Title: Hopefully a quick and easy situation. My apartments recently put in an package locker system similar to Amazon’s lockers and gave my info without consent.

Question:
[Solved]

Hi everyone,

Like the title states, my complex gave my phone number and email address to this 3rd party locker service without asking for my consent. I unlike a lot of people actually read certain parts of the TOS and this company states that they will basically give out your information if you agree, I never did.

I’m not looking to sue for anything, more or less hoping that this gives me some sort of leverage towards an early lease termination (only one month) as I’ve had multiple issues with this complex.

Really glad I found this Sub as I’m learning a lot about situations I would’ve never thought of and luckily most of the stories end up working out for everyone.

Thanks again!

Edit: The disclosure portion of the lease states that they can give my info if they feel it’s business related and they give examples like the authorities or utilities.

Answer:
 >The disclosure portion of the lease states that they can give my info if they feel it’s business related

They felt (rightly so) that this was business related. That's it.


Title: Fired after sexual harassment from a coworker - DFW Texas

Question:
Edit: just want to say that I am not insinuating that I need to lawyer up for a sexual harassment case. The title is misleading, to an extent. I just thought it was pertinent to the real question which was can I get sued for doing a background check on a coworker.

Hi guys!

So about 1 month ago a new guy started in my office and immediately dived into telling me every detail about his sex and dating life. He made comments out loud about how he loves younger women (I'm 20, he's like 45-50) and wants to date one (cringing just thinking about this). Yes this could have been a coincidence but he KEPT saying it over and over again and I felt so uncomfortable, so I vented to a male coworker about it. He felt that it was sexual harassment and went to HR about it.

HR called me in and basically told me to get over it and insinuated that I was being a prude and need to avoid making the workplace hostile. I NEVER said anything to weird coworker about this and never intended on it getting to HR. I did not sign anything at this meeting so there is no proof that it ever happened.

Today, a female coworker told me she found him attractive. I told her to watch out because I did a background check on him and he isn't a good guy. She went to HR and told them I was making the workplace hostile (apparently my warning was in the meeting where we discussed how horrible it is that I feel uncomfortable) and I literally got terminated over it. By making that comment I made "the entire office uncomfortable". Also apparently doing a background check on a coworker is against the law and they said they could press charges on me?

I guess my question is: did I break the law by doing this? I did a background check on him for my own safety and now I'm scared I'm going to get charges pressed on me? Does this exist?

Thank you. Still very upset as this happened an hour ago.

Answer: They can't sue you for running a background check on the guy, as there are multiple sites that offer those services to anyone. Besides, criminal convictions and bunch of other stuff are generally public record. Answer #2: You definitely didn't break the law. Your employer was probably within their rights to fire you. You might consider speaking to an attorney, with an understanding that nothing may come of it. This situation is in weird territory in terms of potential retaliation for bringing a sexual harassment incident to HR's attention. Your HR department handled this pretty poorly.   Answer #3: Did you tell HR you felt that it was a hostile work environment because his comments were interfering with your job?


Title: I am 18 and employed by my parents. I haven't received a paycheck in four years. They have been keeping all my money financially speaking because they do not find me responsible. What legally should I do? [Kinda long but please help]

Question:
This will be a bit long but if you could read through this fully, I would appreciate it. Also I live in Wisconsin because the bot told me to mention that.

Okay, so I have been working for my parents for the past four years and haven't received a paycheck any of those four years because it is either "going towards my college" or "I will just spend it all". I am 18 in college paid for via a grant that paid for my first two years in full. I am living with my parents and still employed by them. I work at their catering business every week 2-3 days for long 7-9 hour shifts where I am often the only one doing my job (seriously I have blisters and cuts after every day). I am not allowed to decide when I can and can't work and my parents often see my time as useless and decide when I can and can't work. I am fed while I work and am often treated horribly while I work. I am often the only person yelled at of any of the other employees (who all believe I was hired out of nepotism). I am apparently payed $10 an hour. Whenever I ask for my paycheck, my parents give one of these two responses: "I have a check for $300 dollars in my purse waiting for you" or "We give you money whenever you need it" (which is the small occasions when I need $20 dollars to go get something to eat which is often never because I am a skilled cook)

My dad once mentioned that I would not get a paycheck because a coworker lit a candle 10 minutes before they were supposed to be lit. I brought up a law saying that I can't legally be denied a paycheck for that and after a long argument he said he was wrong and didn't know about the "bullshit law" as he put it and kicked me out of the house. I am now back at home and I haven't been told that I have not been payed.

Now flashforward to today, I was working a party with two other workers and my father (who had just chugged six beers and yelled at me for being 15 minutes late when I was actually twenty minutes ahead of schedule) and I was basically running around doing everything. The party went from needing to eat in 40 minutes to five minutes out of nowhere. I was running around everywhere. I was literally dripping with sweat and it was 30 degrees and everyone around me was freezing. I was assigned to clearing tables, sending tables and setup, someone else to help me clear tables as well, another worker send dishes down the dumbwaiter & my dad was doing dishes and managing the food (which is just opening up the oven). We were working for four and a half hours. The groom shook my hand and tipped me with a cigar because he was so impressed with my working.

Everything was cleared and ready to be unloaded. Me and the other workers were asked to wash glassware and gather anything that is ours before we go while my dad unloaded some items at work and he'd swing back by and pick us up. We waited a long and cold 90 minutes until he arrived and told us that we weren't done and that his dishes weren't put away like he asked (which was his job which none of us were told to do it) He yells at us to go back in and do it when two janitors told us "Just go home, you've been here long enough. We'll take care of it". I shaked their hands and thanked them. We told my dad this and he said "Ok then" and on the way back home, he made a remark saying that I should have just done my job. I yelled at him telling him that he should have at least told us what needed to be done, let alone just finish his job. When we got home the argument got louder. I asked him what he was doing that prevented him from completing his job and he faked a stroke and called my mom and my brother panicking saying that he is going to die because of me and that he couldn't use his left arm. He then proceeded to say that I am fired and is now planning on using all of my money to empty it into my College Credit Card (which they took) and spend all of it.

I need help. This may probably be a better fit on a subreddit on parental neglect or something but I'd rather figure out what I can do on a legal standpoint. I'm sorry if this was too long or overdetailed

Answer: I'm going to sidestep the legal issues for a moment and ask, can you move out and become independent? You are legally an adult, and you say your first two years of college have been paid for "in full" ... have you considered quitting this "job" and home and focusing on your education?


Title: [BC-Canada] In a band that is kinda blowing up, googled our band name and found 2 other bands with same name, no record deal.

Question: So as in the title, I'm in a band that is getting serious pretty quick, we have the same name as 2 other bands (both in the US) they don't have record deals so I'm curious what we would have to do to be the sole owner of that name.

Answer:
 > I'm curious what we would have to do to be the sole owner of that name.

It's not going to be as simple and easy as you hope. You should talk to a lawyer immediately about your options, but it's quite possible that one or both of the other bands may have a stronger claim to it than you do. Answer #2: >kinda blowing up

Get a manager WITH EXPERIENCE in the industry who can handle this and everything else that comes with a measure of success in the music industry.

I hope this goes without saying but read anything VERY CAREFULLY before signing it.Answer #3: Just wanted to say thanks to anyone willing to give some help with this, you guys are an awesome community.


Title: Jeep left topless outside in the rain by Dealer during recall service.

Question:
Located in Austin, TX.

As stated in title. Brought my 2011 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited to the dealer for a recall.  Dealer left my vehicle outside with the top down in the rain overnight.  Tried to give it back to me soaking wet as if I wouldn't notice the soaked seats and pools of water every where.  Jeep is not a base model - electric everything including upgraded headunit, bluetooth, power windows/locks, etc...

Dealer has spent week drying the Jeep and cleaning the issue but I don't feel that is enough.  I'm concerned about any long term effects to electrical from corrosion caused by this situation.  I am asking for an extended warranty on their dime to ensure I don't end up paying for their mistake. They are refusing and saying it's not their problem they've done what they can by drying/cleaning.

What are my legal actions? HELP!

Answer:
 If they have damaged your car through negligence and refuse to repair it, then your recourse is to sue them in small claims court for the amount you paid to get it repaired, plus hopefully court costs.

If you are worried about damage that won't be evident for a long time, you can have a mechanic inspect the vehicle for signs of such damage, and get it repaired, and if the dealer refuses to compensate you, then, again, your recourse is to sue as above.

If a long time goes by and then a problem surfaces that you believe to have been caused by the car interior being soaked, then if it's within your state's statute of limitations for a property damage lawsuit, then, again, you can sue them to compensate you for the repair.  You would have to prove that the problem is due to their negligence.

If no problem ever surfaces then you have no issue.

If a problem surfaces after the statute of limitations has expired, you can always request payment from the dealer, but they won't have to comply.
Answer #2: When you dropped it off did you have the roof on? Most places I've gone for repairs have an outdoor parking lot where vehicles are queued up for service and placed once the work has been done. If you give them a roofless vehicle what do you expect them to do with it?

If they took the roof off on the other hand, then they are totally responsible for the damages.


Title: School requires us to stay inside when fire alarms sound?

Question: Our school has recently reinforced a new rule stating that if the fire alarms go off in the building, we are required to stay in the building until they tell you to evacuate over the intercom. Can they do this? This has to be a safety hazard.

Answer: There is nothing magic about a fire alarm that means there is an actual emergency. There are false alarms all the time. So long as there is no identifiable actual danger this doesn’t seem to be an issue.


Title: Can I get in trouble for sleeping in a parking lot?

Question: I work at a bank for a job I recently found. I couldn't find any place to stay after finding the job so I thought it would be more frugal to just sleep in my car in the parking lot. Well, today, a lady parked beside me and saw me sleeping. I was kinda staring at her wondering if she thought I was being creepy. Then after 30 minutes or so, another one came to her car and was talking to her. I just left because I felt uncomfortable. My question is, can I be charged with trespass or any other thing just through my license plates?

Answer: Yes, you can get in trouble for sleeping there.


Title: (Pennsylvania) Teacher Revealed to class that a student has Mononucleosis without said student knowing.

Question: [deleted]

Answer:
 He should take all of these issues to the dean. If a professor is rejecting doctor's notes for diseases he didn't believe in, that's a huge problem.Answer #2: >Is this any violation of FERPA or HIPPA or any other Pennsylvania state law?

I can't answer the question about PA law, but there is no violation of federal law here.

It's not a violation of HIPPA because his professors are not his medical care providers.

It's not a violation of FERPA because it is not an education record.


Title: [Bay Area/Bakersfield CA] My friend's ex-boyfriend recorded her having sex with him without her knowledge or consent.

Question:
My friend (L) got really aggressive messages today from a woman who was referencing a sex tape between L and her ex and threatening L not to come near the ex.

L was not aware at all that the video existed. He would have had to record without her knowing in Bakersfield 4 years ago. She now lives in the bay area.

Does she have any legal recourse to get ahold of the video or make sure that  the ex deletes it/doesn't upload it on the internet?

Answer: She can consult an attorney to write ex a cease-and-desist letter pointing out that California has a 'revenge porn' law: distributing explicit images/video of her without her consent is a criminal act, as well as a possible civil tort with possibly [very substantial](https://www.nytimes.com/2018/04/11/us/revenge-porn-california.html) penalties. Even making the video without her knowledge and consent brings him within the ambit of the California [Peeping Tom law](https://www.shouselaw.com/peeping-tom-laws.html). (That lawyer can also advise her on the desirability of filing a police report and/or seeking civil damages.)


Title: I was fired after handing in my notice of resignation

Question: Here’s a weird one. I’ve had a history of issues with a boss of mine. He’s not the friendliest guy. I reached my limit and let him know that I would like to resign effective 01-04-2019. He acknowledged the email and said thank you. This was a few days ago. Today I show up with an exit interview paper to fill out. I checked to make sure it was dated correctly, signed it and got a copy. An hour later I was informed that my resignation is accepted and was told to get all of my things and leave the premise. Effective immediately. I was baffled. I spoke with my boss asking for clarification if I was being fired, he was sure to avoid that word all together just saying effective immediately he accepts my resignation. Had no choice. I tried to call HR to see if what he was doing was legal, and they said they do it all the time. I have never heard of this. Is this actually legal? I asked if they were going to pay me up until the day I was supposed to be leaving. He said no, my pay ends today. I was depending on those last couple weeks of pay. Any insight would be great, I’m having a difficult time wrapping my head around this.

Answer:
 Location is important, but generally yes, they can fire you when you give in your notice.Answer #2: File for unemployment.  You have been terminated.Answer #3: In places I've worked, they do this all the time. You quit and put in your two weeks, but they ask you to leave immediately. The difference is, they still pay you until your effexrive date. This way they could avoid "firing" you.

I'd file for unemployment just to see what happens. When you get to your hearing, just explain that you were in THE PROCESS of putting in your two weeks and they decided to let you go right then and there. You wanted to work until Jan 4 (and get paid) but they decided they'd rather fire to get you out the door sooner.

Just because they didn't use the word "fire" doesn't mean they didn't actually fire you. Don't rely on HR or anyone else in the company to protect your rights. They are there to protect the company. If screwing you over means protecting the company, then they'll do it every time.

Funny, usually paying that last paycheck is a way to protect the company. You're out the door and can't pass along any last minute company secrets, they didn't "fire" you so you're ineligible unemployment; it's usually a win-win situation.


Title: Mother stealing and withholding medications and damaging mail

Question:
Sorry if the flair is wrong, I'm new to all this and I'm on mobile.
To help give a bit of context:
I am 21 years old and female
I live in Jefferson County in Alabama
I do live with my parents as I'm a full time college student.

My mother is very much so a control freak and recently it has impacted me very negatively.

On the less extreme side I ordered some merch online and had it sent home rather than to my college with the intention of getting home before it arrived, however it arrived early and my mother opened the package and looked through the contents. I ordered a "Could Be Gayer" shirt and upon seeing it, got very irate and threw it out. The shirt was not here when I got home though the poster that came with it was.

On the more extreme side I have a thyroid condition that requires me to take Levothyroxine. I have also had frequent issues with my period and recently diagnosed with PCOS. I have been prescribed Metformin and birth control for this reason.

My mom has found out and because she told me not to go to the gynecologist and I went against her wishes she took the medication once getting it from the pharmacy and either has hid it or thrown it out. She picked up the levothyroxine that day as well and I've run out and made frequent comments on it but she has not made an effort to give me my medicine or make it known she has it when I mentioned heading to CVS.
I have considered calling the non-emergency line for the police and reporting her but I'm not sure if that is the best course of action.

What should I do? I am trying my best to get away from her but when she is actively messing with my health it makes it rather difficult.
Topic:
Other Civil Matters

Answer:
 As a legal matter, mom caused the loss of your things and may be liable for their replacement.

As a practical matter mom is undoubtedly engaged in “my house, my rules.”  That doesn’t excuse the destruction of your stuff. But it can frame as “don’t have that stuff here or get out.”  You’re likely entitled to proper notice to end your tenancy. But you might figure out somewhere else to receive your “contraband” and start thinking about your next living arrangement.Answer #2: NAL but with your medication.. I would would talk to the pharmacist and let them know the situation they might be able to give you a emergency refill and note on your account to not let your mother pick up your script. I know Alabama is not a very open minded place because I am from here(roll tide), but you may also try your college law services for students, not normaly in thier operations with thier job description but may offer some advice. Theft of property and prescriptions can be pursued through the non emergency police department phone number if you need . Best of luck!


Title: [NC]Do I have to come in for drug test if,after already signing on, I told them I can start in 2 weeks?

Question:
So I’m a casual user of marijuana. I applied for a job and told them I can start in 2 weeks (I knew they drug tested, two weeks would be plenty of time for me).

The company called me the day after I signed the employer/employee agreement and stated I needed to come in and do the drug test. I was extremely clear during the interview that I currently don’t live in the area and am in the process of moving into town (which is true..I currently live 45 minutes away).  I said I was out of town and would be back today-about 5 days after interview at this point.

I just took a test to make sure I’m good and failed.  This is a temporary job but the pay is really good...I guess what I’m asking is can my employer force me to come in unpaid despite my first day not starting in a week and a half, I’ve already signed the paperwork, and stated that I will be busy with move during the next two weeks.

As soon as I pass the at home test (probably Friday, 5 days before my first official shift) I’ll go in and take it. Detox is not an option.Can he legally rescind employer/employee contract?

Thanks for all and any help! And yeah I already know don’t let drugs ruin a good opportunity, folks!

Answer:
 You almost certainly do not have an actual work contract.

If you can't meet their demands, they don't have to hire you.


Title: Police Volunteering as Salvation Army Bell Ringers

Question: I'm in Portage County, WI. Today I was at the grocery store and I noticed two uniformed city officers - car running, lights flashing - ringing bells for the Salvation Army. I'm not trying to be a Scrooge, but I'm wondering how it isn't illegal for a public employee to use government resources (and presumably man hours) in the service of a religious organization. Am I way off base here? If it is, in fact, not kosher and I choose to act, what exactly should I be doing?

Answer:
 Seriously?

Yes, you are way off base. If you really actually want to complain about police officers volunteering in the community, you can either go to the police dept directly, or bring it up at the next city council meeting.


Title: [Vic, AU] Is it legal to have no doors on the stalls in the bathroom of a nightclub?

Question:
Our local waterhole has no doors on the stalls in order to prevent drug deals taking place but I'm curious as to the legality behind this.

Also, I don't think this meets Australian Standards for public restrooms, does that have any bearing on legality?

Answer:
 No it's not.
Not a Vic lawyer, however ...
You'll find the Victorian building code guidelines take in Building Code of Aust and Australian Standards.
Each specify the required functioning of doors including latching.

Put the legalities aside. Seriously? What do they expect people to do? And is it women's and men's?
I mean, nightclub toilets are disgusting as is, this is a whole extra level of crazy.

Report them to liquor licensing as a start, then the local council.


Title: Ohio: Boyfriend and I were lied to in order to sign a lease.

Question:
My boyfriend and I moved into a new apartment in January. We went through an agency that had multiple different properties. We initially wanted a newly renovated place they showed us but there wasn't going to be parking at that building. We decided to live in another building because we were told there was going to be parking there.

My boyfriend was informed the day of signing the lease that we did not have parking spaces. We had no other choice but to sign the lease but we never would have considered that building if we knew that was going to be the case.

I called the leasing agency to complain and the building manager told me that she was sorry, there were current issues with people parking illegally (stealing passes and such) but that she should be able to have a spot for at least one of our cars by the end of the week at the building next to ours.

We've complained multiple times. It has now been two months and neither of us have a space... at any building.

The week of moving in, there were issues with getting our internet installed and my boyfriend (who works from home) missed an entire morning of work because both of our cars were buried under giant snow mounds on the street.

I've had to park a distance from the building coming back late at night from waitressing multiple times.

I recently got my car towed - which amounted to $133.00 in fines plus over an hour of hassle trying to get it back.

We talked to the police officer that helped us get the release for the car and he informed us that he thinks our renters rights are being violated because they lead us to believe something that was not true in order for us to sign a lease. He suggested that we start putting our rent fees into escrow and get a lawyer to help us resolve the issue.

I've tried to come to one of two resolves with them.

1. We get reimbursed for the parking fines and are given two spaces within two weeks. We would be fine if they reimburse us by taking it out of our parking fees.

2. They do not reimburse us for the parking fine, instead they change the condition of our lease from the current full year term to month-to-month.

We believe either of these solutions should be fair and obtainable - especially considering we've gone over two months without parking so far.

If they do not agree to those terms - do you think it is worth it to take legal action?

I'd appreciate any advice!!

Edit:: I really appreciate all of your help, everyone. We honestly thought from day one we were scammed but didn't have any grounds to stand. I wasn't with my boyfriend when he signed the lease but I did tell him he shouldn't have. He said he didn't know what else to do. Which is true. I don't know what we would have done either.

The only reason I came to you guys is because I don't know the law and that police officer gave us hope. Huge bummer there isn't anything we can do. I guess they'll just get really shitty reviews from us online. Hopefully it can deter others from renting from them in the future. :-/
Topic:
Landlord Tenant Housing

Answer:
 > We had no other choice but to sign the lease

Sure you do.  You always have a choice.

Given that you were informed of the new situation before you signed the lease, and you signed a lease that did not grant you parking, your recourses are limited.  You may be able to prevail on a suit for some damages, but things like the tow are going to be on you.


Title: Noise Issues at an Essex Apartment Complex (San Jose, CA)

Question:
Hi. I live in an apartment community and I have been having a lot of noise issues (for 6+ months) which the resident office has been unable to resolve. I am on good terms with my upstair neighbors (where the noise comes from) - and we have figured it out to be his kittens jumping around. In fact, noise issues is how we got introduced to each other. For the most part he keeps the kittens quiet, but every once in a while they do what kittens do (jump around). The building has no sound proofing and unlike most apartment communities they allowed pets on all floors instead of just the first. My unit is often noisy as a result.

I personally think that the leasing company is responsible for sub standard quality of the building. I don't seem to be the only one who is facing noise issues.

Just looking for some advice. Is there any way I can get the apartment community to cut short my lease without me having to pay any contractual payments, or give back any discounts they gave me in the beginning of the lease.

Answer:
 You're the one who chose to live in an apartment community. Part of what comes along with that is having to listen to other people's noises. You have no recourse here, and this is hardly "sub standard."
Answer #2: Seriously do "most" apartments only allow pets on the first floor or are you just talking about your sheltered experience.  I dare say you are being a little hyperbolic there.


Title: An employer is asking for consent for the Social Security Administration to release all my income records along with who paid me?

Question: Is this legal?  They literally want every financial record the Government has on me.  It seems highly unethical for a big corporation like this to require such a violation of personal privacy.  It makes the negotiation process for a fair wage completely tilted in their favor by showing all your cards before you even make a bet.  In my view even asking for this should represent an illegal invasion of privacy request.

Answer:
 That's absolutely not normal but not illegal either. You can of course refuse.Answer #2: I use that there are NDAs in place the prevent me from revealing my income or employment information to any party unless by court order.

There actually are. But Ive been at this longer.


Title: My elderly parents lost their home! Is there any way I can help them extend their stay and avoid eviction in California?

Question:
Hello everyone,

I'm really stressed out about this, they need time to move out and are being pressured into moving asap.
Do we have to sign the cash for keys contract to get 30 days to move out and avoid the eviction process or is there a way the 2009 act can help extend our time to find a home? Is there anything that protects us so that whether or not we sign the agreement we still have 30 days to pack up and move? I also have siblings living with them that are adults, would they have tenant's rights to extend the move out to 90 days?

If there is any way to get more than 30 days please let me know! My parents are in a really bad spot right now and I feel helpless.

Thank you so much in advance! I'll take any advice you can offer.

Answer: Why are they being evicted?


Title: Found out my dad has me listed as the owner of the building for which he operates his business out of. What are the implications of this? (xpost from personal finance)

Question:
Dad says there's nothing to worry about and it's "business as usual", but I thought I'd run this by /r/legaladvice

My father owns a business. The business operates out of a building that he purchased around 10 years ago. When purchasing the building, he formed a holdings company with me and my brother listed as the owners of the company and purchased the building through that company. I was told this was to protect the building from being seized if my dad's business were ever to go bankrupt.

My dad's business pays the holdings company rent every month. Given that my name is on the ownership of the holdings company, wouldn't that qualify as income that I should be getting taxed on? I want to make sure I'm not getting screwed when it comes to taxes just so that my dad can protect the building he works out of.

My current withholdings accounts for about 38% of my paycheck (26.4% Federal, 8.66% NYS, and 3.31% NYC). That seems too high!

Answer:
 > Dad says there's nothing to worry about and it's "business as usual"

Any time someone says this, it is almost certainly not true.

>  Given that my name is on the ownership of the holdings company, wouldn't that qualify as income that I should be getting taxed on?

Very likely.

> I want to make sure I'm not getting screwed when it comes to taxes just so that my dad can protect the building he works out of.

You probably are.

You need to contact a lawyer, an accountant, your brother, and your dad.Answer #2: Can you clear up if you knew about any of this?

Because it sounds like your dad is committing fraud and identity theft and you need to report him to the police. And get a CPA to look into what's going on from your end to limit your exposure.

His crimes shouldn't have anything to do with your tax withholdings from a job that's independent of this fraud however.


Title: S.o. is an independent contractor (stone mason). I'm trying to convince him that he should be doing background checks on potential clients to see if they have been sued for nonpayment by other contractors.

Question: Am I in the wrong here legally?  AFAIK anyone can do a background check on anyone for any reason, right?  I mean we're barely getting by and one bad client would sink us.  Whereas a one time background check costs like $15 - 25.  It just seems like a no-brainer to me to help  avoid bad clients.  We're in Colorado. (Also if anyone knows any subreddits for independent contractors in construction please message me; all the small business/entrepreneur subs I've found are focused on computer and/or online work.)

Answer:
 It's legal, but IMO with a smartly designed progress payment system, probably unnecessary.Answer #2: My dad's approach was to have a good contract.

Materials up front / on delivery / on order. Those are the clients. So if they reneg on the contract, they get a pile of "stuff".

And labour is either weekly, biweekly, or split into chunks so they don't own him. (Ala " if someone owes you a thousand bucks, they have a problem... If someone owes you a hundred thousand, you have a problem...")

Ensure that he always always always gets signed change work requests if they want to change the plan.Answer #3: Yes, it's perfectly legal to get a background check.  And recommended.  Though better yet is a pre-payment of enough of the cost that even if they don't pay the full bill at the end you're not in the hole.

Answer #4: In NJ, you can search the court system online to see what lawsuits have been filed and what judgments are outstanding. For free.

Check your state court website, maybe they have the same.


Title: Threatening email from American Express

Question:
We run an Airsoft Event company and have multiple domains with the word 'Centurion' in it - we recently got this notification in email which bounced off our private listing:

+++++++++++++++++++
From: legal@mm-amex.com
Subject: RE: NOTICE of TRADEMARK INFRINGEMENT
Dear Domain Admin,

American Express Company or an affiliated company (American Express) is the owner of the well-known trademark and trade name Centurion. As you are no doubt aware, Centurion is a trademark used to identify products, services, activities and events related to American Express.

You have registered, without American Expresss permission or authorization, the domain name "joincenturion.com" ("Domain Name").  The Domain Name incorporates the famous "Centurion" mark and suggests American Expresss sponsorship or endorsement of your website.  Our records do not show that Domain Admin is affiliated with American Express or authorized to use its trademarks.  If you are affiliated with American Express, we ask that you advise us and we will review.

In view of American Expresss rights to the trademark "Centurion", we ask that you immediately discontinue any and all use of the Domain Name and take steps to drop the domain from your account.

Should you require additional information or wish to further discuss this issue, please contact the undersigned.

This letter is without prejudice to any of American Express rights and remedies, all of which are expressly reserved.

Sincerely,

American Express Trademark Enforcement
+++++++++++++++++++

So is this just them trolling with bots with any domain name with Centurion in it?  There are tons of other sites out there (e.g. centurionboats, centurionlounge, centurionairsoft) - thanks in advance for any feedback... we have tons of videos, media, printed materials online with the domain and don't want to drop it.

We're a listed company in North Carolina as an LLC if that helps?

Answer:
 It would seem there is some question as to whether American Express can successfully enforce their trademark on the word Centurion.  Whether or not they might ultimately prevail would depend on how you use the word and how their mark is registered.

While there is a question as to whether they would prevail, their odds of success are certainly greater than 0.  As /u/caringexecutive points out, one can imagine consumer confusion as to whether joincenturion is going to be an application for an AMEX card.

The perhaps more significant question is whether or not you can afford a legal defense to a claim asserted by a company with a $61.59B market capitalization.

Edit: typo


Title: I was fired over a rumor and need help

Question: [deleted]

Answer: Your employer can fire you for almost any reason they'd like, short of a few niche situations that don't apply here like membership in a protected class. I'd recommend filing for unemployment.Answer #2: If you are an at-will employee, which you almost certainly are, there is nothing illegal about this. Your employer is not a court of law. They don't need to show you the evidence. They do not need to give you a chance to present your side. They can fired you based on an unproven rumor. They could fire you because of a rumor even if they knew it wasn't true. File for unemployment while you look for a new job. Good luck.


Title: Received an $1800 water bill from a previous rental (Ga & Fl)

Question: Today I received an $1813 water bill from a house I lived in, in a completely different state over 2 years ago. I've never received a bill from the time I moved out until today. I submitted the shutoff request a week prior to moving out of the property back in March 2015. I called to resolve it, and even with proof of not living there (leases, electric bills) they're saying I'm responsible for the current tenants bill for the past 26 months because it's in my name. I faxed them the shutoff request I submitted in March of 2015 and for whatever reason, they say it was never processed and are blaming error on my part. I'm honestly just clueless on where to go from here. Should I contact previous landlord? Will that even help?

Answer:
 Resend a copy the shutoff request you submitted in March of 2015, in a certified letter with return receipt, along with copies of all correspondence to date, and a request they cease and desist from attempting to bill you for water usage after that date.

It may not stop them but it starts a very good paper trail for you.Answer #2: They screwed up.  Leaving the water connected for 26 months when nobody was paying the bill?   That's gotta be way outside of their normal way of doing business.

Chances are, they got your notice, started the process, but didn't finish it.

Two questions:
(1)   did you have your mail forwarded from the old place?
(2)   if so, did they send you any more bills after you left?Answer #3: >I faxed them the shutoff request I submitted in March of 2015 and for whatever reason, they say it was never processed and are blaming error on my part.

Did they say what your error was? If they can't even articulate that I don't see how they could win in court.Answer #4: Contact your state's utility commission and submit a grievance/complaint.

For Florida:  http://www.psc.state.fl.us/ConsumerAssistance/ComplaintForm

For Georgia:  http://crs.psc.state.ga.us/Consumer/Contact/utilityIndustry.aspx?type=Complaint


Title: Daughter and ex boyfriend(both minors 14/15). He is challenging order of protection.[AZ]

Question:
I don't really want to get into the meat and potatoes of everything but if I'm being too vague please let me know I'll try to fill in gaps.  So daughters ex boyfriend turns out isn't that great of a guy.  There is currently an investigation into possible criminal charges.  As that process does its thing her mom got an order of protection on her behalf.  He is now challenging it and we have a hearing next week I think.

Now my understanding of the whole proceeding is shaky at best.  But from what I can gather the hearing will have the ability to call witnesses and cross examine and whatnot.  Now if going forward there are criminal charges filed and it ends up in court.  Can they use any of the testimony from the order of protection hearing as evidence in the criminal case.  Or bring it up when questioning someone "oh well when you were asked that question at the hearing you said blah blah blah and that isnt what youre saying today."

The unfortunate part is that there is a lot of he said she said involved.  Honestly I really wish I could just say "go ahead, convince the judge that you should still be allowed to contact this person.  Even though they have made it clear they dont want to talk to you.  And youre being actively investigated for things concerning them."  But I do understand that there are conditions that need to be met for an order of protection to be valid.

Answer:
 >As that process does its thing her mom got an order of protection on her behalf.

Are you the father?

I don't understand your post or what you are getting at. The testimony in the protection order proceedings can generally be used as evidence in a criminal trial, if it's relevant.


Title: [VT] Subpoenaed as a witness in a criminal trial, but I no longer live in the US. Must I fly back?

Question:
Hi,

So I moved away from the US almost ten years ago and I have only been back to visit twice. I have a US "permanent address" with a family friend, just in case I should get any important mail.

Well, yesterday he calls to tell me that I got an important letter. I asked him to open it, and it was a subpoena for me to appear in court as a witness for an ex employer of mine. Firstly, I thought subpoenas had to be served? Secondly, can I be granted an exception from this?

The last time I was in the US was just for a two week vacation over five years ago. Flying there for a trial will be outside of my current financial means. Not only will it be an €800 ticket, but I'll also need to stay at a motel or something, and miss work here, for the duration of the trial. Also, as it's not in the EU, I'll actually have to take vacation time to do this, which sucks because it's limited.

The case seems to be a Pretty Big Deal, and I would be a very valuable witness (I reported my employer shortly before I left the job, and I supplied authorities with screenshots, etc). However, can't I just testify via Skype or something? I saw on Making a Murderer that someone was able to testify over the phone.

If so, who do I contact? I'm pretty poor, so please keep that in mind. I currently have €251 in my bank account, but that's for food and Netflix for this month. Thanks in advance!!

Answer: Your travel and lodging expenses may be paid. You probably won't be paid for lost wages, although you might get a small per diem reimbursement.


Title: Parents are contractors that might potentially go into bankruptcy because of an employer

Question:
My parents and I live in Los Angeles County.  My parents run a sewing company and are paid for the amount of work done.  The company they've been working for for the past 6 years owes my parents money in unpaid invoices worth upwards of $100,000.  Something similar to this happened to them about 8 years ago.  The company from back then owed us over $100,000 as well and ended up filing for bankruptcy and the new owners of that company refused to pay us the money.  It was a bad time and my parents had to use the entire $150,000 that they have saved up since they moved to America to make it out of that slump.  Now, I'm afraid it might happen to them again except this time my parents don't have that amount of money in their savings accounts to help us through this.  Is there anything we can possibly do so that the company my parents currently work for pay us in full? My parents have already missed a whole months of paychecks for their employees because of this, and if the company they work for end up going bankrupt and fail to pay them like the last company they worked for, my family is going to go through a hell of a hard time.  Plus I'm not 100% sure, but I don't think my parents get taxed for all their earnings so I'm afraid proof might be hard to come by.

Thanks

Answer:
 Tell them to stop working for companies if they don't pay an invoice. Don't take more work until an invoice is paid. They dig these huge homes themselves.

And as others said, call an attorney tomorrow and sue.


Title: Is it hard to get into certain federal prisons? [WV]

Question: This is the nicest federal prison.  But do the wealthy get a better choice of prisons, and a result get to go ones like this?  I don't get how this is a prison: https://www.bop.gov/locations/institutions/ald/

Answer: The BoP makes the decision based on risk and other factors.  It's not directly related to wealth, but statistically, a wealthier person is more likely to commit a crime that gets you into minimum security rather than supermax.Answer #2: What about that prison makes it difficult to comprehend as a prison? Just under 1,000 women are housed there under lock and key.  They can't leave and their visiting hours are limited.  It sounds like prison to me.  Is it because it's a nice brick building?


Title: Child Protective Services help!!!

Question:
Backstory:

My husband and I have a 3 year old child and an infant. In early 2018 when our child was under 2, my husband and I went out to celebrate a friend’s birthday while our child spent the night with grandma. We had pretty much stopped all drinking since we became parents. This night out was the first in a long time. Our friends kept buying shots and we got pretty wasted.

We took an Uber home. I passed out on the way home and when we got there apparently I said I was just going to sleep in the car (things dumb drunks do). The poor Uber driver was trying to coax me out. My husband was getting irritated (and embarrassed). He finally “dragged me out” while I was apparently screaming. For some reason (again dumb*** drunk), I took off running down the street. This prompted the Uber driver to call the cops.

The cops found me on a block away from home. It looked bad that I took off running down the street-it looked like I was in fear. I insisted my husband wasn’t violent-when the Uber driver reported he “dragged me” it was more like a carry and I was stupid and had too much to drink. My husband has never put a hand on me. He was arrested anyway for domestic battery (while all our neighbors watched) and it was a month of hell-we had a no contact order issued and he had to move out. We also had CPS come out and interview us each. Luckily our child wasn’t home and they found us to be good parents and the case was closed. He moved back in after his charges were dropped and all has been well since-we’ve been in counseling and we’ve since recently added another child to our family.

Cut to now. Sunday night we were arguing (not what I would even call loudly) in our garage. It was stupid, we were cleaning the garage and basically bickering over what to throw out. Our kids were in bed. A neighbor called the police. The police basically ascertained that we were having an argument, told us to keep it down and went on their way.

Monday morning, guess who shows up. CPS. I’m feeling like an idiot now because I let him in. I understand them visiting the last time...but this time?? He interviewed me and said there was an allegation of constant fighting in the house. Not true at all but I’m guessing the same neighbor called CPS.

How worried do I have to be? We have a solid family, fairly clean home, we read to our kids, play with them, have fairly healthy foods in our house. We’re good parents.

He said he’s most likely closing the case but of course I’m all over the internet reading horror stories.

Answer:
 If there's nothing more to the story than what you've written, there shouldn't be anything to worry about.  At most (and I think this is highly unlikely), you might be required to undergo some family/marriage counseling and/or anger management classes.

For the future, remember that CPS is looking at long term patterns and red flags.  Your opinion is that these were two understandable, normal nonevents.  And that may be true.  But both events - police being called for domestic violence - are not normal and are huge red flags.  And now it's a pattern.  It would be worth your while to do some soul searching and work on how to change your method of interacting to ensure this type of event never happens again.


Title: My Mom Is Trying to Take My Money (Insurance Settlement)

Question: I got in a car accident a couple months ago and the insurance company recently settled for $7000. They sent me a Visa card with the money on it in the mail which I am planning on using to pay off my medical bills and pay for tuition to go back to college. Ever since I got the card my mom has been asking to see it and she wants me to give it to her presumably to go spend because she spends any money that comes to her. She is getting very aggressive, getting in my face, and tries to prevent me from leaving the house until I give it to her. The claim was settled in my name and she has been the middleman between the insurance and the hospital. I need her help to pay the hospital bills and I'm afraid she is just going to spend all of the money on the card and leave me without college tuition. Additionally, I live with her and if I don't do what she says she will threaten to kick me out and will make my life a living hell. I have no means of moving out as of right now and I just want to keep my money safe without becoming homeless. I am wondering about my right concerning her kicking me out, her taking my money and spending it without my permission.

Answer:
 She does have the right to kick you out, but she has to go through a legal eviction process as you are her tenant; she can’t just order you to leave and change the locks. In fact, changing the locks to remove a tenant is not something a landlord can do. The legal process for eviction depends on where you live, but it usually takes weeks to months, and will require her to go to court.

If she is on any of your bank accounts either remove her or open a new account without her. You can open a new account without telling her.

Pay those medical bills and the tuition as soon as possible. Don’t hang on to the card any longer than you need to.

Get your hands on, and safeguard, all your documents—birth certificate, Social Security card, Passport etc. If she won’t let you have them, you can report them lost or stolen. You will need these when you move out, which you should be planning for.

If you can afford it, get your own safe deposit box and don’t tell her about it.


Title: Caterer didn't show for wedding (Florida)

Question:
At 11:00 on Saturday (five and half hours before people would be eating) our caterer messaged me to tell me there was a family emergency and she would not be coming nor sending food for our wedding. I asked for money back that day to help cover the cost of paying for food, and she told me she had spent $3000 on tickets to fly to the family emergency. I asked to send people to her to get food, so she could continue getting ready, and she told me she was on the interstate. She told me she would pay and additional $500 for the inconvenience.

We told her on Monday that we wanted a full refund, plus the $500 (minus $120 for food provided for the rehearsal dinner) within two weeks. She didn't respond until I messaged her again, asking when she would make it right. She said she would pay half today and half on the 28th of April.

So far, nothing today.  I did message once to give her my paypal email (the way she says she wants to repay me).

We do have friends in common, and none of them know of any family emergency that day.

We paid over $2000 for food. At what point is it criminal for her to not refund us? Is there a certain amount of time we should wait before calling the police?

Thanks

Answer:
 The police will most likely tell you this is a civil issue.  You will need to take her to small claims court.Answer #2: File in small claims asap. She had no intention of paying you back from the very first phone call while she was "on the interstate"Answer #3: [Small claims is the route to go.](https://www.flcourts.org/Resources-Services/Court-Improvement/Family-Courts/Family-Law-Self-Help-Information/Small-Claims) The limit is $5,000, so you should be good there.

To get criminal charges filed, you'd have to prove she intended to defraud you, and I really doubt you could.

Retain all messages she's sent you. On the day of your hearing, bring printed copies of everything.

I'd give her until the 28th then file. Expect her to ghost you completely when you file.Answer #4: File in court.  She has no intention of paying you back.Answer #5: Do not accept PayPal. It is very easy to have the payment reversed on her end. Certified funds or cash only.Answer #6: Small claims court is where you take this.  States have varying amounts for which you can sue.  Some are maxed at $3000, others $5000.  I don’t know what Florida is.  It sounds like you will have zero issues winning your case.Answer #7: Something is very fishy with this. Unless this were a flight from the airport that needed to go out of the country, plane tickets at this time of year shouldn't cost that much, even for last minute. Couple that with the fact that mutual friends weren't even aware of an emergency in the family ('cause who doesn't tell friends about family emergencies in case of dropped contact?), it sounds to me that she had every intention to defraud you.


Title: Last attempt to get an answer from experienced folks (2nd time shoplift under $5000)

Question:
I can't afford a lawyer so this is what I will do on my promised to appear date by appealing for diversion program.

https://justice.alberta.ca/programs_services/criminal_pros/crown_prosecutor/Pages/AdultAlternativeMeasuresProgram.aspx

Convicted:

The following Criminal Code hybrid offences where the Crown prosecutor would have proceeded by way of summary conviction:

theft not exceeding $5000.

Criteria for diversion program:

All second time adult offenders who are alleged to have committed any of the above eligible offences may be diverted by way of the Alberta Adult Alternative Measures Program from the traditional court system if at least two years have elapsed since a previous finding of guilt or participation in the program.

It has been over 2 years since my first offense.

The convicted has not resisted store security staff and police officers and cooperated lawfully. The student was in financial distress. The convicted is not involved with other criminal activities. It is unlikely that the convicted would repeat the crime again after securing a job after graduation, and imposing him with criminal record could serious jeopardize this career and further impose financial hardship which could tempt the person to commit minor theft again. Diversion program encourages people such as him to become productive member of society sooner and at the same time will be taught to remorse and avoid repeating the offense. We believe that such program was designed for this purpose.

We hope that the crown considers offering diversion program.

If there's anything more I could do or consider before the trial, that'd be much appreciated. Wish me luck.

Answer: You should probably not steal anything anymore, you are a grown up and decided to be a criminal. Reads like they may give you a diversion program.


Title: If someone accidentally steps on your foot with a stiletto heel, are they negligent?

Answer: This might be better in /r/legaladviceofftopic


Title: Ice slid off the roof of a house my parents own and dented the neighbor's car. Neighbor asking for $2,500.

Question:
The neighbor's car is uninsured. My parents offered to fix the car. The neighbor declined and said he would rather have the money to fix the dents himself. He estimated the damages to be about $800 for materials and $2,500 total. This seems a bit dubious to me as it sounds like he just wants the cash. I saw a picture of the damage and it just looks like a couple dents down the side of the front of the car, nothing major.

What exactly are we liable for and what should we do? This happened in Grand Rapids, Michigan.

Answer:
 File a claim with homeowner's insurance and let them deal with it directly.Answer #2: > He estimated the damages to be about $800 for materials and $2,500 total.

I think you need to get at minimum two more estimates. From actual shops though. Answer #3: A couple of dents could easily be a couple thousand depending on how many panels need replaced. Body work is expensive Answer #4: How much is his car even worth?


Title: Are "qualifying life events" legally required in every state for health insurance? Do they apply to dental? (MA)

Question:
I recently gained employment that offers health and dental. My wife wants to cancel her current dental coverage but the insurer isn't letting her.

Is this illegal? We're in Massachusetts.

My open enrollment is coming up-should she be able to cancel her dental coverage at that time?

Thank you.

Answer:
 You might try posting this to /r/insurance.  States require that normal insurance plans allow for qualifying events, but I think dental and vision plans fall under different guidelines.

What is their rationale for not allowing her to cancel the policy?


Title: Got rear-ended by someone but then got a letter in the mail saying the insurance would not pay because they didn't have coverage.

Question: Apparently the other driver missed a payment or two on their insurance policy so that on the date of the accident they didn't have valid insurance. I honestly don't know what the best thing to do now is. Do I get an uninsured motorist claim? Do I take the other drive to small claims court?

Answer: If you have uninsured motorist coverage, that's your best bet. You could take him to small claims, but even if you got a judgment, you'd likely see very little if any of that money.


Title: (NY) If someone can no longer take care of their dog, does a relative have the right to find the dog a new home?

Question:
Still new to reddit. I read the guidelines and am hopefully posting this correctly.  Also, I'm on my phone and I do not see a flair that's applicable.

My boyfriend and I work full time, but we have a a dog-sitting business on the side. On February 28, a friend called asking if we'd be available to dog sit for a friend of hers. It was an emergency case, the friends mother (the dog owner) was going to the hospital for back pain but she wouldn't leave until she knew someone would watch her dog. We came over that same night and stayed until March 4, when the owner discharged herself from the hospital. Yesterday, the daughter called me stating her mom was going back to the hospital and needed someone to watch her dog. Fortunately, we're able to watch her again.

Now to get to the main point: from what we have been told, the owner is very ill. She lives in a condo in an adult community and she can barely provide for herself. She seems to rely on friends/relatives to do her grocery shopping and she was relying on a neighbor to help take care of her dog (walk, feed, etc) We do not know the owners full medical history, but her daughter has informed me that she is mentally and physically ill. To quote her daughter, "she shouldn't be allowed to leave the hospital. She can't take care of herself" let alone a dog.

When the owner came home last week, I was hoping things would turn out well. But, when the daughter called me to watch the dog again, she said the apartment was a disaster, the mother made a huge mess in the bathroom, the dog was still on the leash and was now limping around. Luckily, when we arrived the dog seemed perfectly fine and just excited to see us (the apartment was clean thanks to the cleaning lady).

My boyfriend and I have shown a number of people photos and videos of the dog. Two people have told us they would take her in heartbeat, no questions asked. I've told the daughter this and she's thankful for the information, but she seems to make excuses (let's see what the psych/physical real show, I can't do that right now, etc). I understand where she's coming from; however, my main concern is this dog and if she will be ok when the owner comes home again. Since February 11, the owner has been in the hospital 3 times, the shortest stay 4 days. This dog deserves a stable, loving environment that is guaranteed to take care of her like she deserves.

Legally, does the daughter have a right to find a new home for the dog?

Tl;dr owner can no longer physically care for the dog, daughter does not know if she should find the dog a new home yet, legally can she?

Answer:
 Does she have the permission of the owner?

You may not steal someone else's dog even if you think you have a good reason.

If the animal is not being properly cared for, contact the animal control authorities or police in your area and let them handle the matter.


Title: How long does it take for a house guest to establish residency?

Question:
My cousin did not renew his lease in January because he is being transferred out of the country in May. His plan was to put his big stuff in storage and live with his girlfriend until then so he could save money on a month-to-month lease. But they broke up 2 days before he was supposed to move in. Literally, without a place to live I told him he could crash on the futon in my spare bedroom for a "day or two" until he could find longer term living arrangements off of Craigslist or something. He agreed and promised he would find something in a couple of days.

It's now been almost 4 weeks. He was promising everyday that he was going through Craigslist to find a room to rent. He didn't want to rent a motel because that would've been more expensive than his previous month-to-month lease. I came home early last night only to find him smoking pot and playing Xbox when he said he was going to be meeting with several people last night about some rooms he supposedly found on Craigslist. We argued and he admitted that he hasn't been looking. He offered to pay me some rent to stay in my spare room, if I wanted. I do not want! He smokes weed all the time, even when I've told him repeatedly not to, eats my food, and I want him out. I never agreed. He said that he is now a resident and I can't kick him out unless I go through "the process" and by the time I do, it would be May, when he's leaving the country anyway, and I might as well take some rent from him.

Is this true? He was just a houseguest that I agreed to let stay for a couple of days only until he found somewhere. But I suspect, this was his plan all along. Do I really have to give him 60-days notice and then go through the courts when he refuses to move out? He said that if he fights the eviction, and he said he would, that it would take more time than he needs to have a place to stay, so it would be pointless to me to do that and expensive for me to do that and that I might as well just let him pay me some rent. What do I do? How can a houseguest just become a resident when there was no intention by me the homeowner to allow him to become one?

I'm tempted to call the cops and report his marijuana use but I'm worried that it might splash back onto me, even though I don't drink, smoke, or use drugs at all.

I live in SoCal.

Answer:
 There is no set number of days that gives rise to a tenancy.  It is more of a look at the whole factual situation.

Regardless, 4 weeks is undoubtedly enough to establish tenancy.  He is a tenant, and you must evict him.  Generally, you must give him 30 or 60 days written notice to vacate.  He then must get out by the specified timeframe.  If he does not, then you must sue to evict him.

All that being said, California is weird as fuck.  Some cities are "just cause" and/or are Rent Controlled, so the above may not apply.  It may be worth offering him $X to leave.  You can also consider going to see an attorney to give you a rundown on eviction law in your area.


Title: 19(M) An insecurity of mine lead me to make a horrible financial decision. What can i do?

Question: [deleted]

Answer:
 Is there a legal cooling off period for contracts in your jurisdiction?

Also, I know you're kind of panicking, but your post is barely readable to me. Take a few deep breaths and see if you can get it more readable. Paragraphs are a good start. You'll get better info that way.


Title: Friend being evicted. Is there anything she can do?

Question:
I have a facebook friend who is being evicted with only 3 days notice and I wanted to see if what the landlord is doing is completely legal or not?

Here is a photo of the notice she received: http://imgur.com/qfboDGt

Edit: She is located in Washington State.

Answer:
 That notice is the correct tool for starting an eviction. If she does not vacate, the landlord will be able to file with the court. If she can't come to an agreement with the landlord, then her options are

* leave, or
* go to court and defend herself before a judge.

If she's actually in violation of her lease, then she'll likely lose that argument and be ordered out. She'd still have some time after the hearing to move before a sheriff removes her by force.


Title: My roommates and I discovered 3 preventable gas leaks in our house. Any advice?

Question:
My roommates and I have been living in our house for close to 7 months now. We live in Atlanta. The other day the gas guy came by because we thought our bills were too high. He discovered three easily preventable leaks in the basement, two of which were fairly considerable.

We talked to our landlord about it and he considered the leaks no big deal. We're a little concerned about how our health may have been affected or could have been affected the entire time we've been living there.

Is there any advice you guys could give regarding possible compensation or what our legal options might be?

Thank you

Answer:
 You can't sue for "could haves". You have no evidence so far that you have suffered any negative impact other than higher gas bills. You also won't win unless you can show your landlord was negligent - he *ought* to have known, or did know, about the leaks.

If you have actual damage to your health, and the landlord was negligent somehow, THEN you can sue.
Answer #2: You didn't list your location, which is pretty important here.


Title: Libelous defamation?

Question:
I recently filed an FHA complaint in Virginia against my HOA. Prior to doing such I had told them that their rules were discriminatory on the basis of familial status. When I told them this on our Facebook page a board member wrote "Are you effing serious? If you feel it is SAFE and RESPONSIBLE to drop off a 7, 9, 10yo off at the pool without a parent or guardian to monito their SAFETY and behavior etc... and think it's ok to do so...then you are NOT a responsible parent/adult and you are more of a jerk than I already thought.LMAO. Matter of fact-looks like you have TWO little ones yourself....SINCE you think it's OK how about you drop them both off at the pool tonight and leave them. Let's just test out your theories here.......😂😂".

The response she wrote about was from me informing the HOA that Virginia does not have a minimum age requirement for supervision of children. This is not the reason I filed the FHA complaint. I never once said for people to drop their kids off unattended. I just said that Virginia doesn't have minimum age requirements for children to be unsupervised, which they don't and neither does my county. They tell you to go by several different factors to help you decide(maturity, responsibility, and several others). Her public post I think is defamatory towards my character as neighbors have even mentioned it to me. The group has 400 people. While yes it seems petty I don't think a board member should make defamatory claims on my parenting in public. The jerk comment I know is an opinion and wouldn't constitute defamation. Is saying I'm an irresponsible parent libelous defamation?

Answer:
 > Is saying I'm an irresponsible parent libelous defamation?

No. She is allowed to have the opinion that you are an irresponsible parent and voice that opinion.Answer #2: Why did you repost this? Again, you say you know the comment is an opinion and wouldn't constitute defamation but then you ask if it is. It's not because it's an opinion like you pointed out. I could have an opinion that you're a bad parent because you let your kids watch tv or eat cupcakes on school night.


Title: Question about thw ability of a PI (private investigator)

Question:
Ok this is a mouthful..my girlfriends mom's boyfriend used to be a PI. He still has his "connections" according to him he even has some buddies in the cia, and other federal agencies. Anyways, he was telling me the other day that he knows my social security number, address, drivers license number, all sorts of crap. Then he told my girlfriends mom about my dads past. My dad is a convicted felon, but he served his time and I would like it if he left my fathers history alone. As far as I'm educated (2 years as a law enforcement explorer) according to NCIC/TCIC, he cant just go splurtting me and my dads personal buisness. Is there anything I can do to get his PI license taken away or more?

Edit: please excuse my grammer I am on mobile.

Edit 2: I meant the in the title sorry!

Edit 3!: I am located in texas.

Answer:
 > according to him he even has some buddies in the cia

confirmed bullshit. nothing else he says can be trusted.


Title: Wife is Dieing

Question:
My wife was recently diagnosed terminal, bone cancer, 6 months to live. What are my best financial decisions I can make now to better my families financial situation after she has passed?
I live in Oregon, USA.

Edit1:  what I was intending was, should I be removing her or myself from bank accounts, shared credit cards, car loans, or anything like that?

Edit:  since I am being asked, she wants to be cremated, and have a funeral at the hometown church she grew up with. I sent a cremation info request locally, and will contact her home church soon. No life insurance, I am already the beneficiary of her current SSI. She filled out the medical form of her DNR wishes, we have no will.
Topic:
Wills Trusts and Estates

Answer:
 Make sure there's a living will, a will, and get the life insurance paperwork together now, while you're clear headed. Contact a funeral home to be prepared, so you're not doing it while you're going through extreme grief. Decide if she will be buried or cremated. Remember that any funeral home has to accept a casket from elsewhere, and believe it or not, Costco sells them for about $1000, which is about $3000 less than most funeral homes.

Visit /r/personalfinance for specific financial questions. They are simply better at that than we are.

I'm so sorry for your family. Get as much sorted out as you can and then spend your time with your wife.


Title: BF's ex-wife is threatening to press charges against me for harassment. NJ

Question:
Hello there!

My boyfriend’s ex-wife has been stalking and harassing me since he and I began dating. She found my Instagram and Twitter even though neither of them were set up using my real name, location, email address, and we have no mutual friends. My boyfriend doesn’t have social media so she couldn’t find them that way. He and his ex-wife have three children and have 50/50 custody.

His ex-wife saw that I posted a photo of my boyfriend’s son on my Instagram, with the permission of both the child and my boyfriend, and freaked out. She called my boyfriend late at night and texted him until he answered her phone call – this was last May. That weekend she came into his house when she knew he wouldn’t be there to confront me about the photo and “talk to me” and I called the cops because she just walked into his house, without knocking and knowing full well he wouldn’t be home. After that I sent a Cease and Desist letter saying I would press charges if she didn’t back off. (I’m not the first girlfriend of his that she’s done this to and it wasn’t the first time she went into his house to confront someone he was seeing.) She responded with her own cease and desist saying I was stalking and harassing her. She then sent texts to my boyfriend stating that she was scared I was molesting her daughter, threatened to press charges against him if I was around the children, wanted to change their parenting agreement, etc. But nothing ever really came of it.

She continued to stalk my social media and I made everything private. She continued to text him about me, about our relationship, would show up to concerts she knew he and I would be at, would drive past his house and honk, says stuff to the kids about me, would call my phone with a blocked number at random times throughout the night, etc. About a month ago he and I were going through a rough patch and I moved out of his house. I guess the kids told their mom that I wasn’t living there anymore and she kept asking him about me, if we broke up, who broke up with who, and to not let me around the kids – more specifically she wanted him to sign something stating I would never be around the kids. He told her that his private life is none of her business and that I’ve never done anything to the kids and that she was trying to manipulate him and control him. She found out that me and him went to a concert with their one son less than a week ago and freaked out. She continued to press him for information about us so I wrote an email to her and copied the local PD stating that I was going to press charges should she continue to harass us. I just got a call from my boyfriend saying that his ex-wife called him and was going to press charges against me for harassment and that she was going to file a petition to change their custody agreement so that I am not allowed around her children anymore and to try to take them away from him. I was going to go to the police department after work tonight to see if I could press charges or get advice about what to do. Any legal advice would be helpful. I just want to live my life free of her harassment and have a relationship with my boyfriend where he isn’t constantly harassed by his ex-wife.

Answer:
 Individuals don't press charges. The most she can do is make a police report. Making false police reports is a crime, and if she accurately and truthfully describes why she believes you're harassing her there's a good chance the police will take her report and tell her to be on her way: the police have better things to do than mediate peoples' personal disputes.

That said, do stop engaging with her. Block her on IG and Twitter and stop talking to her. Don't explain yourself to her. Don't send her email. Be a stone: silent and unbreakable. Talk to your boyfriend about perhaps blocking her as well, if she's hassling him, but let him manage his boundaries with her.

If she comes to your house again, tell her to leave, don't discuss it, and call the police if she doesn't leave immediately. She's trespassing.


Title: CT somebody that owns half of my house is trying to force me to buy their half.

Question:
The person owns half the house (and hasnt touched it in nearly a decade) and is threatining to take me and my mom to court to get the other half. My moms lawyer says that she could do that even though its 50/50 and we pay taxes and everything. How is she able to do this?
Topic:
Real Estate law

Answer: Because she has 50% of the property. It is hers also. You can either buy her out or she can likely, eventually, force the sale of the home and take half.


Title: Can I sue a teacher for an incident that happened in the third grade if I have evidence?

Question: So, when I was in the third grade, my teacher revealed confidential medical information to my whole class while searching for homework in my backpack (there was medical equipment in my bag that I needed to be in close quarters in case of an emergency, my 504 stated as such). I know this is a FERPA violation but since it happened nine years ago, is it still possible to take action?

Answer:
 Are you trying to get money for this?

You could bring it up to administration and speak to a lawyer about it. But I doubt you’ll get monetary compensation. So unless you are trying to just get her to know it was wrong ect then there is probably not a point.


Title: [IL] I was targeted by a sexual predator

Question:
Non of this is Fabricated, all of this is experienced by me growing up.

Here is the situation I am in. Back when Myspace was the hot thing on the internet, everyone basically had one. Around the age of 13 I had signed up, and had started adding all of my friends from middles school. Rearranging my top 5, editing my profile trying to make it look as cool as I could. One day I get a friend request from someone I didn't recognize and being a 13 year old not knowing any better I accepted it and shortly after I received a message. I don't have any of the conversation cause I don't remember my log in information and I'll get to more about that later. So I remember this vividly and the conversation soon went from Myspace to AIM messenger. The conversation started around 8 and went to around 1:30 in the morning and I remember it was one of the few times I had stayed up that late. But we are talking and she begins to make things sexual and again being a 13 year old believing in who she says she is a 15 year old female, I respond to her and all of a sudden shes gone for an hour. She comes back and says that her step dad came in and saw her naked and made her blow him. This entire night should have been a red flag.

The following days I knew were basically the same, our conversations would begin innocent and quickly turn sexual. Around a month, a month and a half later she asks me to send me pictures of my genitals, again I was a dumb 13 year old who was just beginning puberty, any girl that really wanted to talk to me was a win at that time. So I did, but never got anything from her in return. That should have been the second red flag but really was the first unusual thing about her that I noticed.

This eventually kept happening. Later and again I remember this vividly. She says to me on Myspace, after this entire time we have been on AIM, she says, "hey my friend lives pretty close to you, you guys should meet up, shes pretty cute you'd like her" she sends me her "friends" profile and I'm looking and I have no interest in even talking to her mostly because of the way she looked, but at that time it was all about looks. And I told her that. And then she basically stopped talking to me, went missing, I had moved over to facebook and couldn't locate her on there. Another red flag.

I am currently 22 years old and it wasn't until I was 18 or 19 I realized what had happened to me and who was really messenging me, but it wasn't until my girlfriend had said something to me that made me bring it up that led me here. I told her basically everything I had written down here and she was absolutely disgusted with everything that had happened. We eventually found the old account that she contacted me on, and soon after the account that she recommend I try meeting up with I am pretty sure the recommended account was who was really contacting me. my girlfriend and I looked her up on facebook and what we saw there made me sick to my stomach, she work at a day care and she nannys. she takes pictures of the kids she works with and uploads them to her facebook, but these aren't just nice pictures they're creepy pictures, all of them. she lives on the other side of my town, I was in her neighborhood not that long ago cleaning out a house.

We were both absolutely disgusted when we had found this out. we both want to go to the police with this. but this is were I'm stuck. if i go to the police will they take my information? will they take me into questioning? what is going to happen to me?

I want to be a highschool teacher some day and i don't want this coming up on any background check and have this hurt my chances to get my teaching license and ruin my dream job. what should i do...

EDIT 1:

As much as I am confident that who I think it is that really did this to me, will I get in any trouble if by some chance it isn't her, or they have no evidence to convict her.

Answer: Nothing would happen to you. You're the victim here. You can report this matter to the police.


Title: NY. Attended my arraignment without a lawyer.

Question: It was short notice. I hadn't hired my own lawyer yet, and one was not appointed. I was arraigned of the charges nonetheless. Class A Misdemeanors. Just wondering about the legality of the fact that I was in court without representation.

Answer:
 You can be arraigned without a lawyer. You can still hire someone to represent you. Arraignment is a formality where they say we think you did this and then ask "did you?" and you say "nope."

Get a lawyer if you need one. There is no procedural issue.


Title: [CA] (Apartment amenities) The fridge in my apartment is very old (2002) and has no filter for the water dispenser and the water tastes very bad, even worse than the sink. Is my landlord obligated to buy a fridge with a filtered water dispenser?

Answer: Just a side note, 2002 is not very old for a fridge. I highly doubt he is obligated to replace a fridge with a water dispenser unless it is specifically in the lease. That's more a luxury than a necessity.Answer #2: Does your lease guarantee you a filtered water dispenser in the fridge?


Title: Money in bank account seized due to Mom’s credit card debt.

Question:
So I just got payed last week from my job, and right when I got payed a few hours later all of the money in my bank account ($600) was gone. According to the bank that we use, my mom had an outstanding credit card debt and so the bank took money from my sister and I’s accounts because she opened them up when we were both minors.

It currently says the ledger balance is 650 dollars but the actual balance is only 50 bucks because my mom gave me some money for gas and such. Is there any way I can talk to the bank to see if I can get my money back?
Topic:
Credit Debt Bankruptcy

Answer: Unfortunately, your money is gone because it sounds like both you and your mom are the account holders.  Assuming you are an adult, you need to open your own bank account in only your name.Answer #2: Open an account in your name only. Getting your money back will likely require a lawyer, so for $600, probably not worth it. Technically, you could sue your mother for the money.


Title: When I die, I want to mix my ashes with the seed of a tree. My family loves the idea too for themselves. We want to start a family "groveyard" (get it!?!?) of deceased relatives and ourselves.

Question:
Im in California and looking for some land to purchase for this purpose.  If all goes to plan, the lot will eventually have trees with a plaque that says "Here Grows So-And-So".

Does this count as a graveyard?  Can I buy non-HOA land that's intended for residential use and do this?  I'd hate to drop $10k on a half acre and have to cut my Dad down in 20 years because of a zoning law or something.

Answer:
 Cant speak to CA, but generally, if you have enough money, you can put the land into trust, and keep it in a trust for as long as humanely possible.

Unfortunately, nothing lasts forever, so someday in the future someone might clear cut you down and build a canoe.

But then you can go floating, so there's that!Answer #2:  Buy a plot adjoining a farm, create a trust with the intention of locating adjoining farms that will maintain the land as long as they can farm on a portion of it for free and pay taxes. Farmers keep your land, wont disturb it, and the trust uses minimal funds.

Im in the midwest, people enter into free or rented land agreements constantly.

Edit: spellingAnswer #3: Maybe not exactly what you’re looking for, but check out this company: https://www.betterplaceforests.com. I happen to know some of the people involved as well as the NorCal location- and I heard rumors they were trying to get another plot closer to central/south California.


Title: An artist based one of their paintings off a photo I took, without permission. Worth pursying?

Question:
Someone did a painting based on one of my photos and they're selling the painting. They never asked permission, plus it's a published photo, so I don't know if that makes a difference or not, but I own the rights. It's not a complete ripoff, but you can tell that's what they based it off of. I've sent them a message and just waiting for a reply.

Is this something even worth pursuing?

Also I'm located in Nevada.
Topic:
Intellectual Property

Answer:
 It looks like a complete ripoff to me.  Your options here are:

* Send a DMCA takedown notice to whatever site is hosting and/or selling the photo
* Send, or have your attorney send, a cease & desist letter
* If the copyright is registered, sue, or have your attorney sue, the artist for copyright infringement


Title: Younger brother kicked football into the road, car breaked harshly and had another smash into the back... Phoned the police on us.

Question: [deleted]

Answer: If the kick was accidental, i would doubt your brother is liable. A driver has the obligation (at least in Canada, not sure if at UK) to drive in a manner that is safe. The driver the rear ended the driver who stopped should be at fault for the accident. They were following too close


Title: (Indiana) not getting my visitation

Question: I am a 23 yr old father of two children in Indiana. My soon-to-be ex-wife and I have been to a preliminary hearing for our divorce. My visitation is supervised at my parents house (which is court ordered). I was notified yesterday by my father that he is no longer going to supervise visitation. The supervised visits have gone on for 7 months with no issue, then this happens. I'm unsure of what my next course of action should be.

Answer: Talk to your divorce attorney, if you have one. If not, you should probably hire one. I doubt that your father is legally obligated to supervise visits, so you may have to find another avenue for it.


Title: ESA Dog Rights At Work

Question: I recently got an ESA certified dog for my crippling depression and anxiety that seems to strike hard while I'm at work. I have a very strict/demanding boss. I told him I have a service dog that I need to bring her with me to work to help with my mental disability and he said I cannot bring her as it would be a distraction. He thinks this because she is younger (6 months old.) Even though my other coworkers bring their non-service dogs to work all the time. I feel so shafted. Can he even legally do this in California? Thanks all.

Answer:
 Federally, the ADA does not cover ESAs. In housing, they are covered, but not in employment currently.

In California, the California Fair Employment and Housing Commission does cover ESAs:

>*[California's] regulations require employers to allow “assistive animals” in the workplace as a reasonable accommodation. Assistive animals include not only service dogs for the visually and hearing impaired, but also support dogs or other animals that provide “emotional or other support to a person with a disability, including, but not limited to, traumatic brain injuries or mental disabilities, such as major depression.”*
>
>*Employers may set minimum standards for assistive animals, such as requiring the animal:*
>
>*1. To be free from offensive odors and displays habits appropriate to the work environment, for example, the elimination of urine and feces;*
>*2. To not engage in behavior that endangers the health or safety of the individual with a disability or others in the workplace; and*
>*3. To be trained to provide assistance for the employee’s disability.*
>
>*If an employee asks to bring an assistive animal into the workplace as a reasonable accommodation, the employer may require the employee to provide a medical certification from the employee’s “health care provider.”*

Edit: To summarize, at the very least you need a note from your doctor and to prove that the animal has been trained to deal with your condition.Answer #2: If you have an ESA you do not have a service dog.

Or are they one in the same in CA?Answer #3: Having a 6 month old puppy is pretty much a dead giveaway that it isn't a service dog and it is perfectly legal to not allow it.


Title: My gun exploded while sighting it in

Question:
While I was out at my local gun club zeroing in my scope to get ready for the hunting season with my dad and I had a accident. I was with my father using an old gun of mine worth about 4K. I had my hand underneath the stock and only one bullet in the chamber. When I pulled the trigger next thing I remember is this intense pain in my hand and I rolled off the bench and on to the floor. I thought my hand was burned from the pain and I weighed on the floor. After a couple of minutes, I didn’t see any visible marks on my hand and proceeded to get back up. I looked in the mirror to my truck and saw that the right half of my face was all blistered up and bleeding from the black powder spray. The wooden stock had been split in two and the bottom of the chamber bulged open. I noticed that the bullet casing had a crack in it after firing and I believe it was the cause. Is there anything I can do about this?
Topic:
Personal Injury

Answer: Did you shove a cleaning rod down the barrel to check for an obstruction? Was it manufactured ammo or home loads? Correct powder for the gun?


Title: [WI] Nephew hurt and work and has to go to urgent care. Employer wants him to take drug test while at hospital.

Question: One, no way this kid is on anything, and two, is it legal for them to make this demand?

Answer:
 Yes, most companies have a policy that requires a drug test whenever an injury occurs at work.Answer #2: IANAL

When you get hurt on the job (therefore most likely pursuing workman's comp), they can, and should, test you for alcohol and drugs.


Title: Comcast Published My GF's Social Instead Of Her Last Name On Her Bill

Question:
Instead of publishing her last name on the most recent letter sent bill, Comcast instead printed my Girlfriends social security number.

This was visible through the cellophane covering the envelope, and she's making working on filing a complaint with her local state's AG. She works shifts and is unable to dedicate a lot of time to working with Comcast (they have not been helpful in terms of acknowledging the problem nor how to resolve it), so I wanted to see whats the best way to get this resolved and make sure it doesn't happen again. If it happened to her and it was an automated error, shes not the only one exposed.

Her state in Connecticut.

Answer:
 Obligatory IANAL, but in situations like these you probably won't get money,  but you can get free identity theft prevention like Lifelock paid for.

Source: I work in health insurance and sometimes this happens and insurers give this stuff for free.

Edit: fixed a typoAnswer #2: The best way to have it resolved is to complain to Comcast.   The AG isn’t going to do anything.    Given that your haven’t indicated that any laws were broken or that any financial detriment was suffered, you’re not going to win a law suit, much less a class action against Comcast.   You wouldn’t even find a lawyer willing to take the case.

To prevent it from happening again, switch to Paperless Billing.


Title: Paternity test proves my cousin is the father, but he was still denied visitation (state of Wisconsin)

Question: My cousin got a girl pregnant but it was an accident and not planned at all and he told her he didn't want to be a father. He didn't talk to her for a while but now he realizes what he did was wrong and wants to fix it. He looked her up and told her he made a mistake before and he did want to be a father but she wouldn't let him see his kid. He took her to court and tje test proved he is the father. He doesn't have to pay child support because his kid's mom didn't ask and said she didn't want it, but he was also denied visitation or contact with his kid because neither of them want to see him. He is stable and has a job and no criminal record or arrests. He didn't go for custody because he knew the court wouldn't make the kid live with a stranger but he figured he would be allowed visitation at least. Is there a way for him to appeal this or something to change the ruling?

Answer:
 The child is 14.  Your cousin has missed his shot at really being a father to the child.  Sorry, but parenting is time sensitive and if you abandon your child until they are a teenager, you can't just come back in and pick things back up.

What is important here is the child and their best interest.  Is it in the best interest of a 14 year old to FORCE them into contact with a father who abandoned them? Probably not, especially if said 14 year old does not want a relationship with their father.

Your cousin can try to appeal, but I don't see this getting very far.  He abandoned his kid when it mattered, forced his kid to grow up without him, and now the kid WANTS to live his life without him.  That seems reasonable to me.

Your cousin isn't a father, he's a DNA donor and a stranger as far as his kid's concerned.  Give the ex his contact info and see if the kid ever comes around.


Title: Is it illegal for a company to pay you to NOT use their services?

Question:
Had a shower thought this morning... my understanding is that with Obamacare an insurer cannot deny a potential customer based on pre-existing conditions. And moreover, they cannot charge them more due to these pre-existing conditions as the rates are set by gender, age and location.

So let's say I have a chronic illness that is very expensive to care for and, after my premiums and copays and whatnot, it still costs any insurer hundreds of thousands of dollars a year. Would it be illegal for such a person to go to those insurers in his state and offer, "I will *not* enroll with your insurance company if you pay me $50,000," say?

It feels like extortion, but I'm not clear what the legal bar is for extortion. You're not threatening to do anything illegal if they don't pay, after all.

Answer:
 Extortion doesn't require anything illegal. Extortion is simply "Do X or I will do Y" where X is to the advantage of the person extorting and Y is to the detriment of the entity being extorted.

Do "give me money" or I will do "enroll and cost you money", seems like pretty clearly extortion.