Title: Using alibi defense when I have video

Question: I had a situation with my neighbor this year where he threatened to kill me on more than one occasion. I have video of him making the threats, which were used to arrest him. He is being held without bond because he violated the first protective order by threatening me again. I just looked at the update on the case and he is pleading 'not guilty' and use the 'defense of alibi.' No idea how the defense lawyer chose this defense as the state has video and arrest records from those days. Does anyone know what on earth they could be thinking?

Answer:
 As a guess...

Could be that his attorney is going to ask for the video to be suppressed.  If it is, then the alibi would be a strong defense


Title: Got a subpoena and don't want to show up (California). Do I have to go?

Question:
As the title says, I recieved a subpoena in the mail to show up to court. I was rear ended over a year ago by someone and the case is now going to court and they want me there for some reason. I don't want to waste even more time/money because someone else screwed up and hit my car. Am I legally obliged to go? What could happen if I don't show up. I really need to be at work and the court date is set for a Monday morning.

Btw I called them on the phone and they said that I absolutely
MUST go. Figured it could be BS though.
Topic:
Personal Injury

Answer:
 A subpoena is an order to appear before a judge. A judge is a human being who is used to being obeyed. If you do not obey a judge, he or she can send people with guns to kidnap you and put you in a cage, or force you to give them money.

So yes, you have to go.

If your insurance hired a lawyer to handle this case, you should talk to the lawyer. If you don't know who that is, you should talk to your insurance and find out what's going on. It may be possible to object to the subpoena if it's not necessary, or to reschedule things if it's not a good day for you. But unless you hear otherwise from the court, you have to go.Answer #2: Every time someone doesn't appear after a summons to court, God kills a puppy.Answer #3: Read the post about the guy who didn't show up when his neighbour claimed ownership of his dog.

Yes, you need to show up.Answer #4: A subpoena is a court order, not a court request. You must obey it or you could be held in contempt of court (I believe).Answer #5: Subpoena literally means "under penalty". It refers to the penalty (money or time) that you'll face if you don't comply. Answer #6: Yes, you have to go.

You may be able to ask for it to be rescheduled, or to appear via teleconferencing, depending on the court and the circumstances.  But don't just ignore it, unless you want to be held in contempt.Answer #7: As far as valid excuses for being late/missing a day of work go, being subpoena'd is pretty far up there.


Title: Evicted tenant who owes $18,000 in rent ordered to pay, and missed two payments.

Question: [deleted]

Answer: The estate should pay the disbursement fee and add it to the amount owed by this guy.Answer #2: I'm confused...the disbursement fee is $125? You've come this far and you aren't sure if its worth it to you?


Title: Just started working at a car wash and they clock employees out when there are no cars.

Question:
The managers at my car wash will clock out employees during our down time and clock is back in when a car pulls in. Is this legal? And if it isn't what step can I take to amend this?
Edit: sorry this is in Georgia

Answer:
 What your employer is probably doing is justifying clocking you out as split shift work, but during the "off" time you (the employee) must be free to engage in your own business. Being required to be present is "work" and the Department of Labor is where you complain. Are they requiring you to stay on the premises and be ready to work when they clock you out?Answer #2: While this is all fresh in your mind, document everything you remember (how often it's happened/dates/times/etc.). When you leave you could defiantly get back pay. If you have things documented, the dept. of labor could easily cross-check your dates and times to any cameras at your work. This sounds like a big process but it's actually not. It's better to have notes and not need them, compared to needing them and having to recall things from memory.Answer #3: What state?Answer #4: The DOL has a handy site regarding the topic of Waiting time. Check here: http://webapps.dol.gov/elaws/whd/flsa/hoursworked/screenEE77.asp

IANAL but based on what you said I think you are Engaged to Wait rather than Waiting to Engage and should be compensated.


Title: [CA. Sacramento] I barely tapped someone's vehicle and they want to go through insurance.

Question: I just got into a car "accident." I was at a stoplight, and the light turned green. I assumed the car in front of me would start moving, and in that moment, I thought it was a good idea to pick up something that was on the ground. His car didn't move, so my car tapped his. When we pulled over to assess the damage, he had what looked like 4 or 5 vertical blue lines cause by the lettering of my license plate. He insisted to go through insurance despite the fact that these lines look like they could be scrubbed off. He seemed a little sketchy / erratic and his car already had *substantial* damage on one side. I don't want him to extort me for damages that I didn't cause. I didn't call the police to file a police report and I only took pictures of my license plate and his insurance card. What do I do? Do I go through my insurance or his? What do I tell the agent?

Answer: You can't do anything to prevent him from going through his insurance, you're at full fault, and there is damage to be paid for. Contact your insurance and report the accident.


Title: Dirty Harry

Question:
In the Dirty Harry movie a serial killer is set free without so much as a trial because the testimony he gave correctly identifying where his victim was hidden was given while he was tortured.  The physical evidence (rifle used to murder multiple people) was found in his apartment without a search warrant so it was inadmissible.

My question is, in the real world would this really happen?  Would someone completely and obviously guilty of multiple murders just walk because the officers were bad at their job?

Answer: If they were sufficiently bad at their jobs to not manage to collect any admissible evidence, it's certainly possible.


Title: Unable to buy a handgun due to a doctor making a false diagnosis

Question:
I recently recieved a letter from my local Sheriff's office saying that I was put on a list to be barred from owning a handgun due to an involuntary hospitalisation.

I was involuntarily hospitalised due to cold medicine having a bad reaction to my medications that I regularly take. I explained this when I came back from being blacked out a day after hospitalisation. However, the hospital I was sent to was not in my local area as my local hospital was full and they sent me to another Henry Ford Health Systems hospital even though I stated I did not wish to go there BEFORE I was involuntarily hospitalised.

When I met with the doctor at this hospital and explained the situation he immediately diagnosed me with schitzoaffective disorder, which is a rather heavy mental illness. I have no history of anything even related to this and upon release I met with my normal psychologist who thought the diagnosis was made too quickly and incorrectly.

If my doctor feels it was an incorrect diagnosis could I get taken off of that list barring me from owning a handgun? If so, what legal process would I need to take?

Answer:
 You can be removed from the list, but you need a Michigan attorney who specializes in firearm law.  Nobody here can do more than that. You are going to have to file an appeal with the court to reinstate your rights. You should not try to purchase any more weapons until you deal with it.

You can start here:  [http://www.ncsl.org/research/civil-and-criminal-justice/possession-of-a-firearm-by-the-mentally-ill.aspx](http://www.ncsl.org/research/civil-and-criminal-justice/possession-of-a-firearm-by-the-mentally-ill.aspx)


Title: Someone is trying to overtake my organization

Answer: You won't get any help if you provide no details.


Title: Mortgage company ran credit twice then denied us at closing for one point short (Texas)

Question:
My husband lost his job in August and was rehired three weeks later, with a promotion and a raise.  Things were really tight recovering from the job loss, and things hadn’t been great before either.  We needed some cash for some home repairs and in general needed cash, needed to improve our debt to income ratio, needed to get a new vehicle, etc.  We have a lot of equity in our home, we don’t owe much and the value has skyrocketed (unfortunately so has every other house here) and decided to refinance.  The refinance would literally have cut our monthly bills down nearly a third and would have allowed us to take care of some really urgent issues and get the car we needed.  It would have improved our financial situation by far.  They got all of  our documentation, ran our credit on October 8 (approximately), said we were basically approved and said we were aiming to close on the 20th if all went well with underwriting and the appraisal.

They said we wouldn’t need to pay our mortgage in November or December.

We didn’t have the money for the appraisal, so we borrowed it from a payday lender that my husband’s dad is associated with- they do not report to credit and of course, the interest is astronomical.  But we were set to turn around and pay it off immediately with some of the money from the refinance.

The appraisal came back higher than we thought and things were great.

Then they discovered that our current mortgage company doesn’t pay out property taxes until December and we have huge property taxes.  This meant they needed to juggle around some numbers on the refinance.  They said we’d be done by the 30th at the latest and we were still good to go, that they had sorted everything out.

We followed all of the rules- we didn’t apply for new credit, didn’t add to our debt, nothing like that.

On the 30th, the day we were supposed to close, they called us and said they were about to finish up their work so we could sign the papers that day, but that they had run our credit again and my score had dropped thirty to fifth points and so had my husband’s- and that his was now legally one point short of being able to refinance.

I told them that they had already run our credit this month and asked why they did it again, and asked them if they hadn’t pushed it back ten days if it would have made a difference.  They said no, that it is standard procedure to run it twice and that credit reports only update once a month so the delay in closing didn’t affect it.

Now we are in the same bad financial position we were in PLUS the appraisal cost we borrowed from the payday lender, which is a huge payment we can’t afford.  We are due to have a baby in four weeks and honestly, the timing couldn’t be worse.

I feel as though they may have mishandled this, but I’m not sure.  Did they?  What are our options?

Answer: They did nothing illegal by pulling your credit report twice. They have no control on how credit rating agencies score your reports. You have no recourse against the lender.


Title: Sold my vehicle on eBay, buyer wants to pay via PayPal but I specifically listed cashier's check or cash only

Question: [deleted]

Answer:
 I would go on to the next highest bidder.

He could do a PayPal chargeback or any number of things to defraud you.


Title: What do I need to do to legally get out of Jury Duty?

Question:
Location: Tx
(I read the summons in full.)

I have no problem with showing up to jury duty. My boss won’t have a problem letting me attend. But I’m an hourly employee living paycheck to paycheck and even missing a couple of days of work will put me behind on SOMETHING. And if I were selected for a lengthy trial...I don’t know what I would do.

While missing work isn’t the issue, I wouldn’t be paid for the days I’m not there.

What can I do? Or who can I talk to? Any advice would be greatly appreciated.

Answer: You'll have to show up for the first day, but the judge will ask about any hardships that may prevent you from serving.  Serious financial hardship counts, and you should disclose it then.


Title: My girlfriend received a note on her windshield claiming her car bumped another car which is false (Pittsburgh, PA)

Question:
Like the title says, she came back to her care which was parallel parked to find a note on her windshield claiming her car bumped into the car in front of it. The note had a phone # on it so my girlfriend called it and a very irate woman picked up.

The woman claimed she has proof it was my girlfriend because there is a large scratch on the back her car (the woman's car) and my girlfriend has a large scratch on the front of her car. However, my girlfriend has a BLUE car and the scratch on the irate woman's car is WHITE. This woman claimed her ex husband is a cop and he'll make sure my girlfriend is held at fault. This woman wants to settle this after the Easter weekend. My girlfriend is positive she didn't do it.

Should my girlfriend contact her insurance? She's afraid her premiums will increase if she does. She's very distraught and We're not sure what we should do. We're both poor college students and she doesn't have the money to unjustly pay for somebody else's paint job.

Answer:
 When you scuff car's paint the mark is often white even if the car was not, I have two scratched on my car, one from the gear crank on the my bike and one from hitting a red car. Both are white.

If your girlfriend is actually sure she didn't hit the car then she should just ignore the other person, I'm not sure why she called her in the first place. It would also help if she has an actual explanation for the scratch on her own car.Answer #2: First, she should have never called that person. No, it’s an issue of proof. The burden is on the woman, not your girlfriend. Hopefully, your girlfriend didn’t leave any contact information. If she did, just block the woman’s number.


Title: [FL] Attorney called me in to disburse my settlement check what should I be expecting?!

Question: So I was called by my attorney earlier this week to disburse my check, I was waiting on her to get a reduction in medical bills (which I am assuming will lower my expected amount) and was wondering what to expect once I walk into her office after a year of not seeing her face to face. Any help would be great!

Answer: You should expect your settlement check to be disbursed


Title: Pondering divorce. How to keep US citizen kids from going out of country

Question:
Me and my wife are Indian citizens in US. I am working on H1B visa & wife is on H4 dependent visa. We have 2 daughters both born in US and they are solely US citizens. Me and wife have reached a stage where it will mostly end up in divorce pretty soon.

I am afraid even before I file for divorce here in US, my wife will take my kids to India. Is there a way I can prevent her from taking my kids out of US without my permission.

Answer: When you file for divorce you can request an order that prohibits both parents from taking the children out of the jurisdiction.


Title: Can police force you to take a polygraph and arrest you for refusal? [OK]

Question:
Several coworkers tonight were talking about the time recently when they were forced to take polygraphs after narcotics came up missing from a medication cart. Every employee was made to go to the police station where they were interrogated without a lawyer and forced to take a lie detector test. They were each told they failed the test and threatened, but maintained their innocence. The culprit was eventually caught but by the employer, not police.

They said they were read their rights but not arrested, but told If they did not cooperate they would be charged with the theft along with refusing to comply with investigation or something like that.

My questions: can a person simply refuse to go to the police station and put themselves through all that? Wouldn't they be forced to get a warrant for your arrest and need actual evidence to do so?

Can invoking your rights ever be used as evidence of your guilt?

Once their rights were read did they have to cooperate in any way? Couldn't they invoke their right to silence and demand a lawyer?

Would a lawyer have to be provided if they couldn't afford one since they're not under arrest?

Can anyone be forced to take a polygraph under any circumstances since they are not admissible and are so unreliable?

This is a common occurrence in facilities with narcs and I would like to know what my rights are if such a demand is made of me.

Answer:
 No one can be forced to take a polygraph.

No you do not have to go to a police station to answer questions unless you are arrested (though if they have probable cause, they may arrest you for that). Though your employer may be allowed to fire you for not cooperating.

Police are allowed to lie. Lying is a very useful interrogation technique. Some styles use it, others do not.

Invoking your rights may not be used in court as evidence of guilt.  If you invoke your right to a lawyer, it's more common just to end interrogation. They may not actually provide you with one. It just means they can't interrogate you without one.


Title: Does my car fall under the "Lemon law"? Could i get it replaced?

Question:
my car is a 2010 corolla. bought new by my father, then sold to my brothers ex girlfriend... before i bought it from her. the car has gone through 4 (FOUR!!!!!) alternators since purchased new. went out once when my father owned, twice when my brothers ex owned, and once since ive owned the vehicle. ive owned it for about 2 years now and im just waiting for it to go out again.. i just figure if its already gone through 4, its only a matter of time for it to go out the 5th, and 6th time.

this is absolutely ridiculous and it IMO qualifies as a lemon, but probably not legally? i read in the owners manual a page that said something along the lines of if the car has needed too many "unreasonable" repairs in a set time, that the dealership or toyota can replace the car with another of the same value and pay for the repair.

luckily the last time the alternator went out (about 8 months ago?) i was still *just* inside the warranty for it and got it free. it wouldve been ~$700 out of pocket otherwise.

can i get a different car from toyota? or is it way too late for that? we have all the receipts from the alternator replacements.

Answer:
 no, you cant get a new car from carolla. come on.

alternators are really easy to do, maybe you can learn to do it on your own.


Title: Roommate is convinced that you don’t pay rent in advance and is saying I need ‘proof’ that I wasn’t living at the house before I’d even applied for it.

Question:
I’m in Queensland, Australia.
I applied for my last home on 22/08/2017, it’s a 3 bedroom property that was currently being rented by 1 person, who was seeking to fill the rooms. This person, Jason, told me that he’s positive my application will be approved by the agency and that I’ll be moving in the following week.

I paid bond ($760) and 1 week’s rent ($190), intended to be in advance, on 24/08/2017. I moved to the property on 29/08/2017 and continued to pay rent every Friday until last week (23/11/2018).

I made the mistake of labelling my first rental payment as ‘LiterallySoTalls Rent 24/08’. I also paid my second instalment if rent late on 04/09/2017 and labelled it ‘29/08’ (as my belief at the time was that we paid rent on Tuesdays.

It’s important to note here that I pay rent into Jason’s account, and he transfers the lump sum to the realestate.

During my time living there (after spending hours retrieving proof of every single payment to Jason) I’d received a new job and in the confusion of transferring, I paid rent twice in one week. This puts me paying rent 2 weeks in advance each Friday - which I believe is standard.

I gave jason my two weeks notice (which was the agreed upon notice to moving out - he retracted this 2 days before those two weeks were up and it was only a spoken agreement) on 07/11/2018.

A new tenant is moving in this Saturday (30/11) and Jason is expecting me to pay rent for the week just gone on 29/11. When I refused as I’d been paying rent in advance he said that there’s no proof that I’d been paying rent in advance as there’s no document stating the date I moved in.

This is true, and we’ve both since gotten new phones so there’s no text history. I do however have the email that I sent on the 22/08/2017 that entails me applying for the property to the rental agency.

Is there anything I can do? I overpaid rent by paying last week, when I was two weeks in advance. Is there any chance of me getting the $190 back? Can he withhold my bond as he didn’t lodge it through the rta?

Answer:
 https://www.rta.qld.gov.au/Contact

Speak to them

No he can't hold your bond but you may find you have to go directly through qcat. But give the RTA a call, their call centre is usually pretty good and they'll point you in the right direction


Title: Can DOJ step in when children’s constitutional rights are violated at county if state doesn’t do anything?

Question: My post got removed from r/legaladvice for asking a hypothetical question. I am not asking hypotheticals. I really am trying to get actual help for these children. I don’t know if you guys have heard of Judge Donna Davenport in Rutherford County, Tennessee, and how she’s been jailing 8-9 year olds for nonexistent crimes. I wonder if the DOJ is allowed to step into situations where clear corruption and constitutional rights are being violated? Children are clearly also getting disparate treatment based on race (she targets African American children). I know it’s a county jail and judge, and I’m going to guess the state of TN is unlikely to step in considering how long this has been going on. I feel like we’re failing these kids as a society and something needs to be done to right these wrongs. Any ideas on how we can protect these kids from the monster Judge?

Answer: The FBI and DOJ can investigate state level civil rights violations.


Title: [WA state] My landlord had my car towed while I was away for three weeks. What are my rights?

Question: [deleted]

Answer:
 You should pay it (because as you said, the lot is charging daily), and sue them in court for damages.Answer #2: If you told them you were going to be away, posting a notice on your door will not count as notifying you. They know you aren't there, so there's no chance they would think you saw it.

Pay the tow company. Sue both the tow company (in the event anything about the tow wasn't kosher) and the landlord, let the judge sort it out.Answer #3: Sorry this is a block of text, trying to post on mobile is a nightmare.

Some more info:

-I was given this info to my face. I do not have any emails or documents confirming the information I was given.

-A note was posted on my door (with enough time to move my car if I was actually in town) warning that it would be towed if I didn't move it for plowing.

- It was very clear I was gone. Rent was submitted early, I told the office, my car was probably piled with snow and unmoved and  notifications were still taped on my door regarding other things. Management has my number and my email. They also have the ability to send out mass emails to residents regarding things like plowing the lot, but did not.


Title: Writing a novel about a rape case - would appreciate help with some of the specifics.

Question:
I am writing a novel in which an 18 year old male is accused of raping an 18 year old female. She is found with evidence of battery, bruising on her head, signs of lashing by belt, his semen and evidence of penetration.

What would the legal process be in the following months? Where would the boy be held? What's a realistic sum for the bail? If he was let out on bail, would he be on house arrest or have a restraining order? What damages would she sue for? How long would his sentence be? Would the families be allowed any interaction? When would the first trial be? Anything else I should know? Most of the story would be told from the perspective of a younger brother, but I would like to know how it would work in the grand scheme of things, so any help would be greatly appreciated.

Thank you very much.

This would take place in a rural area, let's say Georgia.

Answer:
 The likely thing to happen depends on a lot of factors. Jurisdiction notwithstanding, does this person have a criminal history? What is their standing in the community?

It may be sad to say, but [a rich white boy](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/People_v._Turner) will be treated differently than a poor minority.


Title: A manager is messing with my dads commissions.

Question:
My father works for a jewlery retail store. A fairly big name that starts with  R. I'm not sure I'm actually allowed to say a name here.

Anyhow. A few weeks back, his old manager and most of the staff quit. Leaving him the only one working, giving him 60 to 80 hours a week for about 4 weeks., until the replacement workers came along with the new manager.

This new manager is a piece of work. He's knocked dads hours down to 15 hours a week, after releazing he knew most of the regulars, actually knew the governor by name(went to highschool together and governer gave the store a review and decided to buy stuff thru dad) and was making most of the sales for about 6 weeks. New manager didn't like this as it was making everyone look bad and he wasn't making the extra money.

Now. For for commissions problem. The new manager went behind dads back and stuck everyones names on the sales that dad and the old manager made over the past few weeks before the new manager came in, causing dads commissions to drop drastically to where they don't make a difference.

Is messing with sales even legal? Is there anyone he can let know whats going on that might do something?

Answer: If they fraudulently altered sales records in order to divert commissions, he should immediately start with all the documentation he can possibly save about the sales he made and the sales that were altered, and start complaining up the chain as high as his complaints can go. If there is no satisfactory resolution, he should consult with an attorney if the amount of money involved is worth filing a lawsuit over. As far as his current working situation, if his hours have been slashed, he may look for another job and file for unemployment as that likely constitutes constructive dismissal.


Title: Roommate/co-lease trying to ban my service dog

Question:
I have a mental disorder that it was recommended by mental health professional, I get a service dog.
I had one for a while (Faith) but sadly she developing behavioral issues causing me to retire her as a service dog and find her a new home as my landlord had kids and she was getting aggressive.

Fast forward two years and I’ve managed okay but the past few months it’s become apparent that even though I miss Faith, I require a new service dog.
I’ve been casually dropping to my roommate/co-lease that I need a new service dog.
But I with the holidays I wasn’t going to adopt/employ until the big money spending season passed.
That was until my sister and I found the perfect dog, he has all his basic training, house training, crate trained, good with kids and other dogs.
So my sister paid the fees and we agreed to split custody as we are both service dog trainers and wanted his final training to be well rounded.

I informed my roommate I got I service dog in training and she said she wanted a serious talk when I go home and leave dog with my sister.

Tells me that if I bring the dog in she’s going to the front office and turning me in furthermore she’s saying I’m breaking lease and I’ll have to pay it out and find a new place.

Our apartment complex allows pets
There’s a security deposit and monthly fee but it’s allowed and for service animals the fee is waved as it is an extension of their person and (when properly registered) a federal  or state employee.

I’m in the process of finishing out his last few required hours of training and going through the right process of getting him properly registered.
The id badges and certificate comes in the mail 7-10 business days.

Im not concerned about roommate going to office, but I want to bring my dog home, but can my roommate/co-lease really send me off if I bring him home??
Topic:
Landlord Tenant Housing

Answer:
 >...split custody as we are both service dog trainers...

>...extension of their person...

>...properly registered...

>...federal or state employee...

>I’m in the process of finishing out his last few required hours of training and going through the right process of getting him properly registered

This is all bullshit. None of this is legitimate. There is no service animal registration, a service animal is not a state employee, there are no course hours. You can't split custody with a service animal; it exists to perform a necessary service.

This doesn't sound like a legit service animal situation, and you seem to be woefully misinformed about how they work.Answer #2: You’re not describing a service animal. You seem to be describing an ESA.

There should be no “turning you in to the office” for an ESA. If you haven’t gotten an accommodation from the landlord to have your ESA it’s a pet, in violation of your lease if the lease doesn’t allow pets.

Your roommate complicates your request for an ESA accommodation.Answer #3: there are no registrations for service dogs. who are you getting these certifications from? your roommate can't kick you out for bringing a dog home. she has no authority to do that. only your landlord can evict you


Title: Miami, FL. Association asking for a deposit after we moved in, refusing to give us mailbox key and parking decal.

Question:
I need your advice. I recently moved to a non-gated community with an association, which is asking for a deposit equal to one month's rent. Our refusal to make such deposit is causing us all kinds of problems in the community and a great deal of stress on me and my family.

Let me give you more details as to how everything transpired. On January 2014, my wife and I started looking for rent in a better area, since our four year-old is set to start kindergarten this year. Our search lead us to a great property through a Realtor, near highly rated schools. Once our offer was accepted, we signed a one-year lease on April 21st with the following dues: first month, last month, a security deposit equal to a month's rent and background check fee. The lease was counter-signed by the owner on April 23rd, and our move-in date set for May 30th. Our Realtor then gave us the phone number of the association, and advised us to call them to find out what their requirements were. From April 30th to May 2nd, my wife placed nine calls to the association. Leaving multiple messages asking them to call us back; but they never did. We immediately notified our Realtor of what was happening, and the advice was not to worry about it; that they would

Fast forward to May 29th, one day before our scheduled move-in date. The moving company had been confirmed for the 30th; all utilities and services were scheduled to be transferred as well, and I received a text message from the Realtor informing me that I should talk to the association (again). My wife then proceeded to inform her of our previous attempts to contact them, and it was agreed that they would try to get in contact with the association once again. We moved the next day, and a couple of days later (June 2nd) the Realtor notifies me via email that they were finally able to speak to the association and the application had been attached to the email. Upon closer inspection of the application, I noticed the requirement of an additional month's rent as a deposit (see [this](http://i.imgur.com/q3vVJES.png)). We immediately notified the landlord, which then contacted his lawyers in order to review the legality of such request. The ended up sending an emergency motion for protective order against the association, of which a court hearing was set for July 18th.

Mind you, up until now, I still haven't been able to receive any mail, because the association keeps refusing to give us the key to the mailbox. I've already lost some very important pieces of correspondence, including my previous security deposit, first water & sewer bill, amongst others. The problem I'm facing right now is that it seems as if the case has been cancelled as per the last entered court case status (see [this](http://i.imgur.com/c47PE0Q.png)). I've tried contacting the landlord about it but I can't get a clear answer from anyone. And the association has started to threaten me with towing my car if I keep parking it in the unit's assigned lot, all because I do not possess a community decal. Something which they are also refusing to provide me because of this ordeal. I now have to park four blocks away in the street, and walk with my two young children every morning to our car, because I am afraid that our car will be towed.

Please help me! I don't know what else to do...
Topic:
Landlord Tenant Housing

Answer:
 Remember, this is the internet.  It's not legal advice.  Contact a lawyer familiar with your local laws.

I see some interesting things.  Looking at Section 16.13, the Association says that the leasing of any unit is subject to approval by the Association.

You say that your offer was approved.  Was this done by the Association, or by an agent acting on their behalf?

I ask because in that same section, it reads that the Association may, "[a]s a condition to the approval by Association of a proposed lease of a Unit, Association has the authority to require that a security deposit [blah blah blah]"

I read that to mean that the Association may require a deposit, but has to do it before approving your lease.  Once your lease was approved, and there's no mention of a security deposit, they're SOL.  I suspect when (not if) you end up in court about this, you'll win.

Regarding mail delivery -- Impeding mail delivery is a crime.  Specifically, Title 18, §1701. Obstruction of mails generally reads:

> Whoever knowingly and willfully obstructs or retards the passage of the mail, or any carrier or conveyance carrying the mail, shall be fined under this title or imprisoned not more than six months, or both.

I'd let the HoA know, demand the mail key.  In the mean time, forward your mail to a PO Box.


Title: Believe to have fallen foul of an internet scam is there anything I can do?

Question:
Hi. I live in the UK. About 2 months ago I bought my partner a collectors pen online from a company in the US. At the time it looked legitimate. I could find one complaint against them from back in early 2014 and a number of positive reviews on other sites. I paid just over $7000 for the pen, which was below other sellers but not so much it worried me, as the pen was a used one and others were new. After we paid we had a lot of difficulty initially getting more information out for him and he eventually gave us a parcel tracking number, but nothing was ever dispatched on that number even though it existed. Now I haven't heard from him in a month and my latest email got returned due to the address no longer existing. I also found today that this has happened to a number of other people. Is there anything I can do to get my money back? How and to whom should I report the crime?
Company is/was called HOROLOGY DETAIL in New York NY.

Answer: Contact your credit card company and proceed with a chargeback.


Title: Can a high school student be assigned to alternative schooling for bringing a trainer butterfly knife to school? Texas, USA

Question:
I raise this question because this happened to a friend of mine, and I believe that this punishment is completely out of hand, and I would like to help him out in any way I can. [Here](http://www.amazon.com/dragon-design-Practice-Trainer-offensive/dp/B01588DJZG/ref=sr_1_14?ie=UTF8&qid=1456873320&sr=8-14&keywords=butterfly+trainer+knives) is a link to the knife that he was punished for possessing. Although I don't believe that my friend did absolutely nothing wrong, I would hope that I, or he, could do something about this rediculous and completely blown out of proportion punishment that is potentially detrimental to their education (Since no teacher at the alternative placement school is qualified or is able to teach the classes he takes, nor can he enter any other school property without being arrested.)
From what I can understand, he did not violate the student code of conduct for the district, since it's rules regarding this type of act are the same as the Texas penal code, and cite the Texas penal code definition of a "Knife" [here](http://www.statutes.legis.state.tx.us/Docs/PE/htm/PE.46.htm). As one can see from the amazon page, the knife is within 5 1/2 inches, and does not have any blade, nor is it in any way sharpened. Also, he willingly handed over the trainer when questioned, and gave no resistance, which was noted by the school. The school also refused to, when sending him to a hearing, to change the offence from "had a butterfly knife" to "had a butterfly trainer knife" (I do not know the exact wording, but they refused to acknowledge it as a trainer in the disciplinary report). I don't know if anything could be done, but if anyone has any suggestions, i'd be willing to listen to just about anything, since he's received the maximum punishment possible before expulsion (that being 60 SCHOOL days in AHS). Thanks for any suggestions or insight you might have.

Tl;Dr: Student punished for possessing a "knife" at school, which is not a knife by definition of Texas penal code, which the school also uses.

EDIT: Realized I was mistaken as to the material of the "Blade"

Answer:
 To answer your question... *YES*.

Schools have wide latitude in making their own rules as to what is allowed on campus. Schools expel students for bringing "toy" guns to school. It is perfectly reasonable to do the same with a "trainer" knife.

If this is a public school, your "friend" can hire an attorney and try to fight the decision with the school board. Your "friend" can do the same if it is a private school too, but private schools have even more latitude and is even less likely to succeed.


Title: My nephew lied about the circumstances of a car accident. What happens now? [Location: California]

Question:
My nephew did something idiotic and probably illegal and I acknowledge that and this post isn't in any way meant to defend him. I (and the rest of the family) just wanted to know what happens now.

My nephew was in a car accident at an intersection that doesn't have traffic lights. It was a two way stop. The cars were spun from their original positions because of the accident. My nephew told the police he was on the road without the stop sign and the other car ran the stop sign. He made this statement to more than one officer and his insurance company and he signed a written statement for the police. The other driver was not conscious and was taken to the hospital without speaking to the police at the scene like my nephew did.

In reality my nephew was the one who ran the stop sign. The other driver had a dashcam it turns out she works in the DA's office in another part of the state. My nephew was on SnapChat when it happened too. The other driver needed stitches in her forehead and has a broken arm. Everything I have posted here to ask my question is known publicly and not a secret. My nephew is over 18, it was his car and although he doesn't have a criminal or arrest record I don't think it will help him here. His parents are getting a lawyer. I (and the rest of the family) just want to know what happens now and what the legal process may be. None of us know about this kind of thing.

Answer:
 Your nephew filed a false police report and attempted to commit insurance fraud.

That is a minimum of one felony.

He needs a lawyer immediately.

The legal term for the sort of situation he finds himself in now is "megafucked."


Title: Bit by roommates dog while carrying my daughter (Oh)

Question: My upstairs roommate in a double has a pitbull that they leave on a leash unattended outside. Everyday when I come home I have to walk behind the house instead of the main entrance due to having been bit before. This dog is aggressive, mean and not taken care of very well. I've said something to just take him inside when I get home but the dog is unattended every day so this isnt working. I pulled in today and did not see the dog outside and I was carrying my daughter in her carseat. The dog ran up onme and started biting my sweater. I couldn't get out of it without dropping my daughter so I ripped the part of the sweater he had locked on to and started running. Both of us could have been seriously hurt and I was assaulted. I want the dog off the property. There is no landlord. It is owned by my wife's family and we use the bottom half

Answer: File reports with animal control and ask the landlord to consider whether they can evict the other tenant.


Title: How sound is this advice from AskReddit?

Question:
So there was an askReddit thread "What are some early warning signs of trouble" that contains the following advice:

Contracts... If a contract is confusing, doesn’t make sense and is difficult to understand, there’s a reason for that. You're not supposed to understand it, they want you to sign it on faith. Don’t do this. This was a major cause of the housing bubble. Balloon loans etc...
Do this instead. Cross out lines of the contact that don’t make sense and initial them. Circle whole sections and note "I don’t understand or agree with this" and initial it. If the person wanting the signature says that just means... and it doesn’t sound bad verbally, you say: "Okay but you may not be around to explain that to someone in court, that needs to be in writing in the contract." They don’t want to rewrite it, they just want you to sign so things run smooth. Many times they don’t know what’s in the contract themselves, they just want it signed and if you make your changes most likely they’ll bury it in the file and forget about it while you remain legally safe. Also get a copy with your modifications. In most cases you’ll impress them and they don’t want to appear stupid.

How much protection would you get from circling a clause and writing and initialing "I don't understand this"?

If I went to court with a contract where I had crossed out and initialed a clause I was accused of breaking, would this hold up (assuming both parties signed)?

*Edit: Location is New York

Answer:
 You shouldn't sign a contract with parts you don't agree to or understand still in the text.  In this day of computers, it's not like it's hard to delete a part of a contract and print a new copy.

If it's something tiny, it can be changed by hand, but both parties should initial next to the change.  You should not count on circling something to get you out of a signed contract later on.


Title: Supposedly being charged for criminal mischief!

Question:
Okay, so I was at my weekend job the other day, Dunkin Donuts(in Swanzey, NH), and I cracked the glass on the latte machine. It froze, so I banged on it hoping to fix it like you do with everything else in the store, but it had a glass plate on it. It is supposedly a $2,000 dollar fix. The owner wants to press charges, what do?

TL;DR Broke a latte machine, am being charged with criminal mischief.

Answer:
 You work there?

At worst, you made a mistake. This is a civil matter; not criminal. Answer #2: He can't press criminal charges against you as he is not a police officer. He can report the incident to the police, who can then investigate and decide if they want to charge you with an offense (which they won't). Or he can sue you in small claims court (where he would lose). He is out of options. He is just trying to scare you into paying him money because its the only way he could get money from you.


Title: Sister was molested, should we press charges?

Question:
My sister M is currently 13. Earlier this year, she started self harming and one of her friends reported it to the school. M talked to a school counselor and confessed that she had been molested as a child by one of my cousins. The counselor then shared this information with my family (and the police I assume? Aren't school counselors mandated reporters?). None of us had even suspected a thing and it was horrible for pretty much everyone in my immediate family (no one outside my parents and siblings knew or even suspected). Now here's the part where I want legal advice:

My sister M was 7 when my 16 year old cousin molested her on 3 different occasions. She is now 13, like I said. Even if M does decide she wants to press charges (and I don't think she is currently in a place to feel comfortable doing so), is there like any chance in hell that something will come of it? The cousin who molested her was a minor at the time, no one witnessed it, and while I and my family of course believe M, it happened 6 years ago so I'm afraid there's not any "proof." Note: this cousin joined the military out of high school and we have not seen him in years. Does being in the military affect this at all, if charges were to be brought against him? I'm mostly terrified that he will be able to hurt (or has already hurt) other children and, of course, I also want him to rot in hell/jail for what he did to my sister. Pressing charges is ultimately going to be M's decision (with support from her therapist and all of us), but what are the odds that it's even worth our time (ie, will actually go somewhere legally) and her possibly having to see him again in court to press charges?

Answer:
 It's up to your sister to decide what's best for her. However, being a minor, this has almost certainly triggered your state's mandatory reporting laws, and the school has already reported this to their local child welfare agency. I don't know what state you're in, but here in PA, this would be reported to ChildLine. ChildLine then takes the information and relays it to the appropriate agency -- including law enforcement if appropriate. Your sister will have the option of not cooperating with law enforcement, which will almost certainly kill the case.

Yes, there's a chance something will come of it -- it wouldn't be the first time that perpetrators deny doing something. A growing number of municipalities have DAs and detectives dedicated exclusively to sex crimes, and we've learned an awful lot about handling and prosecuting these cases over the last 20 years. Don't worry about whether or not there's "proof"; many, many, many sex crimes are prosecuted without physical evidence.

In an aside, your sister should reach out to her local Rape Crisis Center. They provide free and confidential support for victims of sex crimes. Not only will they help your sister (and her family, if she so chooses) explore what options she has (including the choice of doing nothing at all), but they will also help her find out what resources your state has to help (such as free counselling). You can Google your state / county / city "rape crisis center", and you can also check in with RAINN.

https://www.rainn.org/


Title: Is this enough evidence to convict someone of assault and battery?

Question:
Gwinnett Co. Georgia, USA:

My now ex-girlfriend found out i cheated on her. She beat me to a pulp; bloody nose, open gash on an eyebrow (i did not hit her at all) i have photos of the aftermath of my face, along with a Tiktok video she posted of her saying she broke my nose and i deserve it, and that she feels no remorse.

Answer: You can absolutely report this to the police.  Whether she will be convicted of a crime is impossible to say.  You may also want to look into getting a restraining order.


Title: 3 Eggs and Ham

Question:
So me and my family moved into a house in the bay area about a year ago. Due to its location is quite expensive and honestly too expensive to be dealing with things like this. Recently our neighbors sold their house and the new owner keeps renting out the rooms to different people. The current owner has very nicely come up to us and asked that we do not park infront of her house and although it is not illegal to do so we understood and obliged.

Although we aren't "allowed to park" in front of her house, her tenants continously park infront of ours, sometimes taking all the parking spaces. The straw that broke the camels back was when one of her tenants parked on a red line and effectively trapped all the cars parked in the cul de sac inside. After this happened my dad had a talk with the guy and when he was done he said that the guy didnt take it well.

This morning around 4 am the guy egged our house. He threw 3 eggs, one at my window, one infront of our entrance door, and one on our roof (hence the clever title). We know it was him because I stay awake for a while on days I wont have school and play video games so I saw this all unfold. We reported it to the authorities but didnt tell them about the neighbors because we dont really have evidence and we are scared that the guy might do something else (hes had the cops called on him before and we think he thought it was us and therefore the egg thing was his revenge). In the meantime we bought cameras and we are going to make this known to the neighbor so that he gets a little spook (not telling him that we know its him)

My question is, should we take legal action on this although we dont really have evidence or is this too petty of a situation? I'm honestly a bit uncomfortable because im a 20 year old woman who is home alone often and it creeps me out that he choose my window to throw the egg (even though I've never talked to him before). We have never had a problem with neighbors before so we just dont know how to act. Thanks for reading!

Tl;dr: neighbor gets mad at us and eggs our house, we dont have evidence but I saw it happen because of my dysfunction sleeping schedule.

Topic:
Landlord Tenant Housing

Answer:
 I would have told the police who it was that egged the house. You actually witnessed the guy doing it.

Not sure what else aside from getting the cameras installed. Don't forget to report every time he trespasses. If the guy escalates things then look in to getting a restraining order.


Title: Roommate has an arrest warrant

Question:
Hey LA, my girlfriend's brother (who lives with us, lets call him M) has was notified on Friday (11/16) that he has a warrant for his arrest for his possession of drugs (MDMA I believe) that happened a few months back. I barely knew the details as it was none of my business but it is now. Today, I heard a loud knocking at our front door and was told by M that it's the cops, they have a warrant for his arrest and not to answer it as he's going to turn himself in on Monday to avoid having to just sit in a cell for 2 days and be processed or whatever on Monday. They knocked for a while, left and now of course I'm angry that he'd hide this from us. My girlfriend is pretty anxious about this whole thing. A few questions, will they come back and keep knocking all weekend or was this just a one time check the box 'yeah we tried' thing? What will happen if I leave my house to go to work, store, etc and I am approached and asked about him? Can/will they get a search warrant and come back? Am I looking at any legal trouble here for housing him?

&#x200B;

tl;dr; Roommate didn't tell me he has a warrant, told me not to answer the door for the cops as he plans to turn himself in on Monday. What could happen?

Answer: If you willingly withhold information from the police they can charge you for aiding a criminal and obstructing an investigation. I get that he's your girlfriend's brother but you're putting yourself and her at risk by housing him while he has an active warrant. If he does have to sit in a cell for two days to get processed then that's his own issue. He got caught braking the law and he has to face consequences. They will get him, especially since they know he's staying there. If I were in your place I wouldn't withhold anything nor would I help him avoid the police. By doing that you're also putting yourself in trouble. Tell him to turn himself in, it's a minor crime anyway and he's making it worse on himself and you by not doing so already.Answer #2: If he lives at your house they may just modify the arrest warrant and kick in your door to arrest him. You may also be facing aiding and abetting charges. If he has drugs in common areas you may be charged for possession or distribution.


Title: Nephew (6) tested positive for methamphetamines, worries about a HIPPA violation and how to best uncover truth/support nephews.

Question:
At first I was not sure if this belongs here but now I have a legal question below in tl;dr

Background: Last night, 3am pst, I got woken up to my nephew screaming. He was freaking out that he was surrounded by bugs and spiders. My sister said he woke up at 10:30pm from a stomach ache and threw up.

He didn’t have a fever so I called he nurse helpline and they said to bring him to the er. As soon as we got to the hospital the hallucinations subsided but he started getting all fidgety and neurotic.

Immediately I thought he looked like a meth head all twitchy, stuttering.... nurse and doctor sent out for urine and blood test and he came back positive for methamphetamine (something about both that it’s not just the kind found in adderal or Ritalin).

I don’t know what to do, my sister said she has nothing like that in her home however I don’t trust her. But I also know CPS  (since they’ve been notified) is scary and can possibly latch onto anything, so I don’t want to not stand by her if I have no evidence. She works for the county and keep applying for other jobs and days she is being drug tested....or so I think.

There’s two houses in the property I live in the front with my parents and she lives in the back with him and his 8 yr. old brother.

My older brother used to use like 6 years ago so maybe he left some at my sisters or gave her some and she uses?? BUT I should  note that I have no proof my sister uses meth, I have never seen her take any drugs beyond weed. I don’t trust her because I think she’s lazy and had two kids that my parents help support because she didn’t want to be a mom and instead paints a lot goes shopping and my parents enable her by just watching them.

So yeah I dont know if she is a junkie I’m just worried and don’t know how to react.

One random idea of worry that popped in my head was that the dad drugged him to blame my sister. Idk that’s WILD af but I also don’t put it past him he is crazy, assaulted my sister, and took 2 years for him to get my nephews on weekends now which I wholly disagree with.

 I’m so crazed, poor little guy doesn’t deserve this

It’s also Halloween time and he has already gone trick or treating at this neighborhood lake so idk if he was possibly exposed via candy which the doctor brought up initially however I know the possibility is minuscule.

Since the above has happened, cps got involved interviewed all household members, the babysitter, and school officials. Cops came by the house my dad spoke to them but did not let them or the dogs on the property.

——-////
LEGAL questions: my dad lives on the property but technically the deed is under my uncle and my name, I’m irked that my dad didn’t let he cops on the property (it’s because the land has an old semi truck parked out back and essentially and we would be fined) so I’m pissed cuz that’s no excuse and it’s such a low priority thing! So QUESTION 1: can I as a person on the deed rescind his no cops and let them on the property? Should I even do this? I’m essentially done trying to negotiate between parents kids and sister and just want the truth no matter the consequences.

QUESTION 2: HIPPA? while in the hospital multiple nurses came in to “observe” him, is this allowed even if they aren’t on his case? One EMT pissed me off again as he was transporting my nephew through the hospital and yes my nephew is not doing well screaming and twitching, & another doctor is staring at him and he nods to  the EMT like whats up? And the EMT says  to him “METH” multiple people were in the hallway that were not doctors, and this doctor was not assigned to my nephew. Is this ok to do?!

Tl;dr: nephew had hallucinations, anxious, tested positive for meth. Not sure if I believe my sister but also don’t want him taken away. HIPPA violation? Who gets to give access of the property to cops?

Answer:
 1: If the cops want on the property they're gonna be there. You're looking at mandatory reporters and a kid exposed to drugs.

2: No, that's not a HIPAA violation.

No, your nephew didn't get drugs trick or treating. Drugs are expensive. No one is giving drugs to children. Answer #2: > he came back positive for methamphetamine (something about both that it’s not just the kind found in adderal or Ritalin).

Neither of those drugs contain methamphetamine.

> can I as a person on the deed rescind his no cops and let them on the property? Should I even do this? I’m essentially done trying to negotiate between parents kids and sister and just want the truth no matter the consequences.

You can certainly invite the police into your home, if you want. I don't think that's necessarily a good idea at this point though.

> QUESTION 2: HIPPA? while in the hospital multiple nurses came in to “observe” him, is this allowed

Yes, that is allowed.


Title: How much legal trouble will the people who started the bushfires in Australia get?

Question: Obviously it’s illegal, but can they be charged with something like animal abuse or destruction of personal property? Can they be charged with manslaughter or assault for each person that’s injured and killed?

Answer: You know the reports of people intentionally starting fires were blatant climate change denial propaganda right?  The fires were mostly started by lightning, not people.  Please do your research before jumping to conclusions.  It makes the world a more ignorant and unsafe place.


Title: In need of advice pertaining to what sort of evidence would be needed by a company to prove that I was responsible for the destruction of a work laptop.

Question:
I've been working at a company for just under a year. I had been given a company laptop to do my work on, and It had been in my possession since day 1. About a week ago it shut itself off and refused to turn on, so I gave it to my manager for them to give to out-of-house IT. IT wiped it but also checked the internet history on the computer.

They found mostly youtube/facebook/wiki/D&D sites. I travel a lot for the job and so often times on planes/hotels, even down times in the office ill watch a youtube video or whatever to pass time. (Important to note, no porn etc. as I know that will likely come up as a question on here. Porn isn't something I even do at home).

Ultimately the wipe worked and the computer is up and running now. IT thinks it was a virus, and now the company that owns the laptops has said that they will be taking the cost of the laptop repair (roughly $350) out of my paycheck to not press legal charges.

Other things I want to add: even since day one the laptop has been spotty. it is something like 10 years old, and before it completely died and needed to go to IT it was prone to crashing/shutting itself down/blue screens (did all 3 my first day on the job). None-the-less, since management says the computer was "wiped" in preparing it for me, the apparent virus that caused the computer to stop working must be my fault.
Topic:
Business Law

Answer:
 Location matters a lot.

Also really important to note: you can make a case against the $350 charge, but it won't preserve your job if they want to terminate you over it, even if it wasn't actually your fault.

&#x200B;


Title: Nerve damage in fingers from being in handcuffs

Question:
I was temporarily in police custody recently and put in the zip-tie type handcuffs which were so tight that they dug in to my skin; causing cuts, chafing, and were crushing the nerves in my wrist causing my hands to be numb. I tried to get some help from an officer, but they would not do anything even though they were so tight that I literally could not move my arms at all and it was stretching my back muscles in a tight squeeze.

My problem though is that after sitting like that for 30-45 minutes, I have permanently (?, been a few weeks) lost feeling in the sides of my thumbs from my nerves being crushed by the edge of the cuffs. My question is whether or not I would be able to bring this up in court as a permanent injury? Someone I know is convinced that I should be able to do something about it, but another friend thinks that they will just pass the blame. I am in the US and I can add my state if need be. It just doesn't seem right that I could be permanently injured without being able to do anything about it, or am I being too optimistic?

Thanks in advance for your responses.

Answer:
 Do you have a medical diagnosis that you are permanently injured?Answer #2: Im going to say you're being very optimistic. You do not have a legitamite diagnosis from a trained professional.

Let's say you do have a permanant injury, though.
You've stated its been weeks; you should have sought out medical attention immediately following the incident if you were so concerned, that's going to make this even more difficult than it would be anyway.

First of all, go to a doctor - immediately. Confirm that the alleged injury was caused by excessive binding. Thereafter, call a lawyer willing to look into your case.

As posted in the sidebar to the right - A LOT of lawyers offer a free or very low cost consultation to evaluate if you have a case or not. Answer #3: >It just doesn't seem right that I could be permanently injured without being able to do anything about it, or am I being too optimistic?

Who said you were permanently injured?


Title: Am I legally allowed to cut off my limbs?

Question: I live in the United States. More specifically Iowa/Nebraska

Answer:
 It has been prosecuted in several jurisdictions, and you will almost certainly end up in the mental hospital for an extended period of time irrelevant of whether not you were prosecuted for a crime. The crimes you could be charged with range from assault to misuse of emergency resources. In addition you would be stuck with the bill as your insurance company would very likely attempt to dispute any charges.

It is the very definition of self harm and therefore it would be very easy to get you an extended stay at any one of the finer loony bins our country has to offer.

Needless to say, do not do this. If you need mental health resources those can be obtained. But I suspect this is some sort of amputee fetishism and as such you will need to engage with a mental health professional on a long-term basis.Answer #2: In the US, self harm that could be fatal is considered a crime so that the police can stop you. But if you've already done it, you won't go to jail or anything.

If you ask a doctor to help you, they'll probably refuse unless there's a medical reason.

If you tell someone and they report it, you might be placed on a 24 hour hold in a hospital to make sure you're mentally okay.


Title: My boss is threatening to fire me for taking a sick day (California)

Question:
I am a waiter in Los Angeles. I have a bad head cold, which I caught from a co-worker. On Friday, I had to go to bed early because of my headache and dizziness. Before I slept, I found a co-worker to cover my shift on Sunday.

I worked Saturday, mostly because the last time I tried to get a sick day on the night prior to a shift, my boss told me it wasn't permitted.

I discussed this with my employer on Saturday, and he told me to "tough it out". I explained that that is what I'm doing today, but the cocktail of prescriptions and cold medicine that I took in order to make it through a very long day was taking it's toll, and I'd need the next two days to recover. (I have mondays off)

[I have read this webpage, detailing the laws regarding paid sick leave.](http://www.dir.ca.gov/DLSE/Paid_Sick_Leave.htm)

I'm not asking to be paid. I just want to get healthy. My boss is threatening my future with the company, because according to him I need a doctor's note. I don't see anything regarding a doctors note anywhere on the internet, and I don't see anything regarding unpaid sick leave either.

Can someone please help me with this?

Answer: I bet your local Health Dept. would be interested to know that your boss wants you to be serving food to customers when you're ill.


Title: Absurd federal laws we call break

Question:
Some background - I was in a discussion about privacy and pointed out that just because you have nothing to hide doesn't mean you should permit the authorities to rifle through your life. And from there I transitioned to the fact that there are numerous small federal laws that we probably break on a daily basis. I recall one about transporting live lobster across state lines or something.

Anyway, I am not a lawyer, but I thought those who are could provide some examples of those crazy laws that exist, but likely aren't enforced.

Answer: Start [here](https://www.amazon.com/Three-Felonies-Day-Target-Innocent/dp/1594035229).


Title: Ex-husband got the timeshare how to I get my name off of it- Florida

Question:
Hi!
About 5 months ago my divorce was finalized (YAY) in the divorce we each took a timeshare, he was awarded our Florida timeshare. In the last five months he has not made any progress in taking his name off my timeshare (Hawaii) and has not made any payments (maintance or taxes) for the Florida timeshare per the divorce decree. I have done my part on both yet he has done nothing. Now because he has made no payment on the Florida Timeshare they are contacting me because "we" are delinquent on the fees. I have informed them multiple times that I have the divorce decree which shows that he is the one responsible for that specific timeshare.
Now it gets more fun because my ex filled for bankruptcy which was finalized 2 weeks after our divorce and I think because of that I was moved to the Primary on the account. I am not sure what my next steps are and my lawyer right now is unsure because my divorce was in Massachusetts. I want my name off the Florida time share without paying the fees he is responsible for and I want his name off my Hawaii time share. Any help would be great!

Answer: The timeshare people have no obligation to let you off of the debt, or out of the contract. If your ex has violated the court order, then you have to take him back to court for contempt.


Title: Should I sue the other party (who I had formerly known) for recurring pain after t-boning me?

Question:
I've had a bit of a conundrum lately deciding whether or not to sue the party who had t-boned me a few months ago. This was a significant accident that was a few feet away from my car hitting into a pole, but thankfully I was driving a safe car that protected me well. But with the impact from the accident I've had recurring back pain, and I've had a lawyer who wants to take the case indicating that it could be worthwhile as I was not-at-fault.

However, what complicates this is I had previously known the other driver from high school and while I hadn't particularly liked him I'm not sure I want to specifically sue him. Assuming that the settlement would come 100% out of the car insurance liability limits and not his pocket I wouldn't feel as bad but I still wish I hadn't known the other driver as it complicates this.

My collision coverage did cover my car and as of right now auto insurance paid for 70% of my medical bills and I am awaiting to see what the health insurance does. If I do end up personally receiving a bill it's more likely I'll go ahead with suing him.

Should I sue for recurring back pain, or is it not worth the complication of suing somebody I had formerly known? This was in The Garden State.

Answer:
 Up to you. There's not really any legal advice here to give, simply do what makes sense for your priorities.

Me personally? I'd sue. Burning bridges with one guy from the past is worth being able to pay for ongoing treatment. Medical bills are insanely expensive.

It's not any more complex *legally* than suing anyone else .


Title: Sister hit driver, she doesn’t have insurance. Other driver is refusing to contact theirs and is expecting cash immediately for his vehicle.

Question: My sister was involved in an accident, and was uninsured. Another car was involved, and damaged. They did not file a police report. The driver is now claiming he does not need to involve his insurance and is attempting to extract a lump sum from myself and my sister based on an estimate from a mechanic. After suggesting his collision insurance may cover his vehicle and recoup expenses from my sister, he began threatening in vague terms to “take this to a personal level you won’t like”. I’ve never been involved in anything like this before and am attempting to provide guidance to her but am not sure what to do. Any assistance is greatly appreciated!

Answer: He can sue her. Which is what would happen if he files a claim with his insurance, only the insurance would be suing her not him. So either way she is liable. This is why you don't drive without insurance.


Title: If I send someone an anonymous postcard that says "One day you will die." Does that constitute a threat or harrassment? (United States)

Question:
The back of the postcard would explain:

"Someone you know wanted to remind you of your inescapable mortality.  Have a nice day!"

Answer:
 My wife teaches elementary school and often has the following conversation:

* Her: "Why did you do that?"
* Child: "He did it to me."
* Her: "Did you like it when he did it to you?"
* Child: "No."
* Her: "Then why did you do it to him?"

Which is a long way of saying, it's probably legal (assuming no other relevant surrounding facts), but why would you do it?  Don't be a dick, being a dick isn't funny.Answer #2: I think the implicit read that a jury would come to is "One day you will die (at my hands)"

That while not an explicit threat, it could certainly be implied and give rise to a credible fear.

I think phrasing will be exceptionally important should you send this to someone who is litigious and the most risk averse move would be to forbear.


Title: seeking clarification of "quiet enjoyment" clause in tenancy agreement (NZ)

Question:
i am attempting to find a flat once the lease on my dorm runs up but have been running into significant problems as i wish to store firearms in my rental and every property manager i have spoken to has turned me down because of it. I have the appropriate paperwork for all of them and have never run afoul of the law, my interpretation of the "quiet enjoyment" clause is that i am allowed to participate in any legal activity within my rental provided i do not disturb neighbors or other tenants or damage the property. Can somebody please clarify this for me?

thanks
Topic:
Landlord Tenant Housing

Answer:
 You don't get the benefit of a "quiet enjoyment" clause until after a landlord has decided to sign a lease with you.

Edit:  After seeing your reply to the deleted comment, it seems to me that your true questions is whether a landlord is able to discriminate against you because you own firearms.  Maybe somebody else can answer this.  I don't know the law in New Zealand concerning firearms ownership.  Good luck.


Title: Texting my Drug Dealer, Cops has his phone.(Tx)

Question:
I've been texting my dealer without knowing that his phone was confiscated by the cops. I was trying to bring back an ounce of marijuana back to him. "have the oz on me waiting for your reply" I contacted him through his social media to find out he had a new phone and the other one was with the cops. So my question is what can I do? I don't know how long they had his phone. Will I get in trouble? Can they see the messages or is it most likely destroyed?
Topic:
Drug Possession

Answer:
 They can most likely see it if the phone was still on-network when you sent it.

Yes, you can get in trouble for it.


Title: Woman is saying I stole from Lost and Found.

Question: So basically, I was at a store that I go to every other day, and they had a lost and found. Whenever I see a l&f I take a peek inside just to see what’s there. Well, this time, I saw a decent coat, so I took it. As I walked out of the store, a mother and her teenage boy stopped me, and said that they were coming to retrieve the coat. I asked how long it had been in the store, and she said over a month. She then said that I must give it to her, or she will call the cops. I shrugged her off for being rude, and left the store. She has  now decided to camp out at the store every day, and whenever she sees me, she yells at me to give it back. Do I have to?

Answer:
 >I was at a store that I go to every other day, and they had a lost and found. Whenever I see a l&f I take a peek inside just to see what’s there. Well, this time, I saw a decent coat, so I took it.

That is theft.

Stop confessing to criminal activity, and stop stealing.

The next victim may not be content with talking to you and may call the police instead, which could lead to well deserved criminal charges against you.


Title: I'm an investigative journalist. Can a judge unilaterally restrict my access to the county courthouse?

Question:
I am located in Clearfield County Pennsylvania. I have committed no crime, and have not been given a reason as to why my access is restricted.

Previously, the president Judge confronted me and said that I was not allowed to be in the courthouse unless I had a good reason. He said he would determine whether or not my reason was good enough. I was then escorted out by police.

Today I went back in for the first time since that incident and was detained as soon as I entered the courthouse. My picture was hanging behind the security desk. I had to wait for a police officer to escort me around the building. Each time I had to tell him where I was going and why I needed to go there.

I repeatedly asked what the grounds were for this decision, but all the officers could tell me was that the judge said I "had become upset and loud the last time I had visited the courthouse." That's obviously not true, but I wasn't going to argue my word versus their word in the hallway.

Does this judge have legal ground to stand on?

Answer:
 Yes. You have no right to be there. You have been told you are not allowed there without prior permission. Anything else may be considered trespassing at this point

Side note: don't piss off judges. It goes badAnswer #2: I was actually going to disagree with /Napalmenator and say that it's pretty hard to ban a specific journalist from covering court proceedings barring bad behavior (first amendment and all), but then I found this:

https://np.reddit.com/r/CorruptClearfield/

You aren't a journalist, you are a severely damaged person who has business before the court constantly because of your behavior. You need to heed the judge's warning (and probably move/start over)


Title: [AUS] Online gaming banned by association

Question: A few days ago wildcard developers of Ark survival evolved banned myself and 200 other members of the group I play with and wiped all progress we had in the game. Although the has been no explanation other that a standard copy paste response from support. The players who submitted the evidence that promoted Wildcard to act have posted it publicly. In the posts only one or two members of my group used an exploit on another server and then posted about it in a public discord(voice and text chat service). As far as I know I have not broken wildcards rules or benefited from these players actions. As I am Australian my purchase of the game would fall under Australian consumer law but my has members from all over the world. Is there anything worth while i can do about this?

Answer:
 I'm not a lawyer or Australian.

You know those screens with the long, boring, seemingly useless blocks of text that you click through to play almost any game?

It usually states that they can revoke access to online features of the game for any reason (or no reason).


Title: Company laying off employees but will not release non-compete agreement (Florida)

Question:
I work for a large hospital in Florida through a contractor whose contract is expiring August 14th. Many of us are very worried about this. The hospital I work for wants to transition us to work for them since most of us do a good job, and we just got word that my company is not willing to terminate our 6 month non compete agreement even due to the circumstances. Which means we wont be able to work for the hospital directly for at least 6 months.

My company has offered for some of us to work different locations, but are purposely not providing us any info. Will our pay be the same, what this "new" job will be, will everyone be offered this position or just some of us, etc. They made it clear not everyone will be offered something but nobody knows who will or wont. Not to mention, if some of us simply dont *want* to do this new job.

&#x200B;

So my question is, what is the penalty for violating the non compete agreement in Florida. Due to the lay-off circumstances, do we have any leverage at all? I can provide more details if needed. Any advice/help would be greatly appreciated!

Answer:
 Florida requires Non-competes to be supported by a legitimate business interest.

I don't know what your job is and you did not provide that information, so I have no idea whether or not a legitimate business interest would be protected by your non-compete.  I have to say that if the hospital is going to hire you at all, they are likely to have to "buy out" your contract.  They can't just decide you work for them now with no repercussions.


Title: How can I have criminal charges (fraudulent btw) filed against me when there were no cops involved?

Question:
So, my sister has apparently been using my identity and there are now criminal trespass charges filed against me which I am having to go to court for. Today was the first court date and I had a lawyer and put in a not guilty plea. My lawyer asked for a copy of the charges since we were both in the dark being that I was not actually involved. Well, turns out that the complaint was filed by a civilian, not a police officer. So, my question is how is it possible to have criminal charges filed against someone by a civilian when there no real evidence and just going off their word that the name they are giving is accurate? That's seems so absurd to me. They just take anyone's word for it and file serious charges that require someone to appear in court and fight to clear there name just because some person decided to file a complaint? How does this work??

I am assuming that she was giving people my name, so the man who filed the complain knew her as that name, but still, there would be no real evidence against me because I was not involved. So they just take any person's word who walks into the court and says this person did this, and then file criminal charges? I am so confused!!!

Answer: File a police report against her for stolen identity.


Title: [California] Not being selected for a lease because we are not a family.

Question: [deleted]

Answer:
 > What can/should we do in a situation like this?

find another property.

while it is generally illegal to refuse to rent based on family status, it *is* legal to refuse to rent to you on your perceived ability to adhere to the terms of the lease and pay the rent on time. roommate fallouts are *common* (we get them here on /r/legaladvice several times a day) and they cost landlords money in lost rent, evictions, and trashed property that is usually not recovered.


Title: If I am committed to a mental hospital, is it legal for future employers to refuse to hire me as an RN?

Question: I am located in Pennsylvania. I'm in my last year of nursing school and have had suicidal thoughts for some time. I'm afraid that my therapist might try to have me placed in a mental hospital. Are future employers legally allowed to obtain this information? If so, are they allowed to refuse to hire me strictly on that basis. I appreciate any input!

Answer:
 Future employers will not have access to your medical records, yay HIPPA. This isn't your issue.

Your issue is the nursing board. They may require notification, follow-up, or treatment compliance checks on your mental health, and employer disclosure, depending on your diagnosis. Some diagnoses may require license suspension or denial.

My girlfriend RN indicates that a diagnosis of bipolar disorder is one where they get all up in your shit. However, major depression is not such a diagnosis.

The issue, of course, is patient safety. You will not be permitted to practice if your mental health condition threatens patients. The nursing board doesn't care if you kill yourself, only if you kill patients.

Edit: If they excluded everyone with mental health issues (including my gf), there would be no nurses. Check with your board.


Title: Need to recover judgement from former tenants who didn't pay rent now owe 15K

Question:
My mom was renting out a house to some folks for two years. Things went bad and they got way behind on rent, and eventually lived in the house rent-free for about 6 months. Long story short, my mom sued and was awarded $15,000, but has yet to receive a cent from these folks. She's still in contact with them occasionally, one of them even had the audacity to show up at her doorstep last week to collect a package that was shipped to the house by mistake. The guy has a long history of bankruptcies, liens, and court cases against him, so yeah, our bad for doing business with these folks in the first place.
My mom is elderly and these folks just plain took advantage of her, and this has taken an enormous toll on her financial and mental health. What on earth do we do now?

Location: **Howard County, MD**

Answer: Research post judgment relief. She can garnish their wages, if she knows where they work. She can seize money from their bank account, if she knows where they bank. She can file a motion for them to appear to answer questions so that the will know where they work and bank, etc. Answer #2: If they ever paid her with a check drawn on an account in their name, then she already knows where they had (and perhaps still have) at least one bank account.  She can learn how to garnish any accounts in the names of any defendants at that bank.  Her bank will be able to send her a copies of the fronts of any checks that she deposited from the defendants (since she presumably no longer has the checks).


Title: Can my school legally force me to get out of my car?

Question:
I am currently in high school in Louisiana. My school has a student parking lot to allow students with their own means of transportation to drive themselves to school. Students who are dropped off by their parents or the bus are required to go to the "commons area" inside the school in the morning before the bell. The administration, however, requires students who drive to school to go to the commons area as soon as they get to the parking lot, no matter how early. Many of the students, including myself, usually disregard this rule and like to stay in their cars before going to class. This is usually not a problem except sometimes there is a monitor in the parking lot who will literally come to your car and tell you to get out and go inside. This happened today and was threatened with a referral the next time it happened. What I want to know is, do they have the right to legally do this? Do I have the right to say no?

Edit: Thanks for all the quick responses! I guess I'll just have to deal with it ;D
Topic:
Traffic and Parking

Answer: Yes. Their campus, their rules. Doubly so when this is school discipline, not legal charges.  Your options are to arrive at school later or to follow instructions.


Title: [Alabama] Can't get state ID because I'm homeless and don't have proof of address.

Question:
I'm a young adult from Alabama. I'm trying to get a state ID from the DMV, but I'm unable to apply because I don't have an address or proof that I'm a resident of Alabama.

I understand the need for proof of address to get a driver's license or state ID, but there should be some provision for homeless people, right? I spoke with several people at the DMV, including the manager on duty, and they didn't know how to help me.

The only documents I have are my birth certificate, my social security card, and my photo ID from when I was in high school. This is a big problem for me and I would greatly appreciate any guidance.

Answer: Contact a local homeless shelter. Many shelters will let you use their address for residency and/or give you a residency letter. You may also have luck with local churches or other aid groups who can help you get your ID..


Title: What to tell judge if I forgot to do my community service?

Question:
So, I was ordered to do 35 hrs for public intox and the case would be dismissed. Totally forgot to do them and now it's too late. I completed 10 hours yesterday but my courtdate is today.

The only thing I have on me is a sheet that's supposed to be signed by the director of the volunteer place I went to. It's not signed and there's no proof of my 10 hours.

This is my first offense.

Answer:
 The truth.

Don't be surprised if they still throw the book at you. Judges don't tend to accept "Sorry, I forgot" as an excuse. The only worse thing you could do is lie.


Title: Very little blood taken at arrest of DUI. Possible to fight?

Question: [deleted]

Answer: There are always possibilities to fight things.  We, however, cannot guess at the likelihood of your success.  Ask your rockstar.


Title: please help need immediate advice credit card fraud

Question: so about 2 nights ago i walked out in the middle of a serving shift at my restaurant manager was going crazy that night 1 day later i get a call from my co worker saying someone called in saying their credit card was used there for food and he wasnt there it was made under my account on the last shift i worked before i left i was then told by co workers the customer was filing charges for the 8$ and there may be a warrant for my arrest please any advice would be appreciated what happens in these situations will i experience a high fine jail time should i surrender myself too the police station and ask if i really do have a warrant i live in scottsdale arizona and plan on going into the scottsdale police department tomorrow morning but need advice from anyone out there on how i should proceed

Answer: slow down. So you allegedly charged a credit card that didn't belong to the person who presented it for payment?  And no don't go to the police just yet.


Title: Slipped on ice outside my apartment, broke my leg, apartment insurance says it isn’t their fault.

Question:
Early in March I slipped on ice outside of my apartment and spiral fractured both bones in my lower left leg. The ice was in the driveway of the apartment, was not salted or treated in any way, and I was not intoxicated, high, or impaired in any way. I went to the emergency room in an ambulance, got my leg put into a temporary splint, transferred to another hospital, and had an x-fix (a metal frame on the outside of my leg) installed. I was in the hospital a total of three days.

After a couple weeks of the frame, I went back for surgery on my leg, where they installed pins and all that internally. During this time my doctor told me I was not allowed to put weight on my leg for at least three months, and I recently learned I’ll likely have physical therapy after recovering enough.

When this happened, our landlord told us that they would handle everything, that “this is why we have insurance.” Fast forward to the present, and their insurance is denying liability, saying that they can’t control the weather. I have health insurance that is covering some of the costs, but I’ll likely still be paying at least $10,000 in medical bills, if not more.

Is there anything legally I can do here? It seems to me like this should be an easy case of “we screwed up, we’ll take care of it.” I’ve never had to deal with anything like this before (I’ve never even broken a bone before!), so forgive my ignorance.

TL;DR: Slipped on ice and broke my leg in the driveway of my apartment complex, apartment insurance won’t accept liability.
Topic:
Insurance

Answer:
 >  It seems to me like this should be an easy case of “we screwed up, we’ll take care of it.”

Slipping and falling on someone else's property does not automatically make them liable. Ultimately, liability will depend on how responsive they were to the conditions, if they knew or should have known of the ice accumulation, if you knew or should have known of the ice, among other things.

> Is there anything legally I can do here?

Contact a lawyer to see if you have a viable claim. Many will offer free consultations in cases like this.Answer #2: The disappointing answer is that it is quite possibly not the apartments liability. Ice slip and fall injury tends to be fairly limited by contribution of the person walking being reasonably aware it was or could be icy. Nebraska in winter is icy, and people are conditioned to exercise reasonable caution when walking around outdoors.

To show liability, you should need to show (way oversimplified) that the area you skipped in was both prone to excessive, unsafe levels of ice, and the management was aware of this problem, and they failed to act to remedy the issue. If it was just an icy spot in a snow covered driveway vs. a gutter drain that routes melted snow straight down a walkway, causing a major slick spot, the outcome of a PI action would probably be different.

If their insurer is denying the claim, all you can really do is contact a personal injury attorney who can more fully evaluate the matter. You do have a significant enough injury that I would suggest you do so, if for nothing but to be sure it isn't something you can easily pursue reimbursement for your medical bills from their insurer.


Title: [CA] City Tree fell on my car while I was driving

Question: As the title says, a fairly large city tree fell on top of my car as I was driving through a residential neighborhood. As a result, the entire front of my car was smashed in. I, thankfully, only sustained minor cuts from the shattered windshield and some minor injuries from the impact; however, I did not require any emergent medical attention. Los Angeles Sheriff on scene gave me a police report number and told me that I should take this up with the city since the tree was city property. Luckily I have full coverage insurance and have already gone through the initial process through my insurance company. My questions are 1) Do I have a claim against the city? and 2) Is it even worth trying to make a claim against the city given the uphill battle of trying to prove the city was negligent against an "act of God"?

Answer:
 Yes you should pursue a claim against the municipality. You need to start looking into this now, as filing a claim against government often has a much shorter time limit than the statute of limitations for personal injury/property damage. Since you've already spoken to your insurance company, ask them if you are supposed to pursue the claim or if they'll pursue the city for you. Go to the website of the government entity and find the form that allows you to submit and file claim against them - a lot of places have it available online, if not call.

I'm unsure if the act of God thing will play a role, but just wanted to say you dont know that it was necessarily. Perhaps the tree was dying and the city had neglected to remove it after it became unsafe, perhaps they did some digging that damaged the root system, etc. It doesnt hurt to file, you'll either be approved or denied and can fight it if you wish.Answer #2: I'd talk to your insurance company -- once they make you hole, they may very well choose to sue the city themselves to recover the damages.  It would be unfortunate to bring a second lawsuit.

IANAL, but it's something about them having made you hole means *they* are now the ones who are damaged, not you.


Title: Using FMLA leave to leverage a wage increase?

Question:
Basically, a few employees who are very involved with an annual project I work on just left the company, which sort of presents the perfect opportunity for me to ask for more money. As it happens, I also became a parent recently, but haven't taken any unpaid leave (just 2 weeks of vacation when the baby was born). If my employer denies my request for more money, is there any reason I can't take a month of FMLA leave during the project when they need me most?

Edit: Illinois

Answer:
 >If my employer denies my request for more money, is there any reason I can't take a month of FMLA leave during the project when they need me most?

Your actions will be transparent and will guarantee that your future in this company consists of nothing more than you have now -- at most. They will never respect you after this and contrary to your belief, they will find someone else who can do your job.


Title: Raped by a drug dealer

Question: Several months ago, I was raped by a dealer who drugged me. I tried to report what happened to the police, but he found out and began claiming I was insane. He later tried to frame me for a crime. I've been afraid to talk to the police since then, and I don't have much evidence. I have tried to do some asking around in my social group, to which he is connected, and found out he has done similar things to other women. I am afraid of him, but I want to make sure he can't hurt anyone else again. What is the best legal way to take him down without risking his retaliation?

Answer: you report it, and report your fear as well and move for a restraining order. Answer #2: What do you mean by "I tried to report it to the police"?     Did you go to the police station and tell them you had been raped?    Did they investigate?   Time is of the essence in all legal matters, but especially so in crimes like this.   If you have not made an official report on this, you need to immediately.


Title: I need help, Walmart threw away my wallet.

Question: So I lost my wallet about a month ago and I assumed I lost it at a lake. I could of sworn I had it there. However I went to Walmart to pick up a money order and the lady asked if I was picking up my wallet. Well she calls a manager and for about 15-20 mins of waiting she calls them again and they apparently threw out my wallet. It had my if and social security card in it

Answer: You should replace your items and keep closer track of your wallet in the future.


Title: Bought a dog on Craigslist owner wants him back

Question:
Not sure if this post belongs here BUT I was wondering if anyone can give me some advice.

I bought a 1 1/2 year old puppy from Craigslist yesterday afternoon. I fell in love with the dog instantly as did my kids everything went smooth. The owner was rehoming the dog due to moving across the country & moving into a smaller dwelling. Today the owner calls me & asks for the dog back.

My husband said no , we paid for the dog,  they gave up ownership of him he is ours & not to give him back. I feel terrible ,however I love our new furbaby he is perfect for our family. My son loves him & it just seems unfair to rehome a puppy then ask for it back.

Not sure what I am supposed to do . Has anyone  encountered something similar ?

I am located in NJ

Answer: Tell him to pound sand. Keep any emails you exchanged with the seller and proof of payment if you can. But if he sues you for the value of the dog you will have to respond.


Title: [International] I'm an atheist whereas being atheist is punishable by death in my country. Do I have a case for asylum anywhere?

Question: I live in Iran where apostasy is punishable by death and I happen to be an atheist and a strong one at that. I really want out of this country at any cost and I am content with even Eastern European countries. So where in the world do I have a strong case for seeking asylum?

Answer:
 I can't tell you how European countries would work, but in the US asylum can be based on persecution for political belief or for belonging to a certain social group.  (It can also be based on belonging to a religion, but atheism does not fit that area).  Professing atheism in a country like Iran certainly might qualify you for asylum based on both of those categories.  [Here] (http://www.asylum-abuse-immigration-lawyer.com/asylum-for-atheists-the-intersection-of-three-protected-grounds-by-elizabeth-r-blandon/) is a discussion of an attorney who helped a client gain asylum in the US based on the rejection of Islam by someone from Iran.  I believe you may have a case for asylum in countries that recognize those same bases for asylum.Answer #2: This is going to sound strange but have you considered South Africa? They have very easy asylum policies and if you have a bit of money the standard of living is good. Plus, you are less likely to run into prejudice against Middle Eastern refugees that can sometimes be a problem in the US  and EU.Answer #3: Jesus Christ dude ( no pun intended). But you should be able to ask for asylum in any EU country. But please make sure your government wont find you online.

Do you have any means to run out of your country safely?

Edit : spelling mistakes because I'm on the phone.
As for the asylum request, I just want to make it clear that in the European Union every member country has the EU provisions applicable roughly the same.

But god damn I really want an update on how this is going to work out for you. I wish you the best.

Btw, you can try Romania for starters. You can go wherever you want from there.Answer #4: How sure are you that they aren't monitoring your internet use?