Title: [WA USA] Can the landlord kick me out before the lease ends because he wants to move back in?

Question:
My landlord emailed me saying that him and his wife are going to be moving in and I have a month to get everything ready and move. Well at this time the amount of houses for rent are very low and will take longer then a month. I was wondering if they actually could kick me out by the end of the month of do they need to wait for my year lease to end?
I live in Washington state

Answer: What is the end-date of your lease? That is the date you will have to move by. He cannot make you move earlier unless you don't pay rent or commit some other act that would violate your lease. MAKE SURE YOU PAY YOUR RENT IN A RECORDABLE MANNER. That is, get a receipt, etc. I've seen it happen (rarely) where landlords "lose" your check and then claim you didn't pay rent, starting an eviction process. Protect yourself.


Title: [USA] Parking in two normal spots if all disabled parking spots are taken

Question:
Someone posted [this image](http://i.imgur.com/U8A7S17.jpg) on Twitter, and they commented that parking in two spots like this is legal if you're disabled but all disabled parking spots are taken. I tried googling this a variety of ways but I couldn't find anything that wasn't about non-disabled people parking in disabled spots.

Is this true? Is there a federal law, or something else? I'd like to know more about this but I can't seem to find anything.

Edit: Point taken. I'll stick to Google next time.

Answer: Stop believing twitter comments.


Title: Never knew my father and feel like im being lied to about child support ( Nebraska)

Question:
So im really bad at explaining these things so i do apologise ahead of time.

i am turning 21 on February 14th but i have finally gotten out of my mother's grasp. Basically used me for money and was really toxic. Well recently ive been wondering about my backed child support. my mom made a comment that she received like 2$ this month for it and in the past always claimed she never got much alright fine. but i feel like she is hiding things from me. Ive been told due to my father no longer living in Nebraska that they cant persue him for it but im wondering if there is a way for me as the child now adult to see how much is still owed and if so whether or not there are any ways for me to get it paid out. I always thought once i turned 19 the legal age of adulthood in Nebraska that i the child would recieve the back pay and if so why have i not sorry this post is a giant mess. Im bad at typing these things up.

Answer: The back child support is not for you, it's for your mother. You have no claim to it.


Title: LL wants us to pay $320 no show fee (CO)

Question:
Long story short, a contractor came on a Saturday, we didn't hear him, and now the property management company won't negotiate a lower price.

We are obligated to pay no-show fees under the contract, but $320 is out of the question. I want to take this to small claims court or negotiate a lower price. What rights do I have?

Answer: If the lease says you owe $320 if you blow off a contractor, and you blew off a contractor, then you owe that money. You can ask them to work with you, but you have no leverage.


Title: UPDATE! My employers are changing my job description (with my feedback) but the changes make me uncomfortable and I don't want to agree to them. They said too bad, it's happening, and I don't have to sign for them to apply to me. MT

Question:
UPDATE to my OP:
https://www.reddit.com/r/legaladvice/comments/4t8lxd/my_employers_are_changing_my_job_description_with/

I made a stink, and they bluffed on me ("you don't HAVE to agree to this, but it still applies to you!" "No, it doesn't!"....) and there was a lot of bluffing on my part (saying I would consult a lawyer, but I did not, since I wasn't able to afford one other than my brother, who didn't pass the BAR in his own state). I stood my ground, and insisted upon a meeting with the Executive Board, where I described my financial hardships regarding my lack of a living wage.

They ponied up with a third party company that is giving me insurance money plus $100, in case of increase and to cover my RXs.

Overall, I am happy with the outcome--for the time being. Am I still selling myself short? I offset my supply cost by at least 200%, which I think is pretty good for a non-profit, but my temp boss says I need to also offset my salary? IDK how that is possible. Any help is appreciated.

Answer:
 I'm very confused here.Answer #2: >my temp boss says I need to also offset my salary

He's going to try and eliminate your position because it's a drain on funding.  He wants the classes to make money.


Title: My dad is with holding my Social security card

Question:
Okay. If you want more of the back story and what's happening go to my profile there is a story there.

Now, I moved out of my dad's house in 8th grade to live with my mom and have court ordered visits, although never prolonged (mostly a couple of hours.)

I needed my SSC for my job, which he gave to my manager and took back with him.

Now i need it for a bank account and he is refusing to give it too me.

I need it asap because i have an appointment with the bank and we don't have time or money to order a new one plus birth certificate.

I told him he could have it back when we're done, I have a safe to put it in, and he said he'll give it too me if he doesn't "forget."

It's been going on for a solid week now and I just want my information. He said because he's paid for it (even though the card was issued by state) that it's his. Its my information that I need and o think my step mom is playing a big roll in me not getting my stuff.

Is there any legal approaches i can take in getting my SSC?

Answer: The custodial parent should have the documents. Have your mother requested documents from him. However not knowing what state you are in... in some states you can have your mother go to the sheriff's explain the situation, prove she holds primary custody. Then the sheriff will request the hand over documents.


Title: Can my job do this?

Question:
I recently started a fueler job at the airport, I wont disclose which airport or contractor due to my discretion. I will say though it is an international airport. I've been training for about a week now and when I was hired I decided to show my birth certificate and drivers license as my two forms of ID. Now in the past I've had issues with family that made my social security card hard to get attained. They are telling me in order to get paid that I MUST show my social security card or they are going to delay my paychecks. I have one coming in the mail but Its not much I can do to rush the process, I showed them the receipt for now but I'm curious and have to wonder, can they even do this? (I've also got the impression the GM isn't to fond of me, but thats just an assumption nothing legible to back it up.)

I have completed an I-9

California also btw.

Answer: They can't not pay you but they could fire you if you cannot produce the needed documents.


Title: [Update] Landlord hasn't fixed two heater units for three months after multiple requests. I left. (New Jersey)

Question:
**[Original thread.](http://www.reddit.com/r/legaladvice/comments/2qaq96/landlord_hasnt_fixed_two_heater_units_for_three/)**

*Outcome:*

I received the security deposit back and then some.

Thanks for your help /r/legaladvice.
___

The following are some details that I wish I knew about before moving out on grounds of constructive eviction in NJ:

1.  You must get a housing official to come out and measure the temperature in your apartment during certain times of the day in order for there to be official paperwork that your apartment is indeed uninhabitable.
I didn't do this and had to resort to printing out weather data from the relevant months. Not very evidence-worthy.

2. It helps to have proof that you were unable to stay in your residence due to the cold such as staying in a hotel for a night or more. I don't know how much it helps, but the judge asked me if I had to stay at a hotel or somewhere else due to the cold.
3. You should really try putting your money in an escrow account or reducing rent first until the landlord fixes what's necessary. I kind of jumped the gun on constructive eviction because it was so cold that I didn't want to risk getting stuck there any longer than I needed to. I mean I *did* give her 3.5 months to fix the thing. At that point, I couldn't trust that my landlord would repair the heater.

Answer:
 I'm glad to see everything worked out for you.

Have a nice day.


Title: (Maine) Are hosts required to provide edible food for guests?

Question:
I'm staying with my cousin and her husband for the summer, all I've been able to eat for the past month is cereal, strawberries and a few side dishes. The meat is unsanitary and disgusting. They won't even drive me to the store.

The power also goes out sometimes(for hours) and it's hot.

Is this legal?

Answer: This is the strangest troll...writing prompt maybe?


Title: I got into a heated argument, said some harsh things, now I'm being threatened with a lawsuit

Question:
I get into online drama (don't tell me not to because that's not legal advice) and much of it is between parents. These parents get really aggressive between each other, and although I'm not a parent, I do support the side I agree with.
I joined in and argued on that side. I got into arguments with a parent, who has a history of harassment,  and we exchanged insults. I told them that they were unfit to be having kids as their online behavior showed. They told me that they're more successful and will have more kids. I responded that their family will collapse as I'll be laughing (a horrible thing that does not represent me, just when my friends are attacked).
Then this persons friend told them that I could be sued for this, and they threatened a lawsuit. Would this case hold ground, since I didn't say anything defamatory or contact any news?
Topic:
Computer and Internet

Answer:
 Stop getting into online drama.

Lots of people threaten lawsuits.  Very few of them actually follow through with it.  A great defense to a defamation lawsuit would be, "I did not defame them, what I said was largely opinion and insult."


Title: Employer Assigning (unpaid) Homework (MN)

Question:
Posting this for a friend. She just got a job as a server at a small, very unique, fine-dining-esque restaurant. They are sending her home with obscene amounts of material to study, which they will be testing her on weekly. Basically she needs to study menu descriptions for each and every item they offer (these dishes can be quite intricate), wine pairings, etc. The employee handbook alone is about 1/2" thick.

As far as I can tell, they should be compensating her for the time she is spending studying, as it is a requirement for the job. Frankly, I'm appalled they think they can get away with this.

My questions are:

1. Is this legal?

2. If not, how to address the issue without them retaliating? It's a smaller place and I think she may be the only new hire so it would be obvious who the complaint was coming from.

Answer:
 It would depend how it's phrased too.

If the job requirement is that you KNOW about certain dishes, than they could simply give her the papers and say read it or not, if you fail when we test you, you're out.

It really is going to come down to is knowing these dishes an "essential duty" to the job. If they're common enough that a server should know them before getting the job, no.

It will also depend on whether they are allowing her to brush up on the descriptions during the time she is punched in at work.

Answer #2: It's not legal if it's specific to this particular job. The Department of Labor would love to hear her story.


Title: When does a con become illegal?

Question:
About a week ago, a young man I've never met came to our door. He said he lived nearby and used to know the people who lived in our home before us. He had a very detailed story prepared about how he needed some money for gas so he could get to work and pick up his paycheck and promised he'd pay us back if we could help him out. The level of detail he offered unsolicited, combined with the facts that (1) he had pictures of his gasless truck queued up on his phone ready to prove that it existed, (2) the previous residents haven't lived here in about a year and he didn't know their names, (3) he kept asking inappropriately specific questions about the house and our daily schedules (things like whether we had dogs, how many floors the house had, whether I was usually home at that time, etc.- all questions which I answered vaguely enough to not jeopardize the security of our home in case he was casing us for a burglary) lead my wife and me to believe he may not have been completely honest. But he may have just been a young man trying to be neighborly and get some help, and overstepping some boundaries unintentionally.

So despite our suspicions my wife and I ended up giving him $10 in cash and told him he could come pay it back after he deposited his paycheck. That never happened, which didn't surprise us. Then a couple nights ago he came back and said he didn't pay us back because he got in a car accident and had to pay hospital bills. His account of the accident had some holes, but he asked for some more help to get his girlfriend the rest of the way home. I figured another $10 wouldn't break the bank so I walked to the gas station a block away and paid for some gas with my card and met his girlfriend, whom he'd also included in his initial unrequested life sketch the first day. I exchanged phone numbers to be neighborly (although I still don't even know if he actually lives near us).

Last night he texted me saying he got in *another* car crash and asked if we could either help again or give him the phone number of the previous residents (again without using their names). We wouldn't be comfortable giving out their number if we did have it, and we can't afford to help him again so I told him so and sent him a referral link for a credit card, which could help in future situations like this if used right.

At this point it's 50/50 whether he's just having a really, really unlucky month or whether he's trying to con us out of small cash for free gas. I'm not too worried about it, but it got me wondering just in case: at what point would I go to the police if this is a confidence trick? What evidence would need to exist to make lying to get money from someone prosecutable? If he's conned us out of $20, it's not the end of the world and I'm glad to have erred on helping someone not in need instead of failing someone in need. But I would like to be prepared in case this leads to more serious fraud in the future.

We're in Utah.

Answer:
 You think someone is scamming and planning to rob you, and your solution has been to exchange numbers and become this person's regular petty cash stop?

Maybe reevaluate your decision-making here.


Title: [ID] Friend is renting an apartment that seems to have a two way mirror? Can she sue them for not informing her of that?

Question: We're pretty sure that there is a two way mirror in her apartment.  What sort of legal action could she take for them not informing her of this?

Answer:
 One-way mirrors aren't magic, they rely on the room on the mirror side being much more well-lit than the observation side. If there's really a two way mirror, and you turn off the lights, you'll be able to see through it.

Answer #2: What makes you think there is a two way mirror in your friend's apartment?  This would be super illegal, and super unlikely.

Your friend is entitled to privacy.  If someone is spying on her, she can call the police.Answer #3: How about just taking the mirror off the wall?  If there is nothing but solid wall behind it then no one is peeping on you.


Title: Landlord forgot to transfer the electric bill to me. As a result I've been paying the electric bill for my old residence without knowing and current landlord may charge me back pay.

Question: [deleted]

Answer: It was your responsibility to tell the power company to take you off your prior residence. Same with phone, cable, water, Internet, or gas - any utilities that billed you directly.


Title: Wrongful termination?

Question:
I have been working for a small business in Michigan for about 2 years. About 2 weeks ago I tell the owner that I had to take a day off to go to the doctors. I have had a really good attendance and she told me no. I asked her why and she said it was because the other person working the next day was stressed out. I told her I was going to the doctors anyway. The owner ignored me for a few days and I asked when she wanted me to come back. She told me that I quit and that she moved on. So I don't know if that is grounds for anything just thought I would ask.
Topic:
Labor Law

Answer: No, that is not wrongful termination. You can be fired for taking a day off.


Title: I'm in a foreign country and my father won't let me leave.

Question: I dont know if this is the best sub or not but here goes. I'm 19, my dad is a contractor for the government, has the shortest temper you've ever seen, and has just told me he won't let me leave the country. Long story short he believes I owe him $900 dollars for my phone (S7 edge), a car tire (that popped while I was driving), and a plane ticket to Germany (we were supposed to go skiing in Garmish), and refuses to pay for my plane ticket home. Being that I can't even afford to pay him back because I have no money, no job, and no car I don't understand how he expects me to pay him back for all this stuff. He works for NATO and we're stationed in Naples IT (if that's important somehow) and I was supposed to go home in December for finals (in CA) but it seems like he won't even allow that to happen. All I know is I just really want to go home.

Answer:
 Contact the closest US embassy and ask if they can help you.  You're an adult your father really doesn't owe you anything anymore. Are you able to legally get a job?Answer #2: You're 19, an adult... at least legally.  You're father has no duty to pay for your plane tickets if he doesn't want to.  If you can't afford plane tickets you'll have to either make up with your dad or call someone else and get them to pay for it. Failing that you may need to look into personal loans.

Ultimately if you are actually stuck in Europe you'll need to contact the US embassy and see what they can do in this situation.  The don't offer free flights I know that.


Title: My wife is the plaintiff in a sexual assault case. The defendant already has an attorney and we don't. Do we need to hire one for proper justice? (Oklahoma)

Question:
This guy tried to get her to touch his semi-hard penis and was denied. He grabbed her wrist very physically and with force. I am afraid there may be a lack of evidence, but this guys a real creep and was high on methamphetamines (which is another known fact.) I am terrified he will suffer no repercussions.

I am being charged with assault as he told police I choked and punched him upon learning of the incident which is false, but is another matter entirely. I really just want him to be on a sex offender registry or something. I greatly appreciate any true advice.

Edit: I appreciate everyone's advice on my case, but I posted this thread out of concern for my wife's case. I would be very disappointed with the Justice system if he was let off. Also, I forgot that she has two witnesses to his behavior just before the event. A statement made by my wife's friend mentioned how he was very strange and erratic in his behavior immediately prior to calling her into another room for his attempt. He was also very uncooperative about her demanding him to leave. He was a neighbor, and I was somewhere else. I am getting some quality stuff here so I'm happy I posted, but I really want info n her case.

Answer:
 Generally speaking the *county* in which the crime occurred are the plaintiff in a criminal case. You/your wife are not the plaintiff and (for her case at least) you don't need an attorney.

If you're planning on speaking civil damages, you may want an attorney for that.Answer #2: If this is a criminal case, which I'm guessing it is, then no, you don't need a lawyer.  Your wife is the victim but it is the state that prosecutes criminal cases.  She has no decision-making power in what the ultimate outcome is.

If you are being charged, you should get a lawyer for that.Answer #3: You need a defense attorney for the charges against you. The advocate for you wife is the state's attorney. Answer #4: If you're being charged with assault, I'd advise you to take it seriously unless you know you have iron clad proof you couldn't have done what the guy claims you did. If you can afford a lawyer to defend you, you should. Public defenders are often overworked and frequently not that experienced. Based on what little you've told us, I'd say you have more to be worried about than your wife.


Title: What happens if I win a lot of money as a tourist (in Vegas)?

Question:
I feel like this question is appropriate here.

So let's say I win 10k, how do I go on about keeping the money when I return to my country (Finland)

Do I have to pay tax in US?

Can I transfer the money to my bank via casino or will I have to carry the winning as cash to my country?

What if I win even more? 20k, 30k, 50k... etc...?

I'm assuming I will have to pay income tax of the winning as I return to Finland and I don't assume anyone here to know about this.

Yes I'm aware winning is unlikely but if it happens I would like to know what to do beforehand so I don't have to stress about it during the vacation.
Topic:
Tax Law

Answer:
 Casino worker Here.   If you have a tax ID number you will be paid in cash the full amount,  since you have property here,  you can pay your taxes at the end of the year.

If you do not have a number we will withhold 30% of your winnings automatically.   There are lawyers in your own country that can do some paperwork with the US that will get most of that 30% back.


Title: I think my grandmother has poisoned my dog and killed my hamster [Florida]

Question:
I know the majority of comments will be 'just move out' but please hear me:

I'm a recently turned 18-year old. My grandmother has been extremely emotionally abusive towards me since I was a kid (like, the kind that would tell toddler me that me and my sister were so naughty that no one loved us, we were going to burn in hell, at 13 she was hitting my older sister so I started recording her- she told me that I was going to be sent to prison and be raped by her 'friends' for recording her) and has only gotten worse. I've always done what my parents said and tried to avoid her, but she lives with us (hahaha fucking haha i know right?) and she is the type that will chase you around the house.

Last year, my sister died. She was 18. My grandmother hated my sister and for some reason, has started to take out more on me. She told the six year old I watch at our house that I abuse her, told a couple cashiers that I am a sexual predator (was a 17-year old female...) and that I am a sexual deviant pedophile that has a dirty mind to people... in general. If they ask about her home life, they will hear all about me and my 'witchy ways'.

On the 17th, we went for my sister's memorial. She was not invited. When we returned home, my bedroom door was wide open (I left it out about a foot for my pets because of my cat's litter box and my dog likes to sleep on my bed when I leave the house) further than what I put it, and my hamster's cage was thrown across my room. To put an image in your mind:

My hamster, Fellatio, had two cages. They were connected by a small little tube. My cats have taken interest in him before, but they aren't able to get him. It's light for a person (even for an adult that is 80 years old), but heavy enough for a cat to not be able to knock it over. It's on top of my desk. My desk is roughly 5 feet, 2 inches with a long bridge on top of it... like where TVs had. You get the picture right? (Like this: https://smhttp-ssl-18667.nexcesscdn.net/media/catalog/product/cache/1/image/9df78eab33525d08d6e5fb8d27136e95/H/4/H478-26-48-storage-desk-w-hutch-1.jpg - see where the plants are? That's close enough to this. His cage was there.) My cats have never tried to knock his cage over. Like... ever. They've stood on his cage before, but never knocked it out. It's heavy for them and very stable, I want to say. It's not easy for _me_ to move because of how awkward it is. Next to it, was open glasses of water. See, if they were able to knock it over, I was thinking they would've had to knocked over the water. Or gotten my desk dirty. My desk was clean. He had bedding. (https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/originals/38/d3/85/38d385af66cdfa1a8a667514ad61c368.jpg) Nothing was on my desk. Literally nothing. I had had books, my school work, and clothes on my desk (clean, folded, just not put away yet)... they weren't disturbed. The cage was thrown across my room. Not in the way of like them moving the cage around, but literally thrown. One part of his cage, the bottom, was underneath my bed on the far corner (very close to the wall), the other one close-close to my door... Basically, the way it landed, it would be impossible for them to have knocked it over. When I picked him up, his fur was dried. No blood, no wet fur, no holes in his skin from them...

I've had pets die from dogs. I've picked up rodents before after my cats have gotten to them... My dog is afraid of my hamster. Like, physically afraid of him and will go into hiding-- when I had guinea pigs, she would go into her cage and cry her little head off in fear of them if she saw them outside of their cage. When one of my cat catches mice, she brings them to me alive. The other one wont even kill flies. Literally, no. She won't kill flies, mice... she cuddles, doesn't kill. The only person home was her. My grandmother.

Since then, she recently bought an odd assortment of items. Rat posion, mice traps, fly swatters... she has made jokes about removing the 'pests from my home'. My dog is sick.

She is a little bit old (5 years old for a basset), but was always healthy. My dog is now sick. When I came home from work, she had gotten sick everywhere. There was blood in her stool. She has stopped eating mostly. She has been to a vet. And we are waiting for the results.

I... really do believe that she has gotten my dog sick. I really believe that she killed my baby hamster. I don't know what to do. I really don't. Legally, am I allowed to do anything? I can't afford to move yet-- I'm supposed to move in May. Can I go to the police? Can I sue her when I move? Would anyone even care?

Answer:
 If the test results show your dog has been poisoned, file a police report and discuss your suspicions of animal abuse with police.Answer #2: Im sorry for all of this but you names you hamter Fellatio?Answer #3: What do your parents say about all this? Are they investigating other living arrangements for her? Assisted living or something of the sort.

If they are not, you might have to consider rehoming your pets, because they are in danger from this woman. Frankly, I'd be afraid she will escalate and try to poison you, too, because of the way she speaks about you. Bring that up with your parents, because they may not want to consider their parents is a danger to their child — but they should.


Title: Advice on staffing agency making agreement without my consent for client to "hire" me – MN

Question:
Here’s the story:

– I started working for a staffing agency in 2012, as a W4 employee, picking up occasional work. The agency does not offer anyone independent contractor status. I’m not sure I still have my original contracts with them, but am looking through old paperwork. I am an S-Corp on my own, and usually work as contractor. I pay myself payroll and pay those taxes and file corporate returns – and have my own diverse client list. My staffing agency has known this.

– The staffing agency set me up with a ad agency in early 2015 for project work, I completed three projects for the agency. I was paid through my staffing agency as usual.

– The last project ended over three weeks ago. They asked me to fill out a timesheet with the client instead of with the staffing agency – after I completed the project. I didn’t think anything of it, just thought it was a new billing system.

– After a week went by, the ad agency emailed me to let me know I should fill out an I9 to get paid for the project I completed. I thought this was odd, and replied that I should be paid as a contractor, not an employee, if they were paying me directly.  I did not agree to be paid by the client directly, nor have my staffing agency rate disclosed, but the staffing agency probably has the right to do that. My rep at the staffing agency said “I’m not sure why they are doing it this way, it’s for budgeting reasons."

– After some back and forth, the ad agency HR sent me all their employee documents – including a Code of Conduct and Employee Handbook to sign. Also an I9 form and some other misc. employee payroll forms. There was no job offer, no benefits outlined, no rate discussion, no staffing agency contract buyout discussion. They told me I had to fill these things out to get paid for the project I already completed. The Code of Conduct has clauses about “conflicts of interest” and disclosing all potential conflicts. It also says I can’t work for competitors or vendors during my employment. It has a non-solicication clause that seems very vague. For certain, according to the contract, I can’t work for any agencies that might be in competition with this agency. That could possibly include my own existing S-Corp business.

– I sent the contracts to my other staffing agency, for whom I also sometimes work as a contractor (1099). They said flat out that if I sign the contracts, I probably can’t work for them, since many of their clients would conflict with this agency’s accounts and interests.

– I communicated what they said back to the HR rep at the ad agency and she said “Fine, we’ll pay you through your agency this time. But this is our policy and if you can’t sign the documents, we can’t use you in any future projects.”

– My staffing agency did not discuss any terms of employment with me, nor ask my permission to transfer my contract with them to this ad agency, nor permission to be put on a client’s payroll as an employee. They were unresponsive and left me to deal with most of this process myself. At the end my rep talked to the client, and that’s when they decided they would pay me for the project through the staffing agency, but I would not able work for the ad agency again.

– I asked the staffing agency to cancel my contract with them due to poor representation. I have also not gotten paid for another job from them where the client was difficult and only approved part of my work – so I handed off my files to the client for another freelancer to pick up. I was not paid for any of the project, even the meeting time. My rep refused to negotiate for payment on my behalf and wouldn’t answer any emails about getting paid. I know there is a clause preventing me from discussing payment with clients in my staffing agency agreement, so I count on the rep to do that for me.

Question: is this all above board and legal? I am left with nothing here, and feel I was treated badly for refusing to go on a company’s payroll for unspecified compensation – and for refusing to expose myself and my business to potential legal conflicts.

Edit: words

Answer:
 I've worked at two different ad agencies and this sounds like typical ad agency BS. I am sure the client have something in SOW with the agency that says they can't use contractors without approval and some jr, jr, jr account person never communicated that to HR.

Sorry you are going through this.


Title: [MA] My work has flooded stairwell with rats/moles. We are forced to have meetings in a moldy basement. Worried we are exposed to potential mold causing legionaries and other respiratory issues staff are getting, what can be done? Please help

Question:
Recently a staff passed away suddenly. She was cremated and her family wasn’t very close to her and my coworkers and I were feeling uneasy about her death as she was complaining about chest pain and was in the hospital for pneumonia before her death. About 5 other people in this building have been out of work for respiratory illnesses, stating “pneumonia” and such but I’m thinking it’s legionaries or something else because for years (this building was built in the 1800’s) it has been flooding. I’ve been taking photos and video documenting it and sending emails to the director of the inches to foot of water we have in the stairwell. This is the main stairwell we have to use to enter the building and get to our floors where our patients are. Most of the time the elevator is out of service (I don’t know if it is because it is an old building or due to flooding or rats eating the wires, the elevator maintenance workers complain of the three circumstances whenever they are here)
So there are tunnels for hiding during the wars and moles and others animals creep into the building through these tunnels. There are moles and rats swimming and also some dead floating in the stairwell. It is an incredibly foul smell. The stairwell is black with mold to the ceiling but the maintenance crew comes and paints over it. So the walls usually crumble and fall apart so the stairs are usually filled with this mixture of moldy drywall paint sometimes when you walk as they fall.
Anyways. When the water does recede we are forced to go into the basement for meetings. Please help me. I am not making this up. The director says we cannot have meetings in the residential apartments because it will break HIPPA and we cannot meet in the offices because it will break HIPPA. The only office open is in the basement and we have to work around the weather to plan our meetings. Most of us cough and some people actually have vomited DURING a meeting due to the smell of the mold in the basement. There are rat droppings all over the floors or mole droppings we don’t know. I am a vested state employee and don’t want to loose my pension as any other facility is 2 hours away. I have pictures to prove it if I am allowed to post but I don’t think I am allowed to post photos. I am desperate. I have fevers this week and my chest is so tight and a cough. Who do I call about this without loosing my job? Can I call while being anonymous?

**TLDR:Basement and stairwell usually flooded for years, causing black mold. Maintenance workers paint over it. It falls off and crumbles. Tons of rats/moles swimming in the water. Forced to have meetings in basement and some workers continuously coughing and some vomiting during meetings due to mold. Director forcing us to continue to hold meetings in basement. Worker recently passed away suddenly but family cremated body and my workers and I are questioning her cause of death since she complained about chest pain and was in and out of hospital for respiratory symptoms. My coworkers are out of work for pneumonia” and other respiratory illnesses but I am questioning it as well. I think it’s legionaries. What can I do to report it anonymously?**

Answer:
 Let me guess, veterans' hospital?

You can always [contact OSHA](https://www.osha.gov/workers/file_complaint.html) about unsafe working conditions. Also read up on [whistleblower protections](https://www.whistleblowers.gov/) and how they can help you if your higher-ups retaliate.

State and federal hospital accreditation organizations would probably also love to hear about this. When was the last time any inspectors from such were on site?Answer #2: I don't understand why a basement/stairwell would be more appropriate than offices for discussing information that falls under HIPAA


Title: Can I take fake US Dollars out of the country?

Question: I am meaning no harm to anyone. What I mean is purchasing fake money in the USA and putting some in the luggage and wanted to play a prank with one of my friends in Europe? Will this get me in trouble with anyone?

Answer: Possession of counterfeit currency is illegal.  You're also going to have to make it through customs in Europe... do you really want to be explaining why you have counterfeit currency at that end?  If caught you could easily be denied entry.


Title: Question about age of consent (Texas)

Question: [deleted]

Answer:
 At seventeen she can consent to any sexual activity. The close age exemption applies the minors under 17.

There is no statutory rape here.


Title: Starbucks Barista spilled coffee on my neighbor

Question: My neighbor had an entire piping hot coffee spilled down his leg by a Starbucks Barista in New Jersey... it was a clear accident, but he had to go to the hospital for treatment. It ended up only being 1st degree burns and there is no permanent damage, but he is wondering if he has a case against them. Starbucks corporate called him and offered a $100 gift card OR to cover his medical expenses, but he is contemplating suing and wondering if he has a case. Any advice would be appreciated. Thanks

Answer:
 >cover his medical expenses

That's what he would get out of suing.


Title: [USA/WI] I think I just changed EVERYTHING!

Question:
As a proponent of safe-recreational drug use, I think this is a huge stepping stone because I believe I have discovered a very useful procedure to conduct psychedelic experiments. Is this something that I could financially be taken advantage of if I don't have proper recourse?

Thanks!!! Thanks!!! And fuck yeah safe recreational drug use!

Answer:
 About how high would you say you are right now?

Also: you should probably have a lawyer on speed-dial. Just my opinion. IANAL, this is practical life advice based on your post.Answer #2: Do you have a specific legal question?


Title: Porn contract

Question:
So , April of 2016 I signed a contract with an adult entertainment agency. At this time, I was in the midst of my heroin addiction. They never found me work or anything. I shortly forgot about it all.

Then, June 2016, I found another agency that took me on for a one time shoot. Went there did it and got paid for it.

Now, the first agency has contacted me saying I violated the contract and they are going to take legal action. They don't have my ss# , but they do have my licence #.

This is a huge mess, would like any advice I can get, thanks

Answer:
 No one can really answer this without having read the terms of the contract.

Take it to an employment attorney and see what (s)he says.Answer #2: It's resolved guys. They said that I just have to not let it happen again and that it's about honesty blah blah blah. Long story short, I'm in the clear! Answer #3: Get a lawyer because it appears you violated your contract.


Question:
What international laws apply to me on my own country? Would i have Unrestricted Internet access? Why or why not?
For example: the sea forts of the UK (forgot the name of the *country*)

Edit: By 'My own country' I mean a country I own not the one i live in.

Answer:
 >Checks post history

>Tor, TailsOS questions

No, you can't form Kiddy Porn Island, OP.

O-oAnswer #2: >For example: the sea forts of the UK

You're referring to Sealand presumably. Sealand sits within British waters and has done since 1987. There was a court case in 1968 that determined that at the time it was in international waters, and a daft "hostage incident" in the 1970s that the British government refused to get involved in.

Sealand is left alone because it's a silly vanity project by an eccentric family. But if it was used as a base for terrorists or child pornographers the perpetrators would very quickly find themselves in court in the UK.


Title: FL - family of 13 yr old boy has filed a harassment injunction against my friend “Mary”. The boy is “spoofing” her number, texting threats to many people, making it look like she is crazy.

Question:
It is insane what that boy is doing!  He calls his grandma, family members, and threatens their lives....takes pictures of their houses saying I know where you live!!  Don’t call the police....!  You have an 8 yr old granddaughter... would be shame if something happened to her.

He does all this “spoofing” her phone number!!  Her court date is next Fri June 14.

Mary boxed up her cell phone, sealed it and mailed it to herself so she can show she has not had access to it.  So we are hoping the boy will continue texting people using her number during this time so she has proof she didn’t even have her phone.

This all started from school bullying when the boy punched Mary’s son and got punished.

Is there any way Mary can prove any of this?  She is poor, single mother with no money for a lawyer.  Free legal aid is backed up with many clients.

Answer:
 The phone itself is just a slippery germ brick, it's of no consequence.  The data exists through the carrier and that's the information she needs.  For example, I can make calls and send texts on my computer even if my phone is sealed and taking a walk around the block with the mailman.  Call her service provider...AT&T, Sprint, Verizon, etc.  Call right now, she has to have this information by Thursday at the very latest.Answer #2: The boxing phone up part is hilarious because the physical phone itself has nothing to do with anything other than maybe that the Sim card number in it was registered/attached to the physical phone and MAYBE during the time it was in the mailing system is when the kid was doing all this shit so it couldn't have been her? Either way its not gonna do shit. I think you can get your cellphone provider to give you this stuff but sometimes they require court order and then even then they don't store info long.Answer #3: >Mary boxed up her cell phone, sealed it and mailed it to herself so she can show she has not had access to it. So we are hoping the boy will continue texting people using her number during this time so she has proof she didn’t even have her phone.

 Can Mary not obtain a copy of her own phone activity from the carrier?


Title: [FL] CPA is charging me for “email correspondence.” I wasn’t told there would be a fee beforehand.

Question:
I’ve been emailing back and forth with my CPA. Admittedly, I have a pretty unique situation and lots of questions to go with it. They answered all my questions and I was happy enough with the service, (which I thought was complimentary) until suddenly I got an invoice for $875 from their admin person.

Now, maybe I was naive for thinking they’d help me for free, but I’ve had this company as my CPA for about 8 years now so I thought this was just something nice they do for their existing customers. I’ve asked them some things over emails before and never got charged for those. This time, I had way more questions and they were more complicated.

In those emails, they never informed me that there would be a charge (or how much it would be) until suddenly I was sent an invoice. The only mention of a fee was in the very last email, when they told me we could speak on the phone if I had any more questions and there would be an hourly fee for that.

Also worthy to note, even though we emailed back and forth for weeks, it took them more than a week to reply sometimes. A couple of times, I had to send them follow-up emails to remind them I was still waiting for them. I put up with it because I thought they weren’t charging me for it and we were in the middle of corporate tax filing season.

For that amount of money, I would’ve expected better response time, like within 24-48 hours. I’m not based in the US and I told them I needed help to figure things out before my trip to the US so I could set up bank accounts etc if necessary. Fortunately I didn’t end up needing to set anything up in the US during my trip, because they took such a long time to respond to my questions that there wasn’t enough time.

Might be relevant: I’ve been meaning to find a new CPA anyway because they’ve dropped the ball on me before (someone told me she’d take care of a letter I got from the IRS, then about a month later I got another letter from the IRS, called the CPA and found out that person was no longer working with them and apparently nobody cared to look into what she’d been working on and handle it). If I knew they were going to charge me that much, I would’ve called other CPAs with my questions.

I emailed them back asking what the charge was for and saying I wasn’t told I’d be charged. Since it’s Friday I probably won’t hear back from them until Monday so now I’ll be annoyed and anxious the whole weekend. Halp.

Answer:
 It is very likely that you signed something when you initially retained this firm 8 years ago.

But truly, it is appalling that you think people should work for you, for free. In the middle of a very busy season for CPA's, you admittedly asked for help on numerous, complicated issues, and you think the company should stop working on other people's issues and handle your affairs---for free, on multiple occasions.  Generally, taking a week to respond may be on the long side, but not necessarily during peek seasons. Previous, occasional emails may have been answered as a courtesy w/o charging you but once your issues began to consume too much time, why wouldn't they charge you?

Legally, though, I suppose you could ask them for a copy of the contract you signed agreeing to pay them for their services.

Do you think other CPA firms would not charge you? Do you expect to be paid for your work?Answer #2: They provided a service via email. Pay your bill.Answer #3: Am CPA. In my experience, there exists no competent CPA firm that would give a non-client / prospective client ~4 hours of written advice during tax season (which ended 11 days ago) for free. In my experience, there are very few competent CPA firms that would have even responded to an initial email or phone call from a non-client / prospective client during tax season, other than to say they'd be in touch after 10/15.


Title: [Saskatchewan] Simple question I am provided a 30 minute meal break where I work and recently a manager told me I am required to take a full 30 minute break but I would like to just take enough time to eat. Do I have to take a full 30 minute break or am I allowed to end it when I would like? Thanks!

Answer: Usually you have to take the full time for lunch / break. There are a lot of potential legal reasons why they would want to seem "fair" by enforcing such break times.Answer #2: To understand why you're being made to, imagine if you weren't. If the rule was "you are allowed to take up to 30m, but you could take none at all, or any amount in between, and that's fine" then it could be exploited. Businesses would say "oh yeah, sure, we're giving people the option of taking a break" but then firing people for actually doing it (although of course giving other reasons). By mandating that everyone gets a break and in fact uses it, society can prevent people from not actually having the choice at all.


Title: [ca] Can I l legally post a photo on facebook of someone who has wronged me?

Answer:
 Did you take the photo yourself?

Are you prepared to deal with the threat of a lawsuit, which may or may not be valid depending on what you say?

If the answer to either question is no, find another way to make yourself feel better.


Title: My mom's boyfriend has been stealing my underwear

Question:
I live in Illinois. Two days ago my mom caught her boyfriend coming out of the bathroom with two pairs of my underwear. They were very stretched (I'm a size small but they were stretched to the point where they looked more like a size large and I initially had trouble recognizing them as my own) and my mom thinks he was doing some nasty things with them. To get my underwear he would have had to come into my room, and at this point I don't know when he has done that and what else he could have been doing do me. This has honestly been giving me severe anxiety to the point where I haven't been sleeping well and have spent most of my nights laying in bed crying. I didn't call the police because I wasn't sure if it was even illegal or if they could even do anything.

Should I go to the police? Is there anything I can do? He is not in the house with us since that day but we do know where he is staying right now.

I am also 24 years old if that matters.

Answer: I don’t know but Mom needs to dump the creep. Answer #2: You're out the cost of the underwear. You can sue for that cost. It might be best to move on, and know he's out of your life.


Title: Hello, I recently was detained for an unpaid traffic ticket and was released the next day. My workplace is asking my release papers. Are they allowed to ask & am I obligated to show those papers? I live in the state of Texas.

Answer: You can be fired if you don't give that to them. They want to verify that you're being truthful about the events that led you to being detained and unable to work I'm sure.


Title: Friend accused of trying to sleep with an underage girl, even though she stated she was of age [MD]

Question:
My friend was accused by a parent over the phone for trying to sleep with their daughter. My friend did not venture to her house, never sent any explicit pictures, and never suggested anything sexual towards her. I have read the phone texts and she does indeed state she is of age.

Now one of the parents is threatening my friend. Did he break any laws? I told my friend everything is fine based on the evidence and I wanted to confirm that I am correct in my statement.

Answer:
 Is the "parent" asking for money in exchange for not calling the police or telling others?

Because this is a very common scam.Answer #2: So his texts say nothing sexual whatsoever?

It's not illegal to chat with a minor. Her parents don't have to allow/like it, however.Answer #3: Is this a person he met in real life?  Because it sounds like a common scam it it's all online

Answer #4: 1.  Does the friend know this girl actually even exists?

2.  Either way, he should block all numbers and stop talking to them.


Title: [IN] Was fired. Have evidence the firing was to prevent fmla. Cannot afford lawyer.

Question:
Medical diagnoses is covered under ada. I have evidence of retaliation after diagnosis by being "set up to fail". Evidence of denying reasonable accommodation.

The problem is that with the amount of management positions involved, going to court will be costly.  No local attorneys offer contingency basis. I have until the 28th to file suit as per eeoc ruling from filled complaint. I cannot afford to pay any lawyer for my case due to unemployment and lack of funds.

What,  if any,  other legal help could I look for assistant?

Answer: So the EEOC looked at your evidence and issued a right to sue letter?Answer #2: Have you asked about any type of payment plan?  I’m really surprised that after an Eeoc investigation. That 1.  Your employer would t be trying to settle this with a right to see or that a lawyer wouldn’t accept a payment plan. Answer #3: Contact the department of labor right away. They handle FMLA interference and don't have as long of a wait as the eeoc. When I talked to them I consulted with an attorney who told me the department of labor only helps if you don't have an attorney. And they should be able to use the eeoc investigation results to move a bit faster


Title: Employer keeps finding reasons not to give me my pay!

Question:
*I live in NH US, I get paid hourly, and we have to enter our time cards online. We also get paid biweekly.*
My manager keeps denying my card and telling me I have to wait until next pay period to get paid. The first time it was because on one of the days I put I worked from 12pm to 12pm instead of 12pm to 12am. He sent me an email saying to make the correction by noon on Friday of that week, or I wouldn’t get paid until the next pay cycle. He sent me that email at 8am of that Friday morning when I was working, so I didn’t see it and didn’t get paid for that week (we can’t use phones or computers while working). I asked him about it and he said the card would be paid in my next check, which was TWO WEEKS later. Then when I was filling in my next time card, I put the previous cards hours under “retro hours” (like I was supposed to), and submitted it to him. Again, he sent me an email that Friday at 8am saying fix it before noon, because apparently he was going to approve them as two separate cards. Again, I was working so I didn’t see the email until later on. I went to talk to him about why he didn’t at least approve the previous cycles time card and he said  “I wasn’t going to approve one without the other”. So at this point it had been four weeks since I had been paid. Now before last  Friday I had made sure everything was done. Then again he sends me another 8am email, saying to fix it by noon or I won’t get paid this cycle. This time he said that he can only approve the current and the previous cycles card, so I had to put the first one in this cards retro hours. Again, as he knew I was at work, and since I didn’t make the correction, I didn’t get paid yet again. Now it’s been SIX WEEKS since I have gotten paid and at the very least I won’t get paid until two weeks from now. I called HR and all they told me was my manager was following policy. Is this legal? Do I have any rights here? I can’t afford to loose this job, but I can’t afford to not get paid. I’ve already had to max out my credit card just to cover bills these last 6 weeks, and I have no idea how I’m going to get through the next two.
Topic:
Employment Law

Answer:
 Contact your states dept of labor board. This is unacceptable. Sounds like they're having cash flow issues. Start looking for another job in the meantime,.Answer #2: You can file a wage claim with the [New Hampshire Department of Labor](https://www.nh.gov/labor/forms/wage-claim.htm).

Your employer probably won't be very happy if you file a claim, but not getting paid for six weeks due to time card issues is ridiculous.Answer #3: Quite frankly, after six weeks I doubt your employer has any intention of paying you at all. Quite, find a new job and file a wage claim with state labor board.  Company regulations are not an excuse, and quite frankly, what you're describing looks entirely made up on the spot to screw you.


Title: Dentist broke jaw and did bone graft without record

Question:
My fiance recently got dental implants done. During the procedure the dentist, from what I gather, fractured his jaw and had to do a bone graft. He mentioned the graft would cost 1700 but he would do it and not charge us. My fiance is too nervous to ask for a report on what work they've done and not done and my worry is that this dentist didnt report the bone graft. When I first asked my partner he said the dentist said not to tell the front desk because this is free work being done.

If anything goes wrong here we have no ground to stand on without proof. My partner doesn't want to start anything because he has a lot of work coming up for his dentures. The dentist also didnt sign the prescription label with a name and birthday which caused a big issue with the pharmacy as you could guess. I had to go back and get a new prescription. That gives me the impression this dentist is overworked and not paying much attention to detail. Seeing as a jaw fracture can happen, I'm also assuming if he studied the x ray more carefully it could have been avoided.

I want to know what I need to protect my partner if this comes down to a legal issue. And also does it sound like this dentist is trying to cover his own ass or is he genuinely trying to give us the care that we are paying for?

Answer:
 Hey, IANAL, but I am a dentist.  The laws vary state to state, but your fiance is entitled to a copy of his records (x-rays, completed work, treatment plans).  They are allowed to charge a fee for the records.

"Fractured jaw" is actually a pretty vague description, so I have a lot of theories as to what might have happened, but I don't want to  speculate without more information.  Depending on what actually happened during the surgery, it could be no big deal at all or a serious complication.

Did your fiance get a CT or just an x-ray?  What tooth was it?  Is your fiance having complications or just trying to fill in what happened?  Did he call the dentist and just ask?  How about a post-op visit?  That would be a great time to say "Hey, go over with me again exactly what happened during the surgery that day so I know if there's anything I need to watch out for." It sounds like maybe things happened kind of quickly and maybe the details got lost along the way.

Edit: FWIW, there's no one that the dentist would need to "report" the bone graft to except your fiance.  It's not like we send copies of every treatment plan to the board of dentistry.  The details of the surgery should be recorded in the records, though.


Title: [ON-CAN]School violating privacy laws, help?

Question:
Location: Ontario, Canada

So to preface, I am an 18 year old, living independently from my parents. I do not legally reside with one of them, and have not since December 2014.

I am currently attending a private school, and have a few concerns. Though I am financially and legally independent of my parents, my father has chosen to pay for my schooling, a decision agreed upon by both of us. It is a private school, which I understand must still meet basic education standards.

However, the school continually provides detailed and private information about my status to my father, which has in turn been used against myself and my mother (they are currently battling a very contentious divorce).

The school has said that because they are a business and not a school, they are therefore not required to follow privacy laws. As an adult in a public school, the school would have no right to provide information to either parent, unless I directly consent.

I have re-examined my contracts that I initially signed, and nowhere did it indicate that my rights to privacy were waived. My father also never signed any contract, so I am not aware as to how he is being provided info. He has simply signed an agreement stating he will pay on time, and was listed as an emergency contact, along with other family members.

This then, leaves me in a very tight place. I now have info being used against me, and had no intent of this happening. I have been told my father will be provided with whatever info he asks for, and will continue to do so. The only options I have been told are to have him agree to a no-contact order (highly unlikely), as they will not take me as an independent student (in which I pay and limit all contact with them), as they know I have parents that try to involve themselves in my life.

So /r/legaladvice, where do I stand in this? Have my rights been signed away, or is my school following the law? Any and all help is appreciated :)

Answer:
 Ontario lawyer here, used to work in Children's Law.  You are correct that in a public school, you would have extensive privacy protection.  However, very little of the *Education Act*, and none of the provincial and municipal *FOI and Protection of Privacy Acts* apply to private schools.

If it is an inspected private school, then they must follow the [Ontario Student Record guidelines](https://www.edu.gov.on.ca/eng/document/curricul/osr/osr.html).  Your OSR specifically would be protected, but they can still share other information with your father.

If the school is non-charitable, the *Personal Information Protection and Electronics Document Act* (PIPEDA) will apply.  Here's a [summary of a decision](https://www.priv.gc.ca/cf-dc/2006/345_20060705_e.asp) regarding when it applies to private schools.

If PIPEDA does apply, then yes, they would (usually) need your consent to disclose personal information to a third party.  If it's a non-charitable school, you could either inform your principal that PIPEDA applies, or go straight to the [Privacy Commissioner](https://www.priv.gc.ca/resource/pb-avp/index_e.asp).


Title: I was just refused service because of the job I have.

Question:
I work security at a mall, and we reported to the mall that a tenant closed early. The mall ended up fining the tenant. The problem is that this is my favorite place to eat during my shift, and the tenant just refused service because I work for security. What can I do?

Edit: I'm in Iowa.
Topic:
Business Law

Answer:
 1. Don't eat.

2. Eat somewhere else.Answer #2: Totally fine. Restaurants sometimes decline to serve police officers as well and there's nothing illegal about it.  Do you really want to eat something from there if they're being forced to serve you?Answer #3: You can complain to the mall management again if you like, maybe they'll have some pull (contractual or otherwise). But as a matter of *law*, Panda Express or Nathan's or whoever can deny service to anybody for almost any reason.


Title: Given three days notice to move - California

Question:
I am renting a room on a month to month lease and as it turns out, the owner had defaulted on the loan in 2008 and has been fighting it in the court system since.

On Saturday (7-22-17) the owner, informed me of this legal battle, that the judge had ruled against her and that she was going to lose the house on Tuesday (7-25-17).

I all currently paid up on rent until 8-18-17, and I have asked for a refund for the last 30 days of rent, the remaining days I have paid for and my deposit, in exchange for voiding the contract and moving out today. She refused, offering one months rent and my deposit back.

Is this something that is worth fighting, or should I just accept her offer and focus on finding the most comfortable couch to sleep on tonight?

Answer:
 If she lost the house to foreclosure the bank that foreclosed on the house will be your new landlord and will take over the lease. If you have a least that is still ongoing the bank has to honor it or they could offer you cash for keys to move out early. If you are month to month the bank has to give you all the notices required by state to terminate a month to month contract.

If you have proof of the deposit paid to your initial landlord you can ask for that to be returned to you from the bank.


Title: Is it legal to drop someone from a nursing program because they are prescribed opiates and benzodiazepines?

Question:
My mother was accepted into a nursing program, paid the enrollment fees, and has been attending classes for over a month now. Today they suddenly dropped her from the program and said she could no longer be enrolled because she is prescribed opiates (for degenerative disks in her spine) and benzodiazepines (for anxiety); they said this makes her a liability if she continues to take them or if she stops taking them (she volunteered to quit taking them while completing the program if they required it) and she cannot continue in the program whether she takes the medication or not. But they had already admitted her to the program, accepted her tuition payment, and she has been attending classes for over a month. The opiates are prescribed to her by a doctor at a pain management clinic where she has to undergo regular urine tests to prove she is taking her medication as prescribed. The benzodiazepines are prescribed to her by her primary care physician. Is this legal for them to kick her out of the nursing program simply because of medications she is prescribed by a doctor for medical conditions? To me is seems like discrimination to drop someone simply because they are prescribed opiates/benzodiazepines from doctors for medical conditions; it seems even worse since they had already admitted her to the program.

Edit: This happened in the state of Oklahoma.

Update: My mom said it was listed as a requirement in her application to the program that she lists all medications that she takes. She put all medications she takes on her application and was admitted to the program.

Answer:
 Contact the board of nursing in the state and ask their advice.

Some states will not let you practice even with a doctor’s note on these medications. Some will. This will give you more information to bring to an attorney.


Title: Sallie Mae student loans. Is there someone I can talk to about student loans, like a financial lawyer?

Question:
I've posted in financial threads and student loans and seems like anywhere I go, no one really knows anything more than repayment plans. I feel like Sallie Mae is screwing me over and when I ask questions they don't actually answer them. It seems like everywhere I search, either someone is trying to take advantage of my situation or no one actually knows anything about student loans. Are there financial lawyers or advisors or anyone that you know of I could talk to? Google searches just give me more ads and an over abundance of useless information.
Edit: location is Dayton, Ohio

Answer:
 You got answers already here. You need to refi if you want lower interest rates. There's no magic button here

https://np.reddit.com/r/personalfinance/comments/64s6dd/2_sallie_mae_loans_with_almost_9_interest_rates/

If you've got a 27k loan at 9% and a 20k loan at 4% and you're only paying $400 a month total you're barely making a dent in the principal if you are at all.


Title: Property manager didn't notice she forgot to charge us for rent (and neither did we). Do we have to pay?

Question:
My boyfriend and I moved out of our apartment 3 months ahead of the end of our 12-month lease. We moved across the country, agreeing to continue paying rent until a new tenant was found for our apartment. The other morning at 6:30 AM, however, I received a panicked call from someone at the property management company for the old apartment asking if we had paid any rent for the last year. I was flabbergasted - yes, of course we had -  but as it turns out...we hadn't.

After manually paying by check and online for the first couple months of our lease, my boyfriend set up autopay through the property management company's online system, and he set it up to withdraw from a savings account that we don't use for anything else but paying rent. However, the woman in charge of our account (the one who called us the other morning) somehow forgot to bill us for the past 8 months. The payment system attempted each month to make the payment, but apparently since no payment was being requested it just...didn't do anything.

I feel pretty silly that we didn't notice this earlier, but what I find really crazy is that over 8 months, we never received ANY notice of unpaid or late rent. Now they are asking us to pay the $13,000 worth of rent that accrued over that period. Fortunately they are not asking for late fees, but are we actually legally responsible for handing over this huge sum of money all at once? The property manager actually admitted that it was all her fault, and the whole thing just seems really unprofessional to me.

I've searched online but can't find any cases of what a tenant can be on the hook for when they've already moved out and were not given any unpaid rent notice. Since we already moved out, we can't be evicted...what else can they do? Any information or past experience with this kind of situation would be greatly appreciated.

Answer:
 Yes, of course you owe the rent. It's your responsibility to make sure you have paid and manage your own finances.

Edit: also if you have an account that is for nothing except paying rent then you should have all the money sitting there which would make this an easy to solve problem.Answer #2: Yes, you are responsible for this. You signed a contract agreeing to pay it. If you don't, they'll sue you and you'll have that judgment on your credit report for years.


Title: I am being blackmailed. Please help.

Question:
Hello legaladvice,

As the title says, I am being blackmailed.

This woman contacted me on alt.com, and I was interested so I replied. This went on for a bit, with it being fairly normal. This continued until last night when she finally started messaging me instead of using email. I was visiting a city just a bit from where she lived (conincidence, not planned) and we started making plans to meet up. She started asking for money because she needed to buy some things (to meet up). Me being the stupid lusty idiot I am, sent her some. No, it was not so that we could engage in prostitution. She kept asking for more, I said no, and she seemed to let it go. A while later she realized that I was the son of one of her old friends. She began to use this against me, threatening me she would go to my parents and Facebook if I didn't send more. Again, being the idiot I was, I sent more. She then kept trying to extort me with a revealing video, but I held my ground (finally) and said no, coming up with reasons I couldn't. She let it go for the night, and I went to sleep. I thought that was the end of it, but I woke up this morning and it was not. As soon as I woke up and opened the messaging app, she started asking for more money and threatening me again. I stood my ground, and stopped replying. I have not opened her messages since then and am wondering what my options are.

I am about to get on an airplane, and when I landed I was planning on sending her this message:

Ma’am, unfortunately this will not work out. I do not appreciate being blackmailed. I will politely ask once that you delete that video and not contact me or my family regarding me, as well as not to discuss anything about me on social media or with any of your friends. If you continue your attempt at blackmail, then I will be contacting the police, filing a police report, and pressing charges for harassment and criminal extortion. In the state of Colorado, harassment is a Class 3 misdemeanor and is punishable by up to six months' imprisonment and a fine of $50 - $750. Criminal extortion is a Class 4 felony and is punishable by 2 to 6 years' imprisonment and a fine of $2,000 to $500,000.

Before I send this though, I want to see what y'all think. Should I send this and then contact the police if she refuses, or what?

Seriously, please help me here, I have no idea what to do.

EDIT: I should also add that she does in fact know my parents. She knows my Dad's middle name, my Mom's name, and my address.

Answer: It's a scam, quit sending strangers money.Answer #2: This sounds seriously like a scam. I would ignore it.


Title: Texas - my apartment converted part of the units to section 8 housing. Do I have any options?

Question:
Live in a very nice part of town and very nice apartments of which we pay out the ass for. The apartments turned part of their units into section 8 because I believe they could not fill enough units to stay profitable.

What are my options to get out of my lease?
Topic:
Landlord Tenant Housing

Answer: Read your lease then ask to be let out early under it's terms. If they let you out early and they want money then you must pay it.


Title: "I quit!" "No, You're fired!" Fiasco and question

Question:
Hi all.

I am in the process of leaving my current job for a new position with another company and I have a question and resignations and firings and PTO.

I have a very strong feeling that the day I resign I will be fired.  If I give a four weeks notice I am still paid for my untaken PTO per company policy.  If I am fired I don't paid for any of the PTO.  My question is, am I just out of luck if I am fired?  Do they still have to pay me for my PTO?  Do they still have to pay me for the four weeks I would have worked because of the notice?  What's the deal?

Live and work in North Carolina.
Topic:
Employment Law

Answer:
 Why not take your PTO instead of resigning, and only resign when you have 0 PTO?

If you have a job lined up that starts in 4 weeks, the nebulous 'damage' to your reputation for not giving 4 weeks notice won't matter.Answer #2: So there is a written forfeiture policy that if you are fired you don't get paid your vacation?

If you resign then you resign. You, not the employer, are choosing to end the employment relationship. If they just decide that you're fired instead you would have excellent cause to sue them for your vacation pay. Answer #3: Have a witness, or slightly worse, quit in writing via email, then you at least have a time stamp of when you quit.  Most employees don't want to fire you because if you quit, they will be liable for unemployment.  The vast majority prefer resignation over termination.  Termination also leaves the possibility of a lawsuit over the firing.  Don't tell them you ave a new job if you want them to worry about having to pay unemployment.  (It's actually just higher premiums, but same idea).

Your employer [does not owe](http://www.nclabor.com/wh/fact%20sheets/promisedwages.htm) you anything other than your wages, plus anything else they promised you.  So if they have a policy on PTO, print it out before you quit.  Only if they say that PTO is vested with you would they owe you for it.  FInally, you could take 4 weeks off and use your PTO, but the fact that you have this option does not mean they are otherwise liable to pay you for it.


Title: (Ohio) Father died in the fall, owed 100K on 2nd mortgage of a house worth 50k.

Question:
Dad died in the fall... thought we had all our bases covered with the bank.  There is no estate to come after, no 401k or inheritance.  Do we have to lawyer up or can we just send the courts the death certificate and say "he's dead" sorry.

No will,  not real inheritance.  We sent the bank his death certificate and a all the paperwork stating we don't want the house.  Just got a summons for everyone in family from the Bank for the 100k mortgage.  Are we on the hook or is just this debt collectors trying to make 100K?

Answer:
 If you didn't sign, then you're not on the hook for the mortgage.

Here's what's probably happening:

(1) the bank wants to foreclose on the house
(2) foreclosure is a legal proceeding
(3) that takes away the rights that anybody else may have in the property
(4) So, they have to file a proceeding that names anybody who they think may have rights in the property.
(5) You're your dad's heir, so that includes you.

I'd call up the attorney whose name is on the summons and say "Tell me what you want me to sign so I can be dismissed from the foreclosure action."   That should just be a waiver of some sort, or it could be a quitclaim deed from you to the bank.   Just make sure it doesn't require you to pay any money or to indemnify the bank or anything like that.Answer #2: As long no one co-sign any loans with your dad, no one will be on the hook for the $100K mortgage. The bank's real concern is if someone took money out of the estate before closing the mortgage, like an life insurance policy or other hidden assets. Answer #3: Don't make any kind of payment towards any of his debts.  You can be considered to have assumed the debt if you make a payment.


Title: (Fort Worth Texas)Update on the person who ran a red light and hit me on my motorcycle then fled the scene.

Question:
Witnesses at the scene got his license plate number and gave it to the police. Today I find out they learned who the guy is and he drives the same car I described in my report but the detective in charge told me they will not release the insurance information until they attempt to contact him and I guess ask him to confess?

The detective said the witness could of gotten a digit wrong and it could be an innocent person... but with the same car?? The downside is he is registered living in Houston Tx.

Is there ANYTHING I can do? Do I wait for them to send a letter and hope this guy grows a conscience after he left me to die in the street? My lawyer gave me ALL of his info minus phone number. I know this guys address vin number DL number everything.

What can I/ Should I do?

Answer: I'd check in every 1-2 days with the cops. Didn't see your old post so I'm assuming your injuries aren't serious if you have any. If you are in sore need of repair for your bike or need medical attention, I'd press the detective for more and file a claim with your own insurance first and pass along all the other driver's info.


Title: [Ohio] Neighbor’s mastiff keeps getting i my yard and trying to attack my dog and family. What all can I do to fix this?

Question:
I’ll try to list whatever detail I can please tell me if I haven’t mentioned anything important

So my neighbors have a mastiff and myself a pitbull/boxer mix. My dog is not a fan of other dogs, he barks and tries to attack so we have him on a chain when taking him out to use the bathroom. I walk him to it on a leash, hook him up, and watch him the entire time until he’s ready to go inside. He has never escaped nor caused trouble for my neighbors

My neighbors mastiff seems to have an equal dislike of other dogs. But unlike mine their dog has no collar, anybody watching it, or anything keeping it in their yard. It walks in mine all the time and anytime it sees any of my family or especially our dog it runs near us then jumps from side to side barking. Nothing’s stopping it from attacking it just seems afraid of actually doing so I guess?

This has happened many times. It’ll run and bark at me, my dog, or anybody it sees. Every time this happens one of my neighbors if they’re even outside to notice just walk to it shouting for it to come to them. My favorite time was when it charged into my yard in reach of my dog and I had to put myself between my dog and theirs trying to hold mine back between my legs and kick at theirs as it’s hardly a foot from me as they take their time walking over shouting.

It’s been a month since the dog started coming in my yard. They move in a month ago. Despite this no fence, no chain, not even a collar. I know my dog doesn’t like other dogs so I do everything I can to make sure he’s no danger to anybody’s pets. Meanwhile theirs could easily injure mine or my family.

What can I do about this? I cannot even take out my dog without theirs running at us. We have told them before to find a way to keep theirs in their own yard but they’re not doing anything to prevent this from happening again
Topic:
Other Civil Matters

Answer: Call the police. The dog warden is part of the sheriff's office


Title: As 15yr old how long could i go to prison for murder

Answer: Life. Don’t commit murder.


Title: Locked in a fence in direct sunlight.

Question: [deleted]

Answer:
 >if we left set to get sunscreen we would be wrapped without pay

If you had left and they had refused to pay you for the hours you actually worked, you could have filed a wage claim. They have to pay you for all hours worked.

You might have a claim if they refused to allow rest breaks (paid 10min/4hrs) and meal breaks (unpaid 30min/5hrs). CA sets the damages for those at 1hr of wages each for each day of work those are missed (1hr for the rest breaks, 1hr for the meal break), but it may not be worth it for the ~$20 you could collect.

In the semi-likely event that they misclassified you as an independent contractor, you can file a complaint and they may be penalized, but I don't know if there are rewards for reporting misclassification. (The IRS considers most workers on a film production to be employees)

>I was just sunburned and physically shaking by the time I went to the medic.

Unless you needed further medical attention for the sunburn and had to pay for that treatment, you don't have any damages for that.


Title: [DE] I called the police to report a 10 year old driving with his mother passed out in the passenger seat

Question: While driving home and sitting in traffic, I noticed that the driver behind me appeared to be a child and I noticed a mid 30's woman unconscious in the passnger seat. I spent a few minutes in disbelief (still in heavy traffic) until I realized there was no way that the kid was older than 11 or 12 max. I think his mother must have been forcing him to do this frequently as he was obeying traffic laws very well from what I could tell (not speeding, using his signal etc.). I called the police and followed their car for a few miles under the dispatchers instruction until they said a cop was close enough that I could stop following. What sort of charges will the mother face and what will most likely happen to her kid(s)?

Answer: If you gave the dispatcher your name it is possible to be called as a witness, if not than no. She will probably be charged with child endangerment along with other charges.


Title: Roommate trying to fill room behind our backs with stranger who won't be taking lease

Question:
I'm in Queensland, Australia and I'm renting a house with two other people, the three of us (Myself, "X", and "Y") are on the lease.

X is visiting family for a few months interstate, and didn't want to continue paying rent, so pitched the idea to me that a friend take their room. I told X that it would need to be somebody we know and trust, and X agreed.

Initially it was agreed upon my girlfriend would be moving in, sleeping mostly in my room, but keeping X's room as clothes storage, and a backup in case of any problems, and paying for the full room's rent each week. She also has her own house she could move back to in an instant in case of any serious issues, so this was deemed to be the most viable option.

It has just come to my attention that X has been posting on social media sites behind the backs of myself and Y, advertising her room, and trying to convince my girlfriend to move all of her stuff into my room. X has been contacting strangers and making promises behind our backs, telling these  people (again, COMPLETE STRANGERS who we have not been given the option of meeting before she "OKs" them) that they can move in without having to sign the lease.

I'm just asking on behalf of myself and Y what our options are here legally. Whether this is grounds to break her off the lease, what kind of repercussions are likely in order, etc.

X seems to think that she has the most say because it's "her room" and her bed will still be in there. As far as I'm concerned if she's moving out then she should pay the cost of storage and put her stuff away herself, or simply continue paying rent even though she's not living here. I need some way to convince her that it is not her decision, and her say is not final.

Answer: Whatever you do, do not allow these people in your house. If they get keys, change the locks.


Title: [NJ] I totaled my wife's car while driving with only a learner's permit. Where do I go from here?

Question:
I'm 19 and she's 20. The car is in her name.

Yesterday I fucked up. I was driving with the window down in stop and go traffic. Something flew into my eye and that second was all it took for the person in front of me to slam on their breaks which (still absolutely all my fault) caused me to rear end them. Our car was a flimsy thing so the front crushed in easily.

I was sent to the hospital and the police officer managed to get the registration (in her name) and the insurance (which I'm on). He didn't get any license information at all, like the fact that I don't have one.

Today is Saturday. I was scheduled to get my license on Tuesday.

From here, I don't know what to do. Do I go straight to the police station and tell the officer I was driving without a license and give him my permit number? Do I stall and get my license on Tuesday and THEN go to the police station? Do I call my insurance right now? Do I tell them the truth? Do I need to find a lawyer? Are there lawyers who specialize in car accidents?

I don't have any excuses. I should've waited to drive. At the time it felt like it was absolutely necessary but we've already established that I'm stupid. I was wrong.

Thank you in advance for your replies.

Edit: Addition details: No one was hurt. The person I hit's car had a dent in their rear end.

Also, what will the repercussions be? A huge fine? Am I going to prison? Are they going to sue me? Will I never be able to get a driver's license now?

Answer:
 You will be okay. The police were notified. You need to notify the insurance company. They will tell you what to do next. Don't ignore any summons you receive, but I believe, if you were not ticketed at the scene, you are unlikely to be. If you are not charged, it is quite possible you will receive your license as scheduled. Keep calm and carry on.Answer #2: According to [this](http://law.justia.com/codes/new-jersey/2009/title-39/39-3/39-3-13-8), violation of the restrictions on a learner's permit could be up to a $100 fine. I don't see increased penalties listed anywhere for causing an accident w/no injuries while violating a learner's permit.

As far as insurance goes. Her insurance company likely doesn't care that you were on a learner's permit, but don't volunteer that information anyway. As long as you were a listed driver on the policy you're fine.Answer #3: > A huge fine?

A modest fine perhaps.

> Are they going to sue me?

Other party's insurance company may.

> Am I going to prison? Will I never be able to get a driver's license now?

If I recall correctly it's actually an expedited death penalty. Since it's a holiday weekend, show up at the police station Tuesday morning for your execution.

No, you're not going to prison or forever be denied a DL.


Title: Doctor leaked my name to his friend, friend messaged me harassing me, help! WA

Question:
I'm located in Washington state. I saw a doctor in Aug for a medical procedure. His bed side manner was aweful! I asked him questions about the procedure and he refused to answer them before and after the procedure. I asked questions about negative reactions to procedure and he walked out of the office in the middle of me talking.  I did in fact have a negative reaction. (Worrsened pain) I called his office multiple times over the course of the next few days. Was told that a nurse would call me. They didn't. I requested the manager of the clinic. They did call me.  I filed a complaint with her.  I have never seen this doctor again.I have only said negative things about him to my regular doctor and to the receptionist at the clinic on my way out after the procedure. The manager of his clinic. Never even complained through social media anonymously or otherwise. I received a message from someone I don't know- mentioned the doctor by name, identified that I was his patient and stated the doctor dropped me as a patient because I was a pill seeker and a drug Addict. And defended the doctor as if he was a friend.
I researched this guy on facebook who messages me found the area he's from. I researched the schools my doctor went to and found the area this doctor was from. Same exact area. This area they are  both from, is in a completely different state. It seems like they know each other personally.

I feel like my rights have been violated. As if this doctor gave out my personal information his friend and his friend verbally harassed me and insulted me.  How do I know who else he gave my information to? As well as my medical records. Violation of HIPAA? I don't know what to do or how to proceed.

Edit: The doctor did not drop me as a patient. He was a specialist. It was the first and only interaction I had with him. Regardless of what happened with him I was only meant to see him once. The procedure was trigger point injections. The point of the injections were to help eliminate my pain. When I spoke with the manager of the clinic to file a complaint she spoke with the doctor who did offer medication for my pain. Not narcotics but a steroid. I declined it because the steroid he offered I was allergic to. I didn't ask for pain meds. And to be clear I am denying the allegations that I am a "pill seeker" or a "drug addict". As my doctors regularly perform urine and blood tests on me for multiple reasons this can be proven . The only "drug" I use is medical Marijuana which I'm up front and honest with my doctors about.

Answer:
 This is highly improbable. You say you don't know who this person is. Are they an employee of the facility you were seen at?Answer #2: Kind of an odd story.  Were you seeing a pain specialist?  Were they doing spinal injections of local anesthetic or steroids or something? Or was it a different procedure and the "negative reaction" was pain from the procedure and you requested pain meds and then got upset when he refused?

Regardless, if your doctor revealed your identity and why he dropped you as a patient to a non-medical person who is not involved in your care, that is professional misconduct at least, if not a criminal violation of HIPAA.Answer #3: Just a social worker but it is a clear HIPAA Violation.

This should help you but wait until you get more advice from lawyers.
http://www.hhs.gov/ocr/privacy/hipaa/complaints/

Edit: spellingAnswer #4: As described, seems likely sanctionable misconduct.  Washington State professional misconduct rule [here](http://app.leg.wa.gov/rcw/default.aspx?cite=18.130.180), and WA DoH compliant process outlined [here](http://www.doh.wa.gov/LicensesPermitsandCertificates/MedicalCommission/PractitionerRegulation/FileaComplaint)

EDIT: who downvotes this type of comment... seriously WTF?  It is linking to the appropriate law and regulatory body... in a legal advice sub.  Anyone who downvotes this should really just unsubscribe


Title: [MA] Potential sublettor thinks we discriminated against her

Question:
My roommate is moving out this month and we met with a handful of people to take his place to finish up the remainder of the lease. We picked one of those people and let him know later that we wanted to have him move in.

One of the other people we met just wrote a vaguely threatening email to my roommate asking why and when we chose not to offer her the room, and included  some information from the fair housing act.

We decided that the other person was a better fit for the rest of us who are still living here. Since we're not landlords it doesn't feel like discrimination to me, and we don't really have any power in this situation besides "this is our apartment and we want to find the best match for our personalities." Never mind the fact that there was no application process or anything.

My advice to him is to ignore it, but I figured I'd come here for... Some reason. Is my instinct right?

Answer: Unless she comes to you with something official, you can safely ignore it. If she really feels you discriminated, she has to contact a lawyer. Until you get something from a lawyer or the government, you don't have anything to do with her.


Title: (Ca) sending pot to another medical marijuana patient

Question: So I just harvested my first plant of marijuana. I showed a pic to a buddy of mine who lives a couple miles from the OR boarder, he said he wished he could try some? Can I send him some weed in the mail? Like only a 1/4 oz or something. I’m in San Francisco, is that legal or would the feds kick in my door the next day?

Answer: That would be a federal crime.


Title: Boss is bullying me

Question: [deleted]

Answer: What do you think is illegal about any of this? Being a bully, not patting you on the back, and changing your schedule without notice are all allowed unless you have a contract that states otherwise.


Title: FL - My license is suspended and it's not my fault, what do I do?

Question:
I got two speeding tickets within a week of another (I know I'm dumb). I paid a ticketing service to contest the tickets in court and for both tickets I had to complete 15 and 20 service hours respectively and I'd get no points on my license. Just fore note, the timesheet for the first ticket was due March 31st and the timesheet for the second ticket was due May 9th. I completed the hours for both tickets and submitted the timesheets for both on time, I even received a confirmation of receipt from the county clerk's office for the second ticket.

The first ticket got sorted out smoothly and quickly, here's where the issue comes in, I received a notice of noncompliance on June 14th. So, I forwarded an email with several attachments: my service hour form for the second ticket, the confirmation of receipt that I received from the county clerk's office, and my initial email to the clerk's office. I first sent it to my ticketing service and then I subsequently sent it to the county clerk's office.

Yesterday I received an email from my ticketing service saying that "it was confusion on their end since you had another case involving community hours," so, it was a definite possibility that I get my license suspended on July 11, 2019. Lo and behold today, my mom sent me a picture of my notice of license suspension and I'm not sure what to do now. The ticketing service said that they've directly contacted my case manager and she has directly emailed the county clerk's office in and is currently attempting to expedite my case since it involves my license being suspended.

&#x200B;

Also, I am currently not in the county where this all took place and I am away for college.

Please let me know if anything needs clarification!  Any help/suggestions is welcomed.
Topic:
Traffic and Parking

Answer: Whatever you do to resolve this, don't drive until you have written confirmation from the DMV that you licence is not suspended.


Title: Law Firm withholding SSDI funds inadvertently sent to them [FL]

Question:
My husband went through a law firm to get his disability approved about 4 years ago.  They helped him get everything together and received a percentage of his lump sum payment.  The matter was closed, no problems.

About 2 years ago my husband was at the SS office when a rep asked him why he wasn't receiving dependent/ representative payee payments for our kids.  The law firm had never even brought that up.

So the SS rep tells him what paperwork he needs to do and he takes care of it and gets approved.  A few months later we get letters in the mail about the kids' benefits that includes a line about the amount of money sent to the attorney.

I guess since the attorney was on file for the initial claim, they assumed it was also responsible for the subsequent claims.  Both SS and the treasury department confirmed they sent the payment to the firm over a year ago.

For over a year we have been getting the runaround.  They claim they never got it, to call back in a few months, etc.  My husband goes to the firm every few weeks and they just shrug.

I'm aware that my husband retained the attorneys at this firm for a specific matter, the initial disability claim.  At no point did he enter into an agreement for the subsequent matters, each of the kids' claims.

So, how do we go about getting the money back from this firm.  My husband and I did months of work for the subsequent claims, which the SS rep explained should have been handled with the original application.

Answer:
 NOT A LAWYER.

Personally, if they've been ignoring you this long, I'd send a certified letter, return receipt, demanding the money before you sue in small claims and contact the bar association.


Title: Central FLorida, Tried to get away but they caught me

Question:
I was recently pulled over, not really, i kept driving, got a dui(no evidence) Fleeing and eluding, dwlsr 3rd,and a vop warrant from 6 years ago.
Stupid decision i made because i was scared. what can i do to make it go better for me. Just started goin to school and really dont want a felony on my record

Answer: You need an attorney. Don't run from the police. You made the situation even worse.


Title: Was pregnant, father wanted nothing to do with child. Wasn't there during birth, is not on certificate. Now years later after seeing child often, is pushing to be on certificate. I don't want this though. Can he get on it somehow even though I don't want it?

Question: [deleted]

Answer: Yes, he can get a paternity test done and a court will order that the certificate be amended. The child is equally his.


Title: Brother-in-law got stopped and searched at the US boarder, they found a gun that he didn't realize he had

Question:
Hey Reddit. First time coming here for legal advice.

So, basically my sister and her husband live in Alaska and were both born in the US, and current US citizens. Neither have any past criminal convictions. Brother in law (BIL) owned a handgun for the purpose of defending against bears. They recently decided they wanted to move to the lower 48 now that they have a baby on the way. BIL packed up his truck full of as many belongings as possible and drove on his own from Alaska, through Canada and to Washington. At the US boarder, he got searched and they ended up finding his handgun. He had absolutely no idea he had it since it was in the bottom of a box and hasn't used the thing since buying it  (which he did legally). Since he wasn't aware he had the gun, he did not declare it or have paperwork for it. He's being held in jail by customs at the boarder and is currently not being allowed into the US. His wife is pregnant and alone in Alaska and very worried. He's a really nice guy and is complying fully, but we are worried they might bring some serious charges up on him. Will his truck and belongings get impounded? How long can they keep him in jail for? Will he get charged with a crime?

Any advice is hugely appreciated.

Answer:
 He needs a lawyer.

I know current and retired American cops that this has happened to who have risked prison time.  Canada is not screwing around with guns.Answer #2: How does a person go about misplacing a firearm exactly? I'm trying to connect the dots on that but I'm coming up short. That's some serious negligence. Answer #3: "He wasn't aware he had the gun" isn't very believable.  Did someone pack his stuff for him or put it there without his knowledge?

He needs a lawyer immediately.  Answer #4: Lawyer, lawyer, lawyer. Unfortunately, he should have known he had the firearm according to the law. Law enforcement and similar agencies don't take kindly to someone forgetting about something like that. Answer #5: r/guns r/firearms both have knowledgeable users on guns at borders. Also /r/legaladvicecanada may help if he is detained in Canada.

Get a lawyer maybe two; 1 Canadian and 1 USA.

IANAL

But, in the 300+ episodes of watching "Border Patrol" type shows, when this happened in BC, the detained person got charged with a crime, offered legal council,  and fined. Then seizure of the firearm, complete search of vehicle even to partial disassembly, drug dogs, chemical swabbing for spectrometers even,  and then they were denied entry to Canada for 10 years, and released within 5-8 hours back to USA border patrol for possible charges  ( itar violations) -- but that was reality tv, although it is endorsed and published by the government of Canada.Answer #6: People who lose guns are too irresponsible to have guns in the first place.