Title: I was fired after trying to file a complaint.

Question:
I’m going to try to keep this as short as possible. I worked in a hotel’s little cafe area. The lead there has been there for over two years and is leaving next week. She had gotten special permission to keep the kitchen’s lights off (with just enough light to see) when she has a migraine - this is what she told me multiple times. I didn’t have a problem with it, I was still relatively new. Well last night, lights were off and we were doing business as usual. Except this time, the front desk would call us every time someone would get remotely close to the cafe and it got to the point where we were irritated because we were doing our job as we always do, the lights just happened to be off. About 3 hours into the shift the supervisor, who’s only been there for about two weeks, rolls in after going to one of the bars downtown for drinks. He’s clearly inebriated and it was confirmed by one of the girls at the front desk, who he told that he had already had a handful of drinks. He told us at the cafe that the front desk was complaining that we looked closed, and was telling us all the things we should be doing that didn’t make too much sense with there being only two people. Then he went to the front desk and told them that we were complaining about them and that we had assumed they were complaining about us, and that they were suppose to watch us and keep tabs on us. In my opinion, wildly inappropriate for an hourly employee to do that to another hourly employee.

I was pretty offended by that, and I hadn’t had an issue with literally anyone at the hotel before this, but it rubbed me the wrong way. So the next morning (today) I called HR for direction, and the told me to speak to the GM. I went in to tell the general manager about the night before, and my complaint about the supervisor coming in inebriated was brushed off because “I wasn’t there and can’t prove that,” according to the manager. And, “the lights shouldn’t have been off, no one has ever said that was okay and you weren’t doing your job,” even though we were, just with the lights off. Mind you, I explained the entire situation above to the manager to file a complaint against the supervisor, and he brushed off my complaint and was only focusing on how terrible of a job I apparently did the night before. I reiterated that I had never had a complaint anywhere I’ve worked and that he was brushing off the main problem, and it ended up getting into a pretty heated discussion. He even said something along the lines of “last night was an example of how bad of an employee you are and you coming in today just proves that point.” It essentially ended with him saying, “You’re clearly a bad fit for this job and can’t perform here properly. You should leave.”

So I left, pretty frustrated and infuriated with how it went down and that he was completely lacking in an sort of care for the fact that someone in charge came in to do a job with alcohol in their system. I need some legal advice though. I had gone to HR just before going to the GM, and HR told me to go to the GM first to follow the “chain of command”. So now that the GM brushed me off, I’m suppose to go to the regional manager, and so forth. And when you’re bringing up a complaint, I didn’t think they could legally fire you, but maybe I’m wrong? Can someone shed some light on this?

There’s been many instances of the AM/GM being obviously misogynistic, and the supervisor being racist, and it’s something I think HR needs to know but I can’t seem to get anyone to tell me how to contact HR. Just “follow the chain of command”. Doesn’t help when they all back their buddies though.

Some advice would be great.

Answer:
 You've been fired.  Everything they did was legal.  Write down your entire conversation.  Apply for Unemployment.  You'll be denied first time.  Appeal.

The main (probably "only") thing that is protected are issues surrounding "protected status": race, color, sex, etc.  You did not bring up anything about misogyny or racism, so you don't have any protection there.

Other than arranging to return their apron or getting your final check, nothing good will come to you from having any further discussion with executives or HR of that company.


Title: Relative on Gold Card was admitted then transferred for an emergency procedure to a non-gold card hospital due to lack of capacity and has been billed $26k. Doctors told him at the time he wouldn’t be billed. Office is refusing to pay.

Question:
I’ve tried to contact the financial office and appealed their denial. He was verbally told that the hospital would pay and was transferred through an ambulance. He is an immigrant and so he had to sign papers at the new hospital but doesn’t remember what he signed. He had to have a stint placed in his heart and was told that it couldn’t wait until the gold card hospital had capacity. We have not yet been to the hospital to talk to the doctor in person due to coronavirus. Any advice will be appreciated! Thanks 😊

Edit: located in Houston, TX

Answer:
 NAL. So the gold card program isn’t well known outside of Texas but there are a very limited number of facilities that accept gold card patients. You said in your post that your uncle’s condition was urgent and he likely signed papers agreeing to pay in full when he was admitted.

Your uncle’s best bet may be to request all the signed paperwork and reach out to the hospital to see if they have a program for indigent patients. You can also reach out to /r/insurance or the gold card program to see if they have additional suggestions.


Title: Bought house with deed issue. Is my closing lawyer/ real estate agent on my side?

Question:
I bought a place with a major deed issue.

Maybe it is a 100k + issue and probably years of court to fix.

I am in starting talks to figure this out with my closing lawyer and real estate agent.

Am I supposed to even be talking to them about this issue?  Should I be talking to a unrelated lawyer?  I am unsure of the closing lawyers professional responsibilities with this issue.

I put faith and money into the professionals and a problem that should of been found was missed.

So do I work with them or hire someone else.  I have ?title insurance? As well.

Answer: Get on the phone with your title insurance ASAP, this is exactly what they are for.


Title: Have been reselling headphones purchased through an employee discount - concerned about potential liability

Question:
Location: Québec, Canada.

Hello,

For approximately the last 8 months, I have been buying and reselling headphones, manufactured by company X. Revenues are of approximately $22 000, the profits of $4000 (unsure of relevance, but thought it was worth including). The structure of my enterprise is as follows: I buy the headphones from person A, and then resell them on Kijiji, a Canadian equivalent to Craigslist. According to person A, he buys the headphones from person B, an employee of company X, who uses his company discount to purchase the headphones at 50% off. This explanation was never given to me in writing, as I only ever asked in person.

This struck me as plausible, given how widespread the practice is, and so I continued to sell these until last week, at which point person A no longer responded to my usual messages. I thought it possible that he might have gotten caught, hence my post here. For what it's worth, I was always upfront with my customers about the means by which I obtain these headphones, and fully intend to declare all income when it comes time to do so for 2019.

My questions are:

Is person A's explanation a plausible one, or is there likely something more nefarious (or criminal) going on here?

It is my understanding that, should this employee be caught in the act, he would likely be facing termination and a civil lawsuit, not criminal charges. Is this correct?

In what way could I be held liable (or criminally responsible)?

Should I contact a lawyer?

Thank you in advance to all who will provide guidance here. It is very much appreciated. If any information is missing, please do ask me to provide it, and I will happily oblige.
Topic:
Other Civil Matters

Answer:
 Your biggest issue here is that person A is almost certainly lying to you, and your deliberate failure to do basic due diligence, like checking with Company X to see if Person B actually works there, may work against you. This story doesn't pass the sniff test, and there's a very good chance that you're fencing stolen property or counterfeit imports for Person A.

In the unlikely event that Person B both exists and is doing what you describe, you're right: they're facing termination, for the most part, plus perhaps a civil suit for any relevant damages. However, even knowing the value of upmarket headphones, it's _very_ unlikely that a 50% margin over retail is adequate to support _three_ middle-men between the source of the goods and the final buyer on Kijiji. It's a lot more likely that either Person B is stealing the headphones (a 100% margin covers many sins), or that Person B is fictitious and Person A is doing something that may leave you in possession of stolen or counterfeit goods, which you have been blithely selling. Either may be a criminal offence.

It's not clear what a lawyer can do for you at this point, besides tell you not to get involved in shady business deals to resell things whose origins you can't be certain of. You don't need to pay a retainer for that advice, though. _If you are approached by police_, contact a lawyer before answering any questions.


Title: Husband and I are having a baby and our employer is trying to force only one of us to take leave even though we are both entitled to it

Question: So my husband and I work for the same company. We are both departments heads, so we manage different departments within the company and hardly ever work together. Our company is small, less than 50 employees so FMLA does not apply, however we have an employee handbook and as part of accepting the job, we had to read and sign this handbook stating we understand the policies and will follow them, etc. Our handbook/company policy states that 2 weeks of paid leave and 12 weeks of unpaid leave is given to ALL employees. Our boss is now saying only one of us can take the leave, even though both of us are entitled to it and we both signed the handbook document describing this policy. We are in North Carolina if that matters at all. Can our employer prohibit both of us from taking this leave? What are our rights in this situation?

Answer: Your handbook probably says this is at the company or manager's discretion. If it doesn't, you don't really have any action to take unless you are terminated. They'd probably term the 2nd one to take the leave after 3 days for unexcused absence. Maybe they won't, but you can't make them agree to some future act, you can only take your leave and see what they do.


Title: (FL) Can a teacher have my son expelled because she didn't agree with his essay?

Question:
My sons in 10th grade, public school. His history teacher gave the class an assignment to write an essay on what country/government they believe is the most corrupt(strange topic for history class but that's not the point).

My son chose the current South African government/ the ANC. He wrote about both the corruption and racism(chanting "kill the whites" in parliament).

His teacher labeled his essay as racist and untrue. I'm originally from South Africa, all of my family is still there. Everything in my sons essay is the truth and I have proof and that's what I told his teacher.

She told me that my views are clearly racist and that she will be working to have my son expelled due to "archaic views".

I have a meeting with the principal tomorrow.

If they do expel him can we challenge that with the school board? Would we need a lawyer?

Answer:
 As a former teacher in the state of Florida, I'm laughing hysterically at the prospect of your child being expelled for any reason whatsoever.

In my district I personally know a teacher who was physically assaulted by a student, the kid was arrested and convicted in a criminal court, but the school system refused to expel the kid.

As far as grades go there really is no legal recourse. My understanding is that is either a crime or at the very least a sanctionable offense (i.e. it impacts your professional credentials and the person who does it would likely end their career) to change a teacher's grade in Florida without the teacher's permission.

Just demand a new teacher.


Title: Eviction moratorium unconstitutional?

Question:
I thought the federal government had a eviction moratorium that the supreme court ruled unconstitutional and it expired on the 31st.  How is the CDC able to introduce a new moratorium if it is unconstitutional?  If what I said is true, where is the outrage of the clear violation?
Topic:
BestOf

Answer:
 They didn’t.

https://www.npr.org/2021/06/29/1003268497/the-supreme-court-leaves-the-cdcs-moratorium-on-evictions-in-place


Title: Can someone be sued for spreading damaging info about someone online even if it's true?

Question: Basically, what if someone was found guilty of a crime and not many people really know about it. Then out of spite, someone decides to spread this information around online which damages the person's reputation.

Answer:
 Sued? Yes.

Successfully in the USA?  No.


Title: Fired for social media on fb..

Question: [deleted]

Answer: It sucks and if I wrote the laws they might be different, but there's nothing illegal about that. Sorry.


Title: Product has developed a fault after 3 months. Seller insists that I pay for returning to them and also for a replacement unit.

Question:
I bought a pair of earphones in May 2019 for £139 or $173. The left earphone has stopped working, so I have asked for a replacement pair.

In response I was told that:

"As per our warranty process, this sort of issue can happen because of wear and tear from usage on the driver."

Which I think is quite unlikely after only 3 months, I took good care of them and didn't play them at full volume, even if I did, they are supposedly high quality and should capable to withstand it.

They want me to send the earphones to Hong Kong, and for me to pay for returning it to them.

They also said "Once we have received your return, we will assess the earphones and if the issue is not found to be a defect in workmanship, you could be required to pay USD 50 to avail a replacement unit."

I assume by this they mean if there are any faults with the build of the earphones when they were being made, then they would be happy to replace them. However if they decide that they have broken due to "wear and tear", then I pay for a replacement.

Is it right that I should pay for the cost to send it to them to inspect, as well as paying for a replacement pair should they perceive the fault be due to "wear and tear" after just 3 months?
Topic:
Consumer Law

Answer: I'd just write it off as a loss. The chances that they will actually send you a good, working pair back (even if you pay them) are astronomically low.


Title: How is ICE able to detain US citizens/legal permanent residents during raids?

Question:
Here's an example of what I'm referring to: [https://www.nytimes.com/interactive/2018/06/11/us/tennessee\-immigration\-trump.html](https://www.nytimes.com/interactive/2018/06/11/us/tennessee-immigration-trump.html)

Basically, ICE conducts a major raid of a meatpacking plant in Tennessee and detains all the hispanic workers on suspicion of being undocumented, even those who tell ICE that they are citizens/legal residents. White workers are not detained. The citizen and legal residents are later released, but the undocumented are not.

Completely aside from the undocumented immigrants, I'm having a hard time understanding how it is legal for ICE to arrest and detain citizens not engaging in any illegal activity. As I understand it, ICE was not accusing anybody at the plant of other illegal activity, like drug possession.  Especially as Tennessee is not within 100 miles of the US border

How do ICE raids like this, that pick up non\-citizens,  not run afoul of anti\-discrimination ordinances (as it appears that ICE's "reasonable suspicion" was that the targets were hispanic and working in a factory)? Would the citizens and permanent residents who were targeted here have any legal recourse?

Answer:
 The burden of proof needed for a detention is "reasonable suspicion."

This is a low burden of proof.


Title: [MD] Can my employer withhold my check if I owe him money?

Question: I live in Baltomore Maryland and I owe my employer $1,200 he gave me as an advance for my electric bill but I got fired today on Friday and I never received payment for the hours I worked the previous week. He told me since I owe him money and I no longer work for the company that he is taking my pay. Is this legal?

Answer: Would the net of the check you are owed be over $1200?


Title: Forced to sign employee reprimand signature page, without viewing the write-up first...

Question:
Hello:

My young son came home from work upset today, as he had been formally "written up"  for some mistakes he'd made, but was more upset about the way it was handled. He'd said that his supervisors quickly chatted with him  in not much detail about some errors he'd made, some of which were due to lack of training (he's only worked there a few months, and the employee he replaced was there 9 years) and one was a genuine mistake he'd made, but the other mentioned (more serious) was a mistake his co-worker had made, and freely admitted to already. He said they didn't give him a chance to speak, and then put a blank piece of paper down with three signature lines on it, and told him he needed to sign it. He asked to see what he was signing, and they refused. They told him that he must sign in front of them before returning to work. After signing, they provided the written copy to him, and as you can imagine, there was more to the doc than they'd mentioned. Being young, and this being his first real job, he didn't know any better.

He wants to address and correct some of the statements made within the doc, but is unsure how to proceed. Also note, that he's putting in his two weeks notice. This is honestly the least crazy of things that have happened in the past few months. I'm angry that he was cornered/coerced into signing something without seeing what he was acknowledging to have read and/or understood. He wants to let them know that they handled this situation poorly. It will most likely fall on deaf ears, but it'll make him feel better. He feels like he's been taken advantage of.

Thank you for your time and consideration in reading this. I am grateful for any advice given.

Answer:
 A reprimand is mostly meaningless, other than potentially being grounds to contest unemployment if his eventual termination is over the same issue. He has no grounds to contest it, and the fact that he signed it is - mostly - meaningless unless it contained other terms beyond the reprimand.

He's free to write up his own version. His boss is free to put it straight into the garbage can. Ultimately, it won't matter unless he's fired, or unless there was more to it than just a reprimand and acknowledgement that he'd seen it.

It goes without saying that next time someone expects him to sign something unread, he should refuse; it may get him fired, but that's the worst that'll happen.Answer #2: This isn’t really a legal issue.  Asking him to sign a blank piece of paper isn’t illegal, and by signing it he’s not legally obligating himself--especially if he’s a minor.  From an HR standpoint, most of the time signing something like this isn’t a confession or an agreement that he has done anything wrong, it’s simply an acknowledgement that he has formally been made aware of these issues.  If he wants to dispute these claims he should state his position in writing and ask that it be put into his file.  If he’s quitting anyway, though, I’m not sure what that would accomplish.  Some states have laws granting employees the right to see or even make a copy of their employee file.  But, honestly, he should probably just move on.


Title: Screenshots of Instagram account sent to employer and facing review

Question:
A friend of mine had a finsta account which is basically another Instagram account that they post unflattering pictures and other various things to. She let some coworkers follow her finsta because they thought they were cool and friends, one of the coworkers sent screenshots to the employer and now she is on paid leave waiting for a interview with the employer. I believe the posts were pictures of her at a music festival with captions that implied she was tripping and using some sort of drug. Is she legally able to face punishment for someone screenshotting her PRIVATE Instagram and sending it to her employer without her consent?
This happened in Michigan.
Thanks for the help!

Answer: Jesus. Why do people do this? What part of "if you put it online it's not private" do people not get?


Title: My job has disadvantages, Humboldt County CA

Question: [deleted]

Answer:
 [Break laws in CA](https://www.dir.ca.gov/dlse/faq_mealperiods.htm).

Are you getting paid for your full shift?


Title: Agreement to withold last paycheck.

Question:
Saw a company that prior to employment gives you an agreement to sign which states that should you leave without giving 2 weeks notice, you give them the right to withold your last paycheck.

Is this legal? They don't hire anyone who doesn't sign the agreement.

Answer:
 Well I know you can’t enforce a contract that breaks the law.  And most states state you must be paid for work performed.  So I would say no. It’s not.

Edit- also since this is a contract between you and your employer, there isn’t any consideration is there?  You cant have a contract that just benefits one party.   Answer #2: Location is not optional. Probably not legal. The employee can just refuse to sign it.


Title: Interview ended when asked if I use nicotine [mi usa]

Question: I just had an amazing interview opportunity to work as HR within an insurance company.  About the fifth question in, I was asked if I smoke or use nicotine products, as they test for this during their drug screening. This is not something I have ever even heard of before and I'm hoping someone could shed some light to this practice.  They don't allow nicotine gum or patches which are frequently used to kick the habit.  She suggested I call her back in six months after I've fully quit.

Answer:
 Use of nicotine is not protected under ~~any federal or state legislation that I know of~~, **MI state laws** so the company may choose to not hire you based on that.

Not saying it's a good idea - just pointing out that there is no law banning the practice.

EDIT: While NJ and other states DO seem to have such laws, it seems unlikely MI does:

https://www.mlive.com/business/index.ssf/2012/09/smokers_need_not_apply_2_detro.html

>**Michigan is among 21 states that allow hiring policies that prohibit smokers and tobacco users**. Twenty-nine states have laws that classify smokers as a protected class.Answer #2: Yes it’s legal. They don’t want to have to pay for health insurance for smokers. It’s much more expensive.

They don’t like the substitutes because they’re indicative of someone trying to quit who might “relapse”.

They could theoretically do the same with obese people, minus the ones who had disabilities, but the shit storm would be much too big. Answer #3: There are many employers that are starting to have these kinds of policies. It is mainly about insurance premiums. Companies pay a lot less if they don't have tobacco users on the payroll.Answer #4: It's perfectly legal, even though I've only seen the nicotine policy to be that they charge you an extra premium on your insurance. Good luck quitting.


Title: I found a bag of money. Can I keep it? [NH]

Question:
I occasionally walk along the roads of the White Mountain National Forest in New Hampshire, where I pick up the embarrassing amount litter to later recycle. Earlier today, while walking, I found a paper bag with a plastic bag inside.

The inner bag contained over $900,000 dollars– mostly in hundred dollar bills, with a couple twenties making the last eight hundred. I brought the bag home. While I haven't looked at each bill individually, a skim over shows that they all have different serial numbers, and they don't seem to be marked in any way, either. (My son has a toy spy kit that came with a UV light, and even using that I couldn't find any markings.)

So, where do I go from here? I'd love to keep it– it'd be a wonderful tool for ensuring my son and wife have the best quality of life possible- but I don't want to be committing any crimes.

How do I proceed?

If it's relevant, I have told no one– not even my wife or dog– about the money.

Answer: Nope, not buying it. Must troll harder next time.


Title: I was pulled over for a tail light and searched. In my purse, they found an old plastic case that once held a CBD cigar, with some flower still at the bottom. It's legal to sell/have CBD products in WV, why am I being charged criminally for drug and paraphernalia possession??? Hemp is not marijuana!

Question:
Topic:
Drug Possession

Answer: I'm going to guess they don't believe it was CBD. Were you charged with possession of THC?


Title: It is illegal for a minor to posses or use pepper spray in Nevada. However I may need to use it for self-defense or defense of others.

Question: Long story short me (15) and my three sisters (13), (11), (9), may need to spend a set-by-court amount of time with the abusive, drunk, mentally unstable, narcissistic, loser that is our biological father. For the protection of ourselves, our mom has gotten four small pepper sprays for us to use for self-defense. last night I noticed the bottle(for lack of knowing what to call it) says it is illegal for a minor to possess or use it. ... >_> I looked up the laws on it and it is definitely illegal in Nevada for a minor to use or possess pepper spray. So now I am wondering what the consequences would be for using it for self-defense or defense of my sisters. Would they possibly give an exception due to our situation? The pepper spray is all we have for defense it's not like I can just give it up. I am not sure whether to tell my mom or not as she is going through a lot. What do I do?

Answer: Doesn't sound like either of your parents seem too fit to parent.


Title: [FL] Can I abandon my autistic brother?? Among other questions. Dire situation.

Question:
I'm a 22 year old female and I live in Florida.  Both of my parents passed away, leaving me alone with my autistic adult brother.  He is verbally abusive and has tons of violent outbursts where he completely destroys our apartment.  He has torn my door off its hinges so that he can scream at me 100% of the time.  The apartment is now completely ruined.  My lease does not end until March.  We are living in section 8 housing.  I'm very depressed and very afraid all the time.

I have an aunt who lives near us who helps us handle financial things.  She also has power of attorney over my brother.  I am not his legal guardian.

I have a friend in Washington state who I plan to move in with to escape this hell.  She has just rented an apartment and I bought a plane ticket to fly out on the 31st.  However my aunt keeps telling me to cancel the flight.  She wants to somehow transfer the lease to my brother, as well as somehow allow him to receive my section 8 benefits.  She says I need to be here in person for all of this, but I can't take it anymore.

What will happen to me if I simply leave?  Will I be held accountable for my brother?  Will they come after me for breaking my lease?  What are my options here?

I feel so confused and hopeless.  Please feel free to ask me any questions for clarification, I will try to answer even though I don't understand this legal mess at all.  I really need some advice.  Help me.

Answer:
 I'm not a lawyer, I'm a behavior interventionist who works with those with autism. Thank you for everything you've done for your brother. I opt into this population and can leave whenever I want. You had the care of another person thrust at you and it sounds like you've done more than anyone could expect. Take advantage of the site /u/baddonny posted and make sure to take care of yourself. This situation isn't safe for you and isn't safe for your brother either. Hopefully the state can help you reach a safe place as well as your brother.Answer #2: Oh man, OP. You're in such a shitty situation and I hope you find resources to get it resolved. I second the recommendation for APD or Adult Social Services. Even if you were willing to stay around (and I totally understand and support that you're not), your brother needs more resources than either you or your aunt can provide.

I also wanted to suggest, if you're interested, that there's an organization called the Sibling Support Network. It's a mostly-online community of people whose siblings have developmental disabilities. (There's some in-person meetups but I didn't see any in Florida.) If you want a place to vent about the other adults who left you in this shitty and dangerous situation that you were unprepared for, we're there for you. And there could very well be some Florida sibs who have personal experience to offer. If you google Sibling Support Project it's one of the first results up.


Title: (Nebraska) I was hammered and got tossed out of a bar last weekend.

Question:
I got hammered for someone's birthday last weekend shots kept coming and I rarely drink. I blacked out I don't remember any of this.

Supposedly I had a verbal argument with the bartender and the doorguy ended up dragging me out of the bar by the neck. I know i was an idiot for getting so drunk.

Now I'm fairly certain i have an injury to my hyoid bone in my neck, I can feel how far in the right side goes compared to my left. And it hurts to swallow.

I set an appointment, but its through the VA so i have to wait.

If there is an actual injury can I sue the guy?

For what its worth my friends said they didn't see me do anything then all of a sudden i was put into a headlock from behind. They had no idea why.

When i went back to the bar the next day to get my card (they threw it out) the bartender was the one that said what happened. Of course I believe them, why else would that have happened?

TL;DR: Got drunk, doorguy choked me out, now i think my hyoid bone is broken or at least something around it. Wondering if I can pursue any legal action.

NOTE: I did not swing or push anyone. But i do believe i did talk a bunch of shit and I wouldn't doubt that i was perceived as a threat. Possibly even threatened to fight. But i did not use any force.

Answer: You were blackout drunk, your buddies were probably near the same, the bouncer and bartender were both sober.  How do you think that will work out in court?


Title: Wrote a review of a company on the Better Business Bureau site, it was taken down, and they are requesting legal documentation from me to put the review back up?

Question:
I complained about a rental company I previously lived at, and I wrote a review about it on the Better Business Bureau's website. It was taken down for some reason, and I received an email requesting a copy of my lease.
Is this commonplace?

Answer: The Better Business Bureau is a private, business-friendly organization that can set whatever policies they want for posting reviews.


Title: (IL) Wife is pregnant and was terminated then denied Unemployment.

Question:
Hello All,

So a brief story with the facts. Late last year we found out my wife was pregnant. In December she was placed on modified  bed rest (no more then 4 hours on her feet) and had to take an unprotected leave at her job because she hadn't been there a year. She works in a medical field and 12 hour shifts and no accommodations were made to maybe keep her working. After a few months we received a letter from her employer stating that her position was no longer being held for her, but she could keep her job if she was able to come back to work with no restrictions and was able to find a new position. So because she was on bed rest she ended up losing her job. After that she filed for unemployment with the state. Her unemployment was approved and we were supposed to receive the first check yesterday. The money did not come in and today she received a call stating that since she can't actively look for work she won't receive the benefits.

   My question is, Is there anything we can do? I know there are supposed to be protections in place for people who are pregnant and unable to work. It seems like the entire system is fighting against us and every time things seem to get better we get knocked down again.

Tl;DR Wife got Preggo, was fired, then got unemployment, then got denied unemployment.

Answer:
 You can appeal the unemployment but they are correct as that is party of getting unemployment. She can file for disability.

She was legally fired since she had no FMLA protections


Title: Job searching service made my profile public and refuses to delete. Is this against the law?

Question: About 18 months ago I signed up for a free job searching website. It assured me that my information would remain private and only potential employers under the umbrella of their company would have access. A couple weeks back I found out that if you google my name, the profile page shows up in the top 6 results. The whole profile is there for anyone to view. Resume, my personal message, picture, etc. The website makes you email them to have the profile removed. I sent the email and they responded with "your account has been reset to private."  I emailed again requesting to delete the profile entirely. They responded that it had been taken care of but may take up to 4 days to disappear from a google search. It's been a full week since that last email and it's still there for anyone to see. Is this illegal? Should I pay a lawyer to write a letter for me? I am in NY state.

Answer:
 Your title says they refuse to delete, but the body of your post says they immediately complied with the request. Please clarify.

If you're having something show up on Google, this is a Goole issue and has nothing to do with this other website. Google caches information to be used in search results, and this other company does not control that. Simply wait, or go through Google support.


Title: No AC in AZ

Question:
Apologies, I'm not sure what kind of law this applies to, so I dont know. Which flair to use. I had typed out a lengthy and detailed post and hit something and it all disappeared. 😭 This is the week I've been having and I don't have the patience to type out more on this dumb phone, so I'm going to keep it short.

In my home:
2 children, age 8 and 4
2 dogs
1 disabled combat vet
Me (sick, which is relevant)

Tuesday AC goes out. Home warranty assigns company. Company can't come to fix until Thursday. Call HW back, assigned new company who comes that day.

Need new compressor and Freon. Has to be ordered. Shouldn't take long. Spend days chasing HW and Repair company to find out when to expect repair to happen. Temps have ranged from 105-114°F during this time. Finally hear from company Thursday evening. They have part. Cannot come until Monday.

Vent on the book of faces out of frustration. Am told by several friends that this is illegal and they can't leave small children or disabled without AC for more than 48 hours here in summer. Call both HW and RC and am brushed off.

Can't go stay with family because I'm sick and have two family members who are undergoing chemo treatment (only ones we could stay with with dogs) and can't do hotel and still afford Freon. We have a small single room AC unit and we're all hanging out in the living room, which is almoat 100 degrees. I'm not looking to sue for big bucks as of now, just want to arm myself with the right knowledge to go to bat against these people when they come tomorrow and be able to give friends in similar situations better advice than "thaaaaaats illlllleeeeegalllll!" But there is a chance that new compressor and Freon WON'T fix the issue and I'm concerned that this may go on for longer. I'm still sick (have been sick since LAST Sunday) so we still can't go to family.

Thanks in advance for any advice and my sincerest apologies for any spelling or grammatical errors... My brain is melting out of my nose (at least that's what I told my horrified children about why my nose is running. 😂)

Answer:
 OP - to be totally clear, you're just frustrated by the speed of the home warranty company? Call them back again and ask for expedited service. If you own the house you're stuck dealing with this directly.

There is a chance that the freon and new compressor won't fix the problem *but* it's unreasonable to demand a total AC replacement when there is a reasonable fix that likely resolves this.Answer #2: Are there any specific laws in AZ that state that AC must be provided? If not, then having to wait due to parts and scheduling is not illegal.


Title: [KY] Can i sue a hospital for filthy disgusting conditions & poor care? I have picture and video proof of everything.

Question:
Let me start by saying i am not out there "just to get money". This is a hospital that my grandma is regularly brought to because she has adverse health conditions, every single time we go to this hospital we always find that the rooms and even the lobby is extremely dirty and disgusting, In the room they put my grandma in the walls and roof panels are all yellow from where people have smoked in the rooms, you can rub your finger on any part of the walls and you will have a black and yellow tar on it. The walls look like they havent been cleaned in years. Not only that but the floors in the entire hospital all have massive black scuffs and pose a trip hazard due to the uneven floor smoothness. My grandma was left in the hospital bathroom unattended to for 40 minutes and no one came to check on her and she was on the floor unable to do anything. We plan on opening a huge lawsuit against this place. The conditions are very unacceptable for anyone. What are my choices at this point??
Topic:
Medicine and Malpractice

Answer:
 Do you have any damages to sue for? If not you can report the conditions to the medical licensing board.

Also maybe go to a different hospital.


Title: Babysitters keeping baby in closet. What can I do?

Question:
California

Basically, a couple that I know are watching a baby for a friend while she works an eight hour shift five days per week. My ex-wife is friends with the couple and that's basically the only connection I have with them. Ex told me this in confidence and asked that I not do or say anything about it. Fuck that. This couple keeps the infant (6mo) in a fucking closet in a carseat. They throw blankets over her to muffle the screams. They take the baby out twice during the eight hours for feeding and diaper changes, and again for the half hour before mom comes to pick her up so she isn't crying when she gets there.

Ex doesn't want to get involved because she is currently living with them and jobless. Baby's mom told me she trusts her friends and accused me of just trying to make trouble for my ex. CPS investigated and found no evidence of abuse.

Police "investigated" but of course when the abusers saw cops at the door, they grabbed the baby, put a bottle in her mouth, and the police had nothing to be suspicious about. Also, they explained that my ex was living with them and that I was probably just trying to get her in trouble. My ex corroborated the claim...

The couple, from the few times that I have met them, seem to be the type to do something like this. They are lazy, morbidly obese, alcoholic trailer trash.

I have texts from ex getting mad at me for calling cps because they think she did it but nothing in writing about the actual abuse. What the fuck can I do to save this baby?

Further info that is likely relevant, ex and I are in the middle of a messy messy divorce. She had a restraining order on me for a good six months, (fabricated abuse claim. Believe me or don't, I don't care) and custody of our son is in the air. Not sure if spamming calls to the police and CPS on my ex's roommates will make me look like an ass in court if they don't find anything. I don't want to risk my custody of my son but I'll do pretty much anything. I'll kick their door down and march straight to the closet with a gun and a video camera if I knew it would save this kid. The only thing stopping me from doing exactly that is the idea that my ex is actually making this up as an elaborate way to make me look like shit or get another restraining order.

Sorry for the shit formatting and jumbled thoughts. I am quite angry.

Answer:
 I think you're being fed a lie to get you to go off the deep end and judging by your post I would say there is reason to suspect you actually might.Answer #2: I work for CPS and as shitty as this sounds; there is nothing else you can do. You have done what you could. You reported the matter and it was investigated. Perhaps your ex is lying to you or perhaps the babysitters are monsters. If you get any more information about it, you can report it again, but for now, you have gone above what is required for a regular citizen. I hope your ex is lying to you. If the baby gets hurt or dies, just know you did what you could. Do not go to their house because it will violate the restraining order and for sure jeopardize the custody proceedings with your child.

California is a 2 party consent state for recording, so if your ex gets chatty again, ask her if you can record her telling you the information. Don't secretly record her as this is against the law. Answer #3: I'm not a lawyer, and even for a layman I have a tenuous grasp of this kind of law.

However, my legal advice would be "stay clear". You have no duty of care towards the child, and just because you've heard of abuse happening does not necessarily make you morally responsible for it (see the [Trolley Problem](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Trolley_problem)).

If you (understandably) don't want to do that, I think you'll be best served by non-legal means. The fact that you're posting here makes me think you don't believe you have any effective non-legal recourse; based on your presentation of the issue, I'm tempted to agree.


Title: Can my HR tell me to not discuss pay?

Question:
Hi, I work for a Kmart in a small town. Its pretty much one of the last Kmarts that makes money and isn't close to shutting down at the moment.

I was hired as a cashier, then moved to Service Desk which has more responsibilities. All of us are getting paid 10.50 except those that are hired from the street to Service Desk. They make 11.50. Usually, unless in dire circumstances, they just "promote" a cashier to Service so they don't have to pay more.

When I asked for a raise, they denied it and told me we can't discuss pay between other workers. I told them to remove me from the desk and make me a cashier again, but they refused that as well.

Is this legal?

Answer:
 They cannot prevent you from discussing wages with other employees. They can refuse to give you a raise or refuse to change your assigned role though.

https://www.npr.org/2014/04/13/301989789/pay-secrecy-policies-at-work-often-illegal-and-misunderstood


Title: [TX] Nurse took off Wound Vac from husband without consulting surgeon. He now has a serious staph infection.

Question:
My husband had an enormous pilonidal cyst removed. He has to wear a wound vac machine that seals the wound. The machine has to be changed out daily to prevent leaking.

We have home care services that come in three times a week to change it. We changed to this service because we were told they had good reputation with the wound vac and the nurse had worked with the surgeon.

 It was healing great and getting smaller, faster than predicted. Two weeks ago, the nurse said she couldn't place the seal back on and took off the machine. She insisted it would be fine. She had only covered him with a bandage.

On that following monday, he went to the surgeon for a check up. He said that the machine should not have been removed. The wound was still pretty deep. The surgeon sent him to a wound clinic where he was told he had a serious staph infection. He has been given antibiotics and if he misses one, it could turn into MRSA or just plain kill him.

We're meaning to ask the clinic if the risks of the infection came from the wound machine being removed.

If they confirm this and it could be the nurse's fault for performing an action she didn't receive clearance for; is there anything we should/can do?

Answer: Medical malpractice is very fact specific and beyond the scope of this sub. It certainly could not hurt for you to consult with a malpractice attorney, and they typically work on contingency (read: you don't pay unless you prevail in court for damages).


Title: Intellectual Property was used for Devs to make a deal, I've been shut out. Do I have any recourse?

Question:
Hello r/legaladvice, I spent the last several years creating IP for a Dev team looking to take a product to the next level.

Foolishly, no contracts were signed, only verbal assurances that "We'll take care of you..." and so on and so forth...

The product has now completed its initial production run and I've been shut out of the process.

We were all great friends at one point, and in the back of my head I knew it was a bad move to help them out without written agreements. We were young and stupid, as they say. Now that the reality has set in, and money is changing hands, I'm really feeling the burn. Thank you in advance for your time.

Answer:
 Were you being paid for your work? If so, were you an employee or contractor?

If you were an employee, the company’s policies would state who owns the IP.

If you were a contractor, created the IP, didn’t get paid, and there’s no contract in place, I’d consult an attorney to see who actually owns the IP.

Basically, if you created the IP, didn’t get paid, and only verbal contracts were in place (the other side didn’t uphold their end of the agreement), you might own the IP.


Title: Tenant warned about noise violation

Question:
I'm a college student in Sault Ste Marie ON, living an apartment building which is mainly older people. Last night, a couple of friends and i were playing Risk and just generally having fun when at around 8:45 my building manager came to my door, clearly pissed off, and gave me a lecture for being too loud and to watch our language. He also told me that "when i get noise complaints i don't usually come down, i just call the cops" with his tone it was clearly a threat.
We weren't screaming by any means, there was no loud music, at worst there was yelling and laughing but it was still before 11pm. To my understanding i can legally make any noise i want before 11pm and still be withing my rights. Am i in the wrong? or was it inappropriate of my BM to come to my door and threaten me by calling the police?

Answer: It's not illegal for him to call the cops or threaten to call the cops.


Title: [Virginia] Can churches require children to be vaccinated to attend?

Question: Our church has decided to require proof of vaccination for kids to attend Sunday School and church services because a few parishioners, including 2 Sunday School teachers, are undergoing chemotherapy. One family with 4 kids don't vaccinate. We asked them to either vaccinate their children or attend services at another church. They have threatened to sue us because they say we are discriminating against their beliefs to not vaccinate their kids. What is our liability here?

Answer:
 Your liability is wasting a few hours trying not to giggle in court while the irritated judge dismisses their case. Please keep us updated, this is either going to evaporate or be fun to watch.Answer #2: Just to echo all the very good advice already present:
Your church set an absolutely reasonable rule to protect your immune-suppressed staff and parishioners, and the anti-vax family has no right to membership.

Pop some popcorn kids, this is gonna be a great one; updates please!
Answer #3: The church is right.  The family are ignorant of the facts, and selfish. Answer #4: Is your church independent or part of a larger organization? You may want to run what's happening by the larger organization if there is one. Especially because the family may attempt to appeal to them.


Title: [OH] Mortage Company says Brother, Sister & I owe remainder of Father's Mortgage.

Question:
As the title says, my (late) father's Mortage company has sent out letters to my siblings & I stating we are on the hook for nearly 68k in unpaid Mortage.

A court date has been set of August 8th, and I have absolutely no idea where to start. None of us are in any position to pay this.

Any advice is welcome.

Thank you.

Answer: Did you cosign the mortgage? Have you seen the mortgage documents? Are they actually alleging that you owe the money *or* are they saying that the money needs to be repaid before you take full ownership of the property?


Title: [Virginia] Speeding ticket on my record that I was never issued or pulled over for.

Question:
First off, I am a Virginia resident but go to college in Wyoming, every year since fall 2013 I have been in WY from August-December then January-May. I'm on my parents insurance currently, but once I graduate I'll be in my own, so I was getting a quote from USAA and it has a speeding ticket flagged for "speeding 15-19, 10/28/15, VA". I've never had a speeding ticket over 10mph nor in the state of Virginia and I was not even in VA when the reported ticket was cited.

I tried viewing my driving record on the VA DMV website but I won't let access or create a account.

How do I proceed to get this cleared from my record?

Answer: Find out which one of your parents or siblings got ticketed and get your current insurance company to assist you in getting it corrected.


Title: Texas state troopers seized 950ish in cash on my way to LA (state not the city)

Question:
This weekend I was traveling from Dallas to Shreveport to meet my girlfriend for a fun weekend on the casino boats.

I got stopped by a state trooper outside of tyler and during the course of the stop I was asked if I had any large amounts of cash on me. I said no. The trooper said in a joking voice. "You mean to tell me you are going to shreveport without any cash? Cmoooooon" OR something along those lines. I just nonchalantly said. "Just my paycheck." This is when the trooper decided to lose his joking tone and said. "Step out of the car please."

He asked me how much I have on me and I replied that it was none of his business as I have receipts for everything on me. Literally the bank stub of me depositing my check and withdrawing a grand. Then a gas station stub showing I spent 48 and some change. So I had 8 bills on me 2 20s a 10 and a 1 in my wallet. I told him that all of my money is accounted for and did not come from any illicit source. Even said I have my paycheck stub.

He made me wait until the k9 came. The dog circled my car a hundred times. Or 10. He circled me 5 times. Then I had my wallet forcibly removed. I really dont need to say much else of what happened. The troopers claimed I was going to buy drugs in shreveport. Even though I live and work in dallas.

I went ahead and had a nice weekend in shreveport where I won almost double what was stolen from me... before promptly losing almost all of that too but that is beside the point.  Now I am kinda stuck on what to do. I have receipts from my bank, the gas station, from the casino, the hotel, and just about everywhere I went proving where the money came from and where it was going to go.

I do not know who to contact atm. The state trooper office in Tyler? The Tyler PD? I tried calling the local trooper office near tyler and was told to call another number. Which did not work.

So I am at step one. I realize that getting a lawyer is pointless as it will cost more than 951 dollars to get my money back so I am going to try to do this by myself. Stupid I know but its the best way I know to get my money back. Unless anyone knows of low cost law firms or firms that only take a portion of the money this is my best option.

Answer:
 > He made me wait until the k9 came

[Whoops. This should be interesting](http://www.dailydot.com/politics/supreme-court-police-drug-sniffing-dogs/)

> I realize that getting a lawyer is pointless as it will cost more than 951 dollars to get my money back

Not necessarily. It's worth asking around. You may be able to get a free consultation as well.

>I do not know who to contact atm.

I have no idea who you should contact or what you should do if you aren't going to use a lawyer, but state troopers are Texas DPS officers and [here](http://www.dps.texas.gov/contact.htm) is their contact page. They have contact info for each field office, but I think I would contact Austin headquarters to see what the process is. Answer #2: You just got civilly forfeited.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Civil_forfeiture_in_the_United_States

These are not easy cases to "win" but if you can provide some quick and reasonably compelling evidence of your trip you might have some hope.Answer #3: find out which PD confiscated the money and ask for it back. if they refuse, go to the civil court in the county where the PD is and ask the clerk how to file a suit to return evidence/confiscated property.


Title: Is this considered fraud?

Question:
I work for an electronics company where we offer the ability to apply for our store credit card which involves having a valid I.D, writing in if you own or rent and putting in your full social. If an employee is taking the customers information and the customer informs the employee they don’t have a social is it considered fraud to type in nine random numbers? (which in most cases the application is either declined or they ask us to call the bank.)

Location is New Jersey.

Answer: I would think it is because the random numbers could end up being someone else's social.


Title: Laid off technical director - what does a reasonable exit package?

Question:
My company has recently gone through hard times and they've decided to lay me off.  I'm in the middle of negotiating an exit package and this is my first time in this level of seniority in the company.  The company is about 100 employees and is in IT.

What does a reasonable exit package look like in terms of months of severance and any other common features of an exit package?

Answer:
 There isn't any formal standard.  In the US, an exit package is a nicety and unless you have some leverage over them, it's a "take what they give you" situation.

The closest thing to a standard I've seen is X weeks paid for every year you worked for the company, with X being anything from 1 week to a month.


Title: [PA] My gf's boss just kissed her in the workplace. There is one witness but he refuses to testify. What can we do?

Question:
Her boss (owner of the company) has always been borderline inappropriate to her at work, but this is the first time he's actually done something. There is no HR department at her work place, and in the past, anyone who refuses to let him "advance" has just been fired right away.

We tried to ask the coworker, who saw the whole thing, to testify, but he refused due to fear of losing his job. As far as I understand, without any solid proof, it's just her words against his and the case wouldn't hold up. She feels helpless about the whole situation, and I'm frustrated that we can't put the guy to justice... so at this point, is there any action we can do? (Other than quit the job and find somewhere else to work - she's already been looking for a new job)

Answer:
 She can complain to the EEOC and say that he kissed her. He can deny it, the EEOC may investigate, interview the co-worker and/or other employees, or they may make a finding. Many sexual harassment cases are decided based primarily on the alleged victim's testimony and the defendant's denial. The factfinder makes a decision about who is more believable.  He may not even "deny" it completely, he may say something dumb, like "I accidentally fell into her with my face," " I meant to kiss her on the cheek," " I thought it was consensual, " etc.

I disagree with the notion that the case can't hold up because there are no other witnesses and the boss denies it. If a lawsuit is filed, her lawyer will subpoena and notice the deposition of her cowardly co-worker, and he won't have the option of refusing to answer questions.

She should go to the EEOC or talk to a lawyer.

 It will be unlawful for him to retaliate against her for complaining to the EEOC.Answer #2: He can always be subpoenaed if it comes down to it. Few people will lie in court to protect a non-relative regardless of the power dynamic.

We are getting ahead of ourselves. First you have to report it to document the accusation and protect her from retaliation.


Title: My Boss Won't Let Me Tell My Uncle That His Tenants...

Question:
This is a silly and gross story. I work for a very small cleaning company. I recently got called out to a property owned by my uncle. The tenants do not know my uncle and I are related. They have been renting from my uncle for about 8 years (he was not their original LL and I don't think he's actually ever been inside of the home). Anyway, I went in that house today and there was human fecal matter smeared on the walls, on the fan, on the ceiling. I left immediately (after taking pictures) and told my boss and we had a good laugh. I begged him to let me tell my uncle about this but he is convinced that he can be sued for revealing personal information about the customers. They'll know it was us who told their LL/my uncle, because they never let anyone else inside ever, and because he call tell them my name and address for all I care, shit's nasty. My boss told me I can look/ask around online and if we conclude it's no big deal to discuss what I saw I can tell my uncle. Georgia!

 One more thing, he thinks there's probably not going to be anything in the lease that would allow my uncle to address the matter, would a standard lease agreement have a relevant clause?
Please and thank you!

Answer: Pretty sure, lease or no, SMEARING SHIT ON THE WALLS is an activity you should not partake in as a renter.


Title: Subpoenaed out of state

Question:
I received a subpoena in the mail the other day to show up to a case out of state, been trying to read up on it and some of the other posts on here to see what I can do about it. For reference this is across the country while I was on vacation and I currently reside in CA. I do not have the time or money to take a trip over there again and as someone who has never set foot in a court room, what would be the best way to deal with this? I've seen some stuff about contacting an attorney to try to quash it, is there any recommendations on type of attorney to go about it?

Edit: Thanks for the advice so far, much appreciated

Answer: Call the attorney that is sending the subpoena and let them know it is a hardship. See what they can do.


Title: My car was hit by an uninsured driver and I have to pay $1k deductible, can I sue the driver for the amount of the deductible?

Question:
As the title states, my car was hit by an uninsured driver. My insurance company said they are going to sue the driver for the total amount of the repairs (I'm assuming in the $8k region) and I will receive a refund portion of what they recover equal to the portion the deductible was to the total amount for repairs.

Knowing this, is there any reason for me to sue? I know the insurance company has zero loyalty to me and the only thing they will actually do for me is what happens as a result of what they are doing for themselves. Meh, weird sentence. Basically, the insurance company won't do anything strictly for me, I will only benefit from there efforts if it benefits them.

Well, thanks for the help!

Answer: Yes you can. Whether you will ever collect is an entirely different story.


Title: Can my employer require me to list my personal cell phone?

Question:
My employer has a list of all employees at work and their personal cell phone numbers or home numbers..

Am I required to list my personal cell phone there?

The privacy act of 1998 stated that home phones or land lines that were listed in the phone book were not private.. Addresses were also not private because someone could technically follow you home and get your address that way..

But cell phones are not listed.. And I don't like that I have 160 people or more with my personal cell phone number.

I know that I am required by all employers to have a working phone so management can reach me if they need to... I'm fine with HR and our CEO having access to my phone number... I am not fine with every Joe blow at work having direct access to my personal cell number.. And since the privacy act states that an employer can not give out an unlisted phone number.. Wouldn't that inherently encompass cell phones as well? Its an unlisted number.. And its my personal cell phone..

Location Indiana

Answer: Get a google voice number, give that to them. Have that number forwarded to your real number. Whitelist your bosses numbers, and have the rest automatically go to voicemail.


Title: If a girl is raped in an interrogation cell by a police officer, while she is under arrest, will the charges against her be dropped? Canada

Answer:
 As horrifying as the situation you describe is, the charges against the arrestee are unrelated to her treatment, whether official or legal or humane, while under arrest.

If you, a friend, or an associate has been sexually assaulted while in custody, you need an attorney and a hospital right away.

If you, a friend, or an associate are considering making a false claim of sexual assault in an attempt to evade criminal charges, I hope you suffocate in moose dung.Answer #2: If it is a serious felony and there is other evidence to convict that doesn't include the police officer's collected evidence and testimony then the person might go to trial. If the crime is minor politically a prosecutor might drop any and all charges. It will boil down to what the evidence is and how much the police officer compromised evidence by his act.


Title: Want to know if I can get attempting to flee or evade dropped to a lesser charge

Question: I live in North Carolina, I was street racing and was caught by a cop, I panicked when his lights came on and dipped into a neighborhood assuming he was going for the other guy next to me, When he followed me in I pulled over and he charged me with speeding 88 in a 55, and attempting to flee or elude a law enforcement officer when in the lawful performance of his duty Gs. 20-141.5 (a) Im wondering if theres anything I can do to get this pled down to a lesser charge.

Answer: You can try.  But you have no right to a lesser charge.


Title: Mechanic didnt do work I paid for

Question:
I paid 1600.00 into my car at a mechanic. Included was an oil change, 2 new tires, new battery. There is other work as well.

Driving, my oil light goes on, pull over pop thr hood and see the battery is the original nissan battery with corrosion and everything, then look at my 2 "new back tires " ...they are my original tires!

The no oil was spoken of, and I could've lost my entire engine. And the tires had dry rot on the sides, the threading was fine. But that could've popped with my kid in the car.

Any action I can take? Whst type of compensation should I expect ? At this point they have done what was paid for , but I dont know if all the other work was done that I cant see. So I'm bringing to another mechanic and going over each item.

Answer: You should ask that they do the work you paid for. You can't get extra for "what ifs"


Title: My Ex-wife and I have been doing 6 months on and 6 months off, now my ex-wife is going against this agreement. Wondering about filling for rights if I’m out of state of my child.

Question:
My child is is New Jersey and I am located in Texas. My ex-wife and I have been doing 6 months on/ six months off but this go around changed her minds. What’s more is she’s using the child as a control tool now to manipulate me into doing things I don’t want to do and generally being difficult to deal with, making threats that I can’t see my kid because I’m
 Not doing things the way she wants. How can I start fighting for my rights?
Topic:
Custody Divorce and Family

Answer:
 If you don't have a formal custody agreement, now would be the time to get one. For best results, you should seek the help of a lawyer that specializes in family law.

It's also worth noting that your 6 months on/6 months off agreement - if that means what I think it means, that you have your child for half the year - is not going to hold up long term with such a long distance between both parents.


Title: Friend wants to forge a doctor's note

Question: She is registering her child for summer rec and they require vaccination records. She has those documents. Come to find out, there is a separate document to be signed by the doctor saying the child is immunized and able to participate in activities. If she pays for for rec before the deadline (2 days from now) the cost will be reduced by 10%. She says the doctor wont be in before the deadline and she's going to forge this final document so that she can save the 10% on rec fees. As all the information will be accurate she doesnt see a problem with this. This doesnt strike me as remotely legal. Can she get in legal trouble over something like this?

Answer: She would be committing fraud.


Title: Filled my rental petrol car with diesel (Wisconsin)

Question:
Hello everybody,

I feel pretty stupid, but after them towing it to the hotel I checked all the papers they handed me. On none of the stubs it mentions Diesel or Petrol.

Before fueling I checked the whole inside of the car without any mention of what to fill the var with. No aluminium sticker on the passanger side, no mention of the fuel car or even under the hood.

Now I see the check of $600 getting removed from my creditcard statements. Are there any ways to fight this?

I am from Europe, and wonder what my options are, Also America N.1

Answer:
 Cars and trucks that need 'unleaded fuel' (petrol) will have a fuel gauge that specify 'unleaded fuel only', and a gas cap or flap that also say 'unleaded fuel only'.   Vehicles needing Diesel identify 'diesel fuel' in the same places.

I am surprised that you were able to fill up with diesel fuel since the diesel fuel nozzle at a pump is not designed to fit into an unleaded gas tank.  I think you probably just laid it in the upper part of the filler and not into the metal flap at the bottom.Answer #2: If you didn’t know you could have called and checked, so I don’t think ignorance is a great defense. If all it cost you was $600 that’s a pretty good deal compared to damaging the engine. Answer #3: Thought that diesel and petrol nozzles were sized differently?Answer #4: NAL: Unfortunately ignorance isnt going to be a valid excuse for this one. On American cars, it usually specifies on the fuel tank cap what type of fuel and grade you have to put in. Putting diesel in a gasoline car, or vice versa, can cause a serious repair bill. So I am surprised it only came out to 600 bucks. Options wise, you don't really have any unfortunately. Next time, check the fuel cap. If you see something along the lines of 88 octane, or 92 octane or something along those lines, then its a gasoline powered car. Answer #5: Bottom line, you damaged the vehicle. If you got some form of insurance you "might" be able to make a claim, but really 600 is pretty fair as a charge to fix what you did.


Title: Functional addict/alcoholic - when is it necessary to inform HR / how to arrange rehab?

Question:
TLDR: Reasonably highly functioning addict/alcoholic, with a high stress job where I don't feel comfortable taking the time for professional rehab - have tried lots of other methods. In NYC.

----

Hi all - what are the recommended routes for determining whether professional rehab is necessary and/or what other considerations are there in terms of revealing the information? HR has been pretty decent from what I've observed here but am well aware of the adage that they are not my friends. I currently work at a reasonably prestigious services firm, with a high salary and reasonable lifestyle (aside from the constant brownouts). The usage habit has certainly affected my productivity/attitude but I think people just assume I'm spacey and forgetful - I can still remain highly productive at least in terms of executing tasks. I very rarely am actively using during work hours, although the hangovers have at times been pretty severe. At this point the relevant chemicals are only alcohol and cannabis.

I am getting help (specialist therapist for 6+ months); have been in and out of different support groups for 4 years, and dealing with this in some form or another for about 8. It's led to the usual family/relationship drama - at present I'm single and reasonably happy this way but also bored and looking for something more substantial, both personally and professionally. I'm 33, in NYC.

My planned next step is to continue treatment, become sober again (I'm optimistic that this time will work at least long enough to have a clearer head to evaluate), potentially evaluate other options (the current job - while ideally situated in my field is miserable on a day-to-day basis) and look into more professional/longer term help.

In my current role although I have 3+ weeks of vacation per year I'm unlikely to be able to take them all, and additionally it's very difficult for me to be absent for more than week or so due to lack of familiarity on my team with what I work with (trying to deal with this right now but it will take a few months). In general, what are the thresholds needed to be "approved" for rehab leave / from an insurance perspective? Do I need to completely lose it and commit a very bad act? As it stands my habits are mostly disruptive from a day-to-day perspective but as far as I'm aware most of my colleagues aren't remotely aware that I even drink or use drugs.

For a bit more background on the usage patterns: the biggest problem I've had was about 2 years ago with benzodiazepines (originally prescribed to help moderate alcohol use, they became somewhat complimentary) - there was then some personal drama and I was clean for 6 months and found a new job that quickly settled into a fairly boring routine, and I deliberately decided to see how far I could push the insanity. In working with my therapist the problem seems bigger than just substance abuse (stemming from a degree of codependency in terms of how I relate to pretty much everything in my life). Right now I'm optimistic as I have been able to draw down usage and it's more become a pattern / I can't find anything better to do with my time (working on that). Other than this I'm reasonably healthy, generally able to exercise and mostly just deliberately checked out; and trying to check back in.

Even if I don't go through with anything it's helpful to know what the options / requirements are.

Answer:
 FMLA protected leave is available for inpatient substance abuse rehabilitation, if you are eligible for FMLA leave.

However, if the company has a clearly communicated policy citing substance abuse (or abuse of a particular substance) is a terminable offense, your employment may be terminated.

Talk with your counselor and physician regarding FML processes.

Edit: FMLA does not cover absence related to substance abuse, like a killer hangover. Only medical care.


Title: [Louisiana] Quickest way to waive the “cool-off period”?

Question:
So I’m filing for a 102 divorce tomorrow. My spouse has been emotionally abusing me for months now and I have text evidence to prove this. However, the divorce is non-contested and we both want this to be over as quickly as possible. Would it speed up the process if I claimed I was abused emotionally? If so, would cell phone text based evidence be enough in court? Or does the act of the divorce being non-contested speed up the process to a point where that wouldn’t be relevant?
Topic:
Custody Divorce and Family

Answer: It's 180 days if you have no kids. No turbo button.


Title: What happens after a protest brawl?

Question:
Today there was some fighting during a protest in LA. The police arrested 3 people but there were around 20, on camera, full face shown, who were involved in hitting others and were not arrested.

What happens after the brawl? Do the police round them up later or is it all just ignored?

In reality do the people caught during these events face the same legal consequences or less than if it was just a regular day?

Can you still sue them for medical expenses if you were injured from their attack and were a counter protestor or does being a counter protestor make you a willing participant?

Answer:
 If the police can identify specific people who appear to have committed crimes, they may investigate and possibly arrest those individuals.  Sometimes that happens soon, sometimes it happens later, sometimes it doesn't happen.

Yes, those individuals who are arrested for crimes are up against largely the same consequences as individuals who are arrested and charged with crimes at other times.

Yes, you can take civil action (a lawsuit) against those people for your damages, regardless of whether or not they're arrested, charged, and/or found guilty or not guilty.  The outcome of such a civil case is going to depend *heavily* on all the specifics and nuances of the situation, and "I was a counter-protestor," is not an automatic out for them -- though it *may* be taken into consideration in some fashion.


Title: (Missouri) Roommate "moved out", hasn't found subleaser, but wants to stop paying utilities.

Question:
So dealing with my roommate has been a nightmare for a good chunk of the time she lived here. She moved in around July or so, originally as a subleaser but later as a full tenant when we resigned the lease. In January, she informed us that she was moving to Louisiana at the beginning of February, but was staying on the lease as she was going to be coming back and forth and wanted to keep her stuff here. She paid the utilities and internet for the month of February.

She has since decided that as she no longer lives in Missouri, she won't be paying for utilities or internet for the month of March and the coming months. Despite this, she plans to continue to pay rent and eventually find a subleaser.

According to our lease, the renters/subleasers are in charge of paying for utilities. Because we have a lease/contract, it is my understanding that she should still be on the hook for her portion of utilities (Internet is on us but not mentioned in the lease so I'm less worried about that bill). I don't have a copy of the lease in front of me, but I do have a copy of the sublease agreement, which states "The subtenant(s) shall pay all bills on the following Utilities: electric/water/gas beginning on the starting date of this sublease". I know this same term/condition appears on the full lease as well.

So my question: is she required to continue to pay for utilities as long as she's on the lease? If so, can I take her to civil court? And if I can take her to civil court, can I legally tell her "You either pay me for utilities or I take you to court"?

Answer:
 > So my question: is she required to continue to pay for utilities as long as she's on the lease?

Most likely yes, check the exact wording of your lease for details.

> If so, can I take her to civil court?

Yes, small claims.

> And if I can take her to civil court, can I legally tell her "You either pay me for utilities or I take you to court"?

IANAL. But providing that your lease requires her to pay utilities that sounds fine to me.


Title: Sexually abused by mother, happened over 2 years ago, was over 18 when it happened. X-post r/NeedAdvice

Question:
I'm cross-posting this because I just need people to talk to on this.  I'm kind of having a minor nervous breakdown.

I'm using a throwaway account for this. So a couple years ago I was put in a psych ward on suicide watch. I got out after a weekend. A few months later, my mother touched me while she thought I was sleeping, when in reality I was just waking up from sleep. She quickly went downstairs when she noticed me waking. I was in shock of what just happened, and it was the most difficult decision I've made in my life, walking downstairs and confronting her about it.

She instantly denied it, teared up, and said that The Devil confused my senses and made me experience an illusion. I know when my mother is lying. I made a big thing about it, but both she and my father incessantly told me it was all in my mind.

Fast forward to almost two years later. I've gotten into only two arguments about it with my family, one last Christmas eve. I'm afraid, afraid of uprooting the life I'm leading right now, afraid of losing contact with my parents and siblings, afraid of having everyone I know think I'm some weak piece of shit who let himself be taken advantage of. And the worst part is that the moment the abuse happened, it felt so familiar, that I don't want to try to uncover any other repressed memories I may have of my mother doing this to me before.

But I've reached my limit. I can't let her get away with this. She completely lives a lie, and she was awkward around me afterwards but is now living more and more like it's something that can be pushed away or glossed over. And both the times I've brought it up again, she says it's my fault for spinning elaborate fantasies against her and she threatens to disown me.

I need to know, please, what do I do? How do I stop this?

It says I'm supposed to include my location, so I am in Western PA.
Topic:
Personal Injury

Answer: First you should see a therapist. It is possible that this incident is a waking dream. You can then decide if the alleged incident occurred and you want to file a report with the police.


Title: Defendant in sexual assault case asking for interpreter?

Question:
(California) While sleeping at a friend's house, I (21 F) was sexually assaulted by a guy (35 M) that was dating a friend who lived there. I went to the police and the guy has been arraigned and there is a preliminary hearing set for September (after being pushed back from the first one that was originally set today). I talked to a woman who works at the D.A's office and she told me that he has requested an interpreter for the trial. He is from Rwanda, but is a Phd student at the school and speaks perfectly fine English. Like definitely fluent, but I guess he wants a Rwandan interpreter (which is pretty hard to get, the school is in the Central Valley, not SF or LA or something).

So I was hoping I could just get some context. Is this normal and run-of-the-mill and I'm just over thinking it? Is this a common tactic to buy for time? Is this some sort of legal defense to emphasize that he's not American or something? Any speculation/anecdotes/ideas welcome. Just really need some way to understand why he would want an interpreter even though he speaks/understands English perfectly well.

Answer:
 It may be that he speaks conversational English fine but wants help because there will be a lot of legal jargon involved that he may not understand as well.  It may also be that he's trying to delay, and hoping they either have trouble or can't find someone who speaks his language.Answer #2: It's something he is (technically) legally entitled to ask for - it is usually a delaying tactic

It can also be used if he is found guilty as grounds for an appeal (i.e. his evidence was misinterpreted)

It sounds to me like it's dodgy as all fuck but he can still do it. As a victim I know it can be hard but the wheels of justice can (and do) turn very slowly sometimes - he'll still have his day in court at some stage

As a side note I'd be interested to know what his schools policy regarding English fluency is for foreign students


Title: [PA] New graveyard manager removed/returned custom headstone from SO's mother's grave. Please help.

Question:
My boyfriend's father was given back his late wife's headstone after 8 years. Evidently, a new manager has taken over and has claimed the headstone did not meet the requirements of the graveyard. It was allowed when she was buried there and has stood for 8 years. It is in no way an eyesore and is in great condition. He and his father are carpenters by trade and they made this monument by hand out of wood. It's properly sealed and shows no signs of decay. Needless to say.. This is bringing up a lot of unnecessary grief for his family.. Is there any recourse they can take? I want to help in any way I can. The headstone is sitting in our wood shop..

**TL;DR: Custom-made headstone of boyfriend's mother was returned to us, after 8 years, by a new graveyard manager. Please help.**

Answer:
 Does it meet the requirements of the yard, or not?

Specifically, does the yard allow for wooden headstones or not?Answer #2: You need three things.
A copy of the new ownership and rules of the cemetary.
Managers generally don't make these decisions. Many, many cemetaries are being bought out by large corporations now.

A copy of the rules of the cemetary and the contract that was signed when woman was buried and stone installed. They need to know exactly what it was they agreed to.

Finally, they need to see an attorney and ask their advice. If they are lucky one  consultation may be enough.   Could be the cemetary manager is trying to pull a fast one.
OR could be they are changing the rules and making them retroactive. I don't know that could be managed when some folks' relatives would be all be long gone.

TL;DR.    Get more info and consult an attorney.


Title: Am I legally allowed to trade favors to my girlfriend for bjs?

Question: Just like the title states. Sometimes my girlfriend will say “I’ll give you a bj for a long back rub” or “if you get my nails done I’ll have sex with you” I told my friend about this and he pretty much called her a prostitute. I got to thinking about it and I was worried I was breaking the law somehow and I don’t want to go to jail I’m only 19. Thanks for any help. In Arkansas

Answer: If you get married and have kids it gets a lot better. "I'll mow the grass if I can take a nap." Answer #2: Your friend sounds like a real dickhole.


Title: Can a landlord place a security camera in a communal space

Question:
My friends landlord has placed a security camera in common areas of the house he is renting a room in. Is this legal in NSW Australia?

Edit: the landlord said that the camera both recorss and see the camera live from their own house. This seems very dodgy to me.

Edit 2: it's locates in the kitchen but also has a clear view of the lounge.

Answer:
 Your best bet is going to be for your friend to call the Department of Fair Trading and ask them.

If it is a common area like an apartment lobby, carpark or something like that then it's probably going to be ok.

If it's the lounge room or kitchen then I'm fairly certain (more than 90%) that they are going to be in breach of the Privacy Act.

If the cameras record audio as well, then I'm 100% certain.

Also - does the landlord live in the same property (i.e. is your friend a boarder) - If not, then the landlord is also going to have issues about illegal access to the property - NSW is VERY strict about the rights of a landlord to access a property and this would include doing so remotely.

But call Fair Trading - they may even have to go find out themselves (I don't imagine this comes up every day) but they will and they are generally very good at their job.


Title: New Hampshire easement lost through adverse possession?

Question:
My parents own around 200 acres in New Hampshire. One of the neighboring properties has a century-old deeded easement to cross the land, right down the middle, from a street to her property. Parents were not aware of this until recently, when they entered into negotiations with a third party to sell the land. Then it was discovered on the property deed.

The easement has not been used in decades or longer and is in fact covered by trees and brush, to the point that it is completely impassable.  The neighbor has a house on her property with access to the property via a driveway that does not involve my parents' land. The neighbor absolutely does not need or use the easement on my parent's land, and as far as we know, she is not even aware that it exists.

Can my parents now argue that the easement was lost through adverse possession to them, based on decades of neglect and non-use? I'd appreciate any advice as well as any resources. Parents are considering contacting a lawyer, I just want to check on whether this is a valid issue or total lost cause before they start paying legal fees.

Answer:
 If your parents are dealing with the sale of 200 acres they should retain an attorney to represent them in the matter.

They may be entitled to raise arguments as to the easement, the necessity of that easement, and whatever may have happened in the intervening years.  Does the easement describe who is responsible for maintenance?  Are you certain it's the neighbor?

In any case, these are great things to review with their attorney.  But the amount of money in question is too large and the issues too involved to be solved by internet advice.


Title: [Orlando, FL] (NSFW) Is filming porn legal in Florida and if so, are there any general guidelines or rules to follow?

Question:
Sort of throwaway account obviously. I apologize if my post isn't in the correct format, but this is my first time posting to /r/legaladvice.

I'm a male in Orlando, FL who would like to film amateur style porn, but I'm not quite sure if it's legal and if it is, what guidelines or rules one must follow to produce porn (amateur or professional) in the State of Florida. Thanks for the advice ahead of time.

Answer: Hire a local lawyer. Rules and regulations can be extremely local and without having someone spend the time to do the local research, it's unlikely to be good advice.


Title: Need advice accessing medical records for a child while under a restraining order but also under a mediation agreement

Question:
I live in California, my sons mother is currently on maternity leave from her work to take care of the child she recently had by someone else. Our mediation agreement states that my child can go to her place of employment where she is a medical assistant. It also states that I will not be denied access to my sons medical and dental records. I am also on a restraining order to stay away from her place of employment. Would I be breaking the restrictions if I were to access my childs records at her place of employment while she is on maternity leave?
I do plan on going back to mediation soon since I realize that this is a conflict of interest and have come to know that she has withheld medical and dental information from me.

Answer:
 No, you cannot violate your restraining order.

You can bring this up at your mediation.


Title: Are you liable for an officer’s actions during a car chase

Question: You are speeding and driving recklessly to evade a police officer trying to pull you over. If the police officer hits and kills a person while attempting to catch you, would you be charged for the murder of that person?

Answer:
 Depending on the jurisdiction, you can be charged with "Felony Murder" which makes the person committing the felony liable for all deaths that occur as a result, including police, deaths caused by the police, witnesses, and co-conspirators.

https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Felony_murder_rule


Title: Help with creepy neighbor situation. I'm a single female and feeling very scared!

Question:
Edit: This is in NYC

I live right next door to this apartment. There is only a girl on the lease, but a guy who I think is her boyfriend is always there and he is creeping me out.

One thing that really is creeping me out is that almost every time I walk past their door with my dog, the male will open his door stick his head out, look at me and my dog and close the door. Without saying a word. Sometimes he'll even go as far as to walk out his apartment and stare and then walk back in.

My roommate has never seen them.

The only time they have spoken to me it had to be around midnight and I was walking past their door with my dog. They started asking me a bunch of personal questions, like how long I've been living there, how much I paid to have my dog there, if I worked or went to school etc. I know what you may be thinking, but it wasn't in a friendly manner. It was almost like they were attacking me. Also, they didn't seem like they were 'all there'. Almost seemed like they were 'on' something. It was very strange.

One note: there was this one passive aggressive behavior about my dog once. My dog is a puppy and still has some separation anxiety so she barks for about an hour every time I leave. She doesn't bark at night.

What happened was I got on the elevator and the guy and his guy friend hurriedly came and joined me. They started talking about the dog barking
to each other in front of me. Conveniently, when we go to the lobby he says "he forgot his cellphone so went back up" Which makes me think they only wanted to get in the elevator with me.

making me think they only wanted to get in the elevator with me

This has been going on for like a week now (the time they moved in). Its making me feel very uncomfortable and unsafe in my own building. I'm extremely anxious now and don't know what to do. Their apartment is literally next to mine, so I can't avoid walking past it.

Another note: I told my maintenance guy about him and he said he knows who I'm talking about and the guy treats the girl like crap apparently. This scares me even further.

**I'm so scared! And it doesn't help that all my friends tell me this is creepy and they'd be scared too.**

Answer:
 He hasn't done a single thing that warrants legal action... or being afraid....

He sticks his head out when you pass? He's nosey. He conversed with you and asked you questions? That's being a friendly neighbor... I know that's rare these days. Hell, all my neighbors are dicks. He forgot his phone.... maybe he forgot his phone.

> One note: there was this one passive aggressive behavior about my dog once. My dog is a puppy and still has some separation anxiety so she barks for about an hour every time I leave.

So he shares a wall with you and your dog barks for an hour at a time? Yeah, I'd be pissed too.... Day or night, no one wants to hear a puppy bark for an hour at a time. You live in an apartment complex. Perhaps time to get the pup trained.


Title: Liability when handing out drug test kits at a music festival.

Question:
This is in central OR, on private property. I have verbal and written permission from the festival organizers to do this during the event.

Lots of recreational drugs in the area have reportedly been cut with fentanyl. This is to the extent that medical staff and volunteers at the event will have narcan on them at all times in case of emergency. I will not personally be doing recreational drugs but I'm aware they are prevalent at music festivals in general. I'm also aware many festival goers may not realize their MDMA and cocaine could contain fentanyl or know just how small of a dose is fatal. I'd like to provide harm reduction alternatives to people in this community and prevent overdose deaths, so I've bought fentanyl test strips from DanceSafe.org. I'm putting together test kits. Each kit will contain a strip, Dance Safe's instructions and fentanyl info, and candy for fun.

To what extent am I liable if someone's test gives a false negative? Should I display a disclaimer on the table where I hand out the kits? Are there other ways I could be liable or where this could be illegal?

Answer:
 NAL: You shouldnt be liable for any false negatives, you aren't making the drug tests you are just handing them out.

Also its not like you are giving them the drugs. You are just giving people the option to test them. I dont see why there would be any liability at all. Answer #2: If you have the concert venues permission you are past one legal hurdle. However the drug testing kits can fall into a grey area for being considered drug paraphenalia. That's why organizations like DanceSafe and Bunk Police are less welcomed at concerts. The venues are worried that allowing them puts them in danger of being classified as a drug involved premise, which can get them in hot water with the law. So if you are set on doing this, maybe do it outside the venue or check with the local PD first? Either way you could risk having your kits seized and charged with possessing paraphenalia, as silly as that seems.

But I also wanted to say good for you for trying. I know someone whose coke popped as fentanyl at a concert, and if the testing hadn't been there they and their friends would likely have OD'd and died. The best thing you can probably do systemically is to advocate for allowing testing organizations back in concerts and try to leverage public outcry. (For the mods, I am not advocating going to the media).


Title: [Texas] URGENT: Friend maybe caused an accident on way to stop a suicide & is now afraid he’s a hit and run

Question:
Just a few hours ago, a friend in Houston (who is an absolute saint) got a call from his ex, saying that he’d taken a bunch of pills and was committing suicide.

He called me (I’m a recovery advocate not based in Texas) and I told him to go to his friend’s house and call 911. I coached him on what to do and how to do it. He did all the right things and was extremely appropriate throughout. I was on the phone through the whole ordeal and one of the officers said he probably saved this guy’s life.

While driving to the emergency, he witnessed a car swerve to not hit him at an intersection. The car ran into a fence. He is NOT sure if he’s at fault, and does not think he ran a red light at the intersection but cannot be sure. He thinks someone tailed him to get his license plate, but he was in such a state he cannot be sure.

He is so worried he’s completely ruined his life and keeps saying “Did I just flew the scene of a crime?” He mentioned the accident and its location to one of the officers while at his ex’s house, and got a case number (for the mental health emergency, not for the accident.).

He is completely shaken, and not sure what the right protocol is beyond this. He has no idea (and neither do I) if that was a “hit and run” or “miss and run” or “phantom driver” (him), or if he just saw a guy run into a fence.

What should he do? Call police? Forget about it? Freak out? He’s truly a saint and doesn’t even speed in his car, and isn’t a criminal or anything. What should he do?

Answer: If his car was not contacted they generally don’t consider them involved in the accident.


Title: If I want to create a news outlet, and my last name is Fox, could I legally call said outlet Fox News?

Question: [removed]

Answer: Lol, this probably goes in off topic. Do you really think Fox News, which is owned by a billionaire worth about 13.1 billion dollars, would let you? Do you have the money to defend yourself against that?


Title: Bought a PS3 on eBay for $220, accidentally gave wrong address, returned to sender, didn't get money back

Question:
As the title says, I bought a PS3 on eBay for $220. I set up my address and waited for it to arrive in the mail. I waited for about a week until I realized that I failed to put my apartment number in the address.

My apartment complex said that it would have gotten returned and when I finally squeezed a tracking number out of the seller, I saw that it had already been returned to their (seller's) local post office.

I contacted eBay and they said they can't intervene at all considering it was a wrong address on my part and that it was entirely on the seller.

I know that it is illegal to purchase something and not receive something in return, even if something does go wrong in shipment. They could easily pick it up from their post office and resend it (I've offered to them to pay for the shipping back).

They haven't responded to any of my messages and eBay gave me a phone number which they have never returned my calls or voicemails. They're not answering any of my eBay messages either.

Who do I talk to to get this resolved. I don't care if I get the $220 or the PS3 at this point. I just want something out of this. Sidenote: I paid for it about a month ago now with little to no results in trying to contact them. Thanks to anyone willing to help me out with this one.

Edit: I live in Arizona, US. Didn't think it would be relevant, considering it was an online venture... Sorry.
Topic:
Computer and Internet

Answer:
 The seller did EVERYTHING he legally had to do. Keep in mind, even the shipping was done "correctly" according to your wishes.
You have to follow up with USPS because they are holding a package for you. Time to track down that local post office and give them a call.


Title: Best friend is being accused of rape.

Question:
I just got a message from my best friend let’s call him T. So T went out last night with a group of guys for some big party they have here in our town. (I was not with him.) But he was drinking a lot last night and him and our buddy( let’s call him R)  brought this girl we have all known for years back to his apt. Apparently T and this girl went to bed together and didn’t do anything. But when T wakes up, he says the girl rolled over and kissed him. So T tells me they continue the kissing and it turns into them having intercourse. That was it. T goes back to bed.

Fast forward to now... T gets a call from his sons mother (she is cousins with the other women) She is asking him about last night because said women has decided to go to the hospital and get tested because she says she was raped.

Now the women of the night has said she isn’t pressing charges but T is freaking out. Has no idea what to do. He called his buddy, R, to fill him in on the situation and R says that while he was sleeping on T’s couch, the women came out and started messing around with him. Also should be known that a few years ago, I have hooked up with said chick at a New Years party.

Now T is not the type of guy who would ever rape someone. Even drunk. But we have no idea what to do. He thinks he will get arrested tonight or Tuesday after Labor Day because the chick went to the hospital.. what should he do? Should he contact a lawyer now?

Answer: He should stop talking about this to anyone except his lawyer. He should not contact her or anyone to try to "explain." He should decline the invitation to speak with the police without his attorney.