Title: [MI] Money order stolen out of apartment complex drop-box. Am I responsible?

Question:
This happened in July of 2018. Our apartment complex provides a drop box in case you need to drop off rent when they are out of the office. I don usualky utilize it, but on this occasion, I did.

A week after paying rent we received a demand for possession of the missing rent. I took the letter straight to the office in a panic, and that’s when I was informed by the staff that many people had their rent stolen from the drop box over the weekend. Because I paid with a Western Union money order, getting my money back was a bit trickier than those who wrote checks (although they had their account numbers stolen!!). I searched high and low for my money order receipt, but of course, it was no where to be found.

My apartment complex failed to file a police report despite the robbery. For western union to look into a stolen money order, they required a police report of the incident. I filed a police report myself, obtained a Kroger receipt showing where I had purchased the money order, and sent this information to WU (along with the $30 fee they charge just to look into it). WU replied stating that they didn’t have enough information to help me.

I took my returned letter from WU to my property manager and she stated that she sees that I have exhausted all of my options and that she would do her best to look into it herself, and once she did that she would propose to her managers that we receive a credit for the missing money. I also have in writing from a different property manager (turn over is ridiculous) that we would be refunded both money orders (the missing and the $30 I had to pay WU) and would not be assessed any late fees for the missing money order in the month of July, and also would not be evicted.

We are now moving out of this complex. I want to figure out this situation before I leave. Today I spoke to (YET ANOTHER) property manager, and she stated that we must stop payment on the money order and re-pay our rent for July. This is my first time hearing this response and I explained to her that in my file they have copies of the previous manager stating that we would not be responsible. Her argument is that there is no proof that my money order ever made it to the drop box.

Why is there a drop box if we need proof that we made it to there? Is it my fault that they do not have security cameras watching? My proof that it was in there is the fact that many other people had their rent payment stolen and that I have never paid my rent late or not in full for the entire two years that I have lived here.

Please give me any advice you have on what I should do moving forward.

Thank you

Answer: I would really be pushing for the property to make a police report if there was a theft of that magnitude before making any additional payment for the same month. They didn't protect their facility well enough to accept the payments apparently. Otherwise I'd also be suspicious it was an inside job, but that is me.Answer #2: You delivered a valid form of payment to their drop-off location, so I would imagine your obligation ended there. The apartment should be calling the police to report a theft of THEIR money, not yours.


Title: Process server

Question: A process server showed up at my parents house in Texas (since that is the address on my drivers license), attempting to serve me papers for a lawsuit (for a vehicle accident I was involved in), but I live in California. My insurance company told me not to contact the process server since it is their job to find me. I will likely be moving soon, possibly even to China, but not for the reason of avoiding the lawsuit and I don't want to get in trouble for leaving the country. What should I do?

Answer: As a first step, I would communicate your anticipated move to your insurance company, and ask what they recommend.


Title: Buying bulk ammo online

Question:
Is there anything wrong with buying ammo in bulk online? Ammo is very expensive and I found some good deals on bulk ammo, I bought a few thousand rounds of target ammo online and didn't think about if there was any restrictions on quantity or shipping until after. I have since received the ammo so it seems there were no shipping issues.

To the uninitiated, you can easily shoot 250 rounds in an hour at the range. For the dedicated range goer it's really not that much ammo its just a good deal but for the average person it may seem that way. I have no idea how it is viewed by the law and that is what I am curious about.

Answer:
 What rounds do you shoot?

It is legal


Title: [California, LA] Stole my CBD Vape ($50) from my car.

Question: I went to a car wash and forgot to grab my vape put of  my glove compartment. I walked back and asked to grab something from my car. He asked what I was looking for and I said my vape. He asked for a hit and I said haha no. Since I couldn’t find it I decided to look later. I checked Yelp and ten other people reported that stuff was stolen out of their car. What can I do about this?

Answer:
 Likely nothing. You cannot prove they did it. You drive off. It could have been lost before or after.

Next time, don't leave valuables in your car when you give it to strangersAnswer #2: You can report the theft to the police.  You can also talk to the car wash owner/manager about them reimbursing you for the stolen item(s).  If they refuse you can sue them in small claims.  Of course, you'll have to decide whether it's worth your time to spend what will likely be a half day at the courthouse trying to recover the value of the used vape.


Title: Help! My friend was falsely accused of sexually assaulting his daughter

Question:
Hey all,

My friend is a really nice guy, and he needs your help and advice.  He has four kids: one from a previous marriage, and 3 with his current wife.  The 3 kids are great: happy, well-behaved and get along well with their parents.  The daughter from the previous marriage is basically a nightmare.

She's a teenager (15 or 16) and has had mental health problems, drug addiction issues, stealing issues, truancy problems, suicide attempts, gang affiliations, etc for the last couple years.  This is all quite well documented in the courts.

The kid bounces back and forth between her divorced parents' houses, and there are ongoing court battles regarding custody.  Mostly she runs off with her friends and goes on drug binges for days at a time (oxy, meth, weed, alcohol... & who knows what else.)  They've tried everything under the sun to help this kid, but she refuses to cooperate with any interventions, and she continues to do whatever she wants.  Somehow, even with the continued truancy and theft & repeated court appearances, she hasn't gone to juvy yet.

The other day, the dad and the daughter were talking with the police about an incident where the daughter had freaked out and tried to kill herself, and out of the blue, the girl claimed that her father had sexually assaulted her.  It definitely got her what she wanted: now, suddenly, all the police are focusing on her Dad instead of her, and she's free to do as she pleases.

Unfortunately, he is looking at a future court date and possible jail time.  This could mean absolute devastation for his family, and who knows if the girl was even sober when she made the accusations.

Now, I don't have a lot of details about the accusations, but I know this is a serious situation.  The girl was removed from her father's custody immediately and he doesn't really know what to expect in the coming days.  Will he be arrested?  What should he do (other than hire an attorney?)

In this country you are basically assumed to be guilty until proven innocent when it comes to sexual assault, and I'm worried for him and the rest of his family.

Any advice is welcome.  Thanks!

(Location: WA State)

Answer:
 This is not something that can be handled or even helped by some randos on the internet. Advise him to follow the advice of his attorney to the letter.

>In this country you are basically assumed to be guilty until proven innocent when it comes to sexual assault

Assuming you are also in the United States, this is far from true.


Title: [South Carolina] My boyfriend, an inmate, cannot have books on Wicca

Question:
[Amazon link to the first book being withheld](https://www.amazon.com/Witches-Craft-Multidenominational-Wicca-Bible-ebook/dp/B006NZBFV4/ref=sr_1_1?s=digital-text&ie=UTF8&qid=1489515602&sr=1-1&keywords=Witches%27+Craft%3A+A+Multidenominational+Wicca+Bible)

From what I can tell the name makes it sound like a religious text but is actually more of an educational book for the un-initiated. The Chaplain told me he couldn't have the book because he wasn't a practicing Wiccan but would not tell me how he could have his religious status changed, nor is the inmate being informed. He is listed as christian as his preference but is anything but. He is perfectly willing to change his status but they make it seems as if that is impossible.

Is there an option to have his status changed where he has a legal right to a book about Wicca beliefs?

Thank you.

edit, clarification: He is in a prison

Answer:
 If he's not listed as Wiccan, it's not considered a religious book. He should change his religious status, and keep in mind, some prisons (usually private) don't recognize Wicca as a religion.

Source: Was a Corrections Officer.


Title: Help! My HOA is trying to over charge me for the damages

Question:
Recently very unfortunate event happened, where I mistakenly thought the cargo van that I borrowed could fit through my apartment complex's garage. Long story short, top of my van hit the sprinkler causing the  sprinkler head to pop out. This caused the water to spill. Fire truck came to fix the situation (they just put the popped sprinkler head back in).
The problem starts from then on. Our manager who lives above where I live came out absolutely livid. Threatening me and questioning me about why I would do such a thing. He also said that if the Los Angeles Fire Department would charge them for firetrucks showing up, it would be up to us to pay for that charge (which was fine with me).

Few weeks later this letter came to my door.

"Message from the Management:
The damages done to the sprinklers caused other parts of the system to malfunction. We will have to repair the pipe, pump, sprinkler etc. Once we get everything repaired, we will contact you directly and update you on all the fixtures and the final invoice."

As far I can could tell there was no additional damage done except for the sprinkler head, which was put back on by fire fighters on site. I am afraid that they will charge me for either the damages that wasn't done by me or the damages that was falsely accused.
What can I do in this situation?
If you can give me an advice it would be greatly appreciated.

Answer: They can't legally charge you for damages that you didn't cause, but the idea that you caused damages that weren't immediately obvious is not that unlikely. You need to let them know you will want to see itemized bills for any damages, as well as an explanation of how they are determining the damages, and what problems already existed. If they aren't forthcoming about this, you may be in for a tough time. I'd definitely consider a lawyer for this.


Title: [ME] Roommate masturbates with me in the same room

Question:
My roommate and I work for the same company, but in different departments. We share a bedroom in company housing and we are also resident assistants for the dormitory we live in.

She has masturbated next to me, in her bed, three times. She has admitted to the first two times after I brought the issue up with HR. The third time she denied it. There were no other witnesses each time.

Is this a form of sexual harassment?

Answer:
 It's probably worth your time to solve this as a dorm life issue, if at all possible, rather than a workplace sexual harassment complaint. It's happening off the clock, in a space that - _other than you_ - is private and would otherwise be a reasonably normal place to masturbate. Asking her not to masturbate for the duration of her stint on the site would … stretch the bounds of good advice, both for you and for your employer, and everyone will go away happier if the two of you can compromise.

To that end, talk to her about it. Ask that she limit it to when you're out of the room, and offer to give her time to herself a few hours a week if she'll do the same for you. I'm sure you could use some privacy as well - whether it's for a wank or just for some peace and quiet. The ol' sock-on-the-door system does work, as long as you communicate about reasonable boundaries.

If your coworker is unable to handle this like a reasonable adult, and if you've made the effort, then you'll have a much stronger footing going to your employer and asking for one of you to switch roommates.


Title: Apartment complex is “under no obligation to give prior notice to entry.”

Question:
I was reading my lease before signing for another year and came across a clause saying they could enter my apartment with no notice, is this normal? I was under the impression that reasonable notice was always required for a landlord to enter. I live in TX.
Topic:
Landlord Tenant Housing

Answer: Not normal, but it [looks like Texas has no official law](http://www.housing-rights.org/entry.html) about it and it defaults to the terms of the lease. If the terms of your lease are such that your landlord can just show up whenever, I highly suggest you find a new place. That’s super sketchy. Unless there is an emergency, they should not enter without prior notice and the fact that they feel they need to would get a hard no from me.


Title: My ex won't work and pay child support. Oklahoma State says they wont file contempt because he has no assets.

Question:
I have two children and have been divorced 7 years.  We have joint custody but I am custodial.
He is about $13,000 in arears now.  He is ordered to pay about $350 a month. He has stopped working the last 4ish years. He and his girlfriend live in income assisted housing and live off TANF and foodstamps.  They have my kids listed on they're foodstamps and housing.  They donate plasma for cigarette money.  I am civil with him for the children and don't let his arrears affect them seeing him except that he rarely asks to see them.  I will bring them anytime he does ask and they'll stay a day or two every other month or so.  The state did revoke his driver's license for him not paying child support.
     So onto my question. Can I file contempt without a lawyer? The state will not file contempt charges because they don't want to put someone in jail who cannot pay up. I understand that but he is not working so he won't have to pay  child support.
    This feels childish but it's not fair! I would like him in jail at least to scare the shit out of him for a few days.  What he's doing now works too well for him and he has no reason to change.  He claims a knee injury but I know this man and he is faking it at the doctors for pain meds which I caught his girlfriend selling once.
He does not take the stuff himself.   I cannot afford a lawyer and we barely scrape by as it is.

Topic:
Custody Divorce and Family

Answer:
 I’m sure someone else will chime in about child support, but you could always report him for food stamp fraud.

https://www.fns.usda.gov/fraud/how-can-i-report-snap-fraud


Title: Arrested for Saving a Dog [Indiana]

Question:
Okay to preface this is not me, I am trying to help a friend. I know what they did is illegal. I know animal services should have been called.

My friend's family member was arrested for stealing her [neighbor's dog](https://imgur.com/a/7qh82JQ). The neighbors were neglecting their dog so she decided to save it. Now she has been arrested, I'm waiting on an update to see if she did anything illegal to get the dog like breaking and entering, I will update the post when I get that information.

I wanted to know if there is anything they can do while they try to get a lawyer. I'm mostly posting here to give the family some peace. That way they know they are doing all they can while they try to figure it out.

Answer:
 Location? They need a criminal defense attorney. Pets are considered property.

Did the police place the dog back in the home?  If they did, have a 3rd party contact animal control to report neglect. Provide them with any physical evidence. If they didn’t place the animal back in the home they’re in animal controls possession, and likely to be tied up there pending charges (if any on the owner) or litigation. Meaning they can not be adopted out or returned until all of this mess is over.


Title: [IL] Unemployed after being promised position

Question:
This is a weird situation. I was working at a company and was promised a new position after a waiting period where I wouldn't be allowed to work for 30 consecutive calendar days, after being terminated. This was fine, I was in contact with my previous supervisor (Jean) before, during, and after the waiting period.

The problem begins with the hiring manager, I'm going to call her Sarah. During the waiting period I tried contacting her numerous times and got no response. I let Jean know, and she tried contacting Sarah with the same result. This continued until it was escalated to the assistant director, I eventually got an e-mail asking for contact information. I responded I got no response for another 30 calendar days, totaling 60 calendar days.

Before it got to that point I was in contact with Jean and exchanged messages asking what was going on, whether there was actually a job for me, was this worth waiting for since the waiting period had ended over a month ago. Jean reassured me that there would be an interview for formalities sake and that the job was mine.

Not too long after the 60 day mark Sarah emailed me asking about my interview availability. We chose a time and I showed up to the interview. After being taken in for the interview Sarah sat me down and said that my termination paperwork was never filed, she had no idea who was suppose to be in charge of that, because my termination papers weren't filed the waiting period hadn't actually started, in the time between my 'termination' and the interview the waiting period increased to 6 months, there was no way to retroactively terminate me, and that there would be no interview.

After the 'interview' I immediately contacted Sarah and gave her all this information. She told me with no uncertainty that the one who dropped the ball was Jean. This was then escalated to the assistant director where they discussed everything that had happened though email, this was all forwarded to me by Sarah.

Essentially no one has taken responsibility and I am still out of a job. I was advised to apply for unemployment, and that this would also give me retroactive payments for the 60 days I was jobless while I looked for a new job. After applying I was told that my income hadn't been reported  and that I would need to submit a w2 and pay stubs. No problem.

All of our time keeping and tax information is digital and I still had access to my account. When I logged in, there was absolutely nothing. I had been with this job for 3 years and all evidence of employment was gone. No previous w2, no pay stubs.

I was advised to contact Human resources but its as if no one works there. I have no idea what to do at this moment. I just need advice on how to proceed. I have applied to jobs, but its been a short period between that last interview with Sarah and now, and I haven't heard back from anyone yet.

Answer:
 What steps have you taken to get a hold of somebody to get W2 forms and pay stubs?

There's no legal issue here anywhere else in your post. As an at-will employee your employment can be terminated for almost any reason.  The narrative is a little hard to follow but I'm not seeing any laws being broken.


Title: i dont know what to do.

Question: [deleted]

Answer: There are usually causes of actions that allow you to bring a suit for retaliatory firing over filing for worker's comp. Consult with an employment law attorney in your area.


Title: Got grease burned at a fast food restaurant, the machine was not working properly. Can I sue?

Question:
[Connecticut]

I was working at a fast food restaurant from August to September 2014. My position would be different depending on what the manager wanted me to do. We have around 4 people that are in charge of the restaurant. I would work Drive Thru and Work behind the kitchen. My position was suppose to be Cash Register but they wouldn't let me be it (even though they said that was my position). What I didn't like about the job was basically they were making me work long hours. They didn't give me the choice to work part time which I kinda wanted.

Anyway, I was working on an 8 hour shift from 11am-7pm. My job would be to put meat patties onto the broiler where it will be cooked in a conveyor belt, and after the patties were freshly cooked they would go down to the bottom right into the pan. This is what is looks [like](http://i.imgur.com/n02MGDh.jpg). And then after that, I would take the pan and put it into a holding unit where the other employees would later use it to make the sandwiches.

The broiler was having some problems. It was like that yesterday but it wasn't as bad as today. The right side of the broiler couldn't cook burgers so my manager told me to put it on the left side. I told her maybe this isn't a good idea but she said just keep working.

So later on, I put some patties onto the broiler and as I was about to take out the burgers from the pan, boom. Two drops of grease BURNED onto my arm. That shit hurt like fucking hell! I complained that my skin burned but all this manager did was put some weird ointment shit on it which didn't really work at all. She even asked me if I put ice on it, which you're not suppose to put on. This shit was a 2nd degree burn and it LOOKS HORRIBLE on my skin. I looked at the broiler and noticed that the broiler was at 720 DEGREES!! The broiler is supposed to be at around 500!! Not only was the temperature higher than expected, but the whole BROILER was covered in grease!! Everything was dirty!!! And HOT!!! There's a little portable freezer on wheels where I take out the patties and put them in the broiler, that FREEZER WAS COVERED IN GREASE TOO!! These people were not taking care of their machines. They just left it like that. They tried fixing it but I don't think it was working for them. The next day, they got some workers to come and fix the machines for us but that doesn't help the 2nd degree burn that they GAVE me. When I complained to my other manager about it, she just said "next time dont put your hand in there." Are you fucking kidding me?! That's where I'm suppose to take the patties out!! 3 days later, I quit the job and never returned. It was one of my first jobs too. I am just so pissed about how they treat people. Another lady told me she got burned too. She has a huge ass burn on her front wrist that was like 5 inches long. She just shrugged it off like it was no big deal. It's been a month now and that burn is still here, all dark and everything. It's not that big of a burn just a few drops but it's still bothering me whenever I look at it. This isn't the only burn I got, I also was once working at the Frier and I accidentally touched the stainless steel next to the frier and it burned like hell and it left a mark. Why the fuck is this shit so hot? And I'm not exaggerating, like it's 10x HOTTER THAN MY OWN KITCHEN OVEN!!

I just wanna know if I am allowed to sue them? This is just so ridiculous, why would they just let the broiler go almost half it's temperature like that? I need help, I didn't know what to do so I made this post.

Answer: The fact that you capitalise parts that you think are important makes me laughAnswer #2: For two drops?


Title: Must I provide an ID while drinking alcohol?

Question:
Here in TX we allow drinking alcohol during some activities on state property.  The one I'm mainly concerned with is river tubing.  I'm of drinking age, but I never bring my ID to the river for fear of losing it.

If I'm 21 and drinking legally and am stopped for suspected underage drinking, what are my legal rights?  Will I be detained/arrested for suspected underage drinking?  If not then how can police actually catch underage people?

Answer: If police suspect you are under 21, you can be detained until your age/ID is proven.


Title: Why isn't there a law that motorcyclists have to wear helmets?

Question: I thought about this today as I passed a guy on a motorcycle who wasn't wearing a helmet. There are seat belt laws, but not helmet laws?

Answer:
 50 states, 50 different state laws.

They do have to wear them in my state.


Title: New Landlord wants to change the agreement after moving in

Question:
My 3 roommates and I just moved into a new house. Let's call my them Aaron, Adam, and Matt.

Aaron and Adam found the house. It fit all the criteria and after seeing the place with the landlord they told her that we're 4 room mates. She didn't like this and said the house is for 3 people to live in. It's practically 4 bedroom and 1500 square feet so it made no sense. They said okay thanks but we will keep looking.

Later the landlord calls back Aaron and they talk more about the 4 room mate situation. Aaron tells the landlord that Matt is just a guest and not really a "roommate". This part was true. He moved in with us at our old house and was staying as a guest but it looked like he'd move in full time (as the new house was bigger). Lease is signed. Three of us signed the lease (not including Matt).

After moving in this weekend the land lord is saying that she wants a written document with the guest's SSN & the exact date he will leave with all of us signing it. If we fail to do so she said she will use it as grounds to evict. No where on the lease does it say anything about 4 people not being allowed to live in the house. Quite honestly two of the bedrooms are big enough for 2 people to share (for a total of 6). No idea why she's doing this. I should mention that one of the bedrooms is actually a family room but has a separate door and is private. It can be used as a bedroom. She verbally expressed to Aaron and Adam when they were looking at the house that she wouldn't like it to be used as a bedroom. Does she even get a say in this? I'll sleep in the kitchen and cook in the bathroom if I want can't I?

I'm not in love with the house but moving is such a hassle that I do not want to deal with it again. What should we do? Should we write up a document as she requested? Or just not contact her? Is she allowed to come and inspect to see who's living where and how many people? Any help is appreciated!

Edit: Sorry I didn't mark the location. This is in Ohio.

Answer:
 > No idea why she's doing this.

Because if Matt becomes a tenant he is entitled to certain rights under the law that a guest is not entitled to.  If he is a guest she can kick him out with the rest of you.  If he is a tenant he can overstay the lease and she would have to evict him.

By getting a written document from him (and the rest of you) that he is a guest and not a tenant then she is protecting herself.

If you lied on the lease about how many people would be living there it could be grounds to evict you.


Title: (CA) Canadian citizen immigrating to the US via marriage. Mom got sudden aggressive cancer, want to leave to see her before status has changed.

Question:
I'm in California. I was married in February to my wife. I haven't gone for my biometrics or anything formal beyond filing a marriage certificate and sending our info via our lawyer to Homeland Security and USCIS.

Just found out that back home my mom is stage four with an aggressive form of Lymphoma. Basically risk never seeing her again and then losing the respect of my family if I don't go back to see her and help out.

What are the legal ramifications of leaving before being granted a greencard. As it is, I've over stayed my visitors visa, which isn't a problem after you file for marriage. But I was told if I leave before the state issues a green card I'm basically screwed.

Answer:
 Leaving without a travel parole is basically abandoning your claim. USCIS is free to tell you to apply again and, no, you don't get that money back.

Call for an interview with a USCIS agent in person at your nearest immigration service centre for the issuing of an emergency advance parole (AP), aka travel visa. Fill out the paperwork in advance, have the photos, be prepared to prove your mom is ill.


Title: NY I signed as a borrower for a home equity loan on a "friend's" house for $100k, which he promised to pay back. Has not made a single payment in almost 5 years.

Question: One of the biggest mistakes of my life.  He didn't make a single payment towards the principal and I have been getting notices for years.  I also refused to pay, assuming that the bank would foreclose the home, however it has been so many years and I still receive notices.  My credit is in sewer.  I believe this "friend" has died and know nothing about the ownership of the home.  Is there anything I should be doing?  I absolutely cannot afford to pay the loan back.  The latest notice stated they would accept $4k to wipe out the entire balance.  Thanks.

Answer:
 You need to pay it like you agreed to do when you signed.

You can then sue your friend for what you paid.Answer #2: NEVER CO-SIGN FOR A FRIEND.......NEVA EVA EVA EVA EVA Answer #3: NAL, but I work in the financial industry. Consult a tax professional about the possible implications of the settlement that your lender has offered. In many situations, the forgiven balance (in this case the $96,000) can be considered income and is subject to taxes.


Title: Tennessee - Interviewer asked when I planned on having kids, currently pregnant and I lied.

Question: I know it's illegal for an interviewer to ask if you have children, so I was taken by surprise when I was asked this in an interview today.  He then asked when I was planning to have children.  He was very excited that my schedule is completely open.  I lied and said "One day" then he asked if that would be soon and I said "I don't know."  I'm currently 7 weeks pregnant.  I was offered the position, but now I'm wondering if I'm in the wrong for lying during an interview.  Do I have any obligation to tell them the truth?  I haven't even had my first ultrasound yet.

Answer:
 It's not illegal for the interviewer to ask if you have children. It's simply *inadvisable*, because it's illegal for them to consider that during the hiring process.

I wouldn't say it was wrong to lie about your pregnancy; it's none of their business, and they can't make decisions based on it. Just be aware that they don't have to grant you maternity leave.Answer #2: If you're only 7 weeks into the pregnancy, it's completely understandable that you haven't disclosed it yet. From all of my friends with kids, my understanding is that women generally wait until 12 weeks to start telling people, simply because the first trimester is when the risk of miscarriage is highest. Obviously people may choose different approaches, but I've had friends who waited until closer to 15 weeks just to be safe - in the event that they did miscarry, they didn't want the added pain of having to update people who had already been told about the pregnancy.

Hell, I have two friends who weren't trying to conceive, and neither of them even realized they were pregnant until 8 and 10 weeks, respectively. One of them had heavy spotting that mimicked a period, and the other had always had irregular cycles, so nothing seemed amiss.

My point is, there are plenty of reasons why women may not be ready to break the news of a pregnancy to a total stranger in HR before they're even comfortable telling their own families. Answer #3: Just be prepared that they could legally fire you when you take time off after you have the baby. You would have no legally protected leave.


Title: Can I pull an offer of employment anytime?

Question:
I am a corporate recruiter. I told a candidate in an email we were definitely going to make him a formal offer. The candidate decided to cancel a post interview lunch with the hiring manager the day before. The manager no longer wants the candidate.

Can I not make an offer now? My only concern is that in a few emails I told him we definitely would be making an offer, and that the lunch with the hiring manager would have no bearing on that.

I said the lunch would have no bearing because he did not want to do it because he saw it as another interview. Thanks!

Answer: You should probably know the answer to this or have someone on your staff who does if you are doing this professionally. But assuming you are in the US this isn’t even a close call, you can revoke and offer or even fire someone for any reason or no reason at all so long as the reason isn’t membership in a protected class.


Title: Sold tobacco to an ABC decoy

Question:
tldr; 95% certain sold tobacco to a decoy but haven't had it called in. What should I do to prepare

(Riverside, California)
I could once say I carded everyone who I don't know and looks under 27 at my gas station I work at. Yesterday, a 20 something looking man came in with a 20 something looking women. I was certain I knew him and we exchanged casual small talk but then he asked for the tobacco product at the end all the other decoys ask for. Out of the corner of my eye I could see his ID and he was completely bald whereas now he had a full beard and the women was texting in the background. As soon as the sale was finished and they drove away after being parked right out front I knew I fucked up big time.

100% this was my fuck up for being a coward. I was so socially nervous to ask for his ID when it was right there in front of me because I thought for certain I've seen this guy every night. I felt like a deer in headlights and it will cost me everything. There has been no mailed in letter yet or phone call but I'm 95% it was sting because I asked for the description of the common decoys after from my co-worker. I'm going to quit tomorrow and start looking for another job right away. Should I be saving up money for a huge fine? Should I be looking for free attorneys as I live in destitute poverty? .. what do I expect before I get the dreaded call...

Answer:
 >  I'm 95% it was sting

I'm 99% it wasn't because you didn't get immediately cited.

Take a breath. Relax. ALWAYS card.


Title: Best Buy won't credit a purchase I made after receiving the wrong item... What are my options?

Answer: Not enough info.


Title: Used a friends storage unit, then they were arrested and all things inside were confiscated by law enforcement.

Question:
During my last break up, after I moved out, I couch hopped for several months before finding a new place to live. During that time a friend of mine that had a storage unit allowed me to store some of my furniture in it. Most importantly, a vintage leather bar passed down to me from my great great grandfather. Including the leather barstools and everything. I recently moved into a new apartment, but with very limited space, and my friend was okay with me keeping those things in his storage unit as long as needed. So I wasn’t necessarily in a rush to go get anything given I had no space.
Last week I came across an article from local newspaper that he was arrested and detained. All of his property, including his storage unit, was claimed by law enforcement.
He is going to be in jail for many years given his circumstances. I had no idea that he was doing anything illegal and I just want my things back, but really mostly just the leather bar.
What can I do? I’m in state of PA.

Answer: When you contacted the police who have the stuff and told them what was up, what did they tell you?


Title: Can I buy a katana online and hang it on my wall? (victoria australia)

Question:
Some people say I need a permit and some people don't, could someone please tell me the truth about it?
Topic:
Non-US

Answer:
 In Victoria, swords are prohibited weapons and may only be imported by people possessing a Weapons Custom Import Permit, and may only be owned by those possessing a Chief Commissioner’s Prohibited Weapons Permit. Believe it or not if you want to import and own a sword, you’ll need both. To be approved for either you will need to be either:

A martial artist using the sword for martial arts practice

A genuine collector, able to demonstrate the theme of their collection


Title: My friend is studying abroad in America, she was babysitting for a lady for a little bit of money. After she found out that my friend will be leaving in a couple weeks, she is not paying her. Is there anything we can do?

Question: My friend is studying abroad on a student visa from Germany. She watched her daughter for two days a week, but I think about two weeks ago, she decided not to pay her any longer. My friend will be in the U.S for a little over a month. Is there anything we can do in time to get her to pay?

Answer:
 How long was she here?

F1 students cannot legally work off campus in their first year, so that will present a problem for her if she falls into that category.

If she was legally able to work, unfortunately her only option is probably to sue in small claims court which will require a trip back to attend court.


Title: My employer asked me to turn over personal financial documents in order to get a promotion

Question:
Quick background:

I’ve worked at this company for 4 years as a leader in an Operations Strategy/Analytics type of role. I also co-own a hand full of side businesses with my wife - which I disclosed to my employer during my initial interview and they have no issues.

I have received overwhelming praise for my work in my corporate job and was recently recommended for a promotion. I interviewed for the role and was given a soft verbal offer by the hiring manager after the final interview. Since then it’s basically been radio-silence communication-wise from HR or the hiring manager for this role.

The situation:

Earlier this week the hiring manager approached me and asked me to provide whatever I could from prior jobs or from my personal businesses that could illustrate my ability to build a business strategy/write a financial plan/build a business case/etc. in order to generate a portfolio of work that he could use to “sell me” to the CEO that I’d be a good candidate for this role.

My response was that I had 4 years of documented business strategy experience in my current role and I didn’t understand why I needed to provide something from my private businesses to support that - additionally I had not retained any records of work from prior employers (and even i had - i signed confidentiality agreements). Additionally, I was under the impression that I had already been offered the role and no “selling” would be needed. He responded that it was a request directly from the CEO and that it’s typical for people to provide examples of prior work.

So I went home and combed through my personal files and pulled out a number of documents that I felt would be good for this portfolio - and then went through and redacted/removed any information that I felt was confidential or that I didn’t feel comfortable sharing with my employer. When I turned these documents over to the hiring manager I was told that I had redacted too much and that the documents were essentially useless, so he asked me to go back and un-redact information, including a few pages that contained personal financial info about me and my family.

At this point I’m officially uncomfortable with this entire situation and I’m worried that if I refuse to provide this information I will have my offer revoked and potentially face retaliatory behavior from my employer for not playing along in this game.

Is this sort of request normal? Is it even legal? What are my options here?

Answer:
 "No." is a complete sentence. So is "You're fired."

I'd decline the promotion and start looking for a new job.Answer #2: Your location is important.  Labor laws vary from state to state.

If you want the promotion, give them the info they seek.  Or don't.  There's generally no law against them asking for this info, and turning down your promotion for failing to provide it.  You're not entitled to any kind of promotion, and if they want to attach strings to your promotion, they're generally free to do so.

It sounds like they want you to demonstrate, to their satisfaction, that you're capable of fulfilling the role.  That's not all that odd, nor is it illegal.


Title: Opinion on this ordinance.

Question:
I think an ordinance of this city is really close to being unconstitutional. What do you think? It's a US city btw, and it is still in effect.

"It shall be unlawful for any person in the city to willfully and knowingly fail or refuse to stop when signaled, hailed or commanded to stop by a police officer or other officer of the city."

It holds a fine and/or jail time penalty. And that's the entire statute as written.

Answer: No, I don't think this is unconstitutional. Failing to stop can be dangerous in many ways. If the stop is illegal, the remedy is after the fact. After all, at the moment a cop tells me to pull over, I have no idea whether he has reasonable cause for the stop, because I don't know what evidence the cop has. For all I know, I fit the description of a murder suspect.


Title: (Los Angeles California, U.S.) how can i fight a case using the "right to travel act" for no insurance and driving on a suspended license?

Question:
so this is how it happened...... two years ago i drove a friend to a medical weed shop and parked in a legal parking spot on the street away from any driveways and fire hydrants . as i waited for my friend to come out i notice out of the corner of my eye in my driver side mirror slow coming up the street at around 5 mph 5 cars down from me.they drive by then stop one car in front of me
then backed up and preceded to ask me questions and when i told him i was waiting for a friend in the "medical weed shop" he preceded to exit his car and pull me out of my no operational(turn off with key out of the ignition) and registered and legally parked car. they gave me a ticket for no insurance . i missed my first court date and finally was seen for my case today after not being able to make it for a long time. what can i do ? i have around 10 thousand in fines and court fees and am self employed but unable to pay these fine let alone survive from day to day.

EDIT(5/20/15 12:23 pm) i went to court yesterday for driving with no insurance and they said i had to pay $2000 bail . is that a fine or will there be an additional charge when i go back in one week? alsoo what should i be afraid of?

Answer:
 What is this "right to travel act" of which you speak?

If you're referring to the Privileges and Immunities Clause of the U.S. Constitution, it doesn't give you the right to drive without a license and insurance. Answer #2: Use the gold fringe defense. Once you get the venue changed to a maritime court of law then it's smooth sailing!

Once you have them on the ropes, break out the: "I'm not the named defendant because of the ALL CAPS." They won't even know what hit 'em.

The coup de grâce will be when you climb onto the table and yell "the United States Inc. doesn't own me! I'm a Free Man, born free on the land! Your laws don't apply to me!" Then tear off your suit, only to reveal a hand woven hemp tunic. Emblazoned in homemade henna dye the words: "am I being detained."

You'll be back to playing bongos, smoking weed and making pickles in no time. Answer #3: The "Right to Travel" means you can feel free to cross state borders. It doesn't give you the right to operate your vehicle without insurance or without an active license. There's a lot of misinformation out there, but driving is a privilege, not a right. You need to get a public defender for your case to help you understand these laws.Answer #4: If you go to court and mention anything about the "right to travel," you're going to be laughed out of the building because it's nonsense and not a defense to anything.

Why do you have $10,000 in fines for a no insurance ticket?  Something's missing in your story.


Title: Legal consequences of rescinding a job offer (that includes an international plane ticket) after previously accepting it

Question:
**Background:** I am a student graduating in May.  I have a job offer from Company A that I'm leaning toward accepting in the next couple days.  However, I had previously interviewed for Company B, which would be my "dream company".  Unfortunately I was named the alternate for the position at Company B, and the candidate that they initially offered accepted.  This leaves me with 1 current offer (from Company A) which expires shortly.

The primary recruiter for Company B likes me a lot, and said he believes a new position may be opening at their company in the coming months that I could be a fit for.  While this would be ideal, there's too much uncertainty for me to risk declining the offer I currently have from Company A.

**Situation:** I live in the United States.  The Company A position would ultimately be in the U.S. but would start with a few months of training in India.  **Because of this, Company A would be buying me a flight to India upon my acceptance.**  If Company B were to offer me my "dream job" in 2 months I would strongly want to rescind my acceptance for Company A.   **Would rescinding an accepted offer that includes a $1200 plane ticket be grounds for Company A to file a lawsuit against me?**

The offer letter includes the following at-will statement: "Our company adheres to a policy of employment-at-will which allows either party to terminate the employment relationship at any time, for any reason, with or without cause."

Answer:
 >If Company B were to offer me my "dream job" in 2 months I would strongly want to rescind my acceptance for Company A.

Edit this...

If Company B were to offer me my "dream job" in 2 months I would quit my job at Company A.

>Would rescinding an accepted offer that includes a $1200 plane ticket be grounds for Company A to file a lawsuit against me?

You're not rescinding an offer. You're looking at quitting a job at Company A to take a job at Company B.

Take the job you are offered. A bird in the hand is worth 2 in the bush.... and look over your contract/offer carefully before signing.

You're playing a dangerous game and if you think you can be unemployed to wait for a maybe with Company B? Try that. If you are comfortable with Company A? Take it.

go to /r/askHR for more feedback


Title: I'm worried my past employer might not give me a w2 (utah)

Question:
I did not leave my last job on good terms. Technically i'm on day seven of my two weeks notice, but I walked out. I never want to speak to them again, but knowing what kind of people they are, I can see my former boss either vindictively refusing to give me a w2, or else requiring me to come in person to retrieve it.

I'm posting in off topic because obviously I do not know for certain whether he will withhold that, and it's almost a year before I have to be worried about that, but if he does refuse to give me a w2, what are my options?

I'm sure he's required to make an effort to make this available to me by law, but my former boss is really, truly a vindictive, incompetent ass.

Answer:
 >  if he does refuse to give me a w2, what are my options?

You ask, and if he refuses or ignores you, call the IRS at 1-800-829-1040 and they'll tell him to.


Title: [California] Roommate Growing Weed At Home

Question:
This is California.  I rent a room at a large house with 6 other people.  One of the renters has his medical marijuana card and usually partakes in his room; I have no problem with this, it is his life to do as he wills.  Well, recently, he asked the land lady if he could grow some MJ plants in the backyard because he heard that the medical marijuana card allows him to grow up to 5 plants for personal use, and he said "yes".  They're growing right next to his tomato plants right now.

I am already moving out (for other reasons) but I'm worried about the other roommates that I've made friends with.  I feel, if there were a bust (unlikely), that everyone at the house could get in trouble since the plants are growing in a communal area.  Yes, it is very unlikely, but it still worries me.  And I'm assuming that the weed smoking community usually isn't really violent, so I don't expect armed people to bust into the house to cultivate the plants.

What issues may the other roommates run into?  Is this a valid concern?

Thanks.

Answer:
 I'd say mind your own business. In order to commit a crime, you must commit a crime. You and your non-growing housemates have not committed any crimes. In addition, you are not a police officer and it is not your responsibility to enforce the law.

IAMAL, but I am not giving you or anyone else any advice. Answer #2: IANAL, but I am a CA medical marijuana patient.

Look up Prop. 215 and read through it thoroughly.  I personally didn't see any specific stipulations concerning room-mates or children in the house.  However you might want to check your zoning laws to make sure that growing is legal in your specific area regardless of whether one has a medical recommendation or not.


Title: [CA US] Sexually and physically abused by millionaire step-grandfather as a child, caused mental illnesses which led to dropping out of Uni in debt. but now he's dead.

Question:
[CA US] When I was younger [5-8] I was sexually and physically abused by millionaire step-grandfather, which caused various debilitating mental illnesses that made it hard to perform well in University. I've been diagnosed with PTSD, extreme social anxiety, never speaking to anyone throughout all of school until college, bipolar disorder, borderline-personality disorder and depression

These problems led to poor academic performance, so I dropped out before my 4th year I should have done so sooner ik, but was in a very bad place mentally and very irrational but have been somewhat better recently after getting therapy and a dog. So now I am drowning in debt ~100k but I'm not sure what can be done legally as he is now dead and left all money to my Grandma who I'm not sure would believe me and be willing to help me out of debt because I didn't graduate, and she only will fully pay the student loans of her Grandchildren who graduated.

I am wondering if there's any possible legal action I can take that I can use as backup if my grandmother refuses to believe me or help me out financially? He left my mother and her children nothing because we are half-black and he didn't like that about us. If he was alive this would be much simpler but I couldn't bring myself to say anything. The whole situation and even coming here to write this makes me extremely anxious. My grandmother married him for the money and I don't think genuinely ever loved him, he was very awkward and weird, but worked for NASA and was very smart. So at least I dont have to worry about causing her to hate her life-long love (they married 3 years before he died) Her ethics regarding gold-digging makes me unsure my grandmother will be willing to help and she is also completely white and also low-key racist I hear. My mom is white and dad was black and died when I was 5 if any of you were wondering. Grandmother and him rarely helped us, I grew up very poor.

I would greatly appreciate any advice any of you can give, thanks

*also Im a girl if any of you were wondering

Answer:
 The legal system cannot compel belief.

The legal system does not exist to allow you to extort people.

If you were abused as a child, I would normally say that you should make a police report, but there's no way to prosecute a corpse. If you believe your grandfather is liable to you for the costs of your subsequent care, or that his abuse materially caused or aggravated your psychiatric issues, you should speak with a lawyer about whether it's practical to sue his estate. However, the time for that may be past, depending on how old you are now and on how long ago his estate closed.

You have no standing to force your grandmother to do anything.Answer #2: > I am wondering if there's any possible legal action I can take that I can use as backup if my grandmother refuses to believe me or help me out financially?

Your grandmother is not obligated to pay your debts.

> Her ethics regarding gold-digging

Somehow her "gold-digging" is worse than yours?Answer #3: No, you cannot force your grandmother to believe you or pay you. She had nothing to do with what happened, and is not responsible for it.


Title: Someone used my credit card, possibly in error, bank says it's a valid charge, what can I do now?

Question:
I am located in Texas

Dentist is located in California

Proctoring service is located in Oregon

I have an emergency credit card that I haven't used in over 2 years.  A few months ago someone charged a small amount of money, under $100, to it.  I contacted my banks fraud department, they originally refunded the charge but then last week mailed me that the company that charged the card had proven it was a valid transaction and I had to pay it.

The bank included the documents that the company had submitted and it was a book for a re certification course a dentist had taken.  The proctoring service also included the dentists certificate and other paperwork.  All told the dentist had paid several thousand dollars but only had charged one book to my account so I think it must have been an error.  He didn't sign my name on the receipt or anything like that.

This seems wrong to me but I don't have much experience or knowledge I'm afraid.  I'm inclined to just let it go since it isn't much money but what worries me is he could have charged the entire course to the card and apparently I would have to pay for it.  If this was something I was going to pursue could anyone tell me please what my next step should be?  I assume a police report, if that's the case which state would I file it in, the dentists or the proctoring services?

And just in general does anyone know if this is usually how credit card fraud is handled?  I had thought credit cards weren't supposed to be used by someone other than the account holder

Answer:
 Did you specifically call the Fraud Prevention division for the bank? Or just the general number?

I had something like this happen a couple years ago, a random charge to a restaurant over 3000 miles away, in a city I'd never been to. There was a "dispute this charge" link on the statement website so I called the number that popped up. They gave me a huge runaround and told me they would look into it, and get back to me. They called back, said it was a valid charge, someone swiped the card at the restaurant.

I hung up, puzzled, and noticed a different number for Fraud Protection. Called that, they reversed the charge immediately, overnighted me a new card, and apologized profusely. They said the other number was for if you want to dispute a charge you made (like if you ordered something, were charged for it but never got it), not for fraudulent use, and the people who answer that line sometimes get confused.


Title: Cousins were denied visitor visas to the US. Is there any way to appeal?

Question:
I have two cousins who are 19 and 23. They currently reside in Guyana.  My entire family are all citizens of the US. My cousins were planning on coming to the US for the summer to visit. However when they went to the embassy to renew their visas, they were denied.

When I googled the process, it said that this was most likely because they were unable to prove immigration intent but that didn’t make sense to me because they both have good jobs and are only planning to stay for two weeks.

Is there any way that I can appeal the decision on my end? They said that the embassy told them they would have to wait another year before they can apply again. I know they’re pretty bummed out and wanted to know if there was anything I could do on my part to help out.

Topic:
Immigration

Answer: You can’t appeal anything. They can apply again but they will have to demonstrate sufficient ties to Guyana and their intent to return.


Title: If someone pours water/coffee on my head, am I legally allowed to punch them (UK)

Question: Recently I’ve been in a heated argument with one of the people in my school. After learning that he will pour coffee on my head, I want to know if I can retaliate by throwing a punch at him. Feel free to comment and explain the best solution. Many thanks.

Answer:
 The best solution is to avoid this person, and perhaps carry a shower cap just in case. Punching them would not be acceptable.Answer #2: Both are considered assault. If you punch him, it will not be considered self-defense. You will be held accountable if someone presses charges.Answer #3: Since when are people not allowed to use reasonable force to defend themselves against an assault?

(Or are you reading OP as wanting to preemptively punch the coffee-idiot?)


Title: [New Orleans, Louisiana] Representing myself in an upcoming petition. I plan to file motions. But how?

Question:
I have a great example of a [motion for continuance](https://louisianalawhelp.org/resource/a-motion-for-extension-of-time-to-respond-in-a-louisiana-court-with-instructions?ref=lCwX8) but the help kind of ends there.

Let's say I make a motion to strike some witness testimony. Is there an actual motion document for that? Do I draft that or does the clerk? How do I even file that?

Answer: ...this is why you need a lawyer. Answer #2: You do understand this forum is for "simple legal questions"? This is way outside our remit I'm afraid.Answer #3: You need to retain an attorney.


Title: Can I legally ask for a gift back when I still own the receipt?

Answer:
 You can ask for anything you want.  But if you gave the gift as a gift, the person doesn't have to return it.

Can I have a pizza?

See?  I asked for a pizza.  You'll say no, but no harm in asking.Answer #2: You can ask for anything you want.

But possessing the receipt does not change the fact that you gave the item as a gift- absent some sort of implied contract to go along with the gift, it no longer belongs to you and you can't take it back.


Title: TSA Bumped a family from a flight

Question:
Story: https://news.vice.com/article/the-us-stopped-a-british-muslim-family-from-visiting-disneyland-with-no-explanation

Could they dispute the charge if it was on a card?

What other recourse might they have?

Answer:
 I mean, if you're going to ask a question please don't be lazy.

You couldn't even be bothered to read the article and figure out what agency it was that denied them access?  You just assumed TSA and stuck it in there?

If you don't care enough to identify the correct parties, or do anything other than paste a link . . . how can I be bothered to give an answer?


Title: TL;DR Possible stalker and a person who can't take stop as an answer.

Question:
Hey! I have never posted here before but I feel like this is an appropriate thing to ask about. Honestly I am not sure if this is the right place for it but we will see. I have two things going on.

First, me (16F) and my boyfriend (17M) have been together for a while now. He has a lot of insecurities and I am understanding of that. I am patient with him and I give him what I believe he needs/wants.

A few weeks ago, lets say three, this male at my school had shown him a picture of me apparently with another male. I was calm about it because I know it wasn't me. My boyfriend, however, had insecurities that convinced him other wise.

At the time that this had happened he wouldn't even tell me the gender of the person who had shown it, but after a few days of prying, I had gotten it. Of course, it was a male. Oddly enough, on Thursday we were talking about it and he told me the guys name who had shown him the picture. Lets call him Ed.

I kind of just shrugged it off when he had told me because we were passed it you know?

Then Sunday comes around and my boyfriend and I were texting each other as per usual at 11 am and he tells me he had gotten a random friend request on discord. On discord you can only friend people if you know their exact user name plus the four digit number afterwards. Given that you werent in a mutual group with the stranger.

My boyfriend had asked me to check and see if I had one and low to behold, I did. I asked what we should do and he suggested I accept it first and i did. After a few minutes the person started texting and saying things like "I've been searching for a long time to get into contact with you" "Are you seeing somebody?" "Who is that guy you walk with everyday?"

Now those comments already gave me red flags and when I asked who this was, he admitted he was Ed.

He kept asking me on a date and when I continued to decline he started getting more verbally abusive. Saying things like "I could have given you the world" "you arent as pretty as you thought whore" "why won't you give a nice guy a chance, bitch?"

The words didnt hurt my feelings but what bothered me the most is when I said this conversation is over and bye, he said "but we pass by each other every day" "I get a good look at you every day" "your boyfriend doesn't have to know but I'm sure he wouldnt mind since he wouldn't want to lose somebody with such a nice body."

So now I am extremely paranoid walking to class because a guy I dont even know is watching me.

What do I do about that?

The other thing is, well first let me start by saying that i have had a bad situation with an "Ex" and that leads to why this is such a big problem for me, i do not like being touched by anybody but my boyfriend. It gives me panic attacks but this guy in one of my classes keeps touching me. He touched my thigh the first day then kept poking me and pulling on my sleeves.

I had asked him to stop nicely and I even said "Please do not touch me. I do not like being touched." And to that he had said "thats the point"

I had told my boyfriend about whats going on and now he wants to beat the shit out of the kid.

What would you do in this situation? Any advice for these two problems? Do i get cops involved with either of these? Am i being dramatic or too sensitive about these things?

TL;DR Not sure what to do with the guys within my school. Help.

Answer: I'm almost willing to bet 'Ed' is your boyfriend.


Title: (Quebec) Neighbor is threatening to sue me over front porch

Question:
I made a post here a couple of weeks ago detailing my mom's issue with her neighbor over the syndicate of co-ownership present over their semi-detached houses. It ended up coming to a very simple conclusion: there is no legally binding syndicate of co-ownership. Because the homes are physically attached they have a co-ownership contract for insurance purposes, but nothing else. This is important for this new legal problem.

It got over complicated writing last time, so I'm going to write this up in first person though it's for my mom.

So I recently decided to replace my 3x3 front "porch" with a 12x6 front deck. My neighbor protested, repeatedly going to the city council to try and make a case for me not being able to build it. She claims that the deck is so large that we will be able to stand on it and stare into her living room. Nobody has any intention of doing that.

Despite her efforts I have received a building permit from the city, giving me a year to build the deck to those 12x6 specifications. Given how the neighbor had already tried to curb the construction by citing our nonexistent syndicate of co-ownership's terms, I specifically asked if that was true since that contract would be under the city's purview. They confirmed that there's nothing prohibiting the build whatsoever.

So about two weeks have passed since that and I hadn't heard a peep from my neighbor until today. She sent me an email saying that she intends to serve me a formal notice and that she's willing to pay for a lawyer to fight this.

I don't know what to do. As I understand it I *will* have to show up to court if I get served. Is that correct?

Furthermore I don't know whether it's worth paying for a lawyer on something that seems so absolutely ridiculous to me. Does her case have *any* ground to stand on? I want to build an municipally approved front deck on *my* own property. Is this something I can represent myself in?

Thank you everyone.

Answer:
 If you have a permit and permission to build ignore her unless you get served. Right now she is just rambling, don't feed her, just ignore.

Make sure the deck is not a 10th of a inch over the specs allowed and you follow all code and laws when building it. Like time of day noise is allowed, clean up materials, etc... for example.


Title: [CA]Friend got caught taking pictures in a place they shouldn't have trespassed and now has a misdemeanor. What can they do?

Question:
As the title says my friend, who does photography, got caught trespassing in an area and the police saw him. He got a misdemeanor because of it and now has a court date. What are the odds it will be reduced to a fine? He has evidence that he was just simply taking photos.
Thanks in advanced!

Answer:
 Unless he was contracted to take photos it’s still considered trespassing.

Think of it like this, you come onto my property to take pictures, because you’re a photographer, it’s still trespassing because I didn’t say you could be there.

He can try pleading but it’s going to be up to the DA and Courts. Get a lawyer


Title: Roommates are trying to illegally evict me [NC]

Question:
I basically have the roommates from hell. They moved in in August, all 3 of us on the lease. I was in charge of paying rent and utilities and since day 1 they’ve paid me whenever they felt like it. I let it slide because I could either get the rent/bills late or fight with them over it and not get rent/bills at all.

Fast forward to this week, I move out to a new apartment and they sign me off the lease. I wanted to split my time between both apartments, with the original apartment being closer to one job and the new apartment being closer to my other job. Since I wasn’t on the lease anymore, I paid half of December rent to one of the remaining roommates (who could login to the rent payment portal when I couldn’t anymore). The other remaining roommate didn’t get the other half of my rent because she owed me roughly the same amount of rent she never paid me for November.

This has caused an insane backlash. Both roommates think I owe the full amount of December’s rent + cover the cost of the rent that I’m owed. The one that owed me money also picked up electric in their name and is now claiming I’m not allowed to use the electric and keeps turning off the breaker to my room.
The leasing manager today asked me if I was moving out on the 15th like the roommates told her (when they requested the locks be changed) but I said no, I was staying til the end of the month but clearly I’m not going to since it’s reached this level of crazy.

I don’t know if I can get all my stuff out before the 15th and I know locking me out and cutting my access to utilities is illegal but I don’t even know what to do about that. Do I call the cops? I requested they escort me out last night because I don’t really feel safe anymore but do I just keep doing that?

Answer: If you are signed off the lease (physically signed everything) them you don't live there anymore and shouldn't have anything there.


Title: Lightning fan struck by flying puck during playoff game hires attorney- does she have a case?

Answer: When purchasing tickets to sporting events, you’re essentially also signing a waiver saying that neither the team nor venue are responsible for any injuries that may be incurred. Not a lawyer, but no, I don’t think she has a case. Answer #2: The stadium's insurance carrier may settle with her just to make her go away without litigation.


Title: Company may be making lay-offs soon. I am the only female employee in entire company. Any advice?

Question: [deleted]

Answer: What advice are you looking for? If you have grounds for a discrimination lawsuit if you're laid off?


Title: Broke lease, landlord is charging $100/hr for time to re-rent [California]

Question:
I broke my lease as I purchased a property. I hosted 9 open houses (20 hours total) to show the apartment to applicants and have found several that are well qualified. My landlord is charging me $100/hr for advertising, emailing, and screening new applicants. Landlord has indicated the charges will top $2000. I am suspecting that he will take this amount out of my security deposit. These fees are not spelled out in the rental agreement.

It's my understanding that under California law, a landlord has a duty to mitigate damages and may only take the following out of a security deposit:

* The cost of fixing any damages to the property
* The cost of cleaning the unit when the tenant moves out
* Unpaid rent

Is there anywhere in the CA code that indicates a landlord cannot charge for time spent re-renting an apartment? Is this clarified anywhere? Is a landlord allowed to charge time spent re-renting a unit and then deduct that from the security deposit? I have contacted an attorney but am researching all avenues. Thanks.

Answer:
 What *does* your lease say about consequences for breaking the lease?

If he docks your security deposit for fees that aren't addressed in the lease and you don't believe you should pay, you can take him to small claims court (which is pretty easy and does not require a lawyer) to be refunded those fees. I highly doubt that a judge would approve of $100/hour fees for the basic tasks of being a landlord, particularly as these are tasks the landlord would presumably need to perform even if you moved out normally when your lease concluded. I am not a lawyer.Answer #2: Wouldn't OP be responsible for rent until the apartment is rented until the end of the lease?


Title: Only English policy legal?

Question: Hi, my girlfriend is tri-lingual and has worked at banks most of her life. They have always let her talk to customers in the customers chosen language. She recently had a temp agency get her a new job at credit union.  This said credit union has written her up twice for talking to customers in Tagalog.  She tells me some of the  customers can barely understand English and prefer Tagalog.  She told me today if she is caught talking to customers again in Tagalog, she will be fired. Reading the EEOC website this seems like it might be a violation.  This is in California.  Wondering what advice, I should give her?

Answer: She should apply for a full time position at a competing local institution and highlight her language skills in the process.


Title: [MO]Tricked online by female

Question:
GF and I recently decided to be in an open relationship.

After months of struggling I found someone online through Plenty of Fish who was interested in what we were doing.

Profile said she was 18, which is under my normal range \(I like to be able to have a beer\), but due to struggling to find someone I was taking what I could get.

Texted her for maybe 6 hours total, when her father \(supposedly, just assuming\), calls me and asks what I'm doing with his underage daughter.  Now, I've had several panic attacks since this went down, but I believe he said she's 17.  Regardless, I'm freaking out now.  What legal ramifications am I looking at? I had no idea.  I don't purposefully pursue minors and made a mistake in judgement of character apparently.  How much trouble am I looking at?

Answer: Scam. Block and ignore.Answer #2: There never was any girl.  There is no father.


Title: [US] My game got removed from a major app store by a false DMCA claim. The app store automatically rejects my DMCA counter-notice.

Question:
Location: US

(For mods, "app store" is referring to a generic app store, not specifically referring to Apple's App Store.)

I am the developer of a community-driven music game released on Android and iOS. Similar to how the popular community-driven game "osu!" works, players can use a level editor to create levels for our game. We don't want people to use Google Drive or Dropbox to share their levels, so we also host a separate level sharing website, which runs independently from the game.

Earlier this month, some copyright holder has emailed us, stating that some of our user content on the level sharing website is infringing their copyrights. They also sent DMCA takedowns to a major Android app store as well, and our game got removed by the app store. Now, two things:

1. They are filing a DMCA to the game, which is technically unrelated to the copyright-infringing website; yes, there is a link to the website inside the game, but that's all.
2. By [relevant DMCA laws](http://digital-law-online.info/lpdi1.0/treatise33.html), the website is a service provider that is immune from liability of copyright infringements resulted from user content, as long as we follow some rules (automated uploading, no financial benefits, remove copyright-infringing materials expeditiously), which we all did.

In fact, we quickly reached a resolution with the copyright holder, and they agreed to withdraw their DMCA notice. However, they afterwards replied that they couldn't withdraw their notice from that app store, because it doesn't provide an official way of doing it. (It is indeed true.) I then filled out and submitted a DMCA counter-notice form provided by that app store, explaining about the situation. Two days later I got this email:

>At this time, \*company name\* has decided not to take action. We encourage you to review [https://library.educause.edu/topics/policy-and-law/digital-millennium-copyright-act-dmca](https://library.educause.edu/topics/policy-and-law/digital-millennium-copyright-act-dmca) for more information about the DMCA.If you have legal questions about this notification, you should retain your own legal counsel.

Fine. We then consulted a copyright lawyer and **wrote a formal** **DMCA counter-notice** **letter**, even mentioning some of the applicable DMCA laws. And just 30 minutes ago, I got the reply:

>At this time, \*company name\* has decided not to take action. We encourage you to review [https://library.educause.edu/topics/policy-and-law/digital-millennium-copyright-act-dmca](https://library.educause.edu/topics/policy-and-law/digital-millennium-copyright-act-dmca) for more information about the DMCA.If you have legal questions about this notification, you should retain your own legal counsel.

The bots at the app store don't seem to care about us.

What should I do? People online are saying to file a lawsuit to grab the app store's attention, but I am only an university student and have no money or time. Please help.

Answer:
 You have no case against the store. They are not required to host your app and can not host your app for any reason, including a false DMCA claim. Your recourse would be against the person who filed the false claim.Answer #2: It sounds like you're getting an automated bounce rather than a human, and if you can actually find a way to reach someone with more authority within the organisation, your situation might be resolvable. Of course, many companies make it difficult to reach people.

I would suggest putting out feelers within the game industry to see if anyone can provide you better contact information for someone within that app store. I don't personally deal with app stores, but there's often Someone Who Knows Someone if you ask around enough.

IMO this situation is better solved through networking than through legal action.


Title: [MA] Mother's boyfriend's daughter damaged my phone screen, what do?

Question:
Hi all,

I'll try be straight to the point here. On a car ride, I jokingly took a picture of my mother's boyfriend's daughter (we'll call her A). I added an inappropriate caption to said picture and showed her. A, rather unexpectedly, wrestles my phone away and throws it towards the front of the car. This phone was refurbished (in new condition, no marks anywhere) and I got it last week. Now the screen has a nice nick in it (you can feel with finger nail). Obviously as this phone is new and was in perfect condition, I want this repaired. I understand that I should not have made the photo, however, I do not think that it gave her the right to damage my property.

Questions:

Do I have a case here? It is likely that she would be held responsible for these damages?

What would I (most likely) be entitled to? The phone is a Nexus 6P and was in new condition until today. The screen cannot be repaired as Google does not repair screens. If I go to a "repair shop" the parts will not be the same and thus the phone would not be restored to its former condition.

What if I am two months shy of 18? If this goes to small claims, would my father have to sue for me?

Thank you all.

Answer:
 >Do I have a case here?

Not one that is worth your time.  This is silly - lawsuits are for arms-length transactions that have gone sour; they aren't a means of settling household squabbles.  If you are 2 months shy of 18, you need to learn how to resolve tiny problems with friends and family.Answer #2:  Ten bucks says OP is writing via mobile.


Title: Dr. was asked to write a letter on my mental and physical state for my judge in a legal matter but, is now withholding it and requesting money. Do I have any recourse?

Question: There is more back story to this that I would prefer to keep private but, I would happily discus via PM or text if someone can assist me. From Michigan

Answer: No one here will pm you. Why shouldn't the doctor be paid for his voluntary time?  If this was court ordered and he's hitting you up that could be one thing.  But that's not this situation.


Title: Being Followed on Workmans Comp?

Question:
So, about a month ago I injured my leg at work, and was sent to the doctors, who then referred me to a physical therapist. I've been seeing the therapist about twice a week, and he's documented that my leg has reduced range of motion and strength, and I have been walking with a cane for the past two-two 1/2 weeks now.

Today, I went into work after another doctors appointment where they prescribed an MRI and three more weeks without work. While I was there, the store manager took me aside and said that another manager had seen me walking "normally" without a cane, and had followed  me "for some distance" and made a formal statement. When I asked to see the statement, the store manager said he was too busy, and to come in another time.

While I haven't had the cane the whole time, I do have pain while walking, but was told to walk as normally as possible as to not aggravate my injury. I was also taking pain medication when I knew I would be walking so I could walk as normally as possible. I also told the store manager (and another manager who was there as well) that I am more than willing to sign release forms so they can see my medical records relating to the injury.
 Is this normal to be followed? Am I going to be fired? What should I do in this situation?

I want to get back to work as soon as possible, but now I'm scared that this one managers "eyewitness report" is going to get me fired somehow.

EDIT: Forgot to add the location! I'm in Vermont, USA

Answer: You should continue to do your job to the best of your ability. The store manager is not a doctor and is in no way qualified to judge your condition especially based on a single observation.


Title: Lady ordered customized item from me and now refuses to pay

Question:
Long story short, I make customized wooden flags and sell them through facebook marketplace. In March of this year, a lady ordered a flag and agreed to pay $130 but when I contacted her through facebook messenger, she kept pushing back the date she said she would come pick it up and then ended up blocking me. Since this was a customized flag, I can not sell this to another customer. Since this incident, I have started having my customers pay for their flags before I even start making them but is there anything I can do myself or legally to get what I’m owed from this lady?

Thanks in advice!
Topic:
Small Claims Procedure

Answer:
 Suing her in small claims is your recourse. That may or may not be worth it to you in terms of time and upfront cost

Are the two of you located in the same area (state, province, etc)?


Title: [MA] contesting speeding ticket, to argue officer incompetence or lying?

Question:
I'm personally fairly sure they were lying and have several good points for that, but I imagine it's quite a large and unwelcome thing in most courts to accuse a police officer of outright malicious lying.

Story time. A few days ago near the end of the month I pull onto the highway from an entrance and about 1000 feet ahead of me an officer jumps out of his car (facing away from me so probably no dash cam footage) into the highway and waves me down. I pull over, he tells me to travel an extra ~1000 feet up the road (no reason I could see), which I do.

When he comes up the 2nd time up the road he says he got me on lidar doing 69 in a 45. I ask to see the reading as that is literally impossible (12 year old hybrid going uphill, not exactly a muscle car). He refuses to show me the reading and basically calls me a liar since it's a whole 2 miles between the entrance I took and where he clocked me (google maps says it's 1/3 of a mile). Goes back, writes the ticket, I start recording video now, comes back and basically throws it in my lap, says "20 days to appeal or pay" and leaves (literally he was at my window for 8 seconds, timed in video).

The ticket and the officer. I instantly (in my video after he left) note that the ticket says 67 miles, not the initial 69. Later I also thought that both those numbers are just above the state limit of 65, making it an absolute violation as opposed to a relative one. Quick mini question, there's a box that says 16+ passengers, which he checked no. Is he claiming I did not have 16 or more passengers, or that I did not have any passengers 16 years old? If it's the latter that is provably false by my video (GF was with me). He also did not put his full name on the ticket, only his last name. Despite that I'm pretty sure I found him as he's the only officer with that name stationed in the city. A bit more google foo reveals he was kicked out of the academy his first go following charges of improper firearm storage, drug possession, and dealing in stolen goods. The commissioner released a statement about him mentioning a lack of integrity and honor.

So, how would you argue this? I'll note I may have been speeding, but from the sound of my car more in the 50-55 range (On this stretch of road if you go any slower and you WILL be rear ended as you merge). I do have my GF as a witness as well. Can she write a note which we would have notarized or would it be best if she accompanied me to court? If the later just the trial or should she come to the pretrial as well?

Answer:
 I don't see anything in your story which is going to help you win this in court, except this:

> he was kicked out of the academy his first go following charges of improper firearm storage, drug possession, and dealing in stolen goods.

Which I do not believe to be true.
Answer #2: I can tell you what I certainly wouldn't do is try to go after the credibility of a police officer without some actual evidence. Answer #3: The tactics you are proposing using to contest this ticket strongly suggest that it would be a very bad idea for you to represent yourself.

If you wish to contest the ticket, you should do so with an attorney.


Title: [FL] At fault driver sent me "Agreement for Release and Monthly Repayment Note"

Question:
Long story short, back in May 2013 I got rear ended by a driver who had no insurance. She completely totaled my car and even managed to strike the person in front of me as well. After that day I never heard from her again, my insurance went after her legally but they had to give me a crappy settlement which left me car less for 6 months. Fast forward to today 3 years later, I receive a letter containing a legal note and hand written letter from that driver. Essentially it's a form #74036 "Agreement for Release and Monthly Repayment Note" with the amount she owed me in damages and the condition of monthly payments. The note included detailed that she wants to pay me for the damages and to have the form notarized and signed, then sent back to her.

One thing that stuck out to me is no where on the form or in her letter did she mention how much she would be paying me monthly for how long the term will be. For all I know it could be $1 a month for god knows how long. I was going to write her an email pretty much to come to a monthly payment agreement that I would write on the form. That way its official and notarized for when we send it to the state. However I don't know...something tells me I should either consult a lawyer or even the insurance company I used to have. But at the same time I don't see any malice in it as long as we come to terms and get everything officially written and done. From what I understand, does this form pretty much confirm she has a suspended license and that if I don't sign this form shes screwed? (Not that I plan to do anything with bad intentions, just want to understand this form better) What do you guys think I should do? Should I go ahead and email her? Or should I consult a lawyer before hand?

Answer: If your insurance has been notified of the incident, has or is dealing with it, and *especially* if you've received any money from your insurance, kick this to them and let them sort it out.


Title: (US-NC State) Girlfriend's roommate refusing to pay bills

Question: My girlfriend started grad school this fall and moved in to a new apartment with 3 other friends of hers early August. They agreed to share the rent, water, electricity and internet charges before they signed the lease and now one of them (let’s call her R3)is refusing to pay her share of the electricity charges. R3 stays with her boyfriend most of the time, rarely comes to her apartment and she is using this as a reason not to pay her share. We think that it is R3’s choice that she isn't home as much as the other three are and it is unfair that they pay more for R3’s lifestyle. Are we being unreasonable? One mistake they did before moving in was not to have a roommate agreement in addition to the lease agreement (they are friends who knew each other for quite some time). So, now we have no document that says they all agreed to share expenses. We are also worried that if they agree to this, R3 will start complaining about the rent and other expenses later. The lease is for 11 months and it is hard to find another roommate until the start of Spring semester. Also, there is a $200 charge to remove one occupant from the lease and add another. We would rather not look for another roommate now, actually cannot afford to have one and we are seeking advice to make her pay her share. What is the best way to deal with this?

Answer:
 If R3 has a history of making 33.3% payments of the electric bill, then you might have something. Unfortunately if R3 has NEVER paid (and it sounds like she hasn't), and if you don't have anything in writing, then you're going to have a hard time getting paid.

Always, always, always get stuff like this in writing, signed by all parties. It doesn't even have to be anything formal -- even a simple note signed by all would be fine for small claims.Answer #2: I have an update everyone. First of all thank you for all your suggestions. I appreciate it.

1. We told her that we will involve ours and her parents now and she agreed the pay her share.
2. We learnt from our mistakes. Drafted a roommate agreement with every clause listed clearly. I referred this website (rocketlawyer.com). It was free and easy.

3. All conversations regarding the apartment with all roommates henceforth will be through emails, no more text messages.

4. She has most probably decided to move out by the end of this semester. If she does move, the entire thing is her responsibility (written in the agreement)

Valuable life lessons gained, friendship lost.


Title: If you're attacked by minors are you allowed to defend yourself with force?

Question: Consider US as the area in question if you want, but someone asked the question in a thread in /r/news about a 13 year old bully who beat up the mother of one of the students.

Answer:
 Legally, the age of the attacker has no bearing in determining if something is self-defense.

Practically, children are very sympathetic to juries....


Title: [CA] Employer searched through personal emails and printed off private documents

Question: [deleted]

Answer: The company viewing anything you type, and keep a copy of any document you open, from the work computer is fine. The company accessing your accounts logged in as you is illegal.


Title: Bought a Condo that advertised a fireplace, after getting an inspector in to look at it, it has been deemed inoperable and has to be fully replaced.

Question:
So my wife and I just bought a condo that advertised a 'wood-burning fireplace'.  When we looked at the place the fireplace was sealed up and not in use. The seller then told us that it had been inspected two years prior and did not disclose any additional information about the state of the fireplace.  We were told it had not been in use since it was previously cleaned and inspected.

When we had the home inspector in he opened the fireplace and determined that it had been excessively used and was not in fact cleaned.  We then had our agent contact the seller and negotiate a lower selling price to which he said he would not reduce the list price or fix it.  Later, a radon issue arose and we threatened to drop the sale, and he conceded a $2,000 sellers credit to cover the issue with the radon.

After the purchase went through, we had a professional chimney inspector come in and he determined that the fireplace and chimney would have to be fully replaced. In short, the fireplace was built in the 70s and they have since determined it was a poor design as the vent was allowing for soot to build up and would cause a fire. The chimney would then have to be replaced as well because it would be incompatible with the old design.

We have since learned:

1. It was not inspected 2 years prior, instead the HOA informed us that it was previously inspected in 2012 by the renter at the time and was deemed inoperaple then. (The bylaws specifically state that the fireplace must pass inspection in order the be closed up, otherwise repairs need to be made before it is closed up which is why we did not get it inspected before closing)
2. Our condo was an exception to the aforementioned bylaw and was closed up even though it failed inspection (this was never disclosed to us by the HOA or the seller)
3. When the renter (not owner) got the fireplace inspected all the information was forwarded to the owner/seller and the HOA requires that they sign off on a form which declares the fireplace inoperable which the did.

So my question is do we have a case against them for the cost of the repairs? The cost to replace the fireplace and chimney is anywhere from $7500-$10000.

Disclaimer: I live in NJ.

Answer: I found some general information from NOLO that may be about as much as anyone can reasonably tell you from the details available : https://www.nolo.com/legal-encyclopedia/can-you-sue-home-seller-undisclosed-defects-new-jersey.html and looked up the small claims limit in NJ. It is $3,000, well below the required sum for repair. If I were you I’d see an attorney.


Title: Be Canadian, be living in Michigan, pulled over in front of my apartment complex for making a right turn on red. "Disobey Traffic Control Device" ticket. Reddit lawyers can I do anything?

Question:
Ticket says I turned LEFT not right like I actually did (by the way in Canada we are allowed to make right turns so honest mistake). Can I do anything about this? Will it get thrown out if I take it to court? Help! I have proof of residence that I live to the RIGHT, literally 4 seconds from the turn and receipts for groceries I had just gotten from Wal Mart so I was just heading to my apartment.

Edit: There was a NO TURN ON RED sign. The problem is on the ticket he wrote that I made a RIGHT turn thus impeding traffic, but that's not the case. I made a right turn after a complete stop.

Answer:
 >Ticket says I turned LEFT not right like I actually did (by the way in Canada we are allowed to make right turns so honest mistake)

What? You're permitted to turn right on red unless the intersection is posted to the contrary.

And did you turn right on red? Did you come to a complete stop before making the turn? Was there a sign that said no right turn on red?

The ticket really says you turned left?


Title: My wife got a degree at Westwood college for Graphic Design. The school is no longer accepting new student after a lawsuit. Is there something that can be done about the large amount of school debt she had?

Question: (US PA) She has been trying to get a job unsuccessfully in her field for 3 to 4 years.  The amount of debt she accumulated from her student loans takes a large amount of our income just to stay ahead of the interest. And with the recent news I wonder if there is something we can do get rid of part off those loans.

Answer:
 your wife should have received an email this week, along with the rest of the former and current students, regarding the school's permanent closure and student loan information.Answer #2: Students attending within 120 days of closure who can not obtain their degree are eligible to have their federal loans discharged - but that doesn't help your wife as she got her degree.  If the school misrepresented it's outcomes or violated state law she may be eligible for a "new" discharge called borrower defense to repayment.  I say "new" because it's actually been around for awhile but had no process or guidelines associated with it.  There is currently a negotiated rulemaking session going on with the department of education to determine those rules and process - but that won't be fully completed until fall with a likely implementation of next summer.  They cobbled something together for corinthian students you can read about here https://studentaid.ed.gov/sa/about/announcements/corinthian

If your wife thinks she may be eligible for this discharge based on the basics I posted above she should keep an eye on www.studentaid.ed.gov starting next fall to find out how to apply.  Note this will only be for federal loans.  Also note that not being able to find a job in and of itself will not be a reason for discharge.  It would be if the school advertised, say, 100% job placement or that her credential gave her certain skills that it didn't and that's why she can't get hired.

The private loans are a different story if that's what she has.  I don't know much of anything about their lawsuit - but if she has similar complaints she may want to see if she can get added to it or file one of her own.


Title: Couple Immigration to the USA - Many questions. [UK/HK]

Question:
We were hoping to ask anyone with good knowledge on US immigration law on how we should proceed as a couple? I [20F] was born in the USA [MO] and have a passport, birth certificate and a SSN but moved when I was just a baby. I do not have family in the USA and don't have established residency in any state.

My partner [23M] was born in the UK and we now want to eventually move to the USA. However, I feel like I'm currently too young to get married and will probably be aiming to get married in 2-4 years.  I will be moving home to Hong Kong this year whilst he will be staying in the UK to finish the final year in his degree.

1) My partner wants to know how he can live and work in the USA legally without a marriage green card/visa. We are looking into him getting a masters in the USA as we know some masters courses allow their graduates to stay in the country to find work for the next 3 years but we know that chances of scholarships are slim.

2) I have read about how it is easier to get the marriage green card if he was already in the states at the time. Would him not being in the USA when applying for the green card/visa be a detriment?

3) Is it possible to get a marriage visa/green card if we got married outside of the USA and **both** parties are not present in the USA at the time of the application and will this affect his ability to enter the country?

4) My partner also wants to know if it's possible for him to eventually get a dual citizenship between UK/USA?

We have several other options ranging from him getting a masters in the USA, getting a masters in Hong Kong where grants and scholarships are much easier to get (and he can live with me), or him working in the UK for a few years whilst we get our act together. We are just very confused as to how the whole process of immigration works and the requirements for it.

TLDR - Boy and girl want to move to America to live the American dream. Girl is American by birth but doesn't live there and boy is from UK. How this work?

Answer:
 _You_ are a US citizen, and can return to the US at any time. No problem there: your biggest issues are going to be finding housing and a job, and paying for your travel.

Your partner, however, will have a larger problem. He should speak to a US immigration attorney about his options. It's likely that a student visa while he studies will be his easiest option, unless he can qualify for an employment-based visa and find a job willing to sponsor him.

Converting his status over to a fiancé or spousal visa isn't hard, but I wouldn't rush into getting married just to get him a visa, for a bunch of reasons.Answer #2: Well, you're American. You retain all rights and priveleges of American citizenship, you will have 0 issues moving back here and starting a life doing whatever you'd like.

1. Foreign students are allowed to study, but have unbelievably restrictive work opportunities.
2. The easiest way would be for you two to get married as spouses of American citizens are given preferential treatment. Not really easier for him to get one in the states, because as of now he'd need a work/tourist visa to get here
3. Yes. You are still an American citzen.
4. Yup. I'm a dual US/UK citizen (my father is British).