Title: Checking footage at a gas station

Question:
[tx]      Hi there!

I have a question about checking camera footage. My SO's Amazon card has a charge for $60 in gas at an Exxon gas station. I didn't know an Amazon card could be used outside of Amazon. I'm sure it was my SO's aunt. She asked for gas money yesterday to which my SO said no (he's low on money). He noticed the charge today and confronted her to which she denies it and claims she has no idea where she placed his Amazon card (she has it so he wouldn't overspend on Amazon). I am 100% sure she used it especially since it was at the only gas station she goes to. Anyway, we called Exxon to ask if we could see camera footage of the pumps and the employee told me we have to have a court order to see any footage, then rudely hung up on me.

Is this true? Can I bring an officer to look at the footage? What are my rights in the situation. I know it seems a little extreme, however, we are tired of her lying and want to solve this once and for all.

Answer: You have no rights here absent a court order.Answer #2: Call the cops and make a report. They will go ask for the video.


Title: My roommate's ex-husband got violent today and knocked a hole in my wall. How do I protect my property?

Question:
Today, my roommates ex-husband was visiting her and their children. He went through her phone and, seeing another man had been texting her, got very aggressive. He choked her, pushed her into a wall(leaving an elbow sized hole) and pushed her into the floor. He also destroyed her phone and only left because she hit the panic button on my alarm system and he believe cops were called.

I do not trust him. I do not want him back in my home, for her safety, her kids safety, and for the sake of my property. My name is on the lease, and I'm close with my landlord. Is there any way we can ban him from the property? We live in Alabama.

Answer: File for a restraining order - and did you call the police so you have evidence of what happened?


Title: [NY] My girlfriend was forced into my parents' van. Is that illegal?

Question: [deleted]

Answer:
 "Basically forced" doesn't sound like "actual force". Your parents are probably in the clear. You however probably won't be. If you live with your parents, you need to give them a heads up on situations like this. This story seems real odd.

Why did you have to pick your girlfriend up from the airport and why did they have to take her back to one? Is this a long distance relationship? Had you ever met her before today? Did you just think your parents would be cool with letting a pregnant stranger crash with you in *their* house?

>The ordeal really pissed me off and I have refused to speak to my family.

I'm not saying what they did was right, but do you really have the gall to be mad at your family for basically reacting the way that would be expected to have a strange white pregnant girl just move in their house you claimed was raped without knowing more? I'm a lawyer and I don't even think my "can handle this shit" meter would be kept in check.


Title: Red Light Camera Ticket - Proof of Burden?

Question:
Location: Pennsylvania (Not Philly)  --- **Also I know it's burden of proof but the Stones' Beast of Burden has been stuck in my head all morning, hence the typo** ---

Long story short: I allegedly went through a red light and got a notice of violation (NOT a ticket, NOT a notice to appear in court) after the camera caught my car doing so. I really, *really* don't want to have to shell out this $100 for something so criminal as a red light camera ticket. I wish to appeal it and have done some research on what my possible defenses can be. The problem is, I can't really nail down a defense which could work due to all of my research being from several different states.

Here's the details:

* The notice is just that - a notice. It is not a ticket. The company that handles payment processing isn't even in this state - it's in Mass. There's no court address or anything of that sort on it.
* The pictures taken of my vehicle are only from behind - none of the driver. License plate, and 3 stills showing going through the red. The light is red from start to stop. There are no vehicles behind or in front of me. I haven't timed the yellow to see if it's in code.
* The red light camera has been there for several years, with warnings in ample view before intersection.

My defense ideas are as follows:

* There's no proof who is driving the car. It is my car, but there are no frontal shots. On the violation itself, it lists several valid defenses for contesting the ticket, all of which more or less are verbatim from the township ordinance in violation, and range from medical emergencies, emergency vehicles in area, lease vehicle, etc. - except one, which is on the ordinance but not the ticket. That defense is, as quoted from the ordinance, "It shall be a defense to a violation under this ordinance that the person receiving the notice of violation was not operating the vehicle at the time of the offense. The owner may be required to submit evidence that the owner was not the driver at the time of the alleged violation." It is not the government's burden of proof to determine who was operating the vehicle at the time of violation? Why would it be mine? Can it be mine? I think this may be my strongest defense, however I can't be sure, and I don't want to acknowledge this if not necessary - see next point.
* Since it's just a notice and not a summons from the court, can I just ignore it? Does it carry any legal weight? If I don't acknowledge the notice, can they prove I know of it? It was not certified mail.

I know I may be leaving some details out, and can provide any details from the violation that may be necessary. On a scale of 1 to 10 of how much I do not want to pay this ticket, I'm at a solid 9.8. I even finally cracked and made a username to post this instead of just lurking as I have for god-knows-how-long.

Thank you for your help,
-Taxpayer

Answer:
 You ran a red light. Pay the ticket. Answer #2: It’s your damn car. If you weren’t driving it, you should be in a position to say who was.Answer #3: >There's no proof who is driving the car.

You're not the first person to think of this :). Red light ticket laws fine the owner of the car for allowing it to be driven in this way, but there's usually no penalty beyond the fine. If it wasn't you, your defense is "I loaned my car to Jimmy and he drives like a fuckwit", at which point they'll charge Jimmy for actually running a red light.

Your move here is to pay the fine and call Jimmy rude names until he gives you what he cost you.Answer #4: Here's the thing... If you want to informally go in, and ask for a mitigation, or deferment... whatever your jurisdiction offers you... go for it.

If you want to fight it... Get an attorney...  Or at least sit through a few traffic court sessions and watch what happens to people who represent themselves and try to present the types of defense you are trying out here.
Answer #5: >It is not the government's burden of proof to determine who was operating the vehicle at the time of violation?

The assumption of innocence and burden of proof beyond a reasonable doubt is only required for a criminal charge. A traffic violation is typically not a criminal charge; and thus requires a lower burden of proof and the assumption of innocence is not constitutionally required. All that's required under the fifth amendment is "due process"; which is accomplished by giving you notice and the opportunity to be heard.


Title: DV charge for tossing a near-empty plastic water bottle at my sister?

Question: [deleted]

Answer: You both sound exhausting.


Title: Can I use pictures from google and put a disclaimer that I don't own the pictures?

Question: I'm starting a small side business and I wanted to use some pictures off google as hyperlinks; however, I don't know the legality of using pictures I don't own. Is it possible for me to include them in my business and put a disclaimer saying I don't own or claim to own the pictures without getting sued ? Thank you!

Answer: You can not use anything that you did not create or have a license to use on your web site. There are companies that supply images for a fee.


Title: Chat: Update - Dog Ate Neighbor's Drone

Answer:
 I would advise /u/DeadDrone999 to ensure his trail cams can catch something that is thrown over the fence.

I'd also advise ensuring that they can see the other side of the fence to catch the neighbor throwing something over. There are some *fucked up* people in this world.Answer #2: we needed this after that parent blog outcome.Answer #3: I want to know what happens with the FAA. Answer #4: Man your neighbor sounds like a twat. If you head over to /r/multicopter you'll find that he is definitely in the minority when it comes to drone operators. It's people like him who can ruin an incredible hobby.  Also I saw that he states 'you don't own the airspace'. While technically true there is a US law that states you own the airspace that you are capable of using. Meaning, if he was that low to your dog/property he was likely violating laws. Sounds like he was also violating a slew of FAA regulations too (not over people, away from property, etc). If you end up hearing anything of the FAA fine, let us know. Id be interested in hearing about what came.of it exactly


Title: I am a Man [M26] who broke up with Woman [F24] in Chicago US and we have a daughter [F2] together. I am very concerned if im handling this situation the right way

Question:
Hi Reddit,

I want to make sure I'm handling this situation the best possible way. I've no knowledge of family law and to be honest I'm scared that I am being taken advantage of. But I also want to hear if maybe perhaps my situation is better than I think it is?

Let's break it down..

I am separated from the mother (24yo) of my daughter (2yo) and have been for about 9 months now. This is how I currently support my Daughter and my ex.

- I send money to my ex biweekly that ranges anywhere from $225 - $325. This flexible arrangement is what we agreed upon and as I continue to list the other ways I support her you'll understand why it's flexible.

- I also get my daughter every weekend. At first it started out with me visiting her. Then it became me picking her up on saturday and bringing her back sunday. Now it's become me getting her on Friday and taking her home sunday.

- Worth noting I also try to keep her an extra day if I happen to have PTO on monday or friday. Or if there are any holidays, luckily I accrue PTO pretty quickly at my job.

-When it comes to the visits I have with my daughter I am the one responsible for picking her up and dropping her off. I have to take an hour long train ride to go pick up my daughter and then to take her home. I know how to drive but do not own a car, the Mom has access to a car but does not drive (nor does she put effort to learning)

- In addition to the money I send biweekly I also currently am paying 2 credit cards that are in her name. There was a 3rd but I have already paid it off. The total $ amount at one point was in the $3,000+ range.

    -One of the cards was a Best Buy card that we purchased a TV, iPad, Monitor and Headphones with (She is the owner of the iPad I have the rest of the items)

    -Next is a Visa card that we both shared. It has the most debt and primarily was used for our vacations that we couldn't afford. (bad decision, I know.) Even though we both had equal touches of the Visa I have chosen to pay off this debt as it's currently affecting my credit score.

-the last card is a store card for Old Navy and it's the lowest amount of the 3, I am currently only paying the minimum monthly payments on it until I pay off the higher amount card (visa)

-I also currently pay for both of our phones. We were on a shared T-Mobile plan and I currently pay about $200 a month.

-I also send her a monthly supply of diapers and pay our daughters insurance monthly. This is around $55 a month.

-Now that I've outlined what I do help out with. Is it easier to explain why my biweekly amount that I send her is flexible. She understands that I help monetarily in other ways and allows me to keep it flexible. Essentially the checks that will be contributing to Rent I give her the low end of the amount and checks where I have no rent due I give her a larger amount. I always help out anyway I can and I have in the past sent extra money if she really needed it.

INFORMATION ABOUT THE BREAKUP:

Our arguments were always about money and the household. I was the only one working and maintaining the household. She stayed at home and watched our daughter. It was very stressful for me because I am working very hard to make ends meat. I even sold some of my possessions just to make some extra cash (my guitar, computer monitor, video games and more..) She on the other hand not once applied for a part-time job to help finances. It was always just me working and that she would eventually work when she felt she was ready.

During this whole time I was absolutely her biggest cheerleader. For example, I'd ask what she might be interested in pursuing and she'd always mention she'd be willing to get into medical billing/coding. Because her Mom currently does this for work she has a good feeling that this is the career for her. I supported this completely I didn't care what she did at this point I just needed some help. I gave her warnings that I was becoming depressed with our relationship that I needed to see a change. She would hear me out and start crying that she doesn't know what to do. Things would change positively for a few days then all her ambition would leave her and she's back to her usual self. She'd stay at home, post on Facebook and watch TV all day. She would even complain (sometimes brag) that she's running out of shows to watch.

With all of that in mind, she still felt the need to question me about money. We took a Financial Peace course with our church to help us learn how to budget and pay off our debt. The course highlights that couples should do finances together and that both parties have to get a say. When it came to implementation, she'd just let me take care of it. When she needed money for something and it wasn't in the budget she would get mad. Our last argument that ended it all was when she complained to me while I was at work that she needed money for some medication and I told her that I didn't have it and if it was important enough it would have been in the budget. She was furious with me and demanded we talk later about finances later. We talk later and I completely shut her up. I budget everything using the website that was recommended to us from our classes so I was able to pull up the whole month and tell her exactly why I didn't have that $25 for her meds.

At my absolute ropes end I told her she needed to stay with her Mom and I needed time to myself, I have put in 6 very committed years into this relationship. I moved to Chicago from LA when I was 19, We had another break in our relationship where I moved back to LA but we got back together and she moved to LA too. We then moved back to Chicago when she couldn't find work. When our daughter was born I had left behind the old unmotivated Me and went to school and ended up with my current job. Going from minimum wage to 45k a year (Currently)

Later that week I met up with her to drop off some extra clothes and told her that it was over and I couldn't do this anymore. Not the best way to break up I know but it's important to know this because she is a very petty person (and open about it too). I'm afraid of being taken advantage of by her as she's blatantly told me in a text (I have a screenshot) that "Karma is a bitch and I will get mine." Just the other day she dropped off our daughter at my house and was openly talking about her most recent Tinder explorations with my roommate/cousin. Our daughter learned how to say "Shit" and it's no secret that she doesn't watch what she says in front of her (She even jokes about it)

She found out I was chatting with a new girl after we broke up and got real upset and started harassing me about it. Telling me that if she finds out I don't change my bed sheets after I "fuck my little bitch" that I'll never see my daughter again. She called me once (drunk) when I was at the gym and berated me for cheating on her when I never did.

They say not to stick your dick in crazy right? haha ._.

Okay so that's our current setup as best as I can outline it. Lately however I've become more and more anxious about how I've been handling things thus far. I read another post recently about "back child support." Since currently my contributions are "under the table" I'm worried this could bite me in the ass. Reddit what is your advice? Is my current situation fine or am I being naive?

Thanks again and apologies for formatting errors (mobile) if any.

Tl:dr: broke up with ex and have a child together. We have avoided the court so far but I'm not sure if I'm just being naive about the whole situation.
Topic:
Custody Divorce and Family

Answer:
 It's broadly good that you have remained involved in your daughter's life and been providing financial and material support for your child's care. That will be useful when you do the important thing, which is:

1. Get a lawyer,
2. File for divorce, and
3. File for custody and child support orders covering your daughter.

Your lawyer can assess the situation and figure out what your state's guideline child support amounts will be given your respective incomes and proportional parenting time, and advise you on how to enforce your court-ordered visitation schedule once you have one.

You need to stop trying to DIY this and let a professional handle it.


Title: Boston - Process of Divorce - No Kids, No Home, No Major assets - She asked for "Temporary Alimony" and received it! How can this be??

Question:
When I split with my wife she quit a job paying 50K a year with a major company that exists almost everywhere in the US.
 She cut off communication, started using my debit card to my personal account and when she changed my address on my medical insurance that was the last straw. I knocked on her door, she didnt answer so i left my phone number and left, Period.
She applied for and was awarded a No Contact Order on me because of that.

Until about 3 months ago I couldn't contact her, even to serve her with divorce papers, because that was considered third party contact. Now she is getting temporary alimony from me even though she has two mater degrees, a teaching degree and has a side income that isn't being reported on her financial statement. I have no degrees and only make what I get paid because I have prior experience in my field. She could make much more money if she wanted to work.

I ran out of my retainer and now owe her money. I am finding it hard to see how i can afford a lawyer now. I could use some real help on this if anyone here can offer advice. I have amassed tons of evidence against her claims and my lawyer last said that she has most of what he needs to present a solid case against her. But now i dont know if she can represent me anymore.

See Below for Questions that i have been asked, I will answer as many as possible.

Answer:
 > I knocked on her door, she didnt answer so i left my phone number and left, Period. She applied for and was awarded a No Contact Order on me because of that.

There has to be more to the story than that.

You need to file for a modification if you want to change anything in the decree. You can do it yourself but as usual it's advised to do it with counsel. Answer #2: *Now she is getting temporary alimony from me even though she has two mater degrees, a teaching degree and has a side income that isn't being reported on her financial statement. I have no degrees and only make what I get paid because I have prior experience in my field. She could make much more money if she wanted to work.*

Of all of this, the only thing that is relevant is the unreported income, which you'd need to provide evidence for if you want it to help you. The fact that she has earning potential doesn't preclude her receiving alimony. What is her present earning level compared to yours, and what was it during your marriage?


Title: She wants to take them from me and probably my money.

Question:
In the summer of 2016 my wife walked out on me. Just got in the car and physically left me holding our two kids (4 & 2 at the time).

Shortly after we met with the friend of the court (FOTC) to determine custody. Since she was living with her mom I was granted custodial rights and 50/50 custody.

FOTC determine that they would be with me for  4 days a week and with her 3. And she was to pay $220 a month in child support. I still had feelings for her so I objected and had it lowered to $150 a month. And I was allowed to claim them on taxes.

Last year it was brought to my attention that she had not paid a cent to child support (I assumed she wouldn't). I waived all her back child support because I still have feelings for her.

Now last month I found out she filed for a motion to redetermination on custody. She appears to be filing for full custody. She sees the kids almost everyday because she takes them to school. So the only thing I can think is she wants to take my kids from me or my money, probably both.

As a father I feel the cards are stacked up against me. I do not want to take the kids from her I just want them to stay as they are now.

What should I be doing to prepare for the hearing? I can't really afford a lawyer because I'm a single parent.

State: Michigan
Topic:
Custody Divorce and Family

Answer:
 >As a father I feel the cards are stacked up against me.

The judge gave you the entire deck and you gave it away.  It's really hard to sympathize with your "Stacked against me" claim.

I noticed that you have the kids stay with her a lot.  She takes them to school - it almost seems like they see her more than you.  You keep arguing to lower the amount of money she owes and you waived all the back support, so you may have a hard time claiming that you desperately need the child support.

You are going to need a lawyer.  It's not likely that she's going to get full custody, but you've "Still in love with her"'d a lot of your advantages away here.


Title: Can you legally smoke weed in the embassy of the Netherlands?

Question: If it's not the right subreddit, tell me.

Answer: Technically it isn't legal to smoke weed in the Netherlands, so no.


Title: I need help. I'm stuck in a marriage and I am unhappy

Question:
I have been with my husband for almost 11 and married close to 3. I am very unhappy and I feel stuck.  I regreted marring him from the very beginning. I guess I was hoping that marriage will help him grow up.
 We are both 35 at this moment and he acts like he is still living in his old apartment, playing video games.  He played them the whole time we were together and on the beginning it was fascinating to watch, because I have never played myself. Now gamming consumes him completely. He spends every day, every free minute playing games, neglecting everything else.
 He does work and makes far more than I am at this moment, but I am the one responsible for majority of the bills, often me having to swallow my pride and ask him to cover what I can't. He usually has no problem with doing so, but sometimes he is just very irresponsible with his money. Like buying a huge 700$ tv without telling me, even though we had 5 tv's already and I didn't feel like it was needed.
I bend over backwards for his birthdays and Christmas's. He gifts me things "for us", as an for him to ruin and give them back to me, and that is if he gets me anything. Few years back I took him for this amazing trip to Chicago for his birthday and that same year for my birthday I got "sorry, I forgot", and than prcede to drill holes in walls to feed cables to the basement, day after I have spent 8 hours cleaning the whole house, ( note, he has never finished patching up the holes, it's been 2 years now). Which brings me to the fact that he doesn't respect anything I do. Leaves messes everywhere and just steps over them until I come around and pick them up.
Finally, here is the part that hurts me the most.  I have history of sleep walking that I never grew out of, and when it happens I don't remember any of it.  Few months ago he admitted to having sex with me while I was having my episodes. I should say here that I didn't consent to sex since August of last year. Learning all this makes me feel dirty and used, and I cry every time I think about it. I might be overacting here, but this has left me very jumpy when it comes to interacting with him. I don't let him touch me and every time he makes a comment about my body, makes me run out of the room.
Before I learned that last bit, I did suggest couples counseling, but he said that I probably should go see a counselor, by myself and figure out why am I so unhappy. I know why I am unhappy... I don't need someone with a degree to tell me, what I already know.
All this brings me to the question of can I divorce him? The house is in my parents name, so he has no right to it... He honest can take anything he wants with him.  Only thing I'm really depended on is his insurance. I am in a process of finding a job, that does offer it (my current one doesn't).  We have no kids and the pets are his really. Can please someone tell me what to do? I can't stand living like this, trying to raise a 35yrear old manchild...
Topic:
Custody Divorce and Family

Answer:
 Yes you can divorce him.  Go and see a divorce lawyer.Answer #2: >All this brings me to the question of can I divorce him?

Anyone can divorce anyone.   Go see a lawyer.Answer #3: Find a divorce lawyer. Go on your own (not with him he needs his own lawyer). You don’t have to bring anything with you but your checkbook to pay the retainer.


Title: Website charged a monthly fee to my account and only refunded half upon request for a refund because I forgot I was going to be charged monthly

Question:
I live in California and on this website I bought a trial for like $1 and I do (now I remember after being told by support) remember reading that I will be charged monthly after this. I emailed support and requested a refund and in their email they said "You have been approved for a refund of $10.00, which has already been issued. The refund will be credited back to your account within 5-7 business days. Thank you for working directly with us to resolve this issue.". I didn't even use  any of my credits for this month.

Just so you know, the site in question is Spokeo. So I have no idea if in their TOS it says max refund is half or some shenanigans like that. Even if it does have that in the TOS would I still be able to charge back on the CC?

Edit1: Dam you guys are quick at replying to new threads. Thanks!

Answer: Why should you get any refund? You agreed to the charge. Do you feel you were mislead at any point or did you just forget?  They aren't some shady scam web site. "I forgot" doesn't mean they have to refund you.


Title: I am a freelance designer who did not get paid...now they are using my designs..help

Question:
Hello,

I am a freelance CAD designer who designed and modeled a line of engagement rings for a client. We had a falling out regarding me designing matching wedding bands for the rings. He wanted me to do them at for no additional cost, which I did not agree to. There was a big English barrier between us (he was from India but resides in NYC) which I think resulted in both of us to cease talking. I thought us no longer communicating meant the job was over, and we would go our separate ways.

I went to his companies FaceBook page and saw that he has now began production on the rings that I designed but did not get paid for. What do I do?! Do I write him? Contact a lawyer? Do I even have a case?

Please, any advice on how to approach this matter is greatly appreciated.

Answer: If you can prove the ring designs were yours and he had agreed to pay you for them, you can contact a lawyer about sending him a cease & desist notice & sue them if they continue after that.


Title: Collision on Freeway [California]

Question: [deleted]

Answer:
  >Both of us sustained significant damage to property, do we have a case of negligence here against the state?

No. This is idiotic.


Title: Pulled over in Pennsylvania (Bucks County)

Question:
Hello,

Let me start by saying this is the first time I have been in trouble. I was pulled over while falling asleep in October in Bucks County PA. Cop suspected a DUI (I knew I wasn't drunk). asked me to stand behind the vehicle. apparently what I though was a license was actually an ID, it seems I had an unpaid ticket that was lost from when I lived in CA and it has followed me back here. All of a sudden, I am being arrested, the officer went through my car without even notifying me it was being searched and found a personal amount of marijuana. I was totally compliant and they didn't make this seem like a big deal. went to the hospital for a blood test, back to precinct, processed and released. he even gave me my keys back which I thought was strange and he told me not to worry, and that I would be eligible for ARD. Blood test came back .01 BAC but 19 ng/ml THC and 100ng/ml THC-A. PA has drugged driving :(

2 questions 1)was he legally allowed to just search my car without telling me or asking me? 2) what should I do? I cannot afford a lawyer and I also cant get a public defender. I am thinking about trying to plea bargain but I don't know how far that will get me. any advice would be appreciated. thank you.

Answer:
 If the officer had probable cause to believe you were DWI/DUI when he arrested you (and before the search) then the search probably holds up.  If the officer could smell the marijuana, that adds other possible probable cause for the search on top of the search incident to arrest.

But if the officer did not smell the marijuana, and you were initially only arrested for the suspended license (prior to the search) then [Arizona v Gant](http://www.oyez.org/cases/2000-2009/2008/2008_07_542) will probably make that kind of search illegal.

So you need to talk to an attorney.


Title: Roomate got arrested and didn't get his Miranda Rights read to him.

Question: Hello, I attend college in Missouri and last night my roommate was 'arrested' for a Class D Misdemeanor for possession of marijuana and a Class D Misdemeanor for drug paraphernalia. He was driving and was pulled over for expired license plates, and the deputy smelled weed in his car so he had my other roommate come get his truck to bring it home. My roommate was put in handcuffs but the deputy didn't search him or take away his wallet or phone. The deputy put him in his car, but in the front seat, and drove him to the station to have him take a mug shot and get finger printed. We didn't have to post bail because the deputy let him go as soon as he was done being processed. So what I'm asking is, was my friend actually arrested and if so, does he have a good case because his Miranda Rights were not read to him?

Answer: Did they interrogate him after arresting him? If not, they don't have to Mirandize him.


Title: Apartment complex wont let heat get set above 72

Question:
Ive looked over my lease and it says nothing about the heat being controlled by the complex, only that they pay for it. Last year it was capped at 74 degrees which was enough to keep the house warm upstairs but downstairs was still cool. These walls are poorly insulated. I just went to turn it up and it won't go higher than 72. It's freezing in here and I have a newborn and we're all wearing layers and it's 45 outside. I'm afraid come the cooler weather when it gets to the teens it will be impossible to live comfortably in here. Is there anything I can mention to the leasing office in regards to the legality of this?

I'm in MA.

Answer:
 72 seems plenty reasonable to me, but what's the actual temperature inside? If it's under 68 during the day, then yeah, you have a reason to complain. Legally, they need to provide more heat.
>410,201 The owner shall provide heat in every habitable room and every room containing a toilet,
shower, or bathtub to at least 68°F (20° C) between 7:00 A.M. and 11:00 P.M. and at least 64°F
(17° C) between 11:01 P.M. and 6:59 A.M. every day other than during the period from June
15th to September 15th, both inclusive, in each year except and to the extent the occupant is
required to provide the fuel under a written letting agreement.
http://www.mass.gov/courts/docs/lawlib/104-105cmr/105cmr410.pdfAnswer #2: Google the model of the thermostat, find the directions, and figure out how to remove the cap. Not difficult, my ex did it in an old apartment where we couldn't set the AC cooler than 78 or something.


Title: [ND] Need help with Parenting plan. Long story inside.

Question:
Very long and ugly story less long and still ugly. I received residential responsibility for my daughter in 2015. My Ex GF who lives 100 miles away decided to start making false reports as soon as the decision was handed down.
First she claimed I was abusing our daughter because she had road rash on her forehead from a bouncy castle. CPS investigates and finds nothing wrong. Then she claims our ex babysitter, who testified at the hearing on my behalf, was abusing my daughter and I was letting it happen. CPS investigates and finds no grounds on it.
Ex didn't get the results she wanted so she steps it up. My ex accuses me of having a relationship with former babysitter and her 12 year old boy is molesting our daughter now. Full CPS and Police investigation, Forensic interview and medical examination later, my daughter makes the statement that her mommy told her to say it, case closed. Crazy Ex doesn't get the results she wanted.
Crazy ex decides to accuse the old babysitter again, this time the babysitter was giving our daughter swirlies (sticking her head in the toilet and flushing). But my ex is getting smarter, this time she lets her mother in law make the formal complaint. Again CPS investigates and finds nothing wrong. RIGHT after this decision, she decides to step up her "ex babysitters son was molesting our daughter game.”
My daughter goes to her mom’s for her visitation weekend and I call that night and my daughter tells me that this little boy was molesting her again. You could hear my ex coaching her but you couldn't hear what she said. I get off the phone, call the detective who handled the previous one. He says he's going to wait until she reports and if he doesn't hear anything about it he's going to close the case. 3 months go by and not a word, the detective closes the case. School year ends and my daughter goes to her mom’s for 2 weeks in the month of June.
Well the day before my daughter is to be returned to me, she makes a statement about being molested by the now 13 year old boy, this time with more disgusting details. My ex refuses to return my daughter and claims I'm endangering my daughter. Along with this are 100s of claims of abuse and mistreatments of my daughter claims she has no proof of.
Long story less long, she fails to prove anything. I get an emergency hearing with the Judge. This judge was fed up with my ex to begin with for lying. She lied on the stand and to the parental investigator during the custody hearing. He gives her a stern warning that these are serious allegations and if he finds out our daughter was coached there are going to be severe consequences because I submitted the previous police report in the emergency hearing. Well he returns our daughter to me, now my daughter has court ordered therapy with a councilor specializing in this stuff 100 miles away. Open police investigation. 2 months go by and my daughter completely forgot what my ex was making her say. Tells the councilor that she's never been touched anywhere inappropriate. The councilor told the police, police report went to DA, DA closed case and can't press charges against the Ex because they can't prove who coached my daughter only that she was coached.

Now I'm ordered to go to mediation, but I'd rather go in front of the judge. I don't expect anything from mediation but I would like to have a plan ready for the judge to sign.

Here is my problem, the false allegations against the other parent is already contempt in the parenting plan, the problem is there is no penalty in place and no way to enforce this. I need an idea to put in the new parenting plan on how to handle false allegations. Fighting her allegations has literally cost me $12,000 in legal fees so far and we're due in court again in June.

Please if you know of anything that has worked in other instances for punishing someone who is abusing the system like she has. Offering allegations with no proof, I would love to hear suggestions. The mediator told me to look up Parental Alienation and see what's worked in regards to that but google doesn't seem as easy to navigate as one would think. I need some way to deter this outside of court because it’s taken a year to get in just for my current contempt complaints against her.
If you guys can help I appreciate it. Or even just point me in the right direction. Thank you.

TL;DR literally crazy ex keeps making statements that I abuse our daughter, Need something written in new parenting plan to discourage this behavior.

Answer: I miss one important detail in your story, the involvement of a family law attorney on your side.Answer #2: Can you put in that "loser pays" if she brings any more unsubstantiated accusations?


Title: [IL] My former employer is telling my former clients that I was terminated, when I left for a new job. Is this defamation?

Question:
This has not led to any lost wages, since I have started at my new job, but my former employer is flat out lying about me being fired - I submitted a resignation letter, which they accepted, and gave two weeks notice.

Is there anything I should be doing?  The easy thing is to let it go, but my industry is very small, and you end up running into people sooner or later.
Topic:
Employment Law

Answer:
 Terminated != fired, it just means your employment was "terminated" i.e. Ended.

Unless your employment is ongoing, they're not defaming you in he slightest.


Title: The slumlord saga continues.. they offered us a different home that is equally shitty...

Question:
[deleted]
Topic:
Landlord Tenant Housing

Answer:
 Don't accept the offer. If this guy is a slumlord, you don't want to have anything to do with him at all anymore. Honestly, I think you should sue him now for a full return of all the money you've paid so far, in addition to moving expenses and court fees, rather than waiting for a counter-suit, but that's just my opinion.

Try calling the Indiana Office of the Attorney General

Phone Number: 317-232-6330

Toll Free: 1-800-382-5516


Title: [NY] Landlord kicking me out with very little time to prepare, blaming me for preexisting damages.

Question: So, recently I had an overnight guest in my apartment.  There is nothing in the lease about this, however, the landlord has stated I have to be out by... tomorrow night.  She also wants to tack on damages that existed when I moved in, what do I do?

Answer:
 Refuse to leave. She cannot legally tell you to leave by the next day. New York has some crazy laws regarding rentals but not THAT crazy.

Here's a bit more relevant info: http://www.lawny.org/index.php/housing-self-help-141/housing-and-eviction-self-help-142/48-general-eviction-informationAnswer #2: You have a lease, yes?

A landlord cannot just throw you out.  Evictions must be done through the courts.  If the landlord tries to lock you out, call the cops.  Answer #3: You cannot be thrown out in a day.

At a minimum the landlord has to give you proper notice, which is usually 30 days from the first day of the rent period.

If the landlord tries to boot you without going to eviction court call the police and tell them you are the victim of an illegal eviction.


Title: How should I attempt to force a hospital to remove my SSN from its records?

Question:
The hospital and I are in Missouri. I had a minor procedure done last year and I'm fairly sure I did not give them my SSN (withholding that has been my habit for over 20 years). Two weeks ago, I had to have a followup procedure and while checking in I was given a sheet with my info (name, address, etc) and asked to verify it was correct. There, big as shit, was my SSN.

Being literally minutes away from being prepped for surgery, I didn't want to clog up the works by protesting and causing a scene right there, figuring I'd deal with it later. Well, now it's later.

I'm assuming I should send them a letter, but is there any magic phrase (or phrases) I should use to ensure compliance? I've also thought about waiting until the final bill comes and returning a copy if it with a note "I will pay this once you certify that you have deleted my SSN" or something similar.

Note: I realize this might be a fool's errand... that they may SAY they've removed it but have not actually done so (whether out of incompetence or duplicitousness), but I feel I must try.

Answer:
 >I'm assuming I should send them a letter, but is there any magic phrase (or phrases) I should use to ensure compliance?

You have no right to demand they remove that from their records.  You can ask nicely, but if they say no, I know of no law that forces them to remove it.

>"I will pay this once you certify that you have deleted my SSN" or something similar.

You have no right to withhold payment.  If you try this they will likely send your bill to collections.


Title: City liable for car accident?

Question:
I crashed my car this morning by sliding on ice on a highway on ramp and slamming into a concrete barrier. The entire on ramp was solid ice. When I talked to the police they said I was the 5th one to wreck at that exact spot that morning (this was at 7:55am!) At what point if any does the city become liable for not doing something to warn or help get rid of the ice (ie sand or liquid de-icer)?
And please don't lecture me on safe speeds and being stupid. I really don't need that right now.

Answer: Sounds like you wre driving too fast for conditions. You are responsible to drive safe for the road conditions. I do not know of any warrentee that the city has put that guarentees no ice on the roads.


Title: Can my husband be denied entry to USA via L1b visa because of a drug-related caution?(He's a UK ciizen)

Question:
Hi. My husband works for a company in the UK. He's a UK citizen and I'm a US Citizen and he's been wanting to move to the USA for years. We've finally got his company's branch in the US to try to start a L1B to get him a job in the company. Unfortunately, he has a caution from 7 years ago from having a small amount of marijuana on him on his record. How likely is it that he's going to be denied entry? If he gets denied entry this time, will it have a negative impact on us when I try to get him to the US via petition for alien relative? Should we not go through with the L1B... Can we do anything to up the chances of him getting in?

On another note, he smoked weed a few months ago. If they do a hair folicle test and he fails, what will happen?

Answer:
 >On another note, the idiot smoked weed a few months ago. If they do a hair folicle test and he fails, what will happen?

So is he planning on lying when they ask him?  Because that right there makes him ineligible to enter for at least a year.

Yes the caution may make him permanently ineligible, he will need a waiver at minimum.  Answer #2: You don't qualify for a fiance visa if you are already married. Apply for one and he'll get banned from entry for a minimum of 10 years. With regard to his criminal history thats completely up to the USCIS personnel that reviews him at his POE.


Title: How does the show "To catch a predator" work?

Question:
Do you have to consent for a TV show like that to show your face (I ask because I remember that the tv show Cops sometimes blurred your face).

If they did agree to be on the TV show, then the show MUST have offered the pedos something, otherwise who on earth would agree to that?

If they don't consent to it (far more likely) then how does it work?

If you watch enough episodes of that, you'll notice that they always make the pedos walk outside so that a pile of police can jump on them and toss them to the ground. This does not seem strictly legal for someone who is probably aware he is about to be arrested and not running away. Most of those people seemed to know that they were fucked and were compliant. Is this legal?

Is the entire show fake?

It has always bugged me.

Answer:
 I mean it's definitely not all fake. Someone [killed themselves](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Louis_Conradt) to not be arrested after they were caught by the show.

The [wikipedia page](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/To_Catch_a_Predator) discusses a lot of the interesting legal points brought up and I would encourage people to read it. But it doesn't discuss the legality of showing peoples faces. I've heard that they're usually done in one party consent states, and that it's technically 'news' so there are different rules. I'm more inclined to believe the first reason though.Answer #2: I’m not sure if the show ever addressed the question directly but I believe that because they were participating in a sting operation and you have no right to privacy during the commission of a crime, they can video and air without a release. In addition, I don’t think the show is marketed/meant for entertainment (even though it is). It’s supposed to be an exposé so there’s another layer they can hide behind from lawsuits.

So, no I don’t think the alleged pedophiles were given money in exchange for a release. In fact, I doubt the lack of a release would deter the show from airing the footage all.


Title: Being blackmailed into giving my family money

Question:
Hi all,
This situation is taking place in Rhode Island, USA. Basically my uncle passed a way a month ago and left me as the beneficiary to his bank account. He left behind a wife who he was separated from and his mother (my grandmother). The money in his account is not much (no more than 5-8k). Basically my grandmother and uncle (her brother) are saying that they refuse to give me the death certificate, which I need in order to collect the money from his account, unless I get a notarized letter stating that I owe my grandmother X amount of money from it. They're saying this because my grandmother has always been my caretaker and they're basically saying I owe it to her because of that. I don't know how to get the death certificate myself and I refuse to write a letter stating I owe anyone in my family anything. Im a 22 year old just trying to put myself through college with the small amount of money I was left by my uncle. What can I do in this case and is any of what my family is doing legal?

Answer: Death Certificates are public documents. Contact the office of vital records and get your own copy.


Title: Illegal Search and Seizure???

Question: So I am a 16 year old in Connecticut that got pulled over leaving a party for not coming to a full stop at a stop sign. I had 3 other people in my car, Something you can not do in my state until you've had your license for a full year. Anyway they made us all get out of the car searched it and found my friends bag that had some Marijuana in it. The police asked us whose it was and no admitted anything, so I ended up getting in trouble for it. Thank God its decriminalized in CT so I just paid a fine. But Still, wasn't this an illegal search? Yes I broke the law of having kids in my car but thats not probable cause is it???

Answer:
 It depends on what their reason for searching was.

If they searched the car because you had kids in your car, it's an illegal search.

But if they searched your car because it smelled like dope because of the dope in your car, then it's a legal search based on probable cause.Answer #2: Your friend sucks for letting you take the fall.


Title: My neighbor and her ~5 year old cussed my family out

Question:
Hi legaladvice,

I have a two-years-old toddler who loves to walk around our block daily. We pass by on a parallel street has a tiny house with red flowers sticking through their fence. Last week, the owner of the house saw my kid dragged his hand across her flowers. She came out screaming at my toddler and me warning us that he better be careful. I was a bit caught off guard by how rude she was. I reluctantly apologized. When I tried to explain to her that my kid is only 2-years-old she didn't seem to care much.

Today we passed by the house today with my family. My child had walked passed her house with our nanny (we've made sure he doesn't touch her flowers after the last incident). As my wife and I were passing her house she yelled through the window asking provokingly if "we had any questions." I told her no we're just walking on the sidewalk. She claimed we were staring at her house. I explained her house is next to the sidewalk I walk on. She responded with a "fuck you. my house is has cameras everywhere". True, I thought it was odd she had a couple cameras overlooking her front yard. At this point I hear a cute little voice young following the "fuck you" chants. The little 5-year-old must've repeated it over 10 times. The mother and daughter exited their house at this point as we've passed their house. My wife told her she should be ashamed of getting a child to say that. I waved bye which led to more F bombs. Finally my wife told her she should get evaluated by a psychiatrist.

My questions are:

1) Can she legally have flowers at her front lawn that passes onto the sidewalks?

2) Was my child at fault for touching someone's fence if it does not damage?

3) I have no evidence to support the mother is mentally ill but it's certainly not normal to encourage a young child to freak out over a minor incident. She seemed off to me by how rude she was to strangers especially to a toddler.

Answer:
 You're dealing with nuts. Avoid them. Walk a different way.

You're an adult: you can make this choice.


Title: illegal to wear hat that says “cock” in public?

Question:
the title says it all really, it’s gonna be an embroidering project

this is in NC btw

Answer: No, it's freedom of speech. Just don't be surprised if people point and laugh at how small your hat is.Answer #2: Wouldn't most people just think you are a University of South Carolina fan since you live in NC. They have all kinds of hats and cloths with Cocks in big letters and everything else small.


Title: HOA sends bills 2 days before late NV

Question: Our HOA will send the bills and pay stub for the next month between the 26th-28th of each month. So for November to be paid by the 1st, we got it in the mail on the 29th of October. They do not have a yearly “book”. If the payment is not received by them by the 1st they charge late fees. In Nevada, isn’t this illegal, what is the actual amount of time they have to give us? As well what statue would that fall under so we can fight it? We have a late fee since last month we got the mail on the 29th. Please help and ask questions if clarification is needed. Thank you, also please excuse formatting and typos this was done on mobile.

Answer:
 IANAL, I am a Treasurer of an HOA. I do not send out bills or paystubs. My members receive a Notice, at least 30 days before the beginning of the calendar year informing the member what their monthly assessment is. Each member is responsible for paying their monthly assessment on time in accordance with the CC&Rs. If they do not pay on time they receive another Notice informing them that a late fee has been assessed against their account.

I honestly do not understand how adults need to be reminded, monthly, that they owe their monthly assessment. Count those bills and stubs as a courtesy, unless they are specifically required by your CC&Rs. Pay your assessment on time, don't rely on others to tell you when your bills are due.


Title: [North Carolina] I was added to my city's police watch list

Question: [deleted]

Answer:
 The best advice we can give is to cease all illegal activity.

Judging from your post, I would also suggest to stop taking your own drugs and let the paranoia subside.


Title: I'm about to default on my student loans, do I need a lawyer?

Question:
Like the title says, I'm about to default on my private student loans which total a little over $100k.

I'm 99% sure that I'm judgement proof as I don't have any assets and make minimum wage.

What exactly happens next? Do I need a lawyer?

Answer:
 It's almost impossible to hide from student loans. In fact it's one of the few items that you can't claim in bankruptcy. Chances are they'll go after a judgement and garnish everything they can. You're income taxes will be taken until it's settled and no matter how little you make they can always garnish your wages. Also, generally you're bound by laws where the transaction took place. Moving won't protect your income. Answer #2: Location matters. They can still garnish your wages and taxes (in most states)

You don't need a lawyer unless you are being sued


Title: Unfortunate tenant VS. Heartless Landlord

Question:
Hello, I am writing this on behalf of my Father and his long time girlfriend. It involves a series of unfortunate events, minor infractions, etc.

My father and his lady were in a single vehicle crash early Thanksgiving day 20 minutes after leaving SFO after returning home from my grandfather's funeral. My father sustained 13 broken ribs, 4 broken vertabae leading to a 4 level fusion, a massive head injury, and significant damage to his legs and knees. His lady suffered a severely shattered elbow, and a TBI when she was partially ejected. That require stuffing her brains back in and repairing her skull to the tune of 256 staples. She can no longer read or write, he can not walk...yet.

So, a few days after this accident, I let his landlord know the situation. She didn't bother with pleasantries and simply told me that she would not be renewing the lease and that they had to vacate the premises by Jan.1, 2019.  Since they were both basically in a coma, it tooknsome time before they even woke up and even longer before they could even wrap their minds around the whole situation. Since being able to communicate, my Father has been forward and pleasant. He has tried repeatedly to explain that the severity of the accident destroyed both his physical and financial ability to move. This is not his style, he is not a squatter. Shit happened and we are doing all we can to please the landlord. Today we received a 3 day to quit notice. What can we do. Also, the water was tested when we moved in and showed positive for the family of bacteria that includes e.coli. She has refused to address this issue for months. Please help. Thank you all who take this seruously.

Answer:
 So, when did they stop paying rent?

They were supposed to be out of the place by January 1... it’s April. If they haven’t paid rent since Thanksgiving, the landlord is well within their rights to begin the eviction process.

It’s not being heartless. Most landlords have mortgages and taxes to pay and cannot afford to let someone live in a place rent free for nearly 6 months.


Title: [Texas] A limb in our renters yard fell and killed their dog. They threatened to sue and with-hold rent, blaming us

Question:
Hello /r/legaladvice. Recently in San Antonio we've been getting a lot of rain and storms.

It seems that after a storm a limb from a dead tree in the renter's yard fell and killed their dog. The wife of the man leased to said they're not going to give us rent(they have since given us a personal check that is going to take until monday to cash) and that they were going to sue us.

 This tree had all but one of the limbs removed, because a while ago it was still alive. However the renter never watered the lawn liked we asked him to, so it died during a drought.

 If they did choose to sue, which I don't  think they will, do they at all have a case? Can that tree be considered a liability we should've taken care of?

Answer:
 I'm not sure about the liability, but their only damages would be the price of the dog. No emotional or punative damages.Answer #2: >Can that tree be considered a liability we should've taken care of?

Sure. You as the home owner need to keep your property clean and debris free. Now they can say that because you didn't keep your property danger free by trimming your tree they may sue you and win.


Title: Question About Intellectual property, I have a new APP idea would like to know how to legally protect myself from someone stealing my idea once we develop it.

Question:
The app idea I have can easily be recreated, similar to what uber and lyft is doing. I would like to know the best way to completely protect myself to the full extent from someone trying to copy my idea once I start marketing and promoting it. Thanks in advance  - -- -
South Florida Area

Answer:
 You effectively can't.

That said, ideas are cheap; execution is the secret sauce.


Title: Possible heir to the Pinball Throne.

Question: As a kid I grew up hearing what I perceived as a legend, about how my great grandfather had supposedly invented the first pinball machine. Yeah right!? Imagine if you will, those old toys where you would pull and release the spring loaded plunger, and the ball would fly up and then bounce around from peg to peg until gravity finally pulled it down into an area where points were awarded. The precursor to the modern pinball machine. Apparently he couldn't afford to travel to Chicago from South Dakota to secure a patent and had sent someone to represent him. Story goes that the guy that he trusted to take the patent to Chicago stole his idea and thus a possible fortune was lost. Well I grew up hearing this story in the 60's and 70's. and always though yeah, ok, and after that I didn't think much else about this family legend. Well in the 80's, during some deconstruction of some old family barns in South Dakota, a hidden room was discovered and inside were 8 completely constructed, painted and playable pinball machines. Any chance of this playing out as a legal challenge to the patent? What about specific features of the game, such as the spring-loaded ball launcher? I don't have all of the details regarding where all of the games are, but have seen my uncles and I my dad has one too. Does this seem like it can go anywhere?

Answer:
 Assuming this story were true, you would not have any legal claim. Any US patent on pinball machines has long since expired, so there's nothing to challenge today. The statute of limitation on any claims your great grandfather might have had are long passed, and you wouldn't have standing to bring them anyway.

Also, early pinball type games were invented in Europe in the late 18th century, so the story is almost certainly not true. Answer #2: You would be way beyond any applicable statute of limitations. By decades.


Title: [Massachusetts] Giving a tenant notice that I will be on the property...

Question:
I was always under the impression it was just a heads up, not that I was asking permission.

Under what circumstances can they say, "No. You can't be here...?"

Answer: You have a key, I take it. It's your prerogative to have repairs done and allow access to the unit to workers as long as you give them sufficient notice. They do not need to be there and they do not need to agree.


Title: [Georgia]I was fired and employer is trying to withhold my last check.

Question:
I don't know if this has been asked here before but I was attempting to search around the internet for answers that were relevant to this topic but I did not find the answer I wanted.
So long story short I was unjustly fired due to calling out sick and the management didn't like me so they fired me without even asking to see if I had a doctors note. Now they claim that I need to "return the tools" that I borrowed from the company or they will withhold my last paycheck. The problem is I don't use the company tools and I have my own tools and a toolbox but they are still claiming I have their tools. They will not even tell me which ones they think I have nor do I remember signing an agreement stating that the company is giving me tools and they must be returned upon termination (I will ask for that document soon if they have it). The thing is they are being very sketchy and want a reason to keep my entire paycheck rather than deducting it and that is what bothers me. I do not have any of said tools and they refuse to give me the last paycheck that they owe me for my work.

According to this [website](https://www.employmentlawhandbook.com/wage-payment-laws/state-wage-payment-laws/georgia/) it states that georgia has no law pertaining to the deduction/withholding of my last paycheck and that the employer can withhold it because there is no georgia law on it and I was wondering if it was true as there is another [website](https://www.legalmatch.com/law-library/article/georgia-paycheck-laws.html) that says that because there is no law in georgia about it, they would have to follow the federal Fair Labor Standards Act.

Edit: The check is probably about $700-800 so you might say that it's not worth pursuing but I do not want to lose this money for something that is not right.  I have time to pursue any legal action if necessary that I can pursue.

Answer: File a wage claim with the DOL if they don’t pay you.


Title: I inherited a large amount of land, having fun in my own forest I discovered a load of marijuana plants

Question:
[removed]
Topic:
Illegal

Answer:
 This is a situation that is unfortunately not terribly uncommon in rural areas - I have certainly heard of it before.  I would give the same advice that others here have - do not approach the area again and promptly seek the advice of an attorney.  An attorney will be able to help you contact the police in a manner that minimizes your risk of legal difficulties.  And you certainly don't want to risk going back there and being caught by any surveillance and/or traps, whether set by the police or the growers.Answer #2: Call the police and tell them what you found.  Probably 10+ years ago I was at my friend’s ranch, they were doing construction on their land (1000+ acres) and found some gravity-fed irrigation going through a stream on their land.  Their family owns a construction company so they have dozers, backhoes, frontloaders, etc.  They saw a bunch of plants and called the cops.  Due to the terrain, they had to haul it out by helicopter.  They estimated some 20-30k plants.  There were bear traps, shotgun tripwires, multiple campsites, etc.

Seemed more economical to just cut down trees, take a dozer, make a dirt road, and haul it out via truck.  California logic.Answer #3: Someone waters them weekly. I would just put a notice "In three weeks this land will be regularly checked by police"

The grower will move on, and he won't have a grudge over lost plants.

Last thing you want is a target on your back.


Title: [Texas] Anyway to force my parents to respond to frivolous lawsuit? Or get a lawyer to respond on my parents behalf?

Question:
I live with my parents, 22, and noticed yesterday that they were served almost a week ago.

Yesterday was the fourth so there was didly we could do about it, but they are not taking it seriously.

The lawsuit comes from an old business partner of theirs. Long and short of it is that they sold their share of the business to him and abandoned it entirely.

He is making claims that they violated some kind of wording in the contract and defrauded him out of 50k and that they used the businesses contacts to cut him out of the profits for the business. Lawsuit is for 150k. The business was a Tech company that helped with infrastructure setup for other small businesses. My parents were not techs and employed me to do the actual work. For all intents and purposes, they were the bankroll of the business.

They sold their side of the business for 50k and had everything in writing.

Since then my dad went back to work in vendor delivery and sales and my mom started an etsy thing for bead art and other kinds of cutesy stuff.

It is painfully easy to prove that this is a BS lawsuit and that the guy is only suing because he thinks my parents are made of money.

The business effectively shut down when I quit last year. No one else would take the job for the pay offered and I had been paid minimum wage when wage was tripple that.

Anyways back to the important parts. My parents think this is a BS lawsuit and do not see the seriousness in responding to it. They think they can just ignore it and it will go away.

They do not understand that they could lose everything here with a default judgement. I am positive that with 1 conversation with a lawyer we can get the lawsuit dropped since his claims are just so ridiculous.

Can I get a lawyer to respond on their behalf? They do not believe me when I tell them that this guy could, potentially, claim their house. They think its no big deal and I am a bit desperate here.

What can I do?

Answer:
 To the questions in your title, no and no.

Your parents are within their rights to ignore a lawsuit. It's a terrible idea, for reasons you've already explained, but as it's a civil issue, their only right is to be adequately notified of the proceeding. If they prefer a default judgement, that's their choice to make.

You could ask a lawyer to speak with them, but you can't get them representation against their will, represent them yourself, or force them to respond as you'd prefer.Answer #2: [This poster](https://www.reddit.com/r/legaladvice/comments/3g0aub/can_this_be_real_my_neighbor_has_a_court_order_to/) ignored a "frivolous lawsuit" and their neighbor got a court order to take their dog away.

There is literally no upside in ignoring a lawsuit.  None.

But your parents are grown ass adults- you can't MAKE them do common sense stuff if they don't want to.

But they'll regret it if they don't respond, and that's a guarantee.Answer #3: Have them come here and read these responses.

They *will* lose the lawsuit if they don't appear. Not appearing/responding in a civil lawsuit is the exact same as pleading guilty in a criminal one. Even if it's the biggest bs lawsuit that has ever been filed in the history of the world, if they don't respond, they **will** lose. Answer #4: If they won't do anything then there is nothing you can do. Also maybe they aren't telling you all the details, maybe they did respond or are responding. I wouldn't be discussing this with my kids.Answer #5: Tell them what a default judgment is. And how you get a default judgment if they don't answer. Then you can send a letter to to the plaintiff that they intend to defend. That way they have to provide notice before they move for a default.


Title: Would my employer be committing false imprisonment if they prevented me from leaving during a fire drill? New Jersey USA

Question: Title is the gist of it, they shuffle us all out into the parking lot and try to intimidate us from going to our own cars or leaving the premises. The way they talk about it makes it sound like they're implying you don't have the right to leave. Very sketchy overall. It seems like simply the part where they try to make you think you're not allowed to leave could constitute false imprisonment, but it definitely would if they did something like physically restrain you or stand in front of your car so you can't leave, right?

Answer:
 Why would you be going to your car at all during a fire drill, let alone leaving? That's the equivalent of getting up from your desk and just chucking up the deuces. You weren't imprisoned. The only thing that would have happened if you left would be the loss of your job.Answer #2: What's sketchy about your employer trying to keep the situation organized and everyone safe?

Sounds like YOU'RE being sketchy. You are an adult. You are absolutely free to leave instead of following their instructions. Just don't be surprised when you're told to not come back because you're fired.Answer #3: Your employer needs to take a count to verify everyone is there

If the fire department thinks someone is still inside a burning building it puts their lives needlessly at risk.

Think shit through man.


Title: A high school teacher had a sexual relationship with a student and multiple faculty supposedly knew

Question:
[removed]
Topic:
Criminal Law

Answer:
 >I understand my connection to this is tenuous, but this is a scenario in which no one is willing to talk, and I can't live with myself knowing I didn't at least try.

**You have nothing that is usable.**

All your trying will get you is legal trouble - slander and libel are civil matters only, but you'd be looking at 5 digit legal fees to defend yourself if you start making public accusations based on the rumors you heard.Answer #2: > I need to know what steps could be taken, if any

What steps for what?  You have a rumor of a thing that may have happened to someone maybe six years ago.

You can always report things to the police or the school, but "My best friend's sister's boyfriend's brother's girlfriend heard from this guy who knows this kid who's going with the girl who talked to the rape victim" generally isn't worthwhile testimony.  If no one with direct knowledge is willing to step forward, there's little to be done.


Title: US-CA Applying for citizenship and confused weather to include this or not.

Question:
I was fined $300 by immigration for carrying Dried Meat in my luggage 2 years ago while coming through SFO  Now i'm applying for citizenship and apparently i have to disclose my citations, Violations in the application.
 so im in a dilema if i need to disclose the incident  or not?
Reason im confused is i read somewhere that traffic citations for under $500 doesn't need to be disclosed but does this applies for the fine i paid or not?

And will that have a effect in my citizenship process?

The question is as follows.

Provide information about the circumstances in which you were arrested, cited, or detained by any law enforcement officer (including any immigration official or any official of the U.S. armed forces).

and my violation code was 9cf494 for the fine i paid.

Thanks in advance.

Answer: Given the immigration penalties for lying or concealing a material fact, I’d absolutely err on the side of disclosure here. It was a mistake, it was a small fine, you paid it. AFAIK, that alone will not act as a bar to citizenship. Lying to the USCIS, however, will.


Title: Home owner's assoc. is billing me for unrequested service

Question:
[Florida] My neighborhood has an optional HOA.  For $50 a month, you get landscaping and access to the clubhouse and pool.  I declined to join, as I didn't care about the pool and don't mind mowing my own lawn.

The previous owner had been a member, and apparently the landscaping company never got the message that they needed to stop doing my yard. For the last 10 months, they've been cutting my grass and edging my driveway.

This morning I received a $360 dollar bill from the HOA.  They told me that I should have alerted them when I realized I was still getting my lawn serviced, as they were still being billed for it.  They say that as I haven't been using the pool they're only charging me $36 a month.  They demand I pay before the end August "to avoid further escalating the matter."

At the closing I was offered the chance to join the association; I declined.  I don't see why I should be responsible for this bill. I feel like this is no different from me offering to sweep the leaves at the club house for $50 a month, then going over on the weekends and doing it anyway after they decline.
Topic:
Other Civil Matters

Answer:
 >For the last 10 months, they've been cutting my grass and edging my driveway.

And at no point you thought to contact them?  You thought the service was just free?

Answer #2: >They told me that I should have alerted them when I realized I was still getting my lawn serviced, as they were still being billed for it.

They're correct.


Title: crazy American girl harassing me online

Question:
Hey guys,

Got a bit of an issue, I already posted to /r/legaladviceuk but thought I would post here as well to get your opinion. A few months ago i started streaming a fortnite game with some friends, we'd squad up every few days and start playing on Twitch, there was one girl in particular who was fangirlling and ended up sending me messages, trying to add me on Facebook, sending me "love letters" about our "eternal love" - I did not reciprocate any of this but it seems that actually added fuel... "the best ones always play hard to get" etc. From initial contact this girl says she's 13 and from West Virginia, I'm 26 and cannot be dealing with this.

She figured out I had a wife and started sending her messages to 'get out of the way' and 'we're supposed to be together' etc - my wife is having difficulty over this, even to the point where I don't think she quite believes me...

Last week I had a recruiter on LinkedIn contact me for basically my dream promotion, but I would have to move out to the US and all the visa stuff would be prepared once interviewed. They wanted to interview me in person only, not over the phone but I would have to pay the flights. That plus the non-professionalness of the recruiter made me start asking some questions, they eventually blocked me. I reverse searched the recruiter image and it's from a guy in Digital Marketing in the UK, so I have a feeling it was her. Sadly I'd already sent my CV which has name/address/phone number and work place....

I've been getting messages from this girl via SMS and phone calls in the middle of the night with voicemails that just go on and read poetry, I've changed my mobile number. I dread the day she phones my work...

However the major issue just happened today... I got a letter, now I don't usually get letters so I had a bad feeling. I opened it up and inside was a note about how I will see that we're meant to be together, my wife is too old, etc along with naked pictures. I'm now slightly panicked that naked pictures of an under age girl were sent via post from US to UK, I want to burn the pictures and the letter but I figured I'd ask first...

I feel like my marriage is going to break down any minute because of this, if my wife sees the letter I just got I'm done for.

Answer:
 Report this person, you dont know for a fact that it is a 13 year old girl, it could be a crazy person impersonating a 13 year old. Answer #2: Get a lawyer, and go to the (UK) police.

https://www.cps.gov.uk/legal-guidance/communications-offences

https://www.cps.gov.uk/legal-guidance/stalking-and-harassment

The UK cops will liaise with the US cops. Answer #3: Well, if she was contacting you on facebook, are her relatives on there? If so I would've found them and told them. However with what she mailed you that changes this completely. I would most definitely call the police and report that, they will know how to deal with it surely and who to contact to get in touch with whoever in the US to check up on this girl. Odds are someone this delusional mailing you things will have no qualms about sending you it and making an anonymous report so you get caught with it in hand or being mailed to you. The girl has issues and needs help. Destroying it isn't going to stop you from receiving it in the future, or prevent customs from inspecting letters/packages mailed to you in the future containing who knows what leading to even bigger trouble.


Title: I was twenty minutes late for work. My manager withheld cash from my tips to enforce a late fee.

Question:
I work as a server at a restaurant/sports bar in NYC. I was twenty minutes late for work. I gave them a short, but advanced notice I would be. At the close of my shift, my manager tipped me out and notified me that he is withholding thirty bucks as a late fee. The boss is fully aware of this arrangement, and probably its illegality. This fee apparently goes towards company sponsored social outings and a cookie jar fund for new dining equips.

UPDATE: Thanks everyone for your advice. I quit today and did tell them that I would be filing a wage claim and reporting them to the state labor board. I'm not sure I did the right thing by giving them a heads up. I will post updates as I go along.

Answer:
 If your considered a tipped employee, your manager has no right to them. However, they can fire you for being late.Answer #2: Tips are property of the person tipped, period. The only thing management can do is deduct tip as a tip credit toward minimum wage or if a tip pooling arrangement exists put it in that.

You can file a wage claim with the dept of labor in your state. Answer #3: Tips are legally yours and you can file a wage claim to get them back. However if you make a fuss you will get your tips back and probably lose your job in the process (NY is an at will state meaning you can be fired at any time for almost any reason).

Depending on your financial situation the tips may or may not be worth it to you.


Title: My dad is withholding my birth certificate.

Question: So, I recently have been kicked out of my parents house. I packed everything, but forgot my birth certificate. Now when I go to get it, my dad makes up reasons he cannot give it to me like "I'll make a copy of it tonight at work" then when i go to get it 2 days later, he hasnt. bullshit i say. so is it illegal for him to not allow me to have it? going to get a new one would be a hassle as i dont have any method of identification. no drivers license, no state or government id, no social security card. Ive got nothing.

Answer: Get your own copy of your birth certificate, then take it to the Social Security administration to get a new copy of your SS card. Then to the DMV for a State ID card. If you need a second form of ID in the middle of this process stop by your local library to get a library card. Adulting can be scary but if your nice and ask lots of questions along the way every will help you. Good luck!


Title: My boss asked me extremely detailed, personal information regarding a medical condition when I requested sick leave. Is an employer allowed to to this? If not, do I have any recourse?

Question:
I live and work in Georgia.

I have Major Depressive Disorder that was diagnosed a few years ago. Since then I've been struggling to find effective treatment, including trying several different medications and therapy. My boss is aware of my diagnosis and that I have been seeking treatment, but did not know the details. My newest medication has had some horrendous side effects, and recently I have had suicidal ideations that I'm almost convinced are related to the medication. I'm tapering off of it now and have been placed on a different class of drug.

I e\-mailed Boss after\-hours when I realized I needed help. I kept my message vague and advised I was having serious side effects to a medication and was scheduling an appointment first thing in the morning \(the Behavioral Health office of my healthcare provider was closed when I called\), and said I would call after the appointment with an update. I also e\-mailed my regular psychiatrist and asked for an immediate appointment/advice.

I texted Boss the next morning with the time of my appointment and said I would call afterwards with more information. I received no response to the text or e\-mail.

I saw a psychiatrist \(my regular one was not available and I already had an appointment to see him a few days afterward\) and was referred to an intensive outpatient therapy program. My regular psych also responded to my e\-mail and concurred with that suggestion/referral.

When I called Boss afterwards I was expecting it to be short and informative \- i.e., "My medical condition has worsened, a doctor recommended a program to help and I have an evaluation tomorrow. I will have more details for how long I will need to be out after that evaluation and let you know." This turned into a 15\-minute interrogation.

Boss asked me:

* Exactly how my depression had worsened and the specific symptoms.
* After being pushed \(that word may be a little strong \- "cajoled," maybe?\) into admitting to suicidal ideations, I was asked why I did not call the crisis hotline. I tried to explain the difference between passive \(which I had\) and active suicidal thoughts, but probably did not achieve this very well. Boss brought up the crisis hotline a few other times during our conversation and said I should have called it.
* What medication I was taking and how long I had been taking it.
* What the exact side effects of the medication were.
* The name of the doctor I saw that day and the names of my regular psychiatrist and therapist, along with how often I saw them.
* The name of the new medication I had been placed on.
* The name and location of the outpatient program I was referred to.

At one point during our conversation I said, "I'm not comfortable with this." Boss's response: "I know." Boss then repeated the previous question. During the entire conversation, I could hear Boss typing, as though taking detailed notes.

I realize now I should never had said so much, but my fragile mental state along with the impression that Boss did not believe me/care made me feel as though I had to answer to justify my need to take time off. Subsequent communications with Boss, mostly via e\-mail, have reinforced the "doesn't care" feeling I've gotten. Boss has not once asked me how I am, if I am feeling better, or expressed any iteration of "Hope you feel better." All communications have centered around when I will come back and how my job duties have been relegated to others. I realize being a dick isn't illegal, but it somehow feels pertinent.

Another wrench: I'm a state employee and a certified Peace Officer \(badge/gun/Taser/handcuffs, all that\). My weapons were immediately turned in after my first phone call with Boss, which I completely understand and have no issue with. My actual job, however, is mostly office work and community outreach/education/presentations/site visits, and I only wear the badge/gun a few times a year. I don't know how my status as law enforcement affects everything else that has happened or if it creates different "rules" for me and my job.

I've read up on FMLA and the ADA, but haven't been able to find information that specifically relates to my situation. Was Boss allowed to ask all those specific questions? What are the rules regarding privacy about my medical conditions \(as in, who can Boss tell within the agency other than direct supervisors and HR\)? I got a very sweet get\-well/we're\-rooting\-for\-you personalized card in the mail from the director of my agency, whom I know and like very much. But how the hell did he even know? Was anyone allowed to tell him what was going on with me? It's a bit humiliating to think that the specifics of my situation may have been discussed with other people who don't need to know, though it's entirely possible he simply learned I was out sick on FMLA and sent the card without knowing the details \(he's an incredibly nice person and I could see him doing that for other people\).

I've also spoken with Boss's direct supervisor and a person from HR during this ordeal, and both were incredibly kind and supportive.

I know I might need to contact an employment attorney, but finances are an issue, and before I try that I'd love to know if I even have a leg to stand on, legally.

Answer:
 Your employer can ask about your medical condition, since they may be able to make accommodations for your condition or to determine eligibility for a given benefit program (e.g, Short/long term disability, FML, Workers’ Comp, etc). They might ask for a doctors note to justify an absence.

However, they may not ask your healthcare provider for medical information about your condition.  It’s up to you to decide how much/how little information you provide your employer.

HIPAA protects your personal information from being distributed by your healthcare administration provider or healthcare providers - it doesn’t prevent your employer from asking you questions.  https://www.hhs.gov/hipaa/for-professionals/privacy/laws-regulations/index.html

I’m not an attorney but have worked with employee benefits for some years.  Many employers will shy away from asking questions, but I don’t believe they are legally prevented from asking them.

You should do some research then decide if you believe that you have been wronged.  Up to this point: you haven’t been fired, suspended, etc so, keep working when you can and work within the benefit plans and services available to you (mental health benefits, medical benefits, EAP programs, etc).


Title: Employment contract with recruiter that requires me to accept job if client wants me [CT]. Is it binding?

Question: [deleted]

Answer: Yes it is. May I inquire as to why you sign contracts you feel entitled to break? Have the contract modified or don't sign it if you are unwilling to be bound to your half of the terms.


Title: My child was born stillborn and didn't get the autopsy we requested before burying our child.

Question:
I just received a voicemail from the labor and delivery department of my hospital about how they had an error and didn't do the autopsy before our son was handed off the our funeral arrangements. Do I have any options with their negligence? If we get pregnant in the future we are going to be a wreck not knowing the cause of death.

Some info: Live in Tennessee. My wife and I went to the triage thinking mild contractions were starting. (Wife was 38 weeks). We go in and they couldn't find a heartbeat so the next day my wife delivered stillborn. We signed for an autopsy to be performed so that the next time we might be ready if it was something obvious and it wasn't a fluke freak of a thing that happened. *I've rarely ever posted and I posted this on mobile sorry for any mistakes or if I did anything wrong. Thanks for any legal advice if any.

Answer:
 File a complaint with the hospital’s office of Patient and Guest Relations and also with Tennessee’s Office of Health Care Facilities [here](https://www.tn.gov/health/health-professionals/hcf-main/filing-a-complaint.html).Answer #2: I am so very sorry for your loss. I know that had to be devastating. And the anxiety and future pregnancies could be crippling. I am not a lawyer. Unfortunately I think the only advice you're going to get here from lawyers and people in the know is that Med Mal is outside of the scope of the sub. This is a very complicated and fraught issue and you would have to get a consultation with a medical malpractice attorney. A lot of them offer them for free. Once again I'm so sorry for your loss.Answer #3: I am so sorry for your loss.

Have you thought about what resolution you want? Do you want the hospital to do an autopsy and bear the cost of disinterment and reinterment?

If that is your best possible outcome, then start with patient services at the hospital. From there you probably will have to proceed to an attorney. Just tell the hospital firmly what you want them to do to fix their mistake. If they refuse, send a certified letter to the hospital recapping your discussion. Keep a copy to give to your attorney.


Title: My apartment is trying to charge me for a "late termination of rent" notice even though I did notify them.

Question:
So, the apartment complex I live at requires a 30-day notice if you plan on ending your lease.  My girlfiend's job location changed so  while we liked the apartment, we were looking to move somewhere closer to her workplace.  I printed out a quick letter explaining how we were not going to renew our lease and put it in our administrations mailbox about 5 days before the deadline.

1 day before the deadline, I had not heard anything back.  I went in to the office and asked about it and the woman at the desk said to not worry about it, they didn't send anything to "confirm" my leave notice.

Few days later I got a letter in the mail saying "since I didn't notify the administration that I would not be renewing my lease" I would be charged another month's rent.

What the fuck.  I notified them, and I talked to the person who was at the desk at the time and they knew that they got my letter.

They do not have an email address (as far as I know).  The official website lists nothing in the email section, and when I asked about office stuff I was told to just print something out and put it in the office mailbox (which I did).  But now they are saying they never heard from me!  What should I do?  I don't want to pay a months rent for a place I am not staying at!

Answer:
 Is there a fax number? I've had a couple problems with my landlord - a fax to their corporate office *never* fails to get their attention. I'd start by telling them you gave notice on whatever days (in writing and in person) and say one or more witnesses can confirm you doing so. Put the ball back in their court. If there's *any* doubt, they'll likely let you off the hook.Answer #2: Ideally you'd be able to go to the office when that same person is working and get them to fix it.  Absent that the only thing you can do is refuse to pay and then dispute whatever delinquent accounts show up on your credit reports to the credit reporting companies.

In the future you should send all such notices via certified mail with return receipt.  That way you have a signed piece of paper that they received it before the deadline.  If you can physically hand it to someone AND have them sign something saying they've taken it from you, that will work too.

Also, come to think of it, you probably have a security deposit that they'll keep so in that case you'd have to sue them to get it back.


Title: Friend got in a dui accident, single vehicle with a passenger, leaving my party. Am i liable?

Question: Furthermore, is the driver liable to passengers injuries? What actions would be taken against myself/ driver? Ont Canada

Answer:
 Here's a brief write up on a 2006 Supreme Court of Canada case on social host liability.

Some key quotes from the decision:

>hosting a party at which alcohol is served does not, **without more,** establish the degree of proximity required to give rise to a duty of care on the hosts to third-party highway users who may be injured by an intoxicated guest. [emphasis added]

However, the court left unanswered whether

>a host who continues to serve alcohol to a visibly inebriated person knowing that he or she will be driving home has become implicated in the creation or enhancement of a risk sufficient to give rise to a *prima facie* duty of care to third parties

http://www.fieldlaw.com/articles/MGD_Party%20On%20Supreme%20Court%20of%20Canada%20Rules%20on%20Liability%20of%20Social%20Hosts%20for%20Guests'%20Drunk%20Driving.pdf

*Edited to indicate the court was leaving open the second question, not deciding that such conduct would create liabilityAnswer #2: Was your friend legal drinking age?Answer #3: You may be help partially responsible. The driver is responsible for crashing and injuries, however if they got drunk while at your house at your party, you may be partially held accountable if they were drinking past the point of intoxication.

In Ontario, you could be sued by the family of the deceased. I don't know if criminal charges would be brought against you.


Title: [MA] Charged with 'Willful Interruption of a Funeral Procession' for unintentionally crossing a funeral procession at a yellow flashing light.

Question:
A family member was given a ticket and a court date for interrupting a funeral procession in Middlesex County MA.  This family member arrived at an intersection with a yellow flashing light, which another car was stopped at.  There were no cars crossing the intersection at the time, and because flashing yellow means proceed with caution in MA, the family member crossed the intersection.

The family member got pulled over by an officer and a second officer was called.  The officer explained to this family member that they need to appear in court because they could be criminally charged with willfully interrupting a funeral procession.

The question that I have is: Are there any rules about how identifiable a funeral procession needs to be?  At the time of the family member's crossing of the procession, there were no cars present, and later when cars did continue, none of them had yellow flashing lights on, which is usually common for processions in MA.  From what I can understand from this family member, there was a gap in the procession where it was not possible to see that the procession was ongoing when she crossed.  From speaking with lawyers from other states, it is my understanding that willfully interrupting a funeral procession is usually manifested through a protest or act of civil disobedience, and not through an accidental car getting in the way of it.

Thank you for any help you can offer.  This family member knows she should consult a lawyer no matter what advise is offered.

Answer:
 Looks like the penalty for that is one month imprisonment or a fine no more than $50.  Since no one was effected, I can't see imprisonment being considered, but I only heard the story through you so am missing all the details.

I'd definitely consider consulting an attorney to try and drop the charges, like you state he is going to do.


Title: Renters in Minnesota: Roofing contractors unplugged freezer in garage to use outlet and ruined $300 of pork and beef.

Question:
As the title says, we had these roofing contractors hired by the owner. They were horrible. The first day they blew their compressor and went in our garage and used my husbands (for the rest of the job).

A fuse blew so they unplugged our deep freeze in our garage and then didn’t plug it back in. It sat unnoticed for four days and ruined $300-$400 of fresh beef and pork we had gotten from a local farm / meat locker.

Do we have recourse?

Answer:
 Yes, you can contact the contractor, get their insurance information, contact their insurance, and inquire about filing a claim.

Failing that, you can sue them in small claims court.

Edit: didn’t see you were renting. Your own renter’s insurance may cover this as well.Answer #2: Have you talked to them about it before seeking legal options?


Title: My greedy / power-hungry brother is the executor of my father’s will. I don’t trust him to be fair to the will. My father is still alive. Can I put any safeguards in place??

Question: My brother and his wife go to battle time and time again about territorial issues and ownership of petty things. My elderly father will probably split things evenly between us siblings, but I don’t trust my brother to dip his hand in for extra. Since my father is still alive, is there any kind of legal safeguard I can request he put in place??

Answer: If your brother is who your father wants to be the executor of his will, that's it.  An executor doesn't have unlimited power to do whatever the hell they want. They have to distribute the estate assets as the will dictates. You could talk to him about it, but that's usually a swore subject to bring up to your parents.


Title: Trying to evict my step mom from a house i own

Question:
My father and I have have had an agreement for the last 7 years in which he and my step mother live in a house I own in Texas so long as he pays the mortgage.

 They  split 2 years ago, because he's a stand up guy and she has kids with kids he's been paying for the house even when not living there, three months ago he had some medical issues and is now unable to work and has been unable to pay for the mortgage.

We tried to work out a lease agreement between me and my step mother but nothing has worked out.
She would rather see the house get lost to the bank than to pay any money. But she won't leave willinglly either.

I never met anyone so malicious/stupid. She has no fallback, no family to help her. But she's left me with no other choice.

Because the house is three months behind on the mortgage I can't afford to get lawyer and pay what's owed.

Everything I find about eviction is dependent on there being a lease.

Answer: She has a month to month lease agreement. Doesn't have to be on writing. Follow the legal eviction laws


Title: Is it legal to watch videos on a phone while driving? [OR]

Question:
My girlfriend has some pretty unsafe driving habits. She likes to text, often drives without the glasses/contacts that she needs to drive safely, and today she told me she watches videos as she's driving.

I said I didn't think watching videos while driving was was a good idea, and she told me that the way she does it is completely legal and safe. While I don't think it's safe, I'm curious -- is it legal?

According to her, when she watches videos her phone is docked on her dashboard and not in her hand. She says this makes it legal. But watching videos while driving *can't* be legal in Oregon, can it?

I am floored that she's so carefree about using her phone while driving. Am I overreacting?

Answer: Definetely not legal. That's distracted driving and his extremely dangerous