day the AC is going to have a very hard time cooling it off before you head to bed.

It cooling down to 74 is likely acceptable and there isn't much you can do beyond either trying to run it whil eyou are at work or getting a window unit.


Title: Legal advice for being wrongfully demoted.

Question:
The location is California.

From 2011 to 2014 I worked at a California State University as a Student Assistant. This position is comparable to an Administrative Assistant with the condition that the worker be either a part time or full time student. My hourly wage was $10.15 an hour. During March of 2014, a female coworker (African American), threatened me with physical violence stating that she would ask her boyfriend who was soon to be released from prison, to beat me up. I expressed my concern to my supervisor (African American), and he had a nonchalant attitude stating “you’re still alive aren’t you? Stop worrying!”

I would also like to note that my supervisor has shown favoritism on many occasions. He would approve hours my coworkers (2 black females, and 1 black male) did not work to help them get better paychecks, and I would often over hear him during lunch breaks of him making rude remarks of other ethnic groups, particularly Caucasians & Asians. I am Asian. In fact, the Director of the department has actually confronted him several times of the work output not being commensurate with the approved “hours worked” of his workers.

I then proceeded to go to the Human Resources Manager (Caucasian Female), and she showed no concern for my safety. In fact, she laughed about the matter! She then spoke to the director of my department (Caucasian Female), and came to the conclusion that I be demoted (This resulted in me working less hours, meaning a lower salary). I was moved to a different department (same floor about 20 feet away from my old workspace) working with mail, and lifting heavy boxes. Despite telling Human Resources and the Director of my health issues (gout and asthma), they showed no concern and became agitated when I brought up my health issues and asked them why I was demoted. My illness is hereditary. I am not obese. My previous job was more of a desk job and was not at all hazardous to my health. It makes no sense that I be demoted for expressing my concerns for safety. I believe I am a victim of retaliation, racial discrimination, and gender discrimination. Is it not plausible that a female can threaten a male? I would also like to note that the female coworker who threatened me was not reprimanded and was allowed to keep her job. My new supervisor said I was moved to keep me safe from the coworker. Yet, I was moved 20 feet away, and I would see her on a daily basis…

I also filed a charge with the EEOC (Oakland) back in 2014 and they have not updated me on the case. I call every few months for updates and they say it’s still under investigation. They expressed that the university has not agreed to mediation either. In the meantime, I have gone to several employment law attorneys in my area (SF Bay Area) and no one will take my case. I don’t know why. I was clearly wronged here. Is it alright for people to threaten their coworkers and not face any type of reprimand or suspension? Does it make sense that I was demoted? I haven’t been able to find work since I graduated, and I fear my former employer may be badmouthing me during reference checks since I was a “whistleblower”. I was a hardworking, punctual worker, and I left my job voluntarily after I graduated. I was not fired. Any advice on this matter would be greatly appreciated.

I can provide more details if needed. Thank you for your time!

Answer:
 Big hint here is that no local lawyers would take the case. They will have seen more information about your case than Reddit has. If they didn't like the case, there's a good reason.

It doesn't sound like there's a direct link to your membership in a protected class being the reason you were demoted. Sounds like you tried to go to HR over your boss' head and he didn't like it.

If you are worried for your physical safety, report the female coworker to the police.


Title: [VA] Neighbors threatened to have me towed if I continue to park in 'their' space, but I'm not sure if it's really theirs.

Question:
I live in a townhome development governed by an HOA and our leases state that each household is entitled to one dedicated (numbered) space, plus "one other (any unmarked)." The numbered spaces are assigned, but it does not specify which unmarked space we are allowed, so I assumed they just went to whatever renter gets to that space first.

The other day I parked in front of a different property that I thought was vacant overnight, and received a note telling me to be courteous and that they will have me towed if I park there again. I'm alright with not parking in that spot again, but is this something they could do?

Answer:
 Check with the HOA to see if anyone has any rights to any specific in numbered spots. If for some reason the neigh or does have a second, legal space, then it shpuod be marked as such (numbered). If not, they can pound sand and if they have you towed, sue them for all you are out.Answer #2: Normally you're allowed to park in any spot without a number it doesn't matter if its front of your townhome or not.

I would give the HOA a call or email and ask them about the policy and to possibly send out a notice stating people can park in any unmarked spot.


Title: (CA) Is it legal for drug stores to sell ethyl alcahol to minors?

Question:
[deleted]
Topic:
Alcohol Related Other than DUI

Answer:
 Do NOT drink such things.  All alcohol sold for any non-drinking purpose has methanol or acetone added to it, which are deadly poisonous.  Google "denatured alcohol" and "methanol blindness".Answer #2: You moron.... you know there is other stuff in there beside ethyl alcohol, right? That stuff is "denatured" which means that there are other chemical compounds in there to make it unpalatable and borderline poisonous. Acetone, isopropyl alcohol, methanol, are all common additives to these drugstore ethyl alcohol solutions. Drinking that stuff can make you seriously sick and cause a lot of damage.

Drinkable alcohol does not have those chemicals in them and the government taxes the hell out of it. There is a reason that stuff is so cheap, neither the government nor Walgreens considers it drinkable.Answer #3: It's legal because it's denatured. It has compounds added to make it unsafe to drink, including acetone.

Edit: [From Walgreen's product listing](http://www.walgreens.com/store/c/walgreens-ethyl-rubbing-alcohol-70-first-aid-antiseptic/ID=prod6056575-product): Acetone (causes liver damage when ingested in large quantities), Denatonium Benzoate (relatively harmless, but renders the product intolerably bitter), and Methyl Isobutyl Ketone (liver and kidney damage).

Stop drinking denatured alcohol.


Title: Is it legally responsible to settle the dispute with Freddie Gray's family before the police officers stand trial?

Question:
Not absolutely sure this belongs to this sub, but it is a general legal question so here goes. I am sure there is precedent set here already, but it seems this could potentially be "unfair" in the eyes of justice. Wouldn't the settled lawsuit from the Gray's be interpreted as a small admission of guilt from *the city and not the defendants*? Could they bring this up in the trial of the police officers? I am just a little confused and need a little more insight. I understand they settled quickly for the public reasons (etc, etc) but from a complete legal standpoint, shouldn't they have waited?

*This is strictly a legal question and has nothing to do with my personal views of this case.

Answer:
 The settlement *very* likely includes no actual admission of wrongdoing on the part of the city.  That's true of many settlements.

Additionally, civil and criminal standards are different.  Even if the city agrees that it holds liability for the Gray incident, that doesn't necessarily follow that an individual officer has committed a crime.


Title: employer requested confirmation of support for ACA repeal (NY)

Question: [deleted]

Answer:
 Candidly? I would report this to HR. It sounds dangerously like bossman is compiling a list of good conservatives - and by extension a list of who isn't. If this is allowed to continue then any firing done in the future could be challenged on political grounds. Present it as doing the company a favor.

"Hey HR person, I'm worried that if CEO does this every person fired in the future will sue on political grounds, maybe you should suggest that they withdraw this request?" you could do that without revealing your political affiliation.


Title: Can my landlord in Boston, MA deduct a flat cleaning fee from the security deposit, regardless of the state we leave the apt in?

Question:
I'm in Boston, MA. There isn't anything in my lease about a cleaning fee.

Basically we're moving out, we cleaned thoroughly, though not professionally. Our lease just states that it needs to be left broom swept.

We did a walk through with the building manager and he told us that he charges a flat cleaning fee of $50 plus $100 for each bedroom. So in my 2 bedroom house + office, he'll charge $350 from the security deposit. We asked if he could itemize the cleaning and he said he doesn't have the time to do that for every apartment so he does a flat rate.

We didn't leave it as sparkling as if it were professionally cleaned, but we cleaned the bathrooms, swept, counters, behind fridge, etc. We lived there for 4 years, and kept it pretty clean. There's no damage to the house, it seems like everything falls within normal wear and tear. Is it legal?

Answer:
 Security deposits explicitly exclude normal wear and tear. It's highly unlikely a landlord would prevail keeping any portion of the security deposit for cleaning. Even in cases where tenants have left trash behind landlords have lost in court.

Landlords screwing around with security deposits in MA open themselves up to a world of hurt. If he collects, holds or withholds the security deposit incorrectly he's opening himself up to triple damages.

Did he provide a receipt for the account he put the security deposit into?
Did he pay interest on the security deposit or credit it against the first months rent of a new year?
Did he provide an itemized receipt for damages?
Did any of the lease terms violate security deposit law?
Did he return the security deposit with interest within 30 days?

The landlord looses the right to your security deposit for violation of any one of those things, even for actual damages. He can not bring up damages at your small claims hearing, he must file a separate suit.


Title: [NY] Speeding ticket with malfunctioning Cruise Control

Question:
I live around Albany, NY and was driving home one night using cruise control as I normally do when there isn't much traffic. I start going down a steep hill and soon after I get pulled over for speeding. I had set the cruise control for about 30mph but ended up going 47mph.

I went home and experimented a bit. Found out that if I put my car in neutral, shift back to drive, and then try to set a cruise control speed, my car's "control" light will appear but it will not actually function. So I thought I was going 30 mph but gravity caused me to accelerate to 47mph. I've only gotten 1 speeding ticket before and never fought against one.

Is this malfunction a viable defense? Can I simply take a video of the problem and show up to court? I'm new to this kind of stuff and any help would be appreciated.

P.S. this is also my first post so please forgive me if I've messed up somewhere.

Answer: You are ultimately responsible for the speed your vehicle is traveling at. That you weren't paying attention to your travel speed is worse, not an excuse.


Title: (FL) A nurse is threatening to report me to the government(?) for not having health insurance. What is she trying to do and is it legal?

Question:
I don't have health insurance. I can't afford it.

I needed a sick note for work, I found a family practitioner that would take me today and it'd only cost $200. I get my note, I pay, and I go home.

Just before 5 I got a call from the nurse at the doctors office. She says that she noticed that I don't have health insurance. Then she starts going on about how it's illegal not to have it so I'm technically committing a crime and then quote "I am going to report you to the government for this and you will suffer the consequences.". I'm going to call the doctor tomorrow.

Anyway, who would she actually be reporting me to? What's the end game here, it's not like it's something that I could be arrested for? Are her weird threats legal?

Answer:
 You can be fined for not applying for Obamacare. She can also be fired for being an asshole (if she doesn't have a union). You should definitely tell her employer. Answer #2: You won't be arrested for it, you'll just pay a hefty amount when you do your taxes next year.

I'm not sure what her issue was. Unless you're actually being charged with a crime, ignore the threats. If she continues to harass you, call the police.Answer #3: She's full of shit and can't report anything to anybody.

Furthermore, it's none of her business how you choose to pay for your health care.  For all she knows, you could have a high deductible plan and simply choose to pay cash for the routine stuff.

It may also be a violation of the HIPPA privacy laws for the nurse to disclose anything to anyone outside the office that you're a patient there.Answer #4: She is full of baloney.  You can be fined for not having health insurance but it's not a criminal offense where they take you to jail.  Last year my adult nephew didn't have health insurance for half the year.  So he was fined through the IRS and they took it out of his refund.


Title: My roommate knowingly bought a stolen bike. Can I return it to the rightful owner without getting into trouble? (NYC)

Question: [deleted]

Answer:
 >If the numbers do match, is there a way I can give it back to the guy without getting in trouble?

It's best to call the police's non-emergency line and report this. Don't take the law into your own hands.

>I have no problem telling my roommate what I did after the fact, but I'm worried what recourse that would give him.

I would highly suggest not saying a peep to him. Remember, you only **suspect** the bike is stolen, but you don't have definitive evidence yet.

>I wanna do the right thing, but would this leave me open to potential lawsuits or criminal charges?

If all  you do is notify the police, then you'll be fine. Answer #2: IANAL, but I recovered my car by myself after it was stolen and disappeared for a few months. Read back through my posting history (it's the only thing I've posted about on this alt) and translate it to your situation.

In short, if you turn up with the bike to give it back to the guy, you've put a kink in the evidence that puts you in the chain of possession of a stolen item. How does the real owner know you weren't the one who stole it? How do you know he's not going to want revenge on you? What if you're caught with the stolen bike by police when you're moving things into place to get it back to him?

I got lucky, and I wouldn't trust luck to come in for me a second time. Let the police and the guy know, but I wouldn't touch it myself.


Title: My friend found out her boyfriend has been downloading underage pornography on her laptop but is afraid of going to the police for fear of being involved. How can she come forward and keep her name out of this mess? New York

Question: [deleted]

Answer:
 She can't.

When this comes out, she will be looked at to some degree as a potential suspect.

Being the one to call the police will help minimize that to a great extent.Answer #2: Make arrangements to walk away. And walk away to a women's shelter. And be gone from him. Forever. Answer #3: NAL

She has two options:
1) nuke the laptop and hope the police are unaware that it has happened
2) go to the police an explain what has been going on. If she does this she should prepare alibi's for the times the files were downloaded

Answer #4: The crime is possession, and she is likely doing it right now.


Title: [UPDATE] Customer threatening to sue after not paying for freelance work.

Question:
[Original post](https://www.reddit.com/r/legaladvice/comments/4j1ivy/tx_customer_threatening_to_sue_after_not_paying/)

So after this guy began freaking out and "threatening my friend" (actually threatening some innocent boy living in Asia who he *believes* is my friend) my friend continued to ignore any messages and put the whole thing to a loss. The guys page is up and running with all the changes my friend made on there, so he's using the work but my friend just didn't get paid.

My friend just received an email from a "lawyer". I found the clients Facebook page easily since I'd already looked him up and discovered his connection to pyramid schemes, and I checked his friends list and there was someone by the same name the "lawyer" used in the email in his friends list (not a common name at all). This guy isn't a lawyer, he's a student and a writer. He's pretending to be a lawyer and telling my friend "My client is reasonable and we would like this issue to be resolved before I have to take further action against you." I don't know why the guy doesn't just send my friend the money since that would resolve the issue, but it just seems like he gets off on trying to spook people.

My friend is still ignoring the emails and messages but they're still pretty constant, but yeah, he's given up trying to get his money at this point..

Edit: [Here](https://i.gyazo.com/0aa4cff6eec6737fdcf2e253ebab2f19.png) is the email.

[Here](https://i.gyazo.com/3bbf995412a32408425dc8fac2849cfe.png) is another that came a little after.

Answer: Those e-mails are really bad. Esq., JD? Are you kidding me? Answer #2: Those emails... wow. My brother is a lawyer and he nearly spit his Starbucks out.Answer #3: Call his bluff. "OK, I'll be here, waiting to be served"Answer #4: Apologies if it's already been said but your friend should be charging $50 PER HOUR. Anyone that wants to pay only $50 for an entire website is not worth the headache.


Title: Can my probation officer search my phone without a warrant? (Pennsylvania)

Question: I'm a minor currently on house arrest awaiting trial for Agg. Assault, Conspiracy for Agg. Assault, and Terroristic threats.

Answer:
 I would be stunned if your pre-trial release conditions didn't include that you will consent to searches by your PO on demand. Re-read the conditions to be sure, though.

If you breach the conditions of your release, you may lose it.


Title: Sexual assault of a student: Title IX vs. Title VII?

Question:
I am a female medical student in the United States. To make a long story short, a senior faculty member/trusted advisor pressured me into drinking more than I could handle and raped me. I asked one of my mentors for help in navigating the situation’s aftermath and, although I did not want to report it at the time, he told me that he was a “mandated reporter” and initiated the Title IX process. All of the interviews have been conducted and I was under the impression that the investigation would soon be coming to an end. I was recently informed that the investigation is transitioning into a Title VII investigation “to expedite the process.”

I was hoping that this community could clarify a few things for me. I do not understand how my case is relevant to Title VII, how this transition would expedite things, and if this will influence any of the protection (retaliation) I had under Title IX.

Thank you in advance!

Answer: Universities usually have a legal student center. They can help you a lot.


Title: [California] Checks that were made out to me were cashed. Now the payor on the checks will not reissue them or even file a fraud affidavit with their bank. What can I do?

Question:
I had a check stolen, well several, but only one has caused me troubles. This check was written to me for an overpayment I made for a medical bill (I paid the total out of pocket, then they billed my insurance, and issued me a check for the difference). Someone stole the check and forged my signature and then wrote theirs below. I cannot find out any information on the check or what account it was deposited into without the payor, in this case the hospital, filing a fraud affidavit with their bank.

The hospital will not reissue the check and say that they are not willing to file a fraud affidavit or similar document with their bank. They say I am shit out of luck when it comes to the money. What do I do?

I have already filed a police report.

Answer: The answers here confuse me as I've seen several posts in the past where a landlord claims they lost or had the tenants check stolen and wants a new check - and this sub has said that's the landlords problem not the tenants.  The advice on this question is conflicting with that.  Would someone be able to take a moment to fully vet the difference for me?  I don't need the advice - I'm just curious.Answer #2: OP, was the check delivered to you and then stolen, or did you never receive it?


Title: Neighbor constantly filming my backyard.

Question:
I will try to provide as many details as possible for the situation.  I have a backyard that has a 6 foot privacy fence all around the perimeter.  A neighbor directly behind my house has a driveway that goes along the entire back wall of our yard and it is slightly elevated from the ground of our back yard.  They have a camper trailer they park right on the edge and they have installed  a video camera in the window of their trailer that points directly at my house, living room, bed rooms, hot tub, etc.  It does not record any part of their property at all, only my property.  Is this legal for him to do or do I have a reasonable expectation of privacy to prohibit him from filming my back yard activity 24/7?

Here are a few other facts:

1\- I constantly have children playing in the backyard without a parent in the back yard \(just inside but not with them\).  Does that help the case at all that they are filming children without their consent?

2\- I have put up a board with a big piece of cardboard on my property to block the view of my property and he keeps moving the camera to see into my backyard.

3\- Over a year ago my neighbor called the police because a child was shooting a bb gun in the backyard and one ricochet and hit his trailer.  The police handled the situation, it was resolved and there have been zero incidents since.  This was over a year ago.

4\- I live in Utah.

Any help or advice legal or otherwise to resolve the situation?  I am more than willing to pay a lawyer to help resolve it if there is a legal way to do it.

Answer:
 Go see an attorney. The neighbor might respond to a cease and desist letter and the attorney is going to be your best bet to really know how to proceed... only a lawyer is going to be able to tell you if moving the camera once to get around being blocked is going to put this over the nuisance line and into the realm of needing a protection order bc it may be stalking... is there any chance the camera can see into a bedroom?  And if the neighbor is recording audio at all it’s illegal bc you are not engaging in a conversation with the neighbor so there is no permission for the one party consent your state requires.

You might consider putting up a bit of that lattice fencing along the top of your fence and have a plant grow over it to fill in the holes and make sure the neighbor can’t ever see into your yard again. Like [this](http://www.almosthomedogdaycare.com/28892/lattice-privacy-fence/guaranteed-lattice-privacy-fence-wood-fences-this-has-with-decor-3-mprnac-com/) Answer #2: Is the camera pointed directly at the bedroom windows, or is it a wide angle for your entire backyard/house? The fact your neighbour moved the camera around the cardboard is concerning. Have you tried calling the police non-emergency line about the camera pointed at your kids' windows?


Title: Brother is threatening to come to my workplace (or anywhere else he can find me) and physically assault me until I am disabled.

Question:
I’m not sure if this is where I should write this. I also plan on writing the entire situation down somewhere else.

I am 27 years old and my brother is 24 years old. We both live under the same roof and have always been very close except the last few years. I betrayed my younger brother in a very horrible way and built up the courage to tell him because it was killing me. It’s been about 2 months since I’ve told him and I haven’t seen him since. The day I told him is the same day he began staying at my sisters house.

Anyways, I thought he would have tried to physically hurt me shortly after telling him because I would have done that to him, but he just doesn’t want to see my face. However, he found out I got a new job and has been telling my sister that he’s going to find me there and destroy me. That he wants me to become a vegetable. He was telling her very disturbing and descriptive things he plans to do. He said he wants to make sure I’m an amputee or bleed to death because he wants to target my right forearm.

He knows I was born with vein abnormalities that essentially look like tumors, and are literally going through my bones in my right forearm. The bones in my arm are so fragile I know they can break easily and if they do I can potentially bleed to death and most likely lose all function of it. These are reasons why I grew up very protective over it.

I asked my sister why he hasn’t done anything already and she said because of my mom and that she can’t be around. She also told me that these threats are so often but she didn’t feel the need to tell me until now because of how serious it’s getting and wanted to give me a heads up to take care of myself..

I know if he were to do anything in public like that he would go to jail, but still.. Idk what to do. He hates me and everyone thinks he’s justified for how he feels. I have no proof of the threats because my sister won’t tell anyone she told me.. idk what I’m even asking, I just know he’s angry and hurt and has the potential to do a lot. I’m in the wrong but there’s a point where I have to defend myself..

Answer:
 Perhaps you could move away or inform your manager of the threats so to make sure they’re aware of anyone comes on the premises that’s not supposed to be there they should be aware they’re potentially dangerous - if it turned out to be your brother.

He’s probably just venting but depending on what you did and if he’s mad enough I suppose it’s possible he could snap and actually do something. Guess you just have to hope not.


Title: When am I going to jail?

Question: I keep getting jury duty letters in the mail and I was wondering when I am I going to jail.I don’t plan on going either and I could pay the fine.

Answer: Skipping jury duty typically triggers fines and community service obligations. While jail time is possible, it is a state specific issue.


Title: Taken advantage of by Navient - 25K applied to "future interest payments" - Virginia

Question:
I don't know what to do, as this is an extremely long story and I don't know where to start and I will keep this as simple as possible.
Hank took out a loan for Le Cordon Bleu Institute of Culinary Arts in Pittsburgh (school was sued last year and is now closed) for $50,000 and was cosigned by his dad.

After graduating his father made a payment over the phone August 2007 for $25,000 "to take care of half of it". This was originally with Sallie Mae. Hank signed up for automatic payments in 2010 which started at $240 and has since increased to $250. The interest rate is currently sitting at 4%v, and the highest he's seen it was 9.5%.

Last week when I logged into his Navient account, I was completely shocked to see that he has a principal balance of $41,000 on his private loan. And although he has automatic payments set up since 2010 they have been consistently charging him late fees every month since 11/2012 and until 6 months ago, only about 8% of payments were being applied towards the principal balance. I reported this to CFPB with the statements showing all payments made to Navient (which I took from their website).

Navient has been zero help. He is constantly transferred to different departments but hardly getting answers. Even when asked where the $25,000 went they said it was applied to "future interest payments." I can't deal with this and it tears me up that between him and his dad they have paid over $40,000 and have hardly made a dent in the principal. Navient is currently being sued by CFPB. What do we do? Is there any legal recourse we can take?

edit: added stuff

edit 2: I'll contact the VA attorney generals office tomorrow and see what happens. The 25k blows my mind. If was allocated to future payments, then how do you explain late fees? My FIL suggested to stop making payments because he doesn't care about his credit. I'm not into that.

Answer:
 Is this a federal loan or a private loan?  Different types of loans have different terms.

[Here's a breakdown of how loan payments are applied.](https://www.navient.com/loan-customers/how-payments-work/loan-payment-allocation/)  Depending on your type of loan and the payment structure outlined in your lending agreement, it may be legal, or it may not be.


Title: Landlord removed our window air conditioning unit

Question: [deleted]

Answer:
 >doesn't have windows capable of being opened.

>took out our window air conditioning unit

Something's fishy here.


Title: Signed Lease, Next day Landlord put the house up for sale!

Question: I live in NC. Lived in this house for 5 years. Re-signed my lease, next day she put the house up for sale. What rights do I have?

Answer:
 The same rights you currently have.  If sold,  your lease transfer to the new owner. Answer #2: The lease is binding on the new owner unless otherwise stated in the lease. Answer #3: IANAL; The terms of the lease should still apply, transferring to the new owners as Landlords; unless the lease states that the terms are null upon sale of the house, or something of that nature.

That being said, you also may talk with the LL (old or new) and see about considerations (i.e. pay me to leave) *if* you are amenable to leaving the house in the near future, and it would be advantageous to them to get you out prior to lease end.

I had a similar situation in which LL wanted to put the house up for sale at 13mo into a 24mo lease.  We talked it out, told her we'd be willing to leave provided she returned full security deposit and gave us our last month's (the following month) free.  We signed some papers amending the lease to end after that month, with the revised monthly payment scheme.  It wasn't a crazy lot of money, but a grand saved is a grand earned, says Ben Franklin!

Depending on your specific region, it may not be advantageous to get you out though (i.e. LL may be looking to sell to people who intend to use the house as a rental side-income anyway if the rental market is hot).


Title: Copyright infringement: kids paintings

Question:
My girlfriend has a mobile paint party business which caters to kids birthday parties, street markets, and other small group events. The business provides acrylic canvas painting to the customer. The customer pays $10.00 or $20.00 depending on the size of the canvas. Once paid for the customer can either paint whatever they want on a blank canvas, or they can make a request to have my girlfirend outline/trace something on the canvas. Recently kids have been requesting her to trace characters from the movies frozen, and inside out. She traces them and the kids paint within the lines. For one birthday party she made a large canvas frozen princess  for all the kids to sign.  She now displays a few of the pieces of the characters at the street market to draw attention to the business.

I'm trying to find out if this is a copyright violation, and if we need to stop this practice. They are not identical to the characters, but they are recognizable. Also would this be something that she would be sued over, or would it be a cease request?

Answer:
 Without [a license](http://disneystudiolicensing.com) from Disney, it's absolutely infringement; although likely it's also trademark infringement. And there is no company on earth that goes farther to protect their IP than the big D. I'm honestly surprised she went for more than an event or two without getting a cease and desist letter. Answer #2: Yes, it's a copyright violation & a trademark violation too.  Yes, Disney is hypervigilant about enforcing their marks, going so far as to sue a preschool for having Disney characters painted on their walls.

So, remove it from the street market display, at least.


Title: (ND) Sister’s fiancé served her with papers.

Question:
I am posting for my sister as she is currently in a mess and I am trying to be proactive in helping her.

My sister and her fiancé have been together for 8 years engaged for probably 5.  They have two kids together.  About 1.5 years ago they moved from my city to the fiancés hometown across the state of ND.  She was the breadwinner but works 3 nights a week currently and takes care of the kids during the day.  Fiancé just got a big promotion at work with a raise.  They live in a house that is in fiancé and his parents name (he never told her until after).

He served her with papers for child support and full custody and told her to move out of their house.  She is freaking out as she makes no money anymore and has no where to go and has no family in this town.

She isn’t a bad mom, no abuse, neglect or anything that would cause courts to take custody away from her.  Does she have any rights right now?  My sister thinks her fiancé planned this from the beginning of moving to his hometown as his entire family is their to support him.  She’s terrified of losing her kids and does most of the childcare.

I would appreciate advice and helpful tips.  Anything that I can pass along.

Answer: She didn't sign anything did she? She needs to lawyer up immediately. And if she's moving out of his house, she should take the damn kids with her.


Title: Cops at door. No idea why

Question: [deleted]

Answer:
 [It could be related to your arrest a few weeks ago for the suspended license] (https://np.reddit.com/r/legaladvice/comments/4atoqx/got_pulled_over_without_knowing_my_license_was/)
Hmmmm...

*Edit* [Or something else altogether](https://np.reddit.com/r/Drugs/comments/3iksx1/trip_report_30mg_hydrocodone1_blunt_of_pretty/)...who knows. Answer #2: >chemhemp

hmm......

For real, do not talk to the police. If they want you to go to the police station then tell them no; nothing good will come out of it. Have an attorney's phone number ready and preferably an attorney ready to handle the potential arrest.


Title: Ex-Wife Dating a Child Molester - Legal Options? [If I catch the guy around my son]

Question:
I am in Arizona, sorry cannot edit the title now.

So my ex-wife decided that it's apperently ok to date a guy who was charged with "endangering a child" and "sexual abuse" with a minor when he was younger, even though the conviction was 10+ years ago I do not trust this guy around my (and hers) son. She told me when he was 20 he fooled around with a teenager (not sure of the sex) but the court documents make her/him sound much younger than a teenager. Regardless I made it very clear he cannot be around my son, she told me he can't legally be around him anyway and won't ever take him around him, but her word is meaningless to me.

Anyway, say I did some snooping around and found out he was there while my son was there, what legal actions could I take?

Could I get charged with anything for hurting this guy, if I felt my child was in immediate danger?

The thought of this guy being around my son has driving my anxiety though the roof.
Topic:
Custody Divorce and Family

Answer:
 > Could I get charged with anything for hurting this guy, if I felt my child was in immediate danger?

You would have to catch this guy in the act of abusing/molesting your child for him to be in immediate danger to justify ANY physical altercation and even then, only enough to get your kid out. Basically, it's not happening.

Was your custody situation by consent or did a judge decide? You probably need to alert the court to this situation. Is guy on any registry? She says guy isn't supposed to be around kids, that leads me to think he is under some kind of legal restrictions that you can report to.


Title: TX. My husband beat my dog.

Question: My husband is abusive and I've been making plans and getting things in order to get away but a few days ago I was getting nervous with his behavior so I had to leave quickly. I wasn't able to take my dog at that time. I came home the next morning and my dog had a swollen face and was acting sad and lethargic. I called the sheriff's Dept about animal abuse and they dismissed me to animal control. Isn't it a crime to beat a 6mo dog to the point of physical swelling? Nobody seems to care. Who do I call?

Answer:
 the dog needs to go to the veg, so i'd ask them what resources they know about.Answer #2: >Who do I call?

The police told you:  Animal control.  This is their jurisdiction.  They handle claims of animal abuse.Answer #3: Take him to the vet and contact Animal Control. Poor dogAnswer #4: Also, call a divorce lawyer.


Title: Can I file a restraining order against someone who sometimes stays at my parent's house

Question:
I just need to know
Topic:
Douche

Answer: You can get a restraining order on pretty much anyone if you have a reason for it. Someone just yesterday had one taken out against them by a person who lives in their back yard shed


Title: [Colorado] Drove my drunk friend home in his car, it was icy and we hit a curb. He wants me to pay damages.

Question:
Long story short. He had too many, asked me to drive him home. It was icy out and we slid into curb. 1,025 USD in damage.

Wheel bent, needs new bearing and alignment.

Should I have to pay for this? I wasn't being negligent. It was just icy and we bumped the curb. What do I do?

Answer:
 You were driving so its your fault.

If your friend wasn’t a complete douchebag he would go through insurance.

Get a new friend.


Title: My daughters mother claimed child as dependent on income tax without permission/discussion

Question: I apologize if this isn't the correct sub to ask this question. My daughters mother and I are separated. We were never married. We did not go to court over the matter (the child does have my last name on birth certificate etc). We both have child almost exact equal amount of time. We did not separate on bad terms or have ever argued or had any problems since splitting up. Our child has a disability so we work together pretty well for her sake. I have always claimed our daughter on income tax. I make significantly more money than the mother, I also pay for the childs health insurance and most things she needs. We had agreed for me to file her again, and I usually just give the mother some extra money since I'm claiming her. However this year, my returns are rejected due to her being claimed as a dependent already (by her mother). I lost a significant amount of money over this (her mom too probably), and even worse, money I had planned on being here since we agreed on it. Is there anything that can be done in this scenario? Or is it out the window since there was never a legal custody case. Thanks

Answer: The IRS guidelines say that the parent who has the most overnights - even by one - claims the child. Absent a court order otherwise, that's the rule and there's no real recourse.


Title: Security Clearance in a state with legal marijuana

Question: [deleted]

Answer: It sounds like he probably gets drug tested and doesn't want to inhale secondary marijuana smoke in an enclosed space. Answer #2: Your friend is probably being overly cautious, but that's his right. We can't determine what the feds will and won't care about.


Title: I work as a music instructor and my band director (boss) won't pay me in full for the hours I work.

Question:
This situation takes place in north central  Indiana.

I (21y/o male) took a position directing an indoor drumline this season that competes on Saturdays at contests that last 12+ hours. I am paid hourly. I am responsible of course for managing production of the show, but also for my students at contests. This means I carry health forms, I supervise, and I'm generally responsible for the kids in case something should go wrong or they behave poorly. I am also not allowed to leave the contest site at any point until the kids get in the bus to go home--at which point I hop in my car and follow the bus back to school, and wait around until the last kid goes home.

As such, I assumed that I would be paid for the time I spend at contests given that I am responsible for the kids for the entirety of the day (regularly 12+ hours per contest).

However, by band director wants me to only charge for rehearsal time plus a few hours for good measure on contest days, even though I'm responsible for everything for 12+ hours (he does not attend contests). I explained to him that I am discharging my responsibilities for a number of hours on contest days, and that it is appropriate that I be compensated for it.

He very politely told me that I'm out of luck, and that I'm not getting paid for the entirety of my time, citing "standard protocol for instructional staff," and "this is what most schools do."

If he can't pay, I only think it's fair that he make arrangements to have someone else there to be responsible for the kids in case I want to leave the contest site to get food or what have you between our performance and awards.

I feel like I'm getting fucked over. Or am I pretty much screwed since I didn't offer or sign any contract?

E: I should add that I have served as instructional staff at two different (and very successful) school before taking this director gig, and the directors at those respective programs are paid a salary/stipend that necessitates their attendance at contests. That would be fine with me, but I'm not being offered a stipend. I'm hourly.

Tl;dr: my boss wont pay me what I think I deserve.
Topic:
Employment Law

Answer: You likely must be paid for all time worked. File a wage claim with the state Department of Labor.


Title: Unidentified "Detective" came to my friend's door saying he has "some documents" for him

Question:
Thank you so much for any and all advice in advance.

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This happened in Chicago, IL.

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Somebody I know got woken up by his relative saying there was someone on the phone for him. It was a man who would only say that he was a "detective" and had some documents for him. He would not say who he worked for or what the documents pertained to. He was very rude and aggressive saying "I'm tired of playing these games just come downstairs and I will explain." My friend has never heard from this guy before . He never came to the door but saw on the camera a single man (no uniform just button up shirt holding a piece of paper or two and maybe a wallet) and he definitely did not look like a cop.

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 Any idea what this could be about? Thanks again

Answer: Sounds like a process server trying to serve the person. If your friend is being sued, the process server has to serve your friend notice of the suit before a deadline, otherwise the case has to be delayed or dismissed.


Title: My 28 year old sister had "MRI compatible" pacemaker implanted 2 years ago. Turns out it's NOT MRI compatible.

Question:
Hey guys. So as the title states, my sister was given a pacemaker at a young age and due to her young age, her cardiologist said she needed one the best on the market to ensure it interfered with her life as little as possible.

The cardiologist told us that battery will last ~17 years, is MRI compatible, all the good stuff. It made sense to her and my parents, so that's what they did. Within two weeks it was implanted.

A few weeks ago, my sister was a passanger in a car that was t-boned in an intersection and her neck is in rough shape. Xray showed a bunch of issues that required an MRI to know the extent of.

When she went to schedule an MRI, she was told her device was *not* compatible and she won't be able to get the imaging.

She made a massive life decision based on the doctor's pitch, and he, for one reason or another, mislead her.

We live in NJ, is there anything we can do?

Answer:
 Not legal advise, but hopefully some help understanding the physical limitations of the pacer and MRI.

There are no pacemakers that are fully MRI compatible.  Even the ones that are marketed as such have severe limitations to how we can scan.

Normally we would be unable to scan any part of the body where the pacer unit would be inside the scanner.  That only leaves distal extremity exams and those usually are limited to low field scanners (0.7T or less).

The problem is not just the electronics in the pacer, but the eddy currents from the gradient fields can produce an electric current in the leads going to the heart (Farady's law).  Uncontrolled and unpredictable electric current along a 15 cm wire in your heart is a bad thing.Answer #2: Medical malpractice cases are fact specific.  You should contact a local lawyer in your area to get the best advice to your situation.Answer #3: I say what you wanna do first is research the pacemaker yourself. If the original doctor could have made a mistake, whoever is telling her it is not compatible can make mistakes, too. ...My OB when I was pregnant with my son told me you can't treat a UTI while pregnant. The next time I was pregnant I brought it up with my new OB, and she was pretty much like WTF? My point is, you should get sure the pacemaker isn't compatible before getting upset. Answer #4: Oh wow. I hesitated clicking this thread in free it would be some horribly tragic story.

Was there a different pacemaker she could have had?


Title: Housemate has put my room up for rent while I am still living there - he has said nothing about this to me

Question:
Firstly this is a burner account as you can probably tell, also on my mobile so will try to make it readable with some coherence.

Okay so I moved in with my housemates in a two bed apartment (they are a couple) 8 months ago - I had only been in the country (Australia- state of Victoria) for around a month at this point as I was a new graduate student at a university there.

Everything seemed fine, signed a very rudimentary contract stating that it was a month to month let - month period for termination and that bills were split between three of us. Nothing was signed in person, was all done via email with just signing the name in a text doc. Basically was a sub-let situation which didn't really bother me too much as I liked the flexibility being new and still getting used to the area.

In 8 months I have loved my place and area and as a result obviously want to stay there - I have looked around on flatmates.au (which is the site I originally found this listing on) occasionally but nothing for around 2/3 months as, like I said, I love this place.

I normally keep to myself, use the communal spaces occasionally - normally when I have friends over and aside from that keep to myself mostly.

Here is where the shit starts to hit the fan. A friend of mine from my previous university wanted to visit and of course said he could stay at mine as long as I okayed this with my housemates. I asked them if they could stay for a week and they said yes - no issues. It was spread over 3 weeks, 3 days to start before we went to another city in Australia for travelling and then 5 days in the back end of his trip. He stayed in my room to sleep aside from one evening where me, him and my girlfriend went out for a drink, in which case he slept on the couch in the living area. I don't believe we were that noisy - maybe came in late a few nights but that was something I would do ocassionally without him there anyway. Plus during the day we'd be out being tourists. My housemates seemed fine and were chatting to him no problem for the first few days but totally ignored him and me in the back end of his trip.

So I am looking at places as me and my girlfriend have been flirting with the idea of moving in together - nothing too serious with regards to looking, probably best described as window shopping. I see a place on my street and I do love my area, low and behold its my place with an updated advert from when I moved in. This time with an "early bird option" that means it was uploaded recently and it also said my housemate had been active on this post 2days ago (the day after me, my friend and girlfriend all stayed at mine).

I feel as though I am about to be turfed out of the place I stay and as a result am obviously quite terrified. I love my place and don't want to leave even if my housemates are being (imo) assholes about this. Especially with regards to not even talking to me about this.

I was hoping someone here could give me some advice as being not an Australian I am unfamiliar with how the legal system here works and can only really find some bare bones information on the internet - thank you reddit

Answer:
You’re going to need to contact consumer affairs in Victoria. They can offer advice and sometimes mediate with disputes so things don’t go to tribunal.

He can’t just evict you. He’s taken on the legal authority and obligations of a landlord even if he hasn’t been given permission to lease a room to you from the landlord themselves.

If you paid any sort of bond/security deposit it should also have been lodged appropriately.

https://www.consumer.vic.gov.au/housing/renting/types-of-rental-agreements/subletting


Title: [MO] Can a police officer make me give the SD card from my Dash Cam of an accident immediately?

Question:
Can an officer make me give them the SD card from my dash camera at the scene, citing that it contains evidence?  I caught a hit and run on my camera, and even though the guy was caught a mile away (there was a cop that saw it and caught up with him), after he heard me mention that i had footage of it, the officer said he needed to copy my card now since it contained evidence.  At the time I had no problem with it since I literally just formatted the card before this happened so I let them copy it with my card reader, but if it happens again, am I obligated to give them the card?  I am more than happy to give them the video of what I catch happen but if they get the whole card with all video footage contained on it, they can potentially catch me breaking some minor traffic law since it is recording all the time.  My preference is to upload it to something like a drop-box account with just the footage they need and send them the link.  It is usually very quick since I can upload to drop box just about anywhere.

If not, and if I was someone that refused to give the footage to them(I wouldn't do that though), what is the process they have to go through to get the footage? A court-ordered subpoena?

Thanks for the advice! It is much appreciated.

Answer:
 Yes.  If they have probable cause to believe that it contains evidence, they can seize it from the car to preserve it.

Then, they can seek and obtain a search warrant to search the card if you refuse to give them consent.


Title: mother wanting to move out of state. We live Ohio, we're from Alabama, she's wanting to move back - need advice

Question:
So this is a bit of a weird situation.
My ex and i are both from Alabama where my 5 year old was born - I signed BC, but no paternity test.
When he was 2, his mother and him came to live in Ohio with my parents and I stayed in Alabama for about a year to tie up lose ends and then I moved to Ohio with my parents, son and sons mom.
I should also state that my ex and i haven't been together for quite a few years but have co parented for years with no court agreement.
We've both moved on, I moved out on my own to establish myself and she just had a baby with her now ex boyfriend last week all the while still living with my parents.
Well around Thanksgiving 2017 she sprung on me that she is moving back to Alabama and she is taking my son. I objected of course. she said she would keep him for the school year and that I could have him in the summers. however she isn't moving until june 2018 and isn't going to let me have him until summer of 2019.
Here are some of the problems i have with this;
she's taken him out of preschool, even though i have stated that im against it
When she moves, she is waiting til he is 6 to put him in school
She's moving with a new born and a 5 year old to a house that is falling apart and already has 5 other people living in it - adding her and kids thats 8 people in one tiny house
The house is bug infested
The 5 year old will not have his own room
The child does not have a room where he lives now
He's got a speech problem, and she's refused to continue his speech classes and pulled him from his specialized school to get him caught up and where he needs to be for kindergarten
 she has not and has no plans for signing him up for kindergarten screening
she doesn't have a drivers license - she doesn't even know how to drive
she doesn't have a job
she's moving south saying its because of family but she talks about finally being with her new boyfriend she has down there

Ive tried telling her that its better if he stays in ohio for the school year because i can provide for him more then she can and the school systems in the area i am in are far superior then those in the area of alabama she is moving too. she just walks away and will not listen

I have talked to someone who works with the courts and i was told that its going to be hard in ohio to get custody of my son because ohio is mothers state.
My son tells me all the time that he wants to live with me - I do not bring it up he says it on his own.
Ive talked to a lawyer that told me i didn't have a chance and i feel like im basically about to lose my son. and alabama is not a place to make a living like where i am in ohio and his living situation will not be great which is exactly why i wanted him in ohio in the first place.
I can provide more information if needed

I just need some good advice or at least a way to just keep him in ohio, i want him to have the best life possible and he will have that in ohio with me - his father.

Answer: You need an attorney now, and you need a court backed custody agreement ASAP because that is your only option if she doesnt agree to work with you.


Title: Just got a fine in the door

Question: Fine was for a traffic offence but I have just noticed my surname is spelt wrong (one letter extra) my address is spelt wrong (oaklawns instead of Oakland) and my reg is also wrong (one number changed) just wondering where this leaves me with getting off without paying ?

Answer: If you're happy and you know it PAY YOUR BILLS.


Title: Wife filed for an order of protection against me, at the hearing, the judge ordered her to allow me into the house to gather my belongings. 2 months later and she hasn't let me. Is she in contempt? [MN]

Question: This is in Minnesota. As the title states, during the hearing the judge ordered her to allow me in, with the police to witness. I called the police and we went, but my key no longer worked. After that, the officer told me everyone only gets one escort and that the county has services for this type of issue. Ive contacted the county mutliple times now and they dont seem to have such a service. The order to allow me to come is in the court documentation. I have spent two months in about 2 pairs of pants and three shirts. Thank you

Answer: You need to get someone to, an officer or the equivalent,  to go with you at an agreed to time.   The order, did not forbid her from changing the locks. Her changing the locks to a place you no longer live is not a violation of the order.


Title: (British Columbia, Canada) Am breaking the law by selling a battering ram as a novelty item that has the words "POLICE" on it?

Question:
http://i.imgur.com/vLMNt6o.png

I just welded it together one day and decided I dont want it anymore. If I post it to Craigslist does that mean I am committing some kind of police impersonation if it sells? Do the RCMP OWN the word police?

If IM not using it for a crime, can I still be charged for selling it?

Thanks.

Answer:
 That thing is awesome.

I'd listen to theletterqwerty and get rid of it though. You might sell it to a locksmith shop? They could hang it on the wall and say "if all else fails we could use ol' knock knock here"


Title: My boyfriends son was physically burned and abused by his mother and her boyfriend, the state of Virginia just awarded her [the mother] custody of the little boy.

Question: The courts in Virginia awarded her custody because my boyfriend [the father] was not able to go to the custody hearing. The paperwork that we received said it was final, is there anything we can do to appeal this? Also my boyfriend and his son are in california? Can he reopen a custody case here, or if we start the divorce paperwork here will there be a child custody hearing for that?

Answer:
 If the child has been in CA for at least 6 months then CA has jurisdiction. If not it is VA.

Did he ever report the abuse to authorities? Answer #2: Does he have an attorney? If not, sounds like he needs one. If he could not attend the hearing, he should have asked for a reschedule. Regardless, if there is abuse, you/the father need to call the police and CPS, and modify the court order based on the new information. If this abuse was in the past, and not currently going on, there is not much you can do as far as proving it and getting the custody changed.

Are the parents married? How long has the kid been in California? It sounds like Virginia had jurisdiction over the issue (otherwise they would not have ruled on it) so it would need to be handled there until the child has been in California long enough to invoke jurisdiction. Get a lawyer you're in for a mess.


Title: [California Startup] Just got kicked out of a startup I founded

Question:
I know I should also get a real attorney, just wanted to get some quick feedback as it's very hot on my mind and it's a holiday.

Situation:

* We've all signed incorporation documents and I've already bought shares.
* The shares have a cliff which hasn't been met (3 months away)
* Other founders have >50% equity and sit on the board, so this is a decision they can legally make
* I just quit my job to work on this
* I canceled a multi-week vacation costing thousands of dollars 2 weeks ago to work on this, then right after 2 weeks of work was told I'm being outed
* No severance or compensation was offered outside of the possibility of taking on an advisory role for a fraction of the equity already signed for.

I'm beyond livid right now, and I have no idea what is fair compensation. If they would have made the decision a month ago, I would still have a job and enjoyed the paid vacation....

Edit: I realize in my haste, I didn't ask clear questions:

Are there any sorts of equations for judging fair compensation. I would assume some amount of equity might be common, or a severance package of some kind, covering time spent and the job search, etc.

On one hand, my shares have not reached their cliff yet (no one's have), and perhaps I'm due zilch. On the other... I just quit my job, have been working on this for awhile, and was completely blindsided by this, and I'm just wondering what might be fair. They want me to just walk away, and before I agree would like comments :)

Second Edit: I don't know if this is relevant, however, I previously had vested equity in the company, which I signed away for a new contract that gave cofounders and myself cliffs. This was very recently, possibly after a decision was made. Does this matter?

Answer:
 >Other founders have >50% equity and sit on the board, so this is a decision they can legally make

You should get an attorney.Answer #2: Are you a partner or shareholder? If a partner with equity, they owe you "fiduciary duties" under partnership law and if only shareholder same applies with some different context/parameters.

Obviously operating agreement parameters govern, unless deemed unconscionable/unenforceable.

Valuation-may require business valuation (expensive), you can argue company should pay for it, but depending on state law you may have to foot the bill outright and request reimbursement upon prevailing.

How much investment we talking here?

Take advantage of a free or inexpensive consultation with an attorney licensed in your state with experience in complex commercial or business disputes.


Title: (Michigan) Bank missed a form, is my mom out $1,000?

Question: My mom went to pull $6,000 out of a retirement account last week (closing the account), she signed the paperwork and went home. A couple of days later she was called in because the bank missed a form. This week comes around and the amount transfered was about $5,000. This was because the stocks she owned dropped between the times she signed different papers. Is there a cause of action here? $1,000 is a ton of money to my mother who is in remission from cancer and not employed (because of cancer).

Answer:
 The problem here is that the bank didn't take the $1000, that was just a changing market price during the transaction. The bank isn't responsible for fluctuating market conditions; it's common for prices to go up or down while you're in the middle of selling a security.

She should check the terms and conditions of her account, along with any disclosures on the transfer/sales forms. I'd be shocked if there weren't disclaimers that cover the bank in this scenario.


Title: Threatened with jail

Question: My fiance just received a phone call from Georgia claiming that she owed over $1,000 on a *past collections* credit card. The lady identified herself as investigator Gray with the law office. She said that if my fiance could not make the payment by today that she would send out a warrant for her arrest. She confirmed the last 4 numbers of my fiance's social security number and even got her to verify the rest of the numbers. I'm afraid that this is a scam. Does anybody have any experience or knowledge about this kind of situation? We don't have $1,000 to pay.

Answer:
 It may be a scam.  Debt collectors, even ones with legitimate debts, have been known to use shady tactics.  It's very, very unlikely that your fiancee would be stuck with a warrant due to this.  Very.

The next time they call, she should get contact information for them and send them a debt validation letter.  If it's a valid debt, she should strongly consider a payment plan.Answer #2: This is likely a scam. There is no debtors prison in the U.S. You don't go to jail for not paying your credit card bills. Answer #3: I'd put a freeze on your credit right now, if you gave out your social to a scammer chances are they will try get a loan or credit card nextAnswer #4: Your fiancé  should confirm whether is is an attorney's office or a debt collector presenting themselves as an attorney's office. If they are a debt collector presenting themselves as an attorney's office, that's an FDCPA violation and your friend can make $1000 easy.

IANAL.

Edit:  left out a wordAnswer #5: >She confirmed the last 4 numbers of my fiance's social security number and even got her to verify the rest of the numbers

Wait, your GF got the caller to confirm the extra numbers or the caller asked your GF to confirm? If the latter you just got scammed into giving up a major part of your identity. The last 4 digits are what everyone sees, getting her to confirm the other digits absolutely means they're fishing for more info.


Title: [NE] The county assessor just trespasses on my property and went into my house without permission.

Question: Right when I went out to ask them what the hell they were doing, they fled. Is this within their right? I have visible NO TRESPASSING signs up.

Answer:
 I can understand him being on the property- it's not "trespassing" if he is performing his job duties and has a reason to be there.

But if he went inside without permission, that's likely against the law.Answer #2: If they fled when you asked what they were doing, how did you know it was a county assessor?


Title: Off the job injury, drug test?

Question:
My employer is trying to force me in to taking a drug test when I injured myself while working on my house. I sprained my arm and called in to work to go to the doctor and because I am doing so my employer is saying I have to take a drug test and fill out a bunch of paperwork which as of the last hour I have refused. I have also explained to the employer that I injured myself at home but is still insisting I take one. I don't see how this is legal. Is this legal?

Washington state.

Answer: You didn’t put your location, but in my state employers can drug test whenever they want. Of course you don’t have to submit to the drug test, and your employer can fire you for refusing.


Title: Boyfriend being investigated through Title 9 but girl is lying

Question:
Hi everyone,

Recently my boyfriend received an email saying he's under investigation through Title 9 at our university. He hasn't had the meeting yet to see if it is for sure about rape/abuse/domestic violence, but we have a pretty good idea on who and what it is since his ex girlfriend has been spreading a rumor that he chased her around and tried to stab her. She apparently has a good amount of friends that have taken her side over his, though they weren't there at the scene. What should he do, and how should this be handled? (Also, we are in the US- Texas specifically.)

Answer: He should retain an attorney with experience with Title IX cases for the best outcome.


Title: Social Security is demanding my veteran father to pay back over $120K because of an error they made 15 years ago. What can he do?

Question:
We live in Puerto Rico and we're not exactly a family of great means. My father's a disabled veteran and because of this has always received disability, social security, and other benefits he earned as a veteran. Not a lot, but enough to live on.

Recently he received a letter stating that in 2002 Social Security made an error and apparently since then have beeing paying him more than what he was due. Because of this they would ammend the error and reduce the amount he would be getting from now on. Not great news, but something he can live with. It would mean cutting back, making some sacrifices, and so on, but liveable still. The problem is that they're also asking for the more than $120,000 back. The cut was bad enough, but having to pay that money back with the amount he's gonna be getting is absurd and downright punishing. More so because it was their mistake!

I could easily understand if it was my dad getting caught tricking them or taking advantage of some loophole or something, but it was honestly a mistake on their part that no one caught until now. For now they agreed to cut his check even further, for the next 11 years, until the amount is paid back in full, which puts even further preasure on him and makes the whole situation even more egregious.

I asked him to talk to a lawyer to see if there was anything that could be done, but both he and my mother are incredibly pessimistic about the whole thing, simply dismissing it as a waste of money. Essentially exclaiming there's no way to win against the federal government, and that this is just their lot in life. I could really use the advice. Is there something to be done here?

Answer:
 That's more than enough money that you need a real lawyer. You may possibly have some sort of statute of limitations that eliminates some of their ability to collect on it, but I don't actually know.

Generally, though, you are responsible to pay back money that was given to you by mistake (such as a bank error where they deposit into the wrong account or if your employer's accountant accidentally runs off two paychecks for the same pay period).


Title: Caught/ need advice

Question:
Hello guys
I am a ISU student and I and two of buddies were caught smoking in a parking lot last night
The cop let my one friend go because he's in the back
My other friend got charged with having a bowl and a grinder and I got charged with having less then 2.5 grams
We both got class c misdemeanors
This happened in the city of Normal in McLean county
How fucked are we? Should I get a lawyer for my court date  ?

This happened at Illinois State University

Answer: Do you receive federal financial aid? You might lose it. Yes generally one should retain an attorney to see if criminal charges can be reduced. There may be a first time offender program you are eligible for.


Title: Do you think I have a personal injury case?

Question:
Hey Reddit
 I recently went on vacation during vacation I took an ATV ride.  During my ride I flew off the ATV and dislocated and fractured my thumb. I will be getting surgery to fix my thumb in a few days.

 I wanted to know if I have a personal injury case? The ATV rentals place was super shady and I never signed any type of waiver.

Answer: No. You were injured by your own ineptitude not by any fault of the rental company. If the handlebars came off while you were riding, that may be a different story.


Title: (Oregon) I'm 18, Yesterday I received an MIP for Marijuana. Because of the new laws from legalization the cop didn't have much info to tell me about what it really ment. Hoping someone here can tell me what I should do next.

Question: I have a court date and fine for the pot. I can just pay the fine and not go to court. But I want to learn what this is going to mean for me later in life. I'm thinking the judge can on clarify that? Or could going to court make this worse for me? I really no nothing about how all of this works.

Answer:
 Relevant statute ORS § 475.864.  You should go to court, I'm pretty sure you are required to go to court.  The court will most likely treat this the same as an MIP for alcohol.  That means you should be given the chance for diversion.  You go to some classes about drug/alcohol abuse, you pay a fine and the charge will be dismissed.  Its a slap on the wrist but take it seriously because if you don't the punishment can get worse.  If you complete diversion  its not on your record later in life.

It should go something like this: you will show up, you wait in the court room, the judge calls you up and explains the charge, hopefully the judge will explain the diversion program to you, then the judge will ask about you how you plead, assuming you plead guilty, you'll do all your requirements, then at some point come back to court and say hey I did all my requirements, then hopefully this never bothers you again.

It couldnt hurt to call the DA in whatever county you live in and ask about your case.  Its only a misdemeanor but you probably have a case #.  Ask to speak to whoever is handling your case, then ask that person if you are diversion eligible.Answer #2: It's still 21+ to be in possession or consumed in Oregon.