Title: Can a re-marriage make you lose custody of children? [Spain]

Question:
Hello. I´m an American living in Spain.

My boyfriend is divorced and has a daughter.

His ex-wife has primary custody. According to the agreement, his daughter sleeps with us every other weekend and also spends 3 afternoons a week with us. However, his ex-wife is always ¨busy working¨ so we actually get his daughter more often. She´s been sleeping with us every Wednesday night and spending random days with us. It´s all kind of under the table.

Well, my student visa is running out after 3 years of being here and I´m trying to convince him to get a civil partnership with me (Pareja de Hecho) which would allow me to stay  here legally. However, he spoke to his divorce lawyer about it and apparently the lawyer told him that getting a remarriage or a civil partnership could negatively affect his custody. I guess his ex-wife could use it against him to get his visitation or whatever he has taken away?

But I don´t think this is accurate. I think either  his lawyer is wrong, or he misunderstood.

I´ve already been living with him for 2 years, his daughter loves me, and absolutely nothing would change if we got the partnership. She would stay in the same bedroom in the same home, same everything.

In fact from MY understanding, if anything it would help him get MORE custody by showing he´s in a stable relationship with someone the daughter loves, right?

Beyond that, his ex-wife is constantly giving us extra days/nights with the daughter and really doesn´t seem to be secretly scheming to take away the dad´s time.

So.. what´s going on here? Is my boyfriend just scared of commitment and feeding me nonsense? Did the lawyer give him bad advice? Is he right and getting a civil partnership could be risky for him?

Any advice is appreciated, even if it´s not Spain specific.
Topic:
Custody Divorce and Family

Answer:
 You can probably call a local lawyer/solicitor and ask.

In the U.S., remarriage to someone who isn't detrimental to your child would not cause someone to lose custody or visitation.


Title: Updating "neighbor pointing security cameras at my house"

Question:
This is an update to [this](https://www.reddit.com/r/legaladvice/comments/5ahsp8/neighbor_has_a_camera_pointing_at_my_front_door_i/).

Tldr: In California, neighbor has pointed a surveillance camera towards my front door. I pointed an IR blocker onto it to block it, he called the cops and they told me I should remove the blocker while confirming that he can point his camera towards my door.

So I went and bought some used security cameras and installed them on my house, pointing at his front door, his back door, and at every one of his windows. It took him less than 18 hours to come and ask me to put them down, where he agreed to put down his camera as well. I told him that I was going to live stream the footage online as well but it's no longer necessary.

We have an agreement now. All cameras are removed. I returned the cameras and got full refund.

Answer: Good to hear a resolution. That is one whacky neighbour. Dont take his word for it, he might have one hidden somewhere.Answer #2: My question here is. Is it that bad for us to be able to respond to OPs updates?Answer #3: Thanks for the update - but I'm sorry some retailer had to get screwed on the buy and return of the cameras. Answer #4: Thanks for the update! Glad you were able to get the resolution you were hoping for.


Title: Is it legal if someone knows where you live but you didn't tell them, but tell others where you live?

Question: It feels like it's an invasion of privacy because, if you don't tell people where you live, they shouldn't know, if it's your neighbors than they will know, but should keep that info to themselves.

Answer:
 Believe it or not, years ago there were large books with lists of everyone in a given areas phone number and address.

So yes, it’s perfectly legal to tell other people another person’s address.


Title: How long will it take for a father to get their child back from CPS in Louisiana?

Question: If a child was taken from a father because the father was homeless and couldn't care for the child, how many months does it take for a child to be reunited with their father in Louisiana? Or can the father get the child back as soon as they have a stable job and a stable home?

Answer: That depends on so many factors that no one here can make any sort of reasonable guess.


Title: [NV] Lawsuit while a minor

Question:
Hi guys! I posted earlier and someone helped me find more information on the case, so I’d like to find out more information.

Basically, my boyfriend’s mom has been withholding this money that she got from a lawsuit that started in 2008. She was paid in 2015, while my boyfriend was legal.

The lawsuit was started because when he was 10 (2006) he was bitten by a dog that belonged to his neighbors. His mom sued for negligence, and also because of the extensive scarring he has all over his face and head.

She got 200k from this lawsuit, and my boyfriend is listed as the minor in the case. She’s super crazy, and even though the check was in his name, and the lawsuit was because of him, she’s refusing to give up the money.

So what we are trying to figure out, is does he have claim to this money? She was paid while he was an adult. The check was addressed to him. The lawsuit was because of him. I don’t see how he doesn’t have a case to get this money, but I’m really bad at law. Could anybody give us more information on what we should do and how we can handle this? We plan on getting a lawyer if we even have a case here, for all I know that money is rightfully hers.

Answer:
 A lot of things still don’t add up here.

You say he had significant medical costs.  As your BF was a minor his mom was obligated to cover those costs.  200k is a lot, but it’s possible that this was a lawsuit by her to recover her costs.  If he had major surgeries it’s possible that this is the amount (the collateral source rule means that even if insurance wrote off some of the costs she can still recover the full amount billed) If that is the case he wouldn’t be entitled to the money even if she voluntarily gave him 50k before.

I’m also a little confused about who the suit was actually filed for because he was over 18 at the point when the case settled so she couldn’t represent him for his personal claims and an attorney would have needed to be involved.  Was an attorney involved?  If so contact them to see if you can get more information.

All of this said, as he was over 18 when the case settled and you don’t say that he was required to approve the settlement I it sounds like it very well may have just a lawsuit for the costs she incurred.  Under those circumstances the money would be hers.  Your BF would have had a case as well but the statute of limitations may have run.  If he is interested in pursuing that he should reach out to an attorney ASAP.Answer #2: How was she able to cash the check if it was made out to him?


Title: cell phone provider sent me an extra iphone and now they’re billing me for it on top of the one i actually did purchase. it was their mistake. do i have to return it?

Question:
a couple of weeks ago i ordered a new iphone through my mom’s account on the tmobile website (which is always completely dysfunctional, btw.) i kept checking to see if it had been shipped and a week later it still hadn’t been so i called the company to see what the issue was. the man i spoke to told me that we hadn’t signed and returned the electronic documents that were sent to us and that’s why it hadn’t shipped. we HAD signed the documents and i had to get my mom involved to double check that everything had been filled out. it was. she ended up calling them to see what was going on for herself and talked to a woman this time. the woman said that the real reason it hadn’t been shipped was because they actually had none in stock. regardless of what the issue actually was, we were never notified that anything was stopping the phone from coming. the tmobile woman told us that she could call around stores local to us and find one that had the model i wanted. she called and told us of a store 45 minutes away and told us to pick it up from there. my mom was about to leave the house to do so when she decided to just stop into a store that was close to her house and see if they happened to have any. they did, so obviously that woman was geographically challenged and wanted us to drive far away for no reason. after the hassle of explaining the issue to a worker in the store (with me on speakerphone) my mom finally left with the new phone and update to the phone plan. a couple of hours later we both get a text notification that the phone i ordered through the website (which we were told wasn’t even in stock and would not be sent) was shipped. now i have two phones and they expect me to return one within 14 days or else i’ll be billed for it. this really feels like a huge mistake on their part and i don’t want to give back a $600 device i luckily got sent on accident because i guess i just want to feel like i won something. am i really financially responsible for their workers inability to do their jobs correctly?

tldr; tmobile sent me an iphone after saying there were none in stock and directing me to pick one up at the tmobile store. they’re billing me for both unless i give one back.

Answer: Yes, you have to either return one or pay for both of them.Answer #2: You need to return the shipped phone. Immediately. It's not a "free" device.


Title: [Nevada] Releasing someone arrested by a private person after discovering they didn't commit a crime.

Question:
[deleted]
Topic:
Criminal Law

Answer:
 Your original detainment was legal as the evidence you currently had was enough to detain her.

When you found the evidence exonerating her she should have been immediately released.

If you found out that info after you detained her for the warrants you are fine.

Answer #2: I don't know Nevada law, but if you keep someone in custody, after finding out that they had in fact not committed any crime, I'd be seriously worried about a false imprisonment case.

Furthermore, apparently that piece of the NRS allows:

NRS 171.126  Arrest by private person.  A private person may arrest another:
      1.  For a public offense committed or attempted in the person’s presence.

      2.  When the person arrested has committed a felony, although not in the person’s presence.

      3.  When a felony has been in fact committed, and the private person has reasonable cause for believing the person arrested to have committed it.

If it wasn't in your presence, you need a felony to commit a private arrest.  Petit Larceny appears to be a misdemeanor.


Title: [Australia] Can I enforce a NDA regarding a personal gift?

Question:
I'll keep this brief. A bit over a year ago I came into several million dollars. Have told NO ONE. Family still thinks I have a mortgage and a job, still own a modest home and car, etc. They think I'm getting by on Centrelink and part time work after getting fired (I actually quit my full time job and just volunteer now). I want to KEEP IT THIS WAY so I don't end up pissing away the money solving all my family's little problems.

I am however willing to solve their big problems as a last resort. This has recently become a reality. My sister needs $100,000 to keep her home from being seized. Due to an injury she has been unable to work and her husband died.

So my question: can I gift her the money on the condition that she sign an NDA under which she cannot disclose where she received the money (unless compelled by law and of course anything tax related)? And if she breaches it I can sue her for the money back? I'm hoping that will be a big enough deterrent for her to do so

If not, are there any ways I can modify the deal to make an NDA apply or some other way to achieve what I want?

Victoria, Australia. Any more info needed?

Answer:
 Don't gift her the money.

Give her a mortgage. The terms of the mortgage are zero interest, zero payments unless she reveals who gave her the mortgage. In which case rate resets to 5% and payments amortized over 15 years begin.

Answer #2: Don't be pennywise an pound foolish.  "I have several million dollars tell me how to protect it for free , rather then me spending $500 to sit down and ask questions"

The Aus legal forum may be able to give better advise , but I can virtually assure you an Australian attorney can come up with a plan that keeps your secret. Answer #3: You should buy the house and get it in your name and let them be tenants with the rent = the taxes and maintenance.   Lie to your family and say you got a mortgage to keep the house.    The deal is they pay the taxes/insurance and you just pay the "mortgage" so they can keep living there.
Dont gift them money when they are going to lose the house anyways.    Buy it by pretending you got a mortgage for it.

Gifting them $100K is a horrible idea.  Answer #4: A lawyer could probably make an anonymous trust, and work some magic to make it all work out. I think there's a few options- for example, buying the loan from the bank. (I think there's a way.)

Anyways, a NDA would mean she knows who you are, there are probably other ways to do this.


Title: I'm a juvenile and I did 90 in a 55mph high way, first infraction, state of Ohio.

Question:
Basically thats all. Looking at the ticket its written only as a speeding infraction, not sure if that means reckless driving or not, but I think the cop did me a favor?

I don't wan't to give away my identity, but I will be the youngest graduate of a large public university. I was rushing to get to a very important presentation on my latest research findings, soon to be published (and I can prove I was actually going there in court if need be).

What can I expect in court which is in two weeks? License suspension? Also how should I approach this in order to get off easiest? I understand how stupid this was and I won't ever do it again. I just really don't want to this to affect my future as I understand it could turn into a misdemeanor.

Edit: Sorry I didn't mean to sound pretentious, just wanted to show that I had somewhere important to be. And I am a bit nerve wracked right now.

Edit: More info:
Only the [X]Speeding offense is checked (and it states 90 in 55, over limits, unsafe for conditions, laster, stationary) ORC 4511.21

Edit 2: Here is a picture of the citation (personal info blanked out)
http://imgur.com/d8Mk6hn

Answer:
 > soon to be published (and I can prove this in court if need be)

Speed limits are identical for both the published and unpublished.


Title: Rear-ended somebody, they drove off. [MD, USA]

Question:
On my drive to school, rear-ended somebody. I turned on my trouble lights, trying to signal my intent to follow them to a place where we could pull over and check out the damage, and exchange insurance info if need be.

They never made any attempt to pull over. I ended up losing track of them in the heavy traffic. Scoured the side of the road for the rest of my drive, never saw anybody pulled over. Last I saw of them, instead of pulling over, they got into the left lane. Looks like they just went on their merry way.

For what it's worth, as they were driving off I couldn't discern any dents or scratches on their rear bumper, and I can confirm that my front bumper had no damage whatsoever. Seems I just tapped them (I was applying the breaks when this happened, couldn't have impacted at more than 10mph, probably was going even slower than that.)

In my panic I didn't note the make, model, or license of the vehicle. What's my next step? I don't want to be liable for a hit and run.

Answer:
 Call the police or go by the substation and tell them what happened. Insist on a miscellaneous report or the officers business card so you can document that you reported it. Have them look up if anyone reported a hit and run in that area.

Source: I'm a cop. Answer #2: The car you hit was likely driven by someone who has reasons for not interacting with the police.Answer #3: "Trouble lights" - adorable.  I'm going to use that from now on.Answer #4: I would bet dollars to donuts that the person was either unlicensed or uninsured and wanted nothing to do with a traffic report.


Title: If a billionaire commits a serious crime in multiple countries, and retreats to a personal private island, can they legally go to said island to arrest them?

Question: edit: Just realized it might be a little difficult to tell. Meant the authorities of each country with the first 'they', and the billionaire by 'them'. Sorry!

Answer:
 That depends on the jurisidiction of the "private island" and that jurisdiction's treaty with the arresting country.

If the private island is truly private(as in, not under the jursdiction of any existing country, as unlikely as that is) then the only recourse for the billionaire would be declaring war on the other country, and that's not going to work.


Title: [Virginia] Can I get a "restraining order" against my mom from owning any more pets?

Question:
**TL;DR:** mother adopts new pet, doesn't train it, doesn't spay or neuter it, and then leaves it somewhere to die. Over and over and over again.

I love my mom but this has got to stop. Ever since I was a little kid, it's been like this. She'll get a new puppy or kitten (or sometimes horse, pony, or various farm animals), let us give it a name and get attached to it. The problem is she doesn't bother training it or getting it spayed/neutered.

A number of things then happens, which always leads to the same outcome:

* The dog will grow up and be out of control - pissing in the house, getting into fights with neighbors dogs, chewing up things - basically having no discipline whatsoever. She'll whine and cry about how it doesn't "listen to her" and "whyyy me?".

I've begged for her to get an electric fence, dog training, etc., but she won't.

* The dog or cat will get pregnant. Pretty soon she'll have 6+ animals running around, which she can't get rid of, and then they grow up untrained (see above.)

* A few get hit by cars (sometimes her car). A few kill each other. The rest - and this is what I hate the most - "run away". Always when I'm not at home (on vacation, etc., it used to be when I was at school).

Cat gets pregnant? *Runs away*.

Neighbors start complaining about a particular dog? *Runs away*.

* BONUS: she once had two ponies, put them in a cage the size of a small bedroom, and hardly fed them. One died. The other was extremely malnourished before being rescued. I'm not the emotional type - but this was goddamn heartbreaking.

* She left a horse (Tennessee walker) tied to a tree with a leash overnight. It got hung up in the rope and died.

THE PROBLEM IS: She keeps getting more animals. It never ends. And they keep running away.

Topic:
Other Civil Matters

Answer:
 You can always contact the cops or the local SPCA, who probably has some expertise on this.
Answer #2: IANAL.

Where is she getting these animals? If it's craigslist, you're probably SOL unless you want to contact the cops/animal control. If she's getting them from a humane society or rescue, you may or may not be able to contact them and give them factual information about her previous adoptees. No speculation... Just factual information. Rescues are well within their rights to blacklist a person without proof of any wrongdoing. And many do keep a list of people who are not able to adopt. My understanding is that as long as the information you give them is true, there would be nothing illegal about it... But hopefully a lawyer can weigh in.

Also, it sounds like these animals are a manifestation of an emotional problem or psychiatric disorder. You might consider suggesting that your mom see someone to work these issues out.Answer #3: Running away seems to be code for either she's killing them or otherwise getting rid of them.

But to answer your question, no.Answer #4: Veterinarian here, IANAL. You should try and get her into therapy. Im not trying to diagnose her based on a few sentences, but this sounds really consistent with a mix of animal hoarding and possible codependency issues. Animal cruelty law is very difficult to enforce because it requires evidence of cruelty or neglect AND the offender typically has to be given chances to remediate the situation, which takes time.  Most local departments either don't exist or are terribly underfunded. It may be faster and more meaningful to fix this problem by focusing on the causes behind the behavior rather than fixing the symptoms.


Title: Step Mom Taking Everything

Question:
So earlier this week I had to move. In order to move I had to ask my sisters boyfriend to help because he was the only other one other than my father, who is 65, that knew how to dissemble it. After moving I go to my parents house for dinner this last Tuesday. I mention in passing he helped me move.

Now about six months ago my sister and her boyfriend were living and working with my dad and for my dad. She stole some equipment, and then sold it, so my parents have a vendetta for them.

However, I still needed my sisters boyfriend for help. So I mention it and then two days later after I do, she now threatens that I need to pay her back for my education, all the things she's bought me, and misc expenses. (I can provide detail if needed)
I was wondering if she can legally come after me for that money which is in the 1000's.
If she can, how do I protect my money and assets?
Thank you in advance
Btw I live in the USA, specifically in Florida.

Answer: No, there's nothing she can do.  If she sues you, respond.


Title: Can you be eligible for uneployment if you quit your job and are not fired?

Question:
My girlfriend absolutely hates her job. She comes home crying everyday. The reason she hates it is because she is essentially doing intern type work as a Marketing Manager and making $60K/yr. She says that she feels her self worth is shot, she doesnt feel challenged and that her workplace environment is toxic (meaning her boss screams at people and gives her meaningless tasks, is purposely left off marketing calls etc). I wouldnt say she is being harassed, just overall unhappy and wants to get out.

She has been applying to jobs every single night for months. I would say she has about 50+ applications completed. I live with her in an apartment in NYC and am unable to afford rent on my own however it seems this is really affecting her mental health and our relationship as a whole. Would she potentially be eligible? Can she apply before she quits to see if shes eligible? Happy to provide additional info if needed. Again we are located in New York.

Thanks!

Answer: If she chooses to quit without reasonable cause then no she wouldn't be eligible.  And hating her job isn't reasonable cause


Title: I was just fired for "inappropriate sexual behavior". I barely talk to anyone or do anything out the ordinary. What are my options?

Question:
Background: contract worker who's been working for the past six months at a medical company. Was forwarded the work through a consulting company. This is in IL.

Everyday I work in my little area which has the door closed, and I mostly work on IT related things. I barely talk to anyone, or interact with anyone throughout the day. Today I was fired based on unprofessional-ism, and what was dubbed inappropriate sexual behavior.

I'm in shock about it, and this was just an hour ago. Is there anything I can do? like to ask for a transcript of some kind to find out what exactly was it that set off this decision?

please help

Edit: for anyone asking, I'm always made sure to be professional when greeting or talking to anyone, especially female employees. I never discuss race/sex/politics/religion at the work place. The project manager was very vague and would not tell me what exactly was the issue, just that it was something a few people complained about and that it was unprofessional... she would not tell me anything concrete.

Edit2: just got a call from the contractor that I work with, and she said that they didn't give a reason for termination either.

Answer: I work as a recruiter who places people into contracts. This sounds like a super scummy way to justify your termination if it was a contract-to-hire. Were you nearing a full-time conversion when this occurred?Answer #2: If you google your name, is there anything embarrassing that a curious coworker would come across?


Title: I own 90 acres of land in Hudspeth County, Texas. There's no big prison nearby. I want to build a private prison on my land and earn some bucks. Where should I even start from?

Answer: I don't think you contemplate what kind of investment this would be. Do you have ~$100 mil in investment capital?


Title: At what point does inaction become illegal?

Question:
Tonight I watched an episode of Orphan Black where one character was in the middle of an argument with another character. The second character was destroying an item from the first down a garbage disposal when her scarf got caught in the garbage disposal. She was pulled down and suffocated to death.

Whilst the second character was suffocating, the first character stood there by the switch and watched her die. At no point did she have any hand in the second characters death, other than permitting it by her inaction.

At what point does inaction become a crime? Would this entirely accidental death be a crime? Does this change much between jurisdictions?

Answer: The law school torts class answer is typically that you are under no obligation to save someone. But if you attempt to save a person and then change your mind or don't complete the action you can be held liable. In the real world if the person could reasonably prevent the death with no risk to themselves there may be some kind of civil liability. And if there could be some kind of demonstration that there was intent to let the person die, that may reach into the realm of manslaughter. But it would be very fact dependent.


Title: Rental agreement and pet

Question: When i first moved into this condo, the real estate agent says i could bring in pet without the owner knowing and told me to just bring my pet (small maltese dog) after 2-3 weeks of moving in. Now apparently neighbors complained about his barking and the owner found out that i have a dog, and they want him removed. If real estate agent never told me that i would not have moved into this place. Do i have a case here? or is it better to just do what they say even though it was a verbal agreement.

Answer:
 So you really thought this was in any way legit?

*slaps head*

You might have a claim against the agent if you can prove that she/he said this was O.K. but clearly it wasn't.


Title: Position Was Cut - Boss Wipes Phone Instantly, Including Personal SD Card that had my newborn photos.

Question:
The situation personally puts me on the fence if I have any kind of case here; but my position was cut and I was let go from my workplace a few weeks ago. I have until the end of the month to sign a severance package which also removes my right to sue or do anything legal against the company, or even discuss anything.

The advice I'm seeking... is if I have any kind of privacy/personal law in my favor that I should push back against the company on. Here's the short of it...

Ported my personal phone number to the company cell provider, they then got me a new phone, and I put my own (personal) SD card into the new phone. Years go by and I eventually have my first kiddo; videos/photos are all on the SD card. During the meeting of when they're letting me go, my ex-boss has my phone wiped, along with the SD card, without informing me or asking me if I needed to get any data off it. I actually asked during the meeting if I could get my personal data off the phone, then look down, and see it's wiped. (Everything)

Now, the SD card was personal property, but the phone it was in is  owned by the company. There was never any documents signed when I ported my phone number into their account, or any kind of policy enforced/signed at that time.

Obviously, I'm distraught because I thought that my SD Card wouldn't be touched since it's personal and I've now lost all my kids early photos and videos. Those are pictures I can never show him some day. They're priceless, and I can't get them back.

Now, before anyone harps on me for not having a cloud backup; I checked... and there was a problem, it was full. The last few photos/videos were a few months before his birth. (but that's not really why I'm here; I'm already shooting myself for not having quad-backups of some kind there)

Thanks!
Topic:
Intellectual Property

Answer: You likely signed an IT policy statement agreeing that they could wipe the data off of any device they controlled at any time (or through some chain of agreements signed it, anyway).   Sucks.    You can likely send the SD card to a data recovery place.   SD cards don't (usually) delete themselves when asked to, they just forget where the files are.   You could ask if the company will pay for such a service, but I doubt they are required.


Title: Boss told everyone he was closing business due to insurance, laid everyone off. Two weeks later, business was fully functional entire time, but with all new employees.

Question: [deleted]

Answer: Jurisdiction is REALLY important here.


Title: Customers want to sue us because they spilled our food in their car

Question:
My mother owns a restaurant in California and she doesn't speak the best English. I've been out of the country for a bit so I'm not sure what's happening but apparently we have a woman that had soup on her car seat which supposedly ruined the seat and we have another man claiming the same thing on his. I guess when it rains, it pours. The man just wants us to pay for his seat, the lady seems to be on the verge of suing.

What basis do they have in suing us? Do they have a right to blame us for what could be their own negligence? My sister's just trying to deal with it herself but I say we should look into seeing a lawyer about this.

Answer: Are they claiming that takeout containers were deficient in some way causing the soup to spill?Answer #2: Do you use proper take out containers for liquids?


Title: [United Kingdom] *URGENT* I have family members in Iraq that are not safe. I want them to come and live with us.

Question:
I have now posted this in /r/LegalAdviceUK - thanks for your help!
-------------------------------------------------------
I am 22 years old and I was born in England and have lived here ever since. My father is British and my mother is from Iraq. She has been here in England for over 35 years and she is (obviously) a British Citizen.

She has family members in Iraq still and with the danger increasing day by day we want to move at least 2 of my cousins here. They are both female and one is 36 years old and the other is 30. They do not have children and they are not married. They are both teachers and both live with their parents and support them.

They have a brother who controls their life and restricts them from communicating with many people, and he also beats them for no reason. Basically he is an a**ehole. My mum is contact with them daily and their life is just getting worse and worse, and ISIS is not even in their town yet.

Basically what I am asking is how do we begin the process of helping these poor women out and bringing them to stay with my parents. In their house. They don't need their own house or anything we just want them safe. Who should we contact? Please help. I understand you will almost definitely want more information but we have her in hysterics on the phone right now because she wants to travel somewhere and her abusive brother wont let her.

I apologise if I am in the wrong subreddit but we are sort of in a state of urgency because god knows what their brother will do to them. They do everything for their family but he is unstable and it is only a matter of time before the situation where they live gets worse.

If I am in the wrong subreddit please redirect me to somewhere that can help me. Thank you very much.

Answer: /r/LegalAdviceUK, but what /u/thepatman said is right: you need an immigration attorney


Title: My Ex ripped up my pictures

Question: [deleted]

Answer: You can sue for the fair market value of whatever that may be.


Title: [USA, WA] My golf ball hit a parked car's windshield - liability?

Question:
Hi there, I sliced my drive and apparently hit a parked car's window. I did not see or hear the impact, but the owner of the vehicle came walking over to the fairway shortly after I'd hit a second ball and said her car had been hit. I did not admit fault or anything, but I did go over to look at the car and it was definitely a golf ball sized impact and she had her kids with her, so I'm fairly certain she wasn't a scam artist or anything like that. In any event, we both called our car insurance companies. Mine said that hers would pay, hers said that mine would pay. I gave her my insurance info and we exchanged names/phone numbers in case there were any issues.

Who is liable in this situation? Did I handle it appropriately? Besides giving up golf, what do you recommend I do? Thank you!

Answer: No. It's the risk of parking near a golf course. The claim she has, if any, is against the course. But the law in WA [is not clear](http://www.pauleylawgroup.com/blog/what-happens-if-i-hit-house-when-i-m-golfing-make-sure-hit-em-straight).


Title: Would a law office hire another law office to contact someone?

Question:
Hi there!

So my roommate just got a call from a law office telling her she was going to be charged with felony grand larceny from an incident with a store debt a couple of years ago. The guy on the phone said that his office was hired to make contact with her. He said that the store sold the debt to a law office, and that office had hired his office. When my roommate asked who his client was he said he wasn't allowed to say because of confidentiality. Now the debt is real, but no contact has been made in years. I guess my question is can a lawyer contact you tell you you're going to be charged with something but not tell you who is pursuing it?

Thanks!

Edit: Thanks everyone for such quick responses!!! This is in the state of Virginia and this is for one of those rent a center type deals.  She obtained furniture a few years ago and did not return it, they refused to allow her to when she tried.

Answer:
 it's just debt collectors being debt collectors.

no lawyer would threaten criminal charges to compel you to pay a years old debt.

Google 'debt verification' and find out who really owns it and then negotiate with them to pay it off.

but don't read too much into the nonsense they say on the phone.


Title: [VA] Potential adoption question.

Question:
Hi r/legaladvice,

I am currently pregnant, and unsure of my abilities to raise the child on my own. I'm considering adoption because I would like to give a couple struggling with infertility the chance to be parents.

The child's father does not want me to have the child at all, and every time I bring up adoption, he says "it's stupid." He won't explain anymore when I have asked him to. But it's been very clear through texts he does not want the child.

Needless to say, this is a very volatile situation. My question is, if I decide I want to put the baby up for adoption, and he won't sign over paternity, what happens? I've tried googling, but I'm not exactly sure what to google to get the correct answer.

But it's very clear he does not want the child, but he's also acting like he doesn't want anyone else to have it? Can I force him to sign away paternity? Let me stress this again, he does not want the child.

Thank you.

Answer:
 If the father is unsupportive, you will need an adoption attorney. Most adoption agencies will provide one for you.

Convince the father to allow adoption, tell him you are having the baby anyways and he'll have to pay child support unless the baby is adopted. Answer #2: To confirm, you are not married to the father?  It doesn't sound like it but never hurts to be 100% sure.


Title: [CA USA] Landlord offering a buyout for my rent controlled apartment

Question:
Hey folks,

I’ve lived in SF for almost 7 years. Newest owners of my building have offered to buy me out for $4,500. I am the master tenant and there are two other co-tenants. What’s the best way to go about negotiating?

They’ve said they are interested in moving into my unit (which I think could be true based on knowing them), and an owner move in eviction would net me around $6k. So I’m wondering if I negotiate the buyout too much, that they’ll just say, screw it, and evict me to pay the $6k.

Thanks for your help!

Answer: I'm not  sure of the laws in this but If 6k is the minimum you'll get in general, 4.5k is a lowball. You have no incentive not to let the eviction play out because you'll get 6k regardless.  Notwithstanding any hardships the eviction might place on your record.


Title: [OH] How does one find a "small business" lawyer for possible use any time in the future?

Question:
Sort of an odd question, but I've never needed an attorney for anything in my life. However,

I've been running a small business for about 10 years now, selling random crap online. It's oddly successful, netting me over six figures each year. Some of my stuff is homemade in a small machine shop, potentially exposing me to liability as a manufacturer.

So far, I've been lucky. No threats of lawsuit (other than the common, bogus eBay scam artist), no injuries, no attempts to sue for my LLC's assets.

But these are fears that run through my head on a daily basis.

How does one approach local attorneys with the lame explanation that, "I would possibly like to hire you in the future. I may need you a lot, occasionally or never. Interested?"

You're thinking, what kind of stupid question is this? My answer is that, if shit were to hit the fan, I'd like to have an attorney ready to go, aware of my business, etc. Not have to shop around for a week hoping to find one that's free.

Thoughts please and thank you.

Answer:
 1. Find Buisness Lawyer
2. Call office and explain just that, (you don't need a lawyer right now, but are interested in having one familiar with your business in case you ever need one)
3. Visit a few, pick the one you like.

Ohio Bar Association can provide a search/referral for a lawyer Answer #2: Do you know any lawyers, or know anybody who knows any lawyers? Lawyers tend to know a lot of other lawyers, and referrals are common in the field, especially among specialists.

*E.g.* I do almost exclusively contracts, but I know people who do employment, T&E, immigration, criminal defense, &c. I'm also not going to risk my reputation by referring someone to an attorney I know is a bumbling idiot.

Once you've found somebody, tell them exactly what you said here. Their response might be "here's my card, I hope you don't have to, but call me if you ever need anything" or "Great! Let's sign an engagement letter so that I'm *your* attorney, so that if you ever need something we can hit the ground running," or something in between. Your situation isn't uncommon, and good job being proactive.


Title: ESA Fines

Question:
My apartment landlord is threatening to make me pay $200 in fines because I got an ESA (a dog). My lease states nothing about ESAs or fines about them. The lease does say if I have a pet without their approval, I can be fined $200. I registered him and am getting an ESA letter from my physician but they haven’t arrived in the mail yet (I live away from home for medical school). Can she legally require me to pay $200 for having him on the residence before showing her the ESA letter?

Thanks!

Answer:
 If you don't have your paperwork, you don't have an ESA.  You have a pet.  And you can be fined for having a pet.

Pay your fine.Answer #2: Registration means nothing. It isn't a thing

And if your doctor didn't already write it up (before you got it), it is a pet and you are violating your lease and can get fined and evictedAnswer #3: > I registered him

There's no such thing.

If you don't have a letter, you don't have an ESA.


Title: Employer gave me a check for $4,500 instead of $450. It is signed, if I cash it and quit can I be held liable?

Question: The state is Michigan if it matters. I’m fairly sure that I would be in legal trouble for this but I can’t find any evidence. The only thing making me think I couldn’t is that it has a signature of my employer on it. The number says $4,500 and the number is written out correctly to says Forty-five hundred.

Answer:
 You would owe them the money back.Answer #2: They will discover the error and you will be required to pay them back.

Don't be stupid. Who quits their job for 4k?


Title: Photo Recovery from Apple / Trigger Warning : Sexual Assualt

Question:
I just posted this to r/technology too, but I think this may be a helpful subreddit for my issue.

A little over a year ago, I was the victim of a violent rape. After the fact, I had taken photos of the bruising etc that had resulted on many parts of my body, as well as text messages from the other party admitting assault. A few months ago, I decided that, since I had decided never to pursue legal action, that I no longer wanted that disturbing stuff anymore, because I wanted to sort of have a “fresh start” on my phone and in my life.

However, I am starting to regret doing so, mostly out of fear that I might need this evidence in the future if I ever decide to do anything about it or in case something happens (I don’t know what, just scared) and I might need it. The photos have been permanently deleted from my phone.

How would I go about recovering them - does apple store it’s users’ photos, and if so, for how long? How do I go about contacting Apple to recover the photos? Do I need a lawyer to do this for me? Will this result in any kind of legal action if I do this? I want legal action to be taken on my terms, not if it just happens automatically by me reaching out to Apple or a lawyer.

Thank you in advance. I’m in North Carolina.

Answer:
 > The photos have been permanently deleted from my phone.

This may or may not be true.  "Deleted" does not always mean **deleted**.  The photos may still be on your phone, but the length of time makes it less likely than it would be shortly after.

Apple almost certainly does NOT have copies on their servers after "a few months" and it would probably take a court order to get them even if they did (which they don't).


Title: How does one "get a lawyer"?

Question:
I have tried exactly once in my life to hire a lawyer. I called everyone in my small town, and the best I got was "she can see you in three weeks". The question at the time was about an employment contract I'd been given 8 hours to sign.

How is this supposed to work? Am I supposed to have a pre-existing relationship, like I do with my doctor? Should I have tried to take the day off work so I could travel the 2 hours to Albuquerque NM where there would be more lawyers?

Sorry this is low drama compared to the rest of this sub's questions :)

Answer:
 I mean. . . good luck getting a meeting with *any* professional in 8 hours notice unless he's an emergency room doctor.

It really depends on the circumstances. Most things can wait for a couple of weeks. Even most criminal matters can wait a bit, as there are delays between first appearances (where a lawyer usually isn't necessary) and the rest of the process.


Title: Is this blackmail?

Question:
(Virginia) serious question. I posted a negative review on google about a law firm. The review was my opinion. I was frustrated because the law firm owes my SO money for work completed, and they are refusing to pay. I left a one star review. Literally, just one star. No other words were written. I didn’t include any of that drama in the review about my SO (just the one star rating).  I have been contacted by the law firm, and I have been told that if I don’t delete the review by Friday they will be pursuing legal action.

The issue right now:
I think the business is shitty because they don’t pay their employees, hence the bad review. I will continue to think the business is shitty if she pays my SO. However, am I allowed legally to use this as leverage? As in, you pay my SO, and I’ll edit the review?

Thank you!

Answer:
 Do not engage with the law firm. Ignore them, then if you actually get sued, get a lawyer to talk to them.

Do NOT try to outsmart a bunch of lawyers by yourself.

Do. Not. Talk. To. Them.


Title: (Michigan)Previous home owner doesn't want to leave by agreed upon date.

Question:
I have just purchased my first home(in Michigan) and the previous owner is now telling me they won't be leaving until the end of October. The agreement we both signed says that they will vacate by the 15th of October. The title and quit claim deed have both been signed by the seller and are now in my name.

From the research I've done it sounds like this would make the seller a holdover. The seller says that means they get 30 days, but I don't know if the fact that we both signed an agreement with a date for them to vacate changes that.

I guess I'm just looking for what my options are here. Do I just have to hope that they actually leave at the end of the month? Or can I get them removed somehow if they stay past the agreed upon date?

Answer:
 > The seller says that means they get 30 days, but I don't know if the fact that we both signed an agreement with a date for them to vacate changes that.

It does, but not in any way that really helps you.

It sounds as if the home sale completed and you are now the sole owner.  If that's true, these folks are your tenants, and you are a landlord.  Their tenancy ended 10/15, by contract.  They're holdover tenants.  If they refuse to leave, your only option is to serve them with proper notice and proceed to eviction.  That won't happen in 15 days.

There may be other remedies available in your sales contract for fines or fees for holdover.


Title: [NC] Received a letter saying that I'm being penalized for not having insurance some of last year.

Question: [deleted]

Answer:
 >  If I can stay on my parent's insurance until I'm 26, then why is it my fault for not having it last year?

Because you're an adult, and thus responsible for your own actions.

> Also, why am I being punished for not having money for it?

Because you're required to have insurance, and don't.  Answer #2: Check to see if you might be exempt from the fine, go to [this page on the IRS site](https://www.irs.gov/Affordable-Care-Act/Individuals-and-Families/ACA-Individual-Shared-Responsibility-Provision-Exemptions).  You'll have to file the exemption with your taxes.


Title: [California] Older bank account I rarely use had a large sum of cash deposited into it. Bank hasn't taken it out. Who owns the interest?

Question:
In the early 2000s I took out a largish loan for a house restoration project through a bank I'd been using on and off since I was a teenager but otherwise rarely dealt with. In 2011 I checked my accounts online and found a little over $60,000 that wasn't mine had been deposited into one of my accounts three months before.

I immediately reported it to my bank, and was berated for reporting it late as three months had passed since the original deposit.

After another month, the money was still in my account. I contacted the bank again and was quizzed as to why I hadn't yet reported it. I told them I had, and asked if it could be removed to the banks' own storage somewhere as it complicated my banking. They couldn't do that, but suggested opening a savings account and placing it in there. I did this.

In the years since those first few months I paid little attention to the extra deposit. In March this year with my loan near completion I'd been in the mind to check the correct protocol for wrapping it up (for other reasons through the life of the loan I don't fully trust my own bank to give me all the info I need there) and while looking through the history of my accounts I was reminded the extra money is still there.

I again contacted my bank, this would be around the tenth time since the spurious deposit first appeared, and once more I was told in no uncertain terms that I should have reported it a long time ago, and angrily advised that just because a deposit appears in my account doesn't mean it's mine. OK, I know that, but the tone was extremely accusatory. After the nasty comments from the bank and the other issues I'd like to close my accounts there, but I'm unsure what to do.

The extra savings account with the deposit that's not mine is now closing in on $70k after six years' interest. I haven't reported this interest as earnings since it happened as I figured it was up in limbo about who owned it. I'd happily report it as mine if it was, but for now I have no idea about the status of the money. Is there anything i can do to compel the bank to act? Is there a limitation on the time they can act to reclaim the money? What about the interest?

Should I be looking for my own legal representation to clear this up?

Answer: I'd call the bank again and escalate escalate escalate.  This is an intolerable situation.  Of course, it might be worthwhile consulting with a lawyer to see if you have any right to the funds as abandoned, but that does seem unlikely.


Title: When people write “I don’t give permission to publish this anywhere else” at the beginning of a post, does it mean anything legally?

Question: And what’s to stop someone from just editing out that part and doing it anyway since the forum is anonymous? I’ll admit that I don’t really understand why someone would be okay with posting something on Reddit and not okay with it being reposted but I may be missing some motivation, such as not wanting it to be put in an article if they aren’t being paid maybe? But they don’t get paid anyway so why would they care?

Answer:
 There is a thriving batch of youtubers who yoink content from reddit and repackage it for youtube.  Some of them have enough subscribers to make pretty decent amounts of money at it.

Money made by stealing other peoples' content.

Whether the disclaimer "means" anything is debatable but it at least makes explicit the poster's desire to retain control of their content and perhaps establishes intent wrt a DMCA claim etc.Answer #2: Not really. A post is copyrighted as soon as it is submitted (assuming it's sufficiently creative to qualify). So people can only copy a post, with or without the disclaimer, if they have permission or fair use applies. A copy of the entire post would almost certainly not be fair use.


Title: My wife got hit on the head while working

Question:
Hello every one, hope you are all enjoying your night.
My wife got hit on the back of her head while working at walmart night shift. They have a cart with two shelfs one top, one bottom,  the top shelf fell on her head while she was getting stuff from the bottom one, she backed out for 10 seconds then she cried for help, any I picked her up at 5 am, then drove to the hospital,  after some mri's and tests the doctors said it's a concussion and needs to rest for 3 days. Following day she went back to do an incident report and gave them the hospital report.
My question is, after the days off, walmart didn't pay any of her days off, is that normal or we should do something about it?
Many thanks

Answer: You should file a worker's comp claim. All lost wages & medical should come out of there.


Title: [Texas] Mother fired two weeks before FMLA for surgery

Question:
My mother has worked for a corporation for early childhood education for 17 years. Every year, the employees must sign a termination agreement, are laid off, and are expected to file for unemployment until they are rehired the following school year. This year, Mom has been working at a year-round site, but she still had to sign a termination agreement when she began.
Mom has arthritis in her knee, and after living with the pain for years, she's having it replaced in two weeks. Her insurance approved the surgery 5/3 and she was told that her FMLA paperwork was turned in.
During a routine staff meeting, when discussing future scheduling, an administrator hinted that Mom would not be involved, and she did not change her statement when Mom reminded her that she would be back from her leave by that time.
Yesterday, when Mom arrived at work she was "relieved of her duties" with the reasoning of parent complaints. When she asked about the complaints, she was told there were multiple, but not shown any documentation.
Is there any action can my mother take in response?

Answer:
 This is really sketchy on a lot of levels. Hopefully your mother had documented her request for FMLA. This is a sticky issue that really requires an attorney to look into. Plenty of labor lawyers out there to consult with.Answer #2: On a side note... what you've described sounds very much fits the definition of illegal permatemp work (*Vizcaino v. Microsoft*). It's a pretty well known exploit to re-hire/fire to maintain the illusion of them being a temp worker to avoid paying benefits, so typically the courts instead look at if it's the same type of work at the same company and not if the employment is continuous, to determine if the worker is truly temporary or is actually an illegal permatemp. Though it's worth noting some seasonal work (e.g., harvesting crops, etc) is sometimes exempt.

I'd at the very least call an employment lawyer, describe your job, and ask them if you are seasonal/exempt. Because if not, you may have a potential settlement payout waiting for your mother and her co-workers.Answer #3: This does sound like they were released from work for using their benefits. I've had some friends that were fired for using their health benefits.


Title: [AK] Boyfriend was unexpectedly terminated for "not adhering to his schedule" despite the employer not notifying him his schedule had changed. They also did not pay him his final paycheck.

Question: [deleted]

Answer:
 > There are a few reasons why this whole thing just seems...weird to me.

In all likelihood, you don't have the whole story.Answer #2: Department of labor for the missing pay.


Title: My Ex-GF broke into my apartment, stole my TV, and wrecked my place. She also has my dog, which is in my name, and I want it back.

Question:
I live in Asheboro, NC. She used to live with me in my current apartment, but she hasn't been there since the end of January, though her name is on the lease. I know I can't press charges for a B&E, and the TV she took was a gift to us both.

But the dog is mine. I bought her as a pup, raised her, and all her paperwork is under my name.

Do I have any legal option to take back my dog? I had told her she could spend some time with her, since they were close and I was being nice, but that got me screwed over, and she doesn't plan on giving her back.
Topic:
Douche

Answer: You can go to small claims court with your evidence to get your dog back. You could contact the police but I'm pretty sure they'll tell you it's a civil matter.


Title: HOA banned items in the common area, previously allowed an A/C unit in the common area.

Question:
Hello,

I live in an HOA that prohibits placing items in the common area within their CC&R's. I have noticed that one unit has an A/C condenser unit that is placed in the common area and have asked for information about when it was approved by the board.

I was told verbally by the office manager that previously, old Boards would not follow the rules and make exemptions. The managing company informed me in writing that it was irrelevant when it was installed as the current Board has established a precedent that no items be allowed in the common area.

I have been trying to locate the date when the A/C unit was put in along with the current CC&R's at the time but the management company informed me that it was installed prior to their management and they do not have such records. I am able to request meeting minutes from various dates, however.

What course of action can I take?

My thought was that I can locate the CC&R's from the date of installation and verify that the language around common area restrictions is identical, I can make a stronger case for precedent as the HOA does not seem willing to budge. If this is irrelevant I am open to other courses of action.

Thank you.

Topic:
Real Estate law

Answer:
 The fact that the association made an exception or had different rules in the past does nothing to help you in seeking such an exception now. So the information you seek probably doesn’t help you.

And their explanation as to why they don’t have the information seems reasonable and defensible.


Title: [Texas] Moved out a month ago, landlord is the only one who manages the property and had a stroke a couple weeks ago. I really need my deposit back. What are my options?

Question:
I moved out on September 12, the landlord said he'd get the deposit back to me in about a month. To my understanding 30 days is how long a landlord has to return the deposit in Texas, so I wasn't really in any position to complain then. It's coming up on 30 days and I haven't heard from him about it. Spoke to the current tenants and was informed that he had a stroke a couple weeks back and that his daughter is managing the property now. Spoke to his daughter who refused to do anything until he's recovered, and claims that she's not managing the property but "assisting [her] dad until he can fully recover'. And that it may be a while (wouldn't specify time frame) until she could get the deposit to me.

I'm sympathetic to their situation, but I also have two deposits out and had to buy appliances for my new location and have car work done. Short version of the story, I'm broke and really need my deposit back. If I don't get it back soon I may be unable to pay bills or buy groceries until the end of the month when I'll have income from elsewhere. If I was sitting on a pile of money I'd be fine waiting a month or two until they can get things sorted out on their end, but since that's not the case I need to know what my other options are. Thanks in advance y'all.

Edit: The daughter is unwilling to act because her father (the landlord) is the only one who has access to the bank account and she isn't sure about how much or what to withhold for damages (there's really no damage that doesn't fall under normal wear and tear, but I understand why she'd be hesitant about that aspect).

Answer: OP- I think your best bet is to contact the daughter again (maybe via email?) and explain your situation to her and that you really need the deposit back. I think the honest/sympathetic approach here is the best.


Title: What would actually happen if the plot of The Terminal occurred?

Question: I assume he would not actually just be stuck in a terminal. What would actually happen?

Answer: [The Terminal was based on a real person.](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mehran_Karimi_Nasseri)


Title: Where is it legal to sleep outdoors in NYC?

Question:
Can you point me to any laws detailing where one can sleep in NYC and under what conditions? For some reason I am having trouble finding information. I am friends with a homeless couple who sleep outside with their things. They do not obstruct foot traffic. My understanding is that it's legal to sleep outdoors in NYC as long as one isn't blocking anything critical, sleeping in a tent, or sleeping in the subway. However, a cop has been harassing and threatening them to move for several weeks. We want to clarify what their rights are. Thank you!

EDIT some douche made a troll account. Please check his history and/or mine. This is not me. I am grateful to any help and of course to Zer0summoner. I would very much appreciate help on this topic as well as how to get rid of the troll (what do I report him for?). Thank you!!

EDIT again: Troll was banned. Thank you!!
Topic:
Other Civil Matters

Answer: The two main factors are that they're not obstructing others, as you said, but also that they have a right to be where they are doing what they're doing. So look at local ordinances on loitering, trespassing, and parks being closed at certain times for guidance.


Title: Firearms in house, spouse is a convicted felon.

Question: As the title states my spouse is a convicted felon.  I am not and have a legal right to own firearms.  I have several from before we got married but am curious if I can have these in the home and not cause any legal issues.  We live in NC if it makes any difference.  Any advice would be helpful

Answer:
 > NC General Statutes
> -
> Chapter 14 Article 54A
> 1
> Article 54A.
> The Felony Firearms Act.
> § 14
> -
> 415.1. Possession of firearms, etc., by felon prohibited.
> (a)
> It shall be unlawful for any person who has been convicted of a felony to purchase,
> own, possess, or have in his custody, care, or control any firearm or any weapon of mass death
> and destruction as defined in G.S. 14-288.8(c).
>
[Chapter 14 Article 54A
1
Article 54A.
The Felony Firearms Act](http://www.ncga.state.nc.us/EnactedLegislation/Statutes/PDF/ByArticle/Chapter_14/Article_54A.pdf) (PDF Warning)

Basically, no you need to get rid of them or have them stored with a family member etc.  You can argue they are "yours" all you want but if it is possible for him/her to "possess, or have in his custody, care, or control..." he/she is in violation.

EDIT:  Removed gender assumption


Title: Update: plasma issue. They are paying up!

Question:
http://www.reddit.com/r/legaladvice/comments/2s42um/do_i_have_any_recourse_medical_incident_during/

Original post^

Wrote a calm but firm letter to their legal dept and they are compensating me the amount I earned last year donating. I just wanted to thank users here for their input. I was unsure what could happen and feel great!

Answer: They were probably relieved that they got off for so little.


Title: Vet says I owe more than I paid.

Question:
This happened in Pennsylvania.

I took my cat to the vet and paid in full at the end of the visit. One hour later I receive a call from the vet saying they billed me incorrectly and I owe more money than I was originally billed for.

After examining the bill in more detail it appears they are correct I was billed for a procedure that was different than what was administered. Do I really owe them more than they billed me for or does their mistake absolve me of paying any more money?

Answer:
 Mistakes happen. We are human after all. Yes, you do owe them this money.
If it was the other way around and you overpaid wouldn’t you want your money back.


Title: Minor harassing minor

Question: [deleted]

Answer: Just block the number and move on. I suppose you could try to get a no-contact order, but it would be iffy that the judge would grant it.


Title: [Louisiana] Bank didn't end safe deposit box rental and took $700 out of our account...

Question:
My grandfather died four years ago in May 2013.  In July 2014, my dad went to the bank to close the safety deposit box out.  This means he had to have had a key with him.  The bank associate who closed the box is a distant acquaintance and knew that my dad was there to terminate the account/empty the box etc.  On Friday, my parents discovered $700 was taken out if their account for "back rent," So they went to the bank to straighten it out.

Today they heard back from that acquaintance who still works there after he talked to his manager and were told that they could not have their money back. In fact, the bank told them that they had to turn in a key which my parents no longer have as they are pretty sure they turned it in four years ago.  They were told that without a key or another payment of 150 more dollars that they would continue to be charged rent on the box. Now , there is no question of their intent when they went to the bank to close out the account four years ago.

If the bank /that acquaintance knew that they were there to close the box and did not do the proper paperwork involved and let them walk out of there thinking it was closed without having them fill out the paperwork or whatever else, and didn't say anything for three more years, then isn't that on the bank?  My parents cannot afford that kind of withdrawal.  They are getting ready now to go there, what can I tell them?  Also this account was my grandfather's account but my my father's name is on the account in case of emergency because of my grandfather's age. This was never my parents account .

ETA: UPDATE ONE:
/u/DiabloConQueso, /u/Whitepirate15

My parents went to the bank, and the bank produced a document that my dad had signed at some point making him co-owner of the box.  They produced all kinds of paperwork, including the documents about the day my dad removed the contents of the box, but nothing about the box being closed at that time.  Which I think is BS because if they weren't digital that page could have gotten misplaced somewhere and there is no way to prove it one way or the other, and even if they didn't sign it that day, the aquaintance (AQ) knew they were intending to close it and let them think it was closed when they left.  The bank called in auditors who said that my dad was billed for the box every year since 2014, and he said he never got it.

They said they sent it to "the address on record" which is my grandad's address, but my dad lives next door to my grandad's old house which is empty and he picks up the mail that still trickles in every day.  (My grandad got a SHIT TON of junk mail.)  I know my dad is very careful with anything that looks official; there have been some conflicts with settling the estate, so that's why it's all still coming there and why he's so careful.  Anyway, if my dad was co-owner and they really and truly sent the bill every year, why didn't they send it to him (and his younger sister, who is also a co-owner but whose bank account they don't have access to) too?  I don't think they were really sending it at all and are still trying to cover their asses.  The bank is insisting that they have done everything properly, but my dad never received anything from them about this at either address.

I suppose my new question is, will contacting a lawyer for an official letter help at this point?  My dad is going to call the national customer service number for the bank and try to go over their heads to fix this, but I have no confidence in them.  My parents are both retired and close to 70, and my dad struggles with depression and this is hitting him really hard.  He always gets really down around this time of year anyway, and I am scared this is going to do some serious damage.  I'm actually more worried about my mom because he's not a nice person when he's in a funk and she's going to get the brunt of his bad mood.

Sorry for so many personal details; I am frustrated and angry and just want to fix this for my parents and don't know how.  Thanks for any responses.

Answer: They should talk to the acquaintance and have him/her explain why the account wasn't closed when they specifically went in 4 years ago under the impression that they were closing the account.


Title: Penalties For Keeping an oBike?

Question: Let's say, you're walking down a suburban melbourne street and you find one of the HARD to come by oBikes. If you were to take ownership of it and keep it, What would be the legality of it considering the company fled melbourne over a year ago?

Answer:
 > if you were to take ownership of it and keep it

You mean if you were to steal it?Answer #2: > What would be the legality of it

It would be *il*legal, given that theft is still a crime.Answer #3: Best you could do is contact them and let them know you found one of their bikes.

&#x200B;

If they express that they no longer service Australia and relinquish ownership of any bikes that remain, then I suppose you'd have some legal standing.

&#x200B;

Otherwise it's still their property, and you would need to deliver the bike to your local Police Station, wherein they will hold it for an amount of time to allow a claim. If unclaimed they should return it to you.

&#x200B;

Now, the research I've done is purely for SA, things may differ in Melbourne.


Title: Just got raise, but was then told due to our new HR contract with Paychex any employee who talks about raises or wages will be terminated, this isn’t legal right?

Question: What the title says, so I recently asked for and received a raise, but my office manager also responded by telling me any employee caught talking about wages or raises we can be fired per my companies contract with Paychex, is this legal? Also, they said now if we’re more than five minutes late we’d be docked 30 min. I didn’t sign anything agreeing to this by the way, just the company I guess. I’m in NY by the way.

Answer:
 Neither of those are legal.

Unless you are management, discussing wages is protected activity per federal law.

You must be paid for all time worked. Time clock rounding is permitted, but only in a manner that applies both direction. There is no allowed system where five minutes late would round to the next 30 minute period.


Title: [CA] Ex used key to gain entry to my house, everyone is saying he didn't commit a crime though?

Question:
So I was trying to break up with this guy and essentially I said I was done and he said we would "talk about it later" and left and we didn't talk for 4 days. After the 4th day he showed up at my house and was outside screaming stuff at me about how he was "breaking up with me" and I just took his stuff (his tv and a few clothes) and put them outside and watched him take them and he left.

So last night I was at work and he texts me telling me he "got his stuff out" WHAT.
This guy and I dated for THREE months. He had a key because he helped me with house repairs once and needed to get in, but when we broke up he told me he lost the keychain. He's not on the lease at all, the lease is me and 2 other roommates (who were also not home at the time.)

So literally an hour after I went to work, I had been home ALL day before, he's in my house. I feel like he waited till I wasn't there and came into the house JUST to make me uncomfortable. The "stuff" he got was: a couple pairs of socks, a 10 year old printer(he has a printer at his own house also), some extension cords, and a BAG OF SUNFLOWER SEEDS...

All my friends are trying to talk me out of going to the police but this guy made me feel unsafe in my own house.. They say because I gave him the key (which I did, but we were CLEARLY broken up and the only reason I didn't demand it back was because he said he lost it) that it's not breaking and entering.

I checked all my stuff but there's no way I can be sure he didn't mess with things or hide things or like... He was alone in MY house, he could have done anything! I'm pretty sure he didn't steal anything from me but does that change the fact that he essentially broke and entered?

So questions 1) What crime exactly did he commit
2) Do I go to the police station? Do I call non emergency?
3) Is there like a time limit to report this?

Tl;dr : Ex boyfriend used old key to get into my house after I left and no one was home, I have texts from him admitting he did it.

Answer: Change the locks or get property manager to change it.  Tell them you lose the keys and need it change right away.  You may have to pay but it is a small price for peace of mind.Answer #2: There's no such thing as "breaking and entering" in California. Burglary requires that he enter with the intent to commit theft. Based on your post, you can't prove he stole anything. Trespass in California is extremely complicated if you did not specifically revoke his permission to enter. Either way, the chances he is charged is practically zero. Move on with your life is the best advice now that you've changed the locks.


Title: Approached by the Treasury Department to provide information in a case they are working on my former employer. Should I talk to them?

Question:
USA - I asked and they (Treasury) have told me plainly that I am not the subject of an investigation and that they would be moving forward with their investigation regardless of my involvement but have asked me to provide supplemental information.

I have not done anything wrong during my employment with the former employer and I have nothing to hide, so to speak but I have nothing to gain either by cooperating with the Government (except to possibly help nail a coffin for my former employer whom I have no love for, but at the same time, don't even think about them anymore and have moved on)

I ask because I am a very tight-lipped person and even though I have nothing to hide, I also have nothing to gain in my mind, and my cooperation is not mandatory/forced.  To reiterate I know I've done nothing wrong and they have confirmed that I am not under investigation, but despite this I still feel like opening my mouth is a risk that shouldn't be taken God forbid something (as erroneous or false as it may be) draw ire against me.

I do not retain a lawyer and would not have one present with me during a meeting, so if the advice would be to seek legal counsel then I would simply ignore the request by Treasury until/if a later date when they legally summoned me or however it works.

Thanks

Answer:
 >I would simply ignore the request by Treasury until/if a later date when they legally summoned me or however it works.

Honestly I hate to say it, but this is your best option when dealing with any type of law enforcement. Unless under subpoena decline to participate.

>I asked and they (Treasury) have told me plainly that I am not the subject of an investigation and that they would be moving forward with their investigation regardless of my involvement but have asked me to provide supplemental information.

Law Enforcement is allowed to lie to you, doesn't mean anything.


Title: Grandma has the kids

Question: My friend’s mom has temporary custody of her two children. Her mom will occasionally let the kids stay at her and her boyfriends house. These kids love her boyfriend and the youngest even calls him dad. Grandma doesn’t want the kids calling him dad and my friend doesn’t want to say anything to her about it because she feels her mom will stop letting the kids come over. My friend and her boyfriend don’t make a lot of money but they want custody of the kids back, they just don’t know where to begin. How can they find out if grandma still has custody and if so, how can she regain custody of her children?

Answer:
 There is a reason Grandma has custody, which is mysteriously missing from your post. Your friend didn't lose a coin toss to have her kids taken out of her care.

If the Government was involved, the kids probably have a social worker assigned to their case; your friend could try contacting them. There really isn't enough information here for anyone to give advice beyond "get a lawyer."


Title: Came clean to university faculty, but they may have violated HIPAA

Question:
I'll do my best to keep this short. I'm on mobile so apologies for errors.

Last week, I had a meeting with my university majors program coordinators, which did not go well.  I told them about my depression and thoughts of suicide, so they involved their team of psychologists and therapists. All of that, I am 100% behind. However, they (the therapist) called my parents (who I live with) and informed them about the situation after I expressly said I do not want anyone contacted.

I called the therapist and she admits to informing my parents on the grounds that they were concerned that I wasn't going to be able to be home on time.
Topic:
Healthcare Law including HIPAA

Answer:
 If you are over 18 and in the US, then anything you told the therapist is highly confidential and protected under HIPAA. If the therapist is the one who broke the confidentiality, you can file a complaint [here.](https://www.hhs.gov/hipaa/filing-a-complaint/index.html) However, if you told the program coordinators then they are not covered under HIPAA because they are not healthcare providers.  If they are the ones who told your parents, then I'm not sure what your options are.Answer #2: >I called the therapist and she admits to informing my parents on the grounds that they were concerned that I wasn't going to be able to be home on time.

I'm confused here. Is the "they" the therapist, the coordinators/faculty, or your parents? Either way--whether the faculty told her to or not--this was on the therapist to not disclose your medical information without your consent. University faculty aren't covered by HIPAA; there may be a FERPA infraction, but I'm not certain of that.


Title: [FL] 3-day notice to vacate.

Question:
We owe $1400 on our rent ($750 from this month, which is a full month's rent, $600 from last month, and $50 in late fees). It's just me (17), my younger sister (14), and my mom; my dad doesn't give us any financial support. She's a waitress. She lost her previous 9-to-5 job last month (only making $10/hour, but still), and it hit us pretty hard, so we've been playing catch-up with all of our bills ever since. Doesn't help that, this month, there was some kind of glitch in the system with DCFS (according to a social worker we talked to), and we have yet to receive our food stamps (which we were supposed to get the 6th). Today we got a 3-day notice to pay our rent or vacate. We're pretty much fucked. We have, like, $60-80 to our name.

Is there anything we can do? Or should I just resign myself to my impending homelessness?
Topic:
Landlord Tenant Housing

Answer:
 Your mother is in breach of her lease. A three day notice is appropriate here. She needs to find another place to live, money, or get ready for eviction proceedings.

You do not have to leave in three days. But in 4 days the landlord can start eviction proceedings with the court. It will give you more time to find something but will ruin her chances of renting in the future.

Edit word


Title: The validity of alimony and child support laws for a homeless individual.

Question:
Today a redditor created [this](http://www.reddit.com/r/casualiama/comments/37tohm/i_am_a_homeless_man_living_out_of_my_car_i_have/) post on the CasualIAMA subreddit. Basically he is a 29 year old homeless living on his car, making minimum wage and paying alimony to his ex-wife and mother of his child, who seems to make much more money than him. She also lives with another man, also with a far superior income (according to OP).

So my question is, is this legal by US law? He doesn't mention location in the post.
Topic:
Custody Divorce and Family

Answer:
 He created a child.  He is responsible for providing some level of support for that child.

If he feels the amount is unfair because of his circumstances, he can petition the court to lower it.  A judge will hear all the facts and make a decision.Answer #2: $500 a month for child support *and* alimony doesn't sound like it was based on a very high income to begin with.

Did the guy ever say why he was working in fast food instead of his previous career?


Title: If a car at an intersection perpendicular to me is signalling right, but does straight, and I assume that he's going right, and go, and he still hits me, who is at fault?

Question:
https://i.imgur.com/aZzX5Xd.png

So Car 1 has right of way (assume this intersection is normal and proper). Car 2 comes to a stop at red line. Car 1 is a bit further away but signalling to turn right. Car 2 goes straight and they hit. Assuming it wasn't super obvious like car 1 isn't going 30 miles an hour, or changes his mind and hits car 2, who is at fault?

Or is car 2 technically not allowed to go until car 1 completes his turn or starts his turn. Assuming no other traffic.

Location is BC Canada if that matters.

Answer:
 Car 2 is at fault in this case. Car 1 has an obligation to confirm it is safe to proceed before accelerating.

It's unfortunate that people are as indecisive as they are while driving, just remember that you can only control *your* own actions on the road. Assume everyone is an idiot.


Title: My spouse of 12 years just came out to me as gay. Does this secret count as mental cruelty in the courts? (Canada)

Question:
I love and support my husband, despite the betrayal I feel after 15 years together (married 12) and 3 children.
Many problems arose in our marriage due to the secret he kept (I know it wasn't malicious, but still). The secret caused me many tearful nights and physical stress, because he was generally critical, in bad moods, short with me.
My question is based on the 1 year separation clause that is required before divorce. There is zero chance of reconciliation, as he is not into women AT All.
Can I claim mental cruelty in this case? I feel that society has been cruel to him, but hiding this from me all these years has been cruel to me. Please see my posting history if you would like more background.

Answer: I think you would spend a lot of time energy and money proving that the reason he was in bad moods and short with you was because he is guy. Those things happen with straight straight people too. And they are there in nearly every divorce to a point...think about it - that's essentially why many people get divorces .


Title: Ex-girlfriend threatening legal action for continued payment of bills, all of which are in her name.

Question:
**Location**: Florida, US

Here's my situation. My ex-girlfriend and I broke up around 09/2013. Of course, while we were together, we shared the cost of bills. During our relationship, any charges made to credit or things required credit checks or what have you, were all put into her name, as my credit score is lower that her's. Over the years of our relationship, there were a couple credit cards used, a loan taken out, things shifted around, etc. etc. It's all in her name only, though. But I paid half of everything while together.

Anyway, we broke up. We continued living together until the lease on our apartment was up, as that was the only thing in both of our names. She moved up to a different state. I stayed here. This was around 03/2014. Ever since then, I've continued to pay towards half of the bills. There was no written or verbal agreement (of my knowledge) that obligated me to this, I simply did it to assist her with her move and because I felt responsible for part of the accumulated debt in her name.

My circumstances have changed, as has her's, however, and I'm no longer able to continue this arrangement. It's been nearly a year and a half that I've continued payment to bills in her name, with our only correspondence being through Facebook Messages and Email.

As far as I know, from reviewing our past correspondence via email and Facebook messages, I see nothing that specifically states I would continue to pay any amount of money to her for any reason.

We have a joint bank account, which is where I would transfer money to for her to use. I went to the bank today to have my name removed from the account, but was told the only way to do it (without her there) was to close the account entirely, which I decided not to do yet. What are my options on that? Should I close it, as I'm responsible for that account as it has my name apart of it.

She sent me a "notice" email this morning hinting at seeking legal action against me if I did not immediately transfer money over.

From what I've provided, am I legally obligated to continue paying any amount of money to her for any amount of time? Is her "notice" email something I should respond to? Should I seek legal consultation?

From my limited understanding of the law, there has been no legal or enforceable agreement, either written or verbal, which would obligate me. Are Facebook Messages or Email even submittable as some type of evidence?

I can provide any further information or specifics if needed.
Topic:
Other Civil Matters

Answer:
 Bear in mind that I'm not a lawyer, but I can see why she might expect continued assistance, might have made plans with that assistance factored in, and might show damage as a result of you stopping said assistance. That being said bills in her name are legally her responsibility, and bills not in your name aren't your responsibility.

I would close the account and direct any remaining balance to her. Write a letter explaining exactly why you are stopping payment, how the assistance after the move was always temporary intended to facilitate her move, and point out that her new bills are her own.

I wouldn't hire a lawyer until you get served with something, after all there is no mechanism that obligated ongoing payments for someone who is merely dating and the vast majority of threats of legal action are never followed up with actual legal action.


Title: Recently Demoted - 72% loss of pay

Question:
I was/am a solar installer in Southern California. I am also a bigger guy, 6'4" and overweight. I started at this company about 5 months ago, and aside from a bump right in the beginning, I thought everything was going well. We were primarily working on prevailing wage jobs, and I was making good money. I don't want to go into specific numbers, but it was good money.

I was just informed by my company that I am being moved into the office, along with a 72% pay cut. Because I will no longer be getting any prevailing wage. They told me that they would let me go, but because I am smart, and a good employee, always on time, and so on, they wanted to give me the chance to work in the office.

They said that this is happening because I was too slow. But personally I felt like I was either keeping pace with, or outpacing, other employees. I heard only one complaint, and that was from the general manager giving me a phone call from his personal cell phone to mine about a week after I started. He let me know that he heard I was being a little slower, and that I needed to pick up the pace.

Admittedly, I was slower at this point. I was coming off some time unemployed, and was out of shape. But I picked it up, and never heard another complaint. I have asked people I work with about my pace since then, and they had no complaints. It is also quite easy for me to tell if I am on pace or not at this job because of how repetitive it is, I was never behind the other guys installing.

All of the sudden, they are bringing me into the office and making me an "offer" to be an office worker (basically a sales gig) or be let go. I was told to go home and think about how much I wanted to be paid, and then get back to them. I asked for a 50% pay cut, and while it would have been rough, I could have made it work. Their "counter-offer" was a 72% pay cut, or they "wish the best for me at other companies"

Now, I feel like this could be a form of discrimination, like size discrimination or something? Because I am bigger than the other guys they assumed I was slower.

I accepted the offer, because if I declined it, I  would be out of a job and would not receive unemployment. Because I did a google search, and apparently if I decline an offer I do not get unemployment.

So I need money coming in, so I was left with only one option. Take the shitty offer and start looking for a new job asap.

I am here to ask, are there any legal actions I can take? I was not slow, and even if I was, I should have gotten a warning or a write up, or even a mention in passing. I didn't hear anything after that first call, so I figured I was good.

What can I do, if anything? (Aside from finding a new job, which I am working on)

Answer:
 Cutting your pay by nearly three quarters is very likely to constitute constructive dismissal. You may still be able to get unemployment if you quit promptly in response, or had you quit in reaction to that offer: it's clear that the intent is to make your job intolerable or to change the circumstances so severely (and so much to your detriment) as to make you quit.

First, if you're in a union, talk to your union rep about this. Similarly, if you have a non-union binding contract overriding your state's at-will assumption, talk to an attorney. Otherwise, weigh the possibility of filing for unemployment while you look for other work.

Discriminating against you for being larger _likely_ isn't against the law, even given California's broader anti-discrimination laws. If you're overweight to the point you need a specific accommodation, and have requested that accommodation in writing, and if it's reasonable, and your employer fired you instead of accommodating you, that might do it, but a mere perception that "fat = slow" isn't going to be a problem for them, unfortunately.


Title: I just found out who stole about 1K worth of musical equipment from me almost 8 years ago in Atlanta, what can I do?

Question: I have the persons name and a witness that told me who took my gear. It was almost 8 years ago in Atlanta, I live in SC, and I didn't file a report because I had just assumed, at the time, that the gear had just been misplaced. Is there anything I can still do? I'm not sure that he still has my property nor do I know if he would admit to taking it at this point. I do not know this guy but some of his contact info has been given to me by the witness. Any help would be much appreciated.

Answer:
 You're likely out of luck, even though you just discovered the theft you always knew of the disappearance, and you have one piece of evidence.

More importantly, Georgia has a 4-year statute of limitations on personal property lawsuits. Criminally, felony theft ($500+) in Georgia also has a 4-year statue of limitations.


Title: My boyfriends ex-girlfriend said she called the cops on me for harassment? [Texas]

Question:
My boyfriends ex likes to talk to my boyfriend, despite me not agreeing to this behavior (another story) they still talk, I did what an angry girl would do and go to her facebook page and send an angry message just saying to go away (i did not say anything threatening). She read the message but never responded to me, she responded to my boyfriend saying she filed a police report on me and if I contact her again she will file for harassment.
If i were to contact her again in the future, since she never told ME to quit talking to her, could I get in trouble legally?

Answer: Yes. Stop harassing her. Go to r/relationships and ponder why you are mad at another woman for talking to your boyfriend and yet he is still your boyfriend.


Title: Newly widow with an illegitimate child of late husband

Question:
A husband recently passed away but had an affair with another women in a different country and he brought the child to live with his legal wife in America. The child has not graduated high school yet and is still in their teen years.

The stepchild is currently staying with the widow because the other biological parent (mistress) in the different country cannot financially support the child and does not want to take the child back.

But the widow does not want to take care of the child. What legal parent status does the window have to an illegitimate child now?

Is the widow legally responsible to take care of a child that is not her own? If there is no legal responsibility where can the widow give up the child to? Police station? Adoption center?

Answer:
 >  where can the widow give up the child to? Police station? Adoption center?

Holy crap, no no no no no. Police? Adoption? Seriously? The child has a parent and also may be inheriting from the father's estate. The child is a minor and a tenant in the home. The parent should speak to an attorney and presumably call social services. There are options. But right now she is responsible for the child's welfare and safety. Not forever, probably not until the child turns 18, but right now she is.Answer #2: The widow can contact [Child Protective Services](https://www.dcyf.wa.gov/services/child-welfare-system/cps), explain the situation, and ask for assistance. CPS doesn't just investigate abuse; they also look at any situation where a child's needs are not being addressed.


Title: [PA] Can I Legally Shoot a Neighbor's Dog in My Yard?

Question: 2-3 weeks ago my neighbor's dog started coming on to my property. We live in the city and the dog used to have an electric fence, but it seems that is no longer the case. The dog is on the larger side (40-50 pounds) and very aggressive. Several times my mother has had to run for the front door while out gardening because the dog will run towards her and begin growling and trying to bite. Tonight the dog attempted to bite her and she kicked it several times until it ran away. We have told our neighbors on three separate occasions about the issue and they keep saying they'll handle it but never do. We have also called our local police department whenever we see the dog on our yard, but because it is not an emergency, it usually takes 10-20 minutes for them to arrive, by which time the dog is back in it's yard/house. The police knock on the neighbor's door, but they never answer. The officers we spoke to last said they could do nothing until there was evidence the dog hurt someone or was dangerous. My mother is beginning to fear working in our yard because of this animal. I love animals, but this dog is becoming a threat to my mother's safety, so I was wondering if it was legal to shoot it the next time it tries to hurt someone in my yard. Between the police and lack of problem solving by my neighbors, I feel like I am running out of options and it is only a matter of time before someone gets hurt by the animal. However, if shooting is illegal, what other steps can I legally take to resolve this situation?

Answer:
 Call animal control not the police.Answer #2: Dog Law specialist here.

It’s going to be dependent upon your municipality; that said, it’s likely that discharging a firearm may itself violate some local laws. Call animal control and get this documented first and foremost; if you do have to blow Fido away to the other side of the Rainbow Bridge, you at least have the benefit of a paper trail that way.Answer #3: >However, if shooting is illegal, what other steps can I legally take to resolve this situation?

Buy some good doggy treats and make friends with the dog. Hold your friends close, and your enemies closer.Answer #4: Build a fence around your yard.


Title: [FL] How Does Parental Rights Being Terminated In The Past Affect The Present?

Question:
I know somebody who lost parental rights to both of her children in 2009. Her boyfriend had beaten one of the children while high on methamphetamine. She also tested positive for methamphetamine and was arrested for paraphernalia during that incident.

She had a baby with somebody else in 2012. They separated in 2014. The father is now fighting for sole custody after receiving calls that the mother was using drugs again.

How much of an impact will the past terminations have on the mother's custody going forward?

Answer: It will definitely reflect on the judges decision.


Title: [CA] Can I report this man for harassment?

Question: So last Saturday, I finished my job at the mall and got off an hour early. I walked to the outside parking lot and the car next to me was parked probably four inches from my car. However, I got in and chose a song to play on my phone while waiting for the ac to kick in when I hear a knock on my door. I am 17, so I was hesitant to talk to him. However, he insisted that there was damage on his car that I caused. He said I slammed my door on his. I denied it repeatably while he was acting condescending to me due to my age. Eventually, he bullied me by calling the police and not hanging up until I traded our license and insurance (My father told me this was a mistake.) Obviously, since there is no damage on my car, I thought it would be fine but now I have discovered that in his insurance claim, he says our vehicles were in motion. I do not know what to do. Any advice on this matter will help me. Also can I report him for harassment?

Answer:
 Not harassment to accuse you of an accident. Have you contacted your insurance to put your statement on record? Do you get a report of the incident from cop? Answer #2: There's no harassment here. Also, I'm uncertain as to the mistake of providing your information to a person who may legitimately believe you damaged them.

As to the lie about the vehicles in motion, let your insurance company handle it.


Title: Plane crash settlement

Question: Basically pops died in a plane crash and we're suing the maintenance company for failing to inspect all articles of the plane. The insurance offered 1.2 million but it was 2 million dollar policy so my lawyers advised we go for the full thing so we denied it now they offered me 75000 for my split among 7 heirs. I said no and rebuttled with 350000 for my portion. Any advice lawyer says they likely won't want to go to trial and will solve it before. Should I take the 75k or all in?

Answer: You have lawyers that are literally dealing with millions of dollars. They know your case better than we do. If you want a second opinion, go to another attorney and ask them. Answer #2: You're in a multi-million-dollar lawsuit, and you're asking an internet forum to second guess your lawyers?


Title: [California] Hit with a subrogation collection notice for a hit and run I was never involved in.

Question:
Backstory: Last September I received a letter from CHP Santa Cruz informing me that my plates were reported in a hit and run. After 5 days I managed to talk to someone investigating my case. I e-mailed him pictures of my vehicle showing no damage and explained that my vehicle at the time would have broken down if I ever tried to drive that far. The next day he called me back telling me he received my email and I had nothing to worry about.

Fast forward to last week, I received a letter from "Accelerated Recovery Services, Inc." of Redwood City claiming I owe $3,400 for that hit and run.

I called the number provided to hopefully clear up what I hope to be just a clerical error and ended up talking to a rude collections who provided very little help and then ended up hanging up on me.

Is this some kind of scam? If I have been found liable for these damages caused by a hit and run, shouldn't the police have contacted me before a collections agency?

Answer:
 Tell them you will only communicate with them through postal mail and tell them they need to mail you paperwork outlining their probably-horseshit demandsAnswer #2: It very well could be a scam. I wouldn't pay them a dime, either way. The best thing to do here is write a letter, explaining the situation and your contact with CHP Santa Cruz. Maybe get something in writing from the CHP that you "have nothing to worry about."

Of course, don't ignore any formal documents (i.e., a summons or complaint).