Title: Neighbor placed glass on porch to kill my cat

Question:
Hello I live in Florida and had a question as to what im able to do regarding my neighbor threatening to kill my cat. My cat was outside yesterday and was on my neighbors lawn. She came to me belligerently screaming to get her off or she was going to kill it. I immediately took my cat home and she is now not ever going back outside. This morning, I wake up to her placing shards of glass all over her front yard. When she saw me she started yelling again and said if my cat comes on her yard again ill have the “pleasure of seeing my cat ripped to shreds by the glass”

I immediately called the police, and when they spoke to her she said it was for “roof runoff” , whatever the hell that means. They said there was nothing that they could do, they told her to remove it and left. Im aware that animals are considered property, so they cant arrest her for threatening to kill my cat, but can they do so if she is actually carrying out the intent?
Topic:
Other Civil Matters

Answer: You can call the police if someone harms your cat. But you should not let your cat tresspass.


Title: I just got hit with an OUI (DUI in many states).

Question: I need a way out, a loophole, a good excuse to end this. I have studied law for maybe 16 years and got acquitted the last 2 times I was arrested but this one is tough. I have to pay big and I will, I live rein MA btw. I was driving to the store, the charges are OUI and driving to endanger but it wasn't like I was playing GTA and running through pedestrians, poles etc. I wasn't in the left lane or speeding. I didn't get the field sobriety test just thrown in cuffs in the car. I have court tomorrow with a public defender, my last 2 cases  I beat but this is harder, I represented myself last time. I don't know a OUI will ruin my life.

Answer:
 > got acquitted the last 2 times I was arrested ... my last 2 cases I beat

1. How?
2. So you've been *caught* three times driving drunk. And presumably have driven drunk many, many other times and not been caught. Check in to AA or some other substance abuse program pronto. Hire an attorney.

> a OUI will ruin my life

Not as much as plowing down a kid accidentally. Check in to AA or some other substance abuse program pronto. Hire an attorney.


Title: Suing a Mobile App Game

Question:
Location: Los Angeles

So I've been playing Star Wars: Galaxy of Heroes by EA Capital Games studios for the last four months. It was a fun mobile game that helped get me through tedious work days. In essence, you collect and level Star Wars characters and use them to battle in different game modes, varying from Player vs Engine battles (PvE) to battling other Players for in-game currency (PvP). I ended up making a good amount of in-game purchases over the period I was playing (an estimated $2500 total over 3 months) and made it to the top of my server's arena, which generated about $3 of in game currency a day. About two weeks ago, I purchased the iPhone 7 and traded in my iPhone 6 when buying it. After restoring my phone's backup, I downloaded the game and opened it only to realize that none of my progress was there. I began exploring other options as to how I could possibly access my account on my new device. After about a week, I exhausted my options. My account could not be accessed and I had to contact EA support in effort to recover my account. After contacting them, I was given the runaround about 4 times (resolution team said they were escalating the case and later closed it without following up). After several tries [I finally had a member of EA support flat out tell me that my account was permanently gone and there was nothing I could do about it.](http://imgur.com/a/MHYdG) I contacted the iOS app store resolution center to request a refund from my purchases, but they replied saying it was between me and the third party (EA).

Note that this is an online game. Everything you do in the game, every button you press, requires interaction with an EA server. My team is still holding a rank in the Arena, other players on my server are still battling me. Members of my guild still see my player profile and inventory on the list. Other players who have added me via Ally Code and use my inventory and interact with me. My account was even "linked" to my facebook, from which I can view my player ID #.

In essence, I vested time and actual money into a game only to have it be completely deleted because EA Capital Games mobile game uses a primitive method of account management. I've exhausted my options in effort to recover my account and neither the Apple App Store nor EA have given me any sight of compensation or resolution. I'm not sure where to go from here, but I feel like I've been flagrantly robbed.

Answer: Did you at least learn something about spending money on 'free' games?


Title: Looking for advice regarding service animals (Oregon)

Question:
I am just wondering what the rules/regulations regarding service animals when renting houses/apartments are.

I have heard that when a service animal is entering a business/establishment, the only thing the person can be asked is "what task is the animal trained to perform" I'm not sure that that's actually even accurate, but I am wondering if there's anything similar regarding housing.

Answer: When a service dog or mini horse enters a facility, those are the only recognized service animals, then yes. Your emotional support aardvark is not protected by the ADA, but is protected by the Fair Housing Act.  In that case they can ask for a note from a medical professional verifying the need. In the housing context you are entitled to a reasonable accommodation, which still allows verification of the need.  And in he housing context there is no such thing as a “certified ESA.”


Title: (Missouri) Our house was burglarized. The cops have recovered the items. A suspect is avoiding their arrest warrant. Can't get our stuff back until court proceedings are over. What are our options?

Question: We were burglarized a month ago.  Within the week, the cops had recovered our things.  They eventually issued warrants against three people.  Two of them have been arrested (one is headed to prison for parole violation, another rolled over and is witness now).  One of them is avoiding her search warrant (issued on 12/13) and the cops say they can't arrest her until they find her and if she isn't answering the door, there isn't much she can do.  My question is, what are our options?  We had posted on social media explaining there was a warrant and she was charged with burglarizing our house, with photos asking people to call police if they see her.  They reported the posting though and it was removed from facebook.  Does anyone have any advice after being in a situation like this?  Would talking to a lawyer at this point?  If I do hire one, how much would it cost?  If a lawyer could help us get our things back, would I be able to file the costs as part of my restitution repayment?  They stole just over $10,000 worth of electronics from us as well, if the cost of property has any effect in this.

Answer:
 > Would talking to a lawyer at this point?

Probably not.

Your items are evidence in the theft case.  If the prosecution needs it to prove their case, then they need to hold on to it.  A court is unlikely to force them to return the evidence, as there would be a Constitutional issue for the defendants.

You can speak to one, to see if perhaps they can offer you something.  You can also ask the prosecutor to drop the charges, which would remove the need to hold on to the evidence.  Of course, that also means they don't get punished, and you don't get restitution.


Title: Mom Unjustly Fired by Corrupt Supermarket Chain after working for 20+yrs

Question:
TL;DR: Corrupt company fires mom after 20+yrs of exemplary service, justifying with seemingly planned false and unfair write-ups for last two years, plus a bunch of other messed-up crap.

Sorry for the long post but there’s just a lot of backstory that seems relevant and I’m still pretty new to reddit.

Important facts: Story takes place in Florida, company does not allow unions.

My mom has worked for this employee-owned company for more than 20 years. She has always been a hard-worker, passionate and knowledgeable about her job. In the early 2000’s she was offered a management position but had to turn it down due to being a single mom and having advanced cataracts (when you’re a manager the company can basically move you wherever you want and cataracts and long night drives don’t mix well).

Later on after my mom had cataract surgery and I was old enough to take care of myself, my mom tried again and again to apply for management because honestly she was grossly overqualified for her position which created resentment between her and management that frankly was less qualified and knowledgeable than she was. However, her attempts at applying for management were blocked because of a report of corrupt on goings that she made to HR which responded by retaliating against her and basically having her blacklisted.

Fast-forward numerous years of being stuck in a dead-end job that she was over qualified for meanwhile management becomes more incompetent and corrupt with each year. Now, within the past few years the increasingly garbage-quality management at my mom’s store had started messing with my mom’s schedule (she cannot work at certain times of days and in certain positions due to hearing and vision disabilities) forcing her to have to constantly beg her co-workers to switch with her each week so that she could do her job efficiently and not get in a car crash. After jumping through hoops with HR, this mess was finally sorted out but there has definitely been backsliding on this matter with management towards the end of the story. However, in addition to messing with my mom’s schedule, over the past two years, management had written my mom up a few times and even suspended her once, each time for incidents that were unjustified and untrue. Basically just management ruining my mom’s previously spotless record. In addition to all of this, my mom had been constantly mistreated and verbally abused by management. HR had been contacted, investigations were done (very often resulting in reports that were full of lies made up by management). At one point, a department-wide investigation resulted in all of the management being transferred out which helped for a bit but, transfers are common in this company and it didn’t take long for more corrupt managers to take their places.

 Eventually this all cumulated in my mom being called up to the store manager’s office one day recently, and being fired for “a history of misconduct” (of course this “history” just being the last two years or so of disputed write-ups) and sent on her way after more than 20+ years of dedication to this company. It wasn’t until 6 weeks later when she even found out the supposed incident that caused her to be fired. In a response to her appeal of termination among other lies was the claim that she had been fired for cursing out a manager, which of course she didn’t do.

As this job doesn’t really pay much, my mom has never been very financially secure. Losing her job is a big deal not only because now she cannot pay her bills, but also because she lost her health insurance which wasn’t great but at least helped her manage her many health problems. The only other person she has in the world is me and there’s not much more I can offer her in the way of support than a hug and this reddit post. She’s been pounding the pavement since literally the day she was fired but, no one will hire someone who was fired. She hasn’t even been able to receive unemployment because she was fired for “misconduct”. I have been telling her to sue the company for years but neither of us knows the first thing about the subject and of course, she has no money.

We would really appreciate any kind of advice.

Answer:
 She can appeal the denial of unemployment.

If she was discriminated against because of a disability, she may have a legal claim. But she has to act fast. I suggest trying a consultation with an employment lawyer to see if there is a basis for legal action.


Title: University parking lot had a pole driven at the end of a parking spot, on the line. Bumper completely removed.

Question:
[deleted]
Topic:
Traffic and Parking

Answer: When you drive into a stationary object it is your fault. Also, if you were backing out I would argue that the spot was perfectly safe since there was apparently enough room for you to pull into the spot.


Title: I fell through the ceiling of my friends attic 12 feet to the floor below in his rented apartment.

Question: [deleted]

Answer:
 Why would you sue anyone for something that is your fault?

You can try getting in touch with either your friends renters insurance or the homeowner's insurance.


Title: Can my sister legally take our dog?

Question:
This is happening in the suburbs of Chicago, if that matters.

On January 12th, my parents adopted an 8 week old puppy from a local rescue. The rescue required that all family members living in the home meet the animal, so the three of us did. I go to college out of state but live in my parents' home over breaks and between semesters.

My older sister just moved back into my parents' house, and today she and my parents got into a fight over the dog.

She told them that they didn't care about him and that if we didn't start taking care of him exactly as she wanted them to, she would take him with her when she eventually moves out.

This isn't true. We love him and give him the best care we possibly can. My dad paid for the dog, he is microchipped and registered in his and my mom's name.

My sister was not present at the adoption, and she is not a permanent member of the household. Can we pursue legal action if she tries to take our dog?

Answer:
 Dog Law specialist here.

Legally it’s your parents’ dog. If she steals it, treat it as you would if she’d stolen a barking couch.


Title: [MI] My car hit while parked, other insurance denying responsibility.

Question:
Location: Michigan.

My car was damaged while parked legally on a public street when someone backed into it and drove away. A witness saw it happen, got the license plate, and called the police. Police arrive and took a statement from the witness, who stated that as this happened, 2 people came out of my neighbors house, so the police went to talk to them. The occupant of the house (We'll call her Heather) said her son (Gavin) and step son (both 16, no licenses) were in the car. She said the car was being loaned to her by a friend, and her son (Gavin) took the keys off of her dresser. The step son admitted being a passenger and said they fled the scene because they were scared, and only the step-son returned home, Gavin ran in an unknown direction. The car is insured by the actual owner (a woman living in a nearby suburb).

I got an estimate and contacted my insurance company, who then sent a copy of the police report (I also have a copy) and the estimate to the insurance agent of the owner of the vehicle. The agent responds that she got in touch with the owner of the van, who had no knowledge of the incident. Now, 2 weeks later, the van owner's insurance agent contacts me and says that since Gavin was not a permissible driver and joy-riding, the owner of the van and her insurance are not responsible, and told me I must sue Gavin's legal guardian since they have no insurance of their own.

Now I obviously don't want to pay my deductible since the car was legally parked, but now I am facing paying the deductible and a rental car for 9 days while my vehicle is repaired because of this mess. Do I have any recourse against the insurance company denying the claim? It seems like the owner would be liable because it's pretty foreseeable that the son of the person it was lent to could take the vehicle and be involved in an accident. Thanks in advance.

Answer:
 The insurance company doesn't owe you any money.

The driver of the car (or his parents if he is a minor) owes you the money.  If the insurance does not cover it, then they have to pay out of pocket.

If they refuse, you have to sue them in small claims court and obtain a judgement against them.Answer #2: >Now I obviously don't want to pay my deductible since the car was legally parked, but now I am facing paying the deductible and a rental car for 9 days while my vehicle is repaired because of this mess.

You'll have to do this anyway, it's not going to get taken care of over night.

File a claim with your insurance company. They will go after the other driver to recoup costs, who's insurance company will defend him. There will probably be a settlement between the two companies, which should cover your damages but may take a while.


Title: [Arkansas] Psychiatrist refused to refill my wife's meds, resulting in a seizure.

Question:
My wife has some emotional disorders and was admitted to a mental health facility around 10 months ago.  When she was released, she was referred to a local psychiatrist so she could keep up with meds outside of the facility. We'll call her Dr. L.

Over the next few months my wife worked with Dr L. to refine her medications, even going as far as ording a genetics test to see how different medications metabolize in her system. This all resulted in a cocktail of drugs that my wife has been on since about 6 months ago. As a note, about 4-6 weeks ago Dr L. moved from one clinic to another.

About 7 days before running out of these medications, my wife tried to call Dr L. for a refill. A few days later and no word back, so my wife calls again. The receptionist said we needed an appointment, but Dr L. didnt have an opening the rest of that week and was on vacation the next week. We asked what we should do, since we were told my wife should NOT stop these medication suddenly. She said we'd get a call back.

A couple days later and we call back after again, not hearing anything. We re-explain the whole situation, and the receptionist excuses herself to talk to the Dr.  She comes back and said "I talked to the doctor, and she said the new office isn't a good setting to see you in, so go back to [clinic Dr L. was originally from] and they can refer you to another psychiatrist."

They are unable to have a psychiatrist see her until after the following week as well. We explain the situation, and they suggest we try contacting the mental health facility she was admitted to at the beginning of the year. They were not able to fill the meds either, and they were only able to refer us. The earliest appointment we could find with ANY psychiatrist was yesterday, 10/04.

By Thursday, 10/03, my wife had been off of her meds for a week and was feeling it. She went to work and a few hours later suffered a seizure. She was rushed to the ER where she stayed until her appointment yesterday (due to complications after arriving), when she was finally able to get the meds refilled.

Every doctor we have seen since being admitted to the ER has said the sudden stopping of the medications caused the seizure, and could have been fatal. This is supposed to be very well known for this class of drug. They also ran several heart and neurological tests as well as CAT scans and xrays to confirm there was no other cause for the seizure.

My question is do we have any legal recourse to recover damages from Dr L. or her old/new place of work? My wife called days before being out of meds, followed up several times, and was essentially forced to go without her medications (which could have been fatal) until she had to go to the ER.

Answer: You should seek a free consultation from a medical malpractice attorney. Advice on medical malpractice is generally outside the scope of this sub.Answer #2: If anyone finds themselves out of medication and waiting to hear back from your doctor/health care provider, talk to your pharmacy, they may be able to provide you with a few days supply until you’re able to get authorization. I’d imagine they know better than most the risk in immediately stopping a medication you shouldn’t.Answer #3: When the doctor moved clinics 6 weeks ago, did they confirm they would retain your wife as a patient?Answer #4: It sounds like you could’ve visited the hospital or urgent care for a script prior to running out of the meds. I feel for you and your situation - but there are things you could have done to prevent this from happening. You can also visit her normal pharmacy and get an “emergency supply” of 3 days. They offer that service for situations like this. It sounds like you relied solely on that doctor when you had endless resources in front of you.  I don’t see how the doctor was negligent enough to claim malpractice.Answer #5: agree with the malpractice attorney and i know of someone who passed away from a seizure related to benzodiazepine withdrawal while in county custody.. stuff like that is deadly serious.  hope you can get some resolution with an attorney


Title: ESA Dog vs My roommate who's allergic

Question:
Background: In college, just moved into an apartment with three people I'm not friends with..

I'm getting my ESA dog in a few weeks and I've warned all three of my roommates. I've been seeing a therapist for the past 5 years and got proper documents for this dog. I'm not getting a dog just because - I have good reasons. My mother died and my father died while I began college so I'm practically alone. Anyway, one of my roommates claims that she is severely allergic. I'm willing to work with her and ensure that the pet stays only in my room and isn't in the main area. However, she seems adamant on me not bringing it into the apartment.

 If she goes to our landlord, is it possible that she could win and get my animal removed?

Answer:
 [One of the reasons](https://archives.hud.gov/news/2013/servanimals_ntcfheo2013-01.pdf) that a landlord can deny a specific service animal is:

> (1) the specific assistance animal in question poses a direct threat to the health or safety of others that cannot be reduced or eliminated by another reasonable accommodation

Your landlord could allow your roommate to transfer between apartments if they are available, for example.

The landlord is in the unenviable position of requesting evidence from both you and your roommate that you have disabilities and need accommodations for them.

Your contribution to resolving this issue could be to get a hypoallergenic dog, or not a dog.

But otherwise your landlord has to balance competing accommodation request, and yours is likely to not prevail.Answer #2: > If she goes to our landlord, is it possible that she could win and get my animal removed?

Yes, definitely possible.


Title: Leaving my current job, I rent from the owner. Given 30 days.

Question:
I've worked with my current employer for 9 years now. It's a summer seasonal job. I also rent a House from my employer at a discounted rate.

The house I am living in has been sold. We had a verbal agreement that I would work 3 shifts a week. I'm return I would be able  stay at the house untill the end of September.

Upon telling him I would no longer be able to work with him, I was notified that I would have to be out of thr house by the end of August.

Do I have any ground to stay until the end of September or longer? Or does he have any ground to get me to leave even sooner?

Topic:
Landlord Tenant Housing

Answer: You broke the agreement.Answer #2: Usually 30 days notice is what he has to give. He gave that, so theres not much you can do other than be out at the end of August. If you stay longer he may try to evict you which is never fun for anyone.


Title: (NJ) 529 WENT MISSING NOW FOUND

Question:
My parents started a 529 plan for me when I was born. They had been actively contributing to it since the time I was born up until about 2 or 3 years ago. However, my parents divorced before I even began high school with the agreement that my father would be the custodian and I the sole beneficiary.  Despite many disagreements, both my mother and father would contribute to the plan and it would go towards my education.

Fast forward a few years: I begin attending a 4-year university and my already unstable relationship with my father and his new wife completely crumbles and turns vindictive. Towards the end of my freshman year, my 529 was suddenly gone and “completely depleted”. I even got a few “don’t-go-looking-for-it”s and so on and so forth. However, tonight my father seems to have suddenly “remembered” it still exists during another financial/legal argument. Finally, I have verbal confirmation that it does (and it should) still exist. The amount he says that is in the account is sufficiently less than what it should be but regardless, it would be incredibly useful to me. Since it vanished, I have been struggling to finish my education and have been paying for it myself without his help. Do I have any legal right to the account? Do I have any legal right to see what he has used it for other than my education since I am the beneficiary?

Answer: You have no legal right to that money. Sorry. A 529 is your parents money that they saved in an account that gives a benefit if used towards college. But it is still their money.


Title: Dog died from Rat Poison (NY)

Question:
My 9 year old lab died a few days ago and the vet got back to me on the autopsy. He died from rat poisoning after eating a rat. We don’t have any poison but one of my neighbor has issues with rats and has rat traps (black box with holes). I’ve alerted my neighbors with dogs about rat poison.

Is there anything I can do?

Update: A neighbor with a dog came by and told me the person who poisoned my dog says he bred/bought rats, poisoned them and let them go. I'm not sure if he's telling the truth but he live next to the neighbor with the rat traps and they don't like each other. He is willing to be a witness if I report it to the police. I live 4 houses away from the house with rat trap.

Unfortunately, I don't know what to do. We've never had rodent problems for 5 years and I haven't seen any around my home.

Answer:
 Not really. Putting rat bait on your own property is legal. This is just an unfortunate accident Answer #2: No. It doesn't sound like your neighbor intentionally poisoned your dog. You are responsible for supervising your dog and making sure he doesn't eat things he shouldn't.

Sorry about your dog.Answer #3: Vet here. There was no malice on your neighbor's part, and you are responsible to keep your dog under your full control at all times. This is an unfortunate accident, and your neighbor is not at fault.Answer #4: I am so sorry you lost your lab, it was a terrible accident but not an illegal one, again I am so sorry this happened.

 I know what it's like to lose your pet due to someone using poison, it's terrible


Title: Public school with rules against piercings

Question: I am in TN and asking this for a friend of mine who recently started school. She goes to a public school and they recently pulled her out of class to tell her that her nose piercing is breaking the schools policy. I always thought that any type of body modification was completely okay in public schools as long as it didn't have inappropriate messages stemming from it. Is there any recourse for her here or are schools really allowed to dictate what piercings you can have ?

Answer: The school can have and enforce a dress code.


Title: 10 Month Old House Foundation is Screwed.

Question:
# Background

Location: Alabama, US

We closed on a new build home last November. Throughout the past year, we've had cracks on the walls that the builder came and patched up. However, the painter didn't use the same color so it was very noticeable. In the process of just staring at the wrong paint and talking about how the builder hadn't responded to our messages to come fix it, we noticed that the same areas had cracked again. We knew our one year warranty was closing in and consulted our relator from our purchase of the home (a close friend) what we should do. She said she would help and to send all the photos of the cracks. When she saw the cracks, she knew something was wrong with the home.

# Contacting the builder about problems

We contacted the builder with our concerns through our realtor. He came over with a structural engineer and said everything was normal and that there was nothing to worry about. Obviously we didn't believe him, and got our own unbiased specialist to come look at it.
Our specialist knew there was something horribly wrong and did many in-depth tests around the house, in side and out.  He came to the conclusion that the house was settling heavily unbalanced and this should NOT be happening after ten months if the foundation was done correctly. I don't think i need to get into details, but he was very very certain the foundation was terribly screwed. He sent us his proposal and report with all his photos and documentation.

# Why I'm here

We are preparing to send the builder a certified letter in the mail with the proposal and also over email to make sure this is documented that this is happening within the one year warranty. Even though i think it is clear this was just ton terribly wrong and the warranty shouldn't even matter if it wasnt done correctly from the start.

I just want to make sure that we go about this letter the right way. **Is there a certain layout or anything i need to use to do this? I have been documenting all communication with the builder in case we need it in court.**

Any other advice will be greatly appreciated.

# TL;DR

We bought a brand new house ten months ago and the foundation is screwed. We are trying to get the builder to have to pay to fix it.
Topic:
Landlord Tenant Housing

Answer: For something this major, consultant with an attorney specializing in real property would be your best bet. You have one chance to do this right before your warranty is up. Yes, it might be covered anyway, the consultation fee will be well worth it.


Title: New management is saying my garage is not included in lease. Chicago, IL

Question: When I first sublet this apartment 10 months ago the garage was included and a huge reason I choose this place. Parking in Chicago sucks so having this garage helps so much. I signed a lease in May under my name and I was still using the garage and the old management was aware of this. Now 3 months into my new lease we have new management who is telling me since the garage is not in my lease I can't use it unless I pay additional for it. Well it is already an added fee for me but I don't have that on my lease. All I have is a statement from the old management with rentalable items and my name is next to garage two. Any advice? I'm also trying to get an email from the old management saying it was agreed between us that I can use the garage and it's already in my rent price. Thanks!!!!!

Answer: If your name is next to a garage on a written communication associated with the new lease, you've got a decent case. Nothing new from the old management is going to help you here. It would have to be communication during the time they managed the unit.


Title: I have a copyright dispute for an instrumental I remade on youtube, is this legal?

Question:
Only thing I can see being copyrighted is the the sample that is used during the main melody but I am not being copyrighted for that specific sample, instead I am being copyrighted for the instrumental remake itself.

What can I do? thank you all.

EDIT: I will be contacting the original sample owner and see what I am able to do from there. Thank you all for your advice.

Answer:
 It is unclear what exactly you remade. If you performed an existing song that is not in public domain, you might be violating the composer's copyright.Answer #2: You most likely have a strike not a copyright dispute.

YouTube not only follows the law but has additional rules they apply. These are not laws but rules. What likely happened is a bot listened and thought what you have is the same thing that is under their control.

So they flag your video. YouTube has a process which you can go through to dispute the claim and remove the strike

It is quite possible an error. Just look around YouTube and you will see dogs barking and cats meowing and someone got a copyright strike for that. It was an error with the bot.

Or maybe you did violate it. The only answer is to go through the dispute process. YouTube isn't going to tell you exactly what is wrong because if they did you would simply take steps to cover it up next time. Well maybe not YOU but others might if they knew.


Title: Georgia - dad quietly gave away all his money and assets before his death and left his wife (separated) almost nothing. Wondering if my trust is safe for me to spend or if I need to consult a lawyer.

Question:
My father married his wife four years ago. They separated about a year ago. Shortly after that dad started having health issues and said he didn't want the stress of a divorce to pile on, so they've just remained separated but were still legally married.

Dad's illness became terminal and he passed away a few weeks ago.  Since then we have learned out that he got rid of a lot of his money and assets, donating to everything to hospitals and libraries and whatnot. He did this quietly and requested that his name be kept anonymous so no one had any idea until his finances were examined.

We have learned that the first thing he did is put mix six figure amounts into trusts for my brother and I. After that he sold or donated pretty much everything.

His will leaves everything to his (separated) wife, but it looks like there's very little left - five figures and a car (obviously this is substantial, but it's a pittance compared to what he had before).  The probate lawyer kept saying there might still be money tied up that can be found for her but so far he keeps coming up empty.

His wife is furious.  She basically believes that he screwed her out of inheriting everything on purpose.

There is a probate lawyer involved who told my brother and I that since dad set up the trusts months before his death and because of the nature of trusts, they aren't even part of the probate process, so they are available to us immediately.  (We also know that dad's mental state was solid, which is a long story.)

However, dad's wife has "warned" us that she intends to take legal action to have his pre-death actions reversed.

I would like to use some of the trust money sooner rather than later, but I am worried about whether her legal actions could cause the trust to be reversed in some way.  I know this is a complicated situation, but I am wondering if this is (a) probably not something to worry about or (b) probably something to worry about and I should consult a lawyer.

Thank you.

Answer:
 I would not touch the money personally until I retained my own lawyer to examine the trusts / will / local legal framework.Answer #2: Best friend went through a very similar situation.

It sounds like your father has safeguarded you by leaving the entirety of the estate to her but you need to hire your own lawyer to investigate just to be safe. They will certainly postpone your fees until everything is settled.

I do have a curious question: does your stepmother work? If so, what is her income like?


Title: [MA] Found out my immigrant husband only married me for citizenship - I want out - divorce help.

Question:
So I met my husband 3 years ago at a concert. He is originally from Latin America and came here because his country is struggling. He was trying to get political asylum.

We became friends and soon after started to date and he pushed the idea of marriage very fast, I was reluctant but agreed because he would have more job opportunities if he had his green card and we could actually start saving money and focus on having a family and whatnot. We have been married for 6 months. Also, he still hasn't even applied for his green card, dispite me paying and doing my half of the process.

Once we got married he completely changed; started to become more demanding and controlling. I have PTSD (child abuse) so I have certain triggers and I try my hardest to be very clear with how I'm feeling and if something upsets me. He will know leaving the store without a word to me, triggers me - I feel scared and abandoned and I'll have an Anxitey attack - but he always does it, no matter how much I explain to him and ask him to please not do it.

He also uses my mental illness against me. We'll be having an argument or I will say something he doesn't want to hear ("I don't think we can afford to eat out tonight" real example) and he will flip out on me and call the cops, which in return means I'm taken away to the psych ward because cops won't listen to me because I am crying. He has done this to me 5 times in the past 6 months.

Recently, his friend from his country (the three of us play Xbox together) admitted to me that he [my hisband] had told him that he's only with me to become a citizen and that he admitted that he can't stand me or my "issues".

I just got off the phone with my husband, 3 hours of being yelled at because I couldn't bring him my tablet the second he wanted it and I'm frankly fed up but I don't know what to do. I'm not sure if the fact that he's still techically and immigrant has anything to do with the divorce process and Google has been failing me. Any advice appreciated.

TL;dr: husband and I got married quick and have been for 6 months. Once we married he changed became angry and controlling. He still hasn't done his half of the green card process. Triggers my Anxitey and recently found out he may just be using me. How do I even begin s divorce? Mess free divorce I'm praying for.

Answer:
 You need to consult a family law attorney at your earliest convenience. If you need a referral, contact MA's state bar association.

http://www.massbar.org/for-the-public/need-a-lawyerAnswer #2: It sounds like you are being abused, and should seek help from a women's shelter in your area.  Focus on your physical and emotional safety first, and sort out the details of a divorce later with a competent local divorce attorney.


Title: Selling Leather Jacket with motorcycle club patches, contacted by member saying they were "stolen property"

Question:
EDIT: I live in Pennsylvania

I buy and sell on eBay as a side hobby. I purchased this leather Harley Davidson jacket that had some patches on it affiliated to a certain motorcycle club. I got a message on eBay from a chapter president saying I needed to return the patches as there was a written contract that they had to be returned when done, whatever that means.

I messaged the member back stating I purchased these off a garage sale and never meant to disrespect his organization. I told him I'd be glad to sell the vest with patches back to him for what I paid, but I would not remove the patches as this would likely damage the jacket and leave faded spots from the patch underside.

I got a somewhat friendly message back, but he stated it was stolen property and that I needed to return it.

Is this legal? I don't see how a club can demand patches back. Any help is greatly appreciated!

Answer: They probably just don't want someone who is not a member wearing their colors.  You legally purchased it from a garage sale so, unless he has some sort of previously filed police report detailing that specific jacket as stolen, I'd imagine he just wants the patches back.  Your offer is reasonable.  Maybe you could bring up to him where you bought it from and let him has it out with his apparently now former club member.


Title: How can I make sure this is Legit?

Question: Sorry but I dont know if there is a better place to ask this so here goes. A friend just received a job offer from A company out of Laredo Texas but she will be a work from home employee and she lives no where near Texas. The offer states they are going to send her a check to deposit for expenses such as software she will need and also petty cash. Besides calling the company and speaking with HR is there anything else she should do?

Answer: Scam.  Check is fake.Answer #2: This is a very common scam.  Do not engage.


Title: Can my friend get in trouble for being at a drug dealers house for unrelated reasons?

Question:
A friend of mine, an older gentleman, has been seeing a younger man with a very bad cocaine addiction, for about 2 years. They don’t even know each others last names, and it is a very casual arrangement. It has come to my friends attention as of late that the younger man has had a much larger quantity of cocaine out whenever he is over (as he uses it during their “activities”), as well as multiple baggies packaged with the product which has led him to believe he has started dealing.

My friend is worried as to if he would get in trouble if there was theoretically a raid of the younger mans house while he was there. He never partakes, and has never done anything other than (legal) cannabis. We are located in Ontario, Canada.
Topic:
Canada

Answer:
 It kind of depends upon what you mean by trouble.  If you are asking if he can be arrested if a raid was conducted while he was inside the house, the answer is absolutely yes.  If you are asking if he could beat the charges stemming from the arrest, the answer is it's possible.  I don't know if Canada has constructive possession, so I can't say for sure.Answer #2: If your friend is there when police kick down the door for a raid, nobody is getting out of there without handcuffs.

If he’s not around and the young man gets busted, he’s probably ok unless the young man has info on him (even a phone contact) connecting your friend.

Legally speaking, it’s generally not a great idea to associate in any capacity with people who have large amounts of cocaine laying around.


Title: HOA Accusing me of speeding

Question:
CENTRAL FLORIDA

On my neigborhoods HOA facebook page, there was an individual who created a post stating the following:
"To whom ever are the parents of a young kid in the sanctuary who drives a white 2 door bmw.... please know multiple times I have seen him driving very fast and sometimes recklessly. SLOW DOWN!!! please dont risk others lives or your own.... especially in the neighborhood... theres are so many kids and pets!!"

I own a 2-door white bmw, I am also a younger guy. My car is decently LOUD in 1st and 2nd gear and some people seem to interpret that as speeding. I abide by all traffic laws within my neigborhood, although I will admit I will occasionally go slightly over the posted 25 never breaking 30. Another women commented stating that this same car has almost hit her as she is pulling out of her driveway, but I have a feeling that she thinks she has the right of way as soon as she puts her minivan in reverse. A couple of the comments claim that they are going to try to get a plate on this vehicle. I am not sure if this is my vehicle they are referring to but when this message is displayed to an audience of nearly 600 members of my community it has me worried. Can these accusations gain any legal traction from hearsay? and is this by any means considered slander and/or defamation since it pins me up almost as a target for the other members of the community to scrutinize when I don't believe I have done anything wrong. I appreciate all responses.

Answer:
 That's not hearsay, it's witness testimony. Not that that matters anyway since we're not even talking about court here.

Yes, people can observe you. Yes, people can post about what they see you doing on facebook. Yes, people can also call the police on you.

No, not even close to defamation or slander.

Stop driving like an asshole (at least in the neighborhood where you've attracted this much attention to yourself). Answer #2: Quit speeding in your neighborhood, and quit buzzing around in a lower gear than necessary so your car doesn't sound so loud?  Just a thought.Answer #3: Not sure what you mean about legal traction, but the only thing you have to fear is an HOA fine.  As you've stated, you're not even sure they're talking about you; thus your reputation has not been damaged, so slander (this is written communication not verbal)  and libel are out.  Aside from from the foregoing, defamation causes of action are very difficult to win.Answer #4: You might also consider getting a dashcam with mph display. If the HOA does issue you a fine you will have footage refuting it.


Title: Questionable pet policy (OH, USA)

Question:
Hi all. My fiance and I moved into a town home recently (May). We read the lease and thought that everything looked pretty straightforward. Initially, we didn't want a pet because we weren't sure whether we could afford the extra charge a month. After working and managing the bills for a while, we decided to go ahead and get ourselves a furbaby over the weekend. Before we went off and recklessly bought a puppy, we looked our lease over closely and didn't see anything that could have prevented us from getting one. So we got a miniature dachshund puppy about two weeks ago. We left the pup at my mom's house until we heard back from management.

This is where the problem arises, management is saying that we cannot have a dog that is under a year old. However, it is not stated anywhere in the lease, nor did we sign on anything that says the dog has to be over a year old. We did find the height and weight requirements on the website, but still nothing about the age requirement. It says to call for more details. Other than specific numbers, shouldn't all of that be included in the lease and the addendum? My understanding is that the lease is supposed to include the details (other than specific numbers) that they want for their pets. Also, I didn't ask, but I'm almost certain that there is no age restriction on cats.

We are more than willing to pay the nonrefundable pet security deposit (which I'm pretty sure isn't right either, but that's a story for a different day...) and monthly fee. We would like to have our puppy here with us, but we don't want to breach our lease agreement either. I don't know what else to do, we've scoured everything we can think of. I guess the next step would to bring in lawyers or something, but I would really like for that not to happen. I can give more specifics from the lease and the email that I sent after I talked to them in person if that would help. Any and all advice would be appreciated here.

TL;DR: Management is not letting us have a puppy even though there is nothing in the lease preventing us from having one.
Topic:
Landlord Tenant Housing

Answer:
 If your lease or any documentation pointed to by the lease doesn't state there is an age requirement, then there is no age requirement and you're free to have the puppy.

Let them know you're getting a dog, the restriction is not anywhere on the lease or supporting documents, and that they can accept the deposit now or anytime after when they request it.


Title: Accidentally figured out a few thousand people's login information, should I be worried?

Question:
I'm a high school student in a pretty large school district, at least for Idaho (we have more than 20,000 students in my district). Every student has a username and password to login to their computers and access their grades, email, and files.

The problem is, these usernames and passwords follow a pattern, and I managed to figure it out. I tested it out by logging into a few of my friend's accounts and it worked, so it told them about it. After that though, I realized the magnitude of this.

I could now access the grades, emails, and files of everyone in the district. Even though I obviously don't know everyone here, the school's mail service provides you with enough information to login to anyone's account, even if you don't know them or you're like 8 years older than then or something. It feels like an overwhelming lot of power for a teenager and I'm surprised it's not more secure.

Now I'm scared that, since I told a few people about this, it might spread and someone at the district could trace it back to me. If this happens, could they press charges or would fault be on them for setting up the system poorly? Should I be worried? I don't plan on abusing my newfound powers beyond harmlessly messing with my friends that know about this, but I'm kinda scared that the district won't see it that way and I could get in some serious trouble for figuring this out.

Answer: Report your finding to the school. They have a security issue. Acting on your knowledge could get you in trouble. Now especially that you have told others about your discovery, you are at risk for anything bad that happens. All you need tell them is you verified it with a friend, and think they should know.


Title: Reddit is broken. All comments are being auto deleted. It is not you. Please don't Mod mail about it.

Question: [deleted]

Answer: I thought I was losing it.


Title: Connecting flight rebooked to more than 7 hours later (EU)

Question:
I had a flight booked with Iberia from Bogota --> Madrid --> Valencia (Spain) with Iberia, on one ticket. The original connection involved a 2-hour layover in Madrid. I have just received an e-mail saying the Madrid to Valencia leg has been cancelled, and they've booked me on a later flight, which means my layover in Madrid is now 9 hours. After a 10-hour economy overnight flight from Bogota... no thanks!

&#x200B;

I can see Iberia have an earlier flight to Valencia, which is a lot more expensive as it's business only (there's no economy left, and it still involves a 6-hour wait in Madrid which doesn't really tickle my pickle). There's loads of options like other flights (different airline), trains or buses to Valencia that I'd prefer. Am I entitled to a refund for just this leg, and if so, how much would it be? Since it's over a three-hour delay, am I entitled to the full €250 compensation, under EU law?

&#x200B;

I'm in Argentina at the moment so don't want to call them - I'm not a millionaire (yet). I've sent an e-mail but with it being a Spanish company I'm likely to hear back in about 3 years, if at all. I'd like to know what my options are please! TIA.
Topic:
Non-US

Answer:
 Don’t skip the last leg without contacting the airline or your return fights could be cancelled. You should call them to discuss your options. Email is not the best for timely situations.

Why was the flight cancelled?


Title: Sold a car part on Amazon - Buyer wants to talk to my lawyer

Question: [deleted]

Answer:
 Your lawyer probably wouldn't even give him the time of day. Ignore him. You've already offered a refund which he rejected. If he actually sues you, then you go talk to your lawyer. Answer #2:  "Today he messaged me asking to speak to my lawyer. "

Thats not how it works. Ignoring him is excellent advice.Answer #3: > send the part to his lawyer

Call me crazy, but the overlap between "Technical subject matter experts on vehicular performance" and "lawyers" has to be vanishingly narrow.

He can have his lawyer speak to you. He does not, however, have any obligation to speak only to *your* lawyer - who he talks to is your privilege, not his.

I'd say "I require all initial legal inquiries to be presented to me for disposition."

Or just ignore him.Answer #4: To expand on what /u/swalsh411 said, people threaten to sue all the time. When they get ignored, they "up their game" by demanding to speak to your lawyer, or demanding information on your registered agent, or sending an ultimatum, or using a lot of scary-sounding words. Some will even fork over $100+ to have "their lawyer" send a Very Official Looking Letter.

Ignore them until you're actually sued, if that actually happens.


Title: Curb Parking and Harrassment

Question: So there is this really nice view of my city at the top of the hills. There are many homes up there and so my girlfriend and I like to go up there at night, park on the curb and enjoy the view. We do not do anything just simply enjoy the view and talk. There is this guy who lives in one of them homes and one night he came out and told us that if we stayed there then he would take pictures of my plates and send it to the police. I want to mention that I am not parked on his entrance of his driveway I’m simply park where the curb is with my lights off,  stereo turned off. I’m pretty sure I’m legally okay parking there. However, I told him he can do what he wants to do. He took pictures of my plates and went back into his truck. So this is MY ISSUE, he parked behind us and had his lights on obviously messing the view up. He will turn them on low but then put them back on. He didn’t stop until we left. So my question is that is there anything I could have done like called the police??? Is that harassment???

Answer:
 He has as much right to park on the curb as you do.

It's probably aggrevating to him that couples park in front of his house to "look at the view".


Title: [IL] Employer hasn't paid me in two pay periods, keeps saying they'll provide a paper check but hasn't.

Question:
Right now I'm working a chain pizza place for the summer and two paydays have gone by (the pay period is every other Tuesday) without me receiving pay. I received $90 in a direct deposit on 6/26 from the company in the middle of a pay period, which doesn't make sense since I'm working for $8.25 per hour plus fuel reimbursements and other add-ons and I worked 60 hours in that two-week pay period. I have asked multiple managers and the company's payroll director for a paper check for everything in pay period 1, which ended two weeks ago. They said they'd tack on that pay to the check they're sending to my house by the end of the week (the check is supposed to have pay from period 1 and 2 together. Period 2 ended yesterday.)

At this point, I'm actively considering filing a report with the Department of Labor. Is there anything I should do before filing a report or is there a non-IDOL way of getting my pay?

Answer: You are a better man than I. I would have filed a compliant, quit and sought unemployment a week ago.


Title: The baseball field my friends and I play on is really close to the parking lot to an apartment building.

Question:
I live in Toronto, Ontario and last weekend when I hit a foul ball, it came really close to hitting one of the cars parked in the parking lot. There's a fence behind me when I bat, but sometimes they can go over and the parking lot is only like 3m away. I'm just wondering what would happen if one of us does hit a car. Would we have to pay for it?
Topic:
Canada

Answer:
 Not a lawyer, and not in Canada, but something very similar happened to my friend when we were in middle school in NY.  He hit a foul ball, and it broke a window of a neighbor across the street.  The homeowner sued in small claims court and lost.

IIRC, the argument against the claim was that since my friend was using the field as it was intended (i.e. he wasn't hitting balls from third base or something), there was no negligence on the part of my friend.

Tough luck on the part of the homeowner, but that's the risk of living next to a ballfield.  Again double-check this with a lawyer, but   I would imagine that the same idea would apply to a vehicle.  If you park next to a ballfield, you do so at your own risk.


Title: If each starred user was an alcoholic beverage, which one would they be?

Question: We need to step up our shitposting game.

Answer: /u/demyst is clearly Yuengling.Answer #2: /u/parsnippity would be a fine white wine.     Answer #3: /u/Zapopa would be [Billy Beer](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Billy_Beer).


Title: Falsely accused of what I assume is sexual child abuse

Question:
Hello, everyone. I'm in a bit of a situation and I need help. So I have a neighbor I've known for well over a decade. I've known her daughter since she was under a year old. I moved into this place about 4 years ago, when I was married. My wife was the neighbor's cousin, and we are since divorced. Anyway, during the marriage, the neighbor's daughter would come over frequently to talk and play with my wife. Listening to music, singing, playing Rock Band, so on. Well, after the divorce she quit coming around, for obvious reasons. I divorced her cousin. Anyway, she came over a few months ago, asking if she could use my computer and internet to work on a school project. I said sure, and there were no problems. Well, she came over a few times after for the same reasons. Yesterday she came over and asked if she could listen to music (note I'm one of the only people in this complex with a computer and internet) so she could pick out a song to request for her boyfriend at their upcoming school dance. I said sure, and I played the songs for her while I was talking to my friends online. After listening to the songs over and over and working on a drawing for her boyfriend, she left to go home. This evening, I was in the shower getting ready to leave for a play I am in, and there was a knock at the door. My girlfriend answered, and it was the girl's mother. She told my girlfriend that her daughter said I'd asked her to take her clothes off while she was here. She informed my girlfriend that her daughter had lied about this before, and just wanted to know what happened. A short while after, I was going to go talk to her, and she'd already called the police. I had to leave to go to the play, and while I was gone, the officer came over. She told the officer where I was, and he said that was fine, but demand that she have me call him first thing in the morning to ask me questions. I obviously don't want to do so without a lawyer, but I cannot afford one, and he says if I dont, he will assume that what she says is true. With it being the weekend, no legal aid places are open now, and I cannot afford a lawyer. I've been told not to say a word to the police without a lawyer but I've also been told the only way to get one is to be arrested and have one appointed to me. I honestly have no clue what to do. Can anyone help me? Thank you for taking the time to read this, and thank you in advance for any advice you can offer.

Notes; The girl is 12, and I live in Ohio.
Topic:
Criminal Law

Answer: Beg, borrow, or steal (ok don't steal), and get a lawyer. This is no joke and won't end well for you if not handled properly. That's all there is to it.Answer #2: IANAL and i'm not passing judement but in the future you really need to avoid having unrelated underaged kids in your home without a parent/caretaker of said child present as well.


Title: [NY] Neighbor's floodlight comes through our windows at night

Question:
A few years back, our neighbor set up a new floodlight to go along with his new enormous barn. The floodlight is probably a bajillion terrawatts, and is having a seriously negative impact on my family's sleep. The light is there for security - an entirely fair reason, especially considering the value of the equipment he stores in his garage (he's a contractor). But it doesn't just illuminate the barn and their driveway, it comes straight across, horizontally, into every window on that side of my house.

When the light first went up, we asked him to do something about it. He was entirely dismissive, and didn't do anything. We didn't take it any further, but now that I'm home for the summer, the light makes it very difficult for me to sleep. Even with the curtains drawn, it lights up my bedroom and disturbs my sleep.

I do plan to get in touch with them again and try asking nicely once more, but I'd like to be confident that there's something more we can do if he won't agree to change it. In shining a fuck-ton of lumens through our windows at all hours of the night, is he in violation of any laws or codes?

Answer:
 Get thicker curtains.Answer #2: Light trespass laws or ordinances may apply. Call code enforcement or city hall and ask.Answer #3: He isn't violating any laws or codes as long as the light is hanging on his property, and it sounds like it is.

May I suggest black out shades and/or a sleep mask?


Title: [CA] Plea or trial for felony assault

Question: Hey, reddit. I am being charged with two counts of felony assault for defending myself when I was attacked while walking my dog. My lawyer has told me that without a witness their testimony (two victims) is enough to convict me even if we prove they are lying and have conflicting testimony. One of the victims spoke to the detective and confirmed he was lying. The other already went on stand and was inconsistent with his police report. Right now I have a plea offer for a misdemeanor and some community service, but I would be pleading guilty to something I did in self defense. Is the risk for trial worth it? I risk 8 years if I lost and get the max.

Answer: Sounds like your lawyer is already giving you advice on this. You should listen to them.


Title: Is it considered a secondary purchase of alcohol if the other person can legally buy alcohol? (U.S.A)

Question:
Would a cop just ask the second person for their ID without fining us?

 Pretty much all in question, but I want to rant anyway.

My boyfriend (26) and I (26) walked to the corner store that we go to everyday.  He stayed outside because of Corona virus. I buy alcohol.  I hear a dude yelling at an employee.  Off property, I give my boyfriend the alcohol.  On our walk home, a car pulls up and says, "Never come back."  I thought he was a drunk redneck I pissed off, but now I realize he must be a new manager.  He said secondary purchases are illegal and I specifically am banned from the store.

I think he assumed my boyfriend was under 21 because we're both quite small.  We also present like tripped out hippies.  I'm frustrated because this would not have happened if we were in a car or looked differently or if the manager in question had not been previously yelling at an employee.

Thank you. >:(

Answer:
 The manager/owner is within their rights to ban you from the premises for *appearing* to have conducted a secondary purchase of alcohol.

If you've been told to not come back to the store, and you go back to the store, you are trespassing and you run the risk of law enforcement getting involved, which may end with you being arrested or cited.


Title: Call from my county saying a case has been filed

Question: [deleted]

Answer: Just a heads up, this is the makings of a common scam. Proceed with caution! Dunno why your mom would tell you not to tell your dad, though. That's a little shady.


Title: Being sued for deceased grandpas car.

Question: [deleted]

Answer:
 Last expenses (like burial) typically come out of an "estate" before any distribution to heirs, so if the truck funds were used to pay for that, then there's your argument, even if it was part of the Estate.  I'm curious as to whose name the truck is titled in right now.

There's also an argument that the truck was actually given to your Dad before your grandfather passed, so it wasn't part of the estate at all, so your aunt has no claim to it whatsoever.  The argument is considerably weaker if title wasn't transferred to your Dad, but an argument is an argument.

As far as the house being in your father's name, when and how did that happen?  If the house was owned by your father prior to your grandpa's death, then it wasn't part of the Estate, and again - your aunt would not be entitled to any of that.

Now, I will say that whenever there are a lot of "gifts" by a decedent shortly before the decedent's death with no paper trail, it certainly looks and smells not good.  But if your dad gutted his own house, he gutted his own house.  Why was the house in your Dad's name and when was it titled in his name?

[edit] saw one of your comments.  I'm confused about who gutted which house, lol.


Title: [OR] Looking for advice about the firing of a coworker who "violated" unpaid rest break laws.

Question:
Hello,

Recently, a coworker's employment was terminated. Ostensibly, the reason for his firing was that he "took a break [paid] during a shift that was less than 6 hours long, which is 'stealing' and so he had to be fired for stealing."

As I understand it, our business has no specific exemptions from the Oregon break laws, which state that his shift, 5:30 minutes long, is entitled to 1 paid 10-minute rest break.

Here is where things get contentious: He was scheduled for a 6 hour shift, but, with approval from our manager (who fired him) arranged to have another coworker stay and cover a half-hour of his shift.

He clocked on at around 5:30pm, and left his station (with permission from me and our other coworker) at about 5:50pm when his girlfriend brought him food. He had arrived late because he was playing a concert before work, and he arrived a bit tired and hungry. Again, empathetic to this, we gave him permission, and he was in direct sight the entire time, and available had we needed his help.

So he sat down and ate food for about 20 minutes. Yes, that is 10 minutes longer than he was entitled, but our manager seemed to take exception to him having a break at all. She is incorrect in believing his shift wasn't long enough to warrant a break.

----

So I'm wondering if he has any chance for compensation for wrongful termination. He technically took 10 minutes more of a break than he was entitled, but with permission from his coworkers (not a superior). He also did take his break within ~20 minutes of
clocking on, which is much earlier than the law suggests one take the rest break. And yes we use a clock, so the time of his clock-in is incontestable.

Thank you SO much for any help. He was really beloved and his coworkers are devastated and frightened... Our manager has proven numerous times that she's ignorant of the law and has false confidence about these matters (we routinely do not provide unpaid lunch breaks, which she dismisses and claims an exemption which does not apply)... and this time, it got someone fired, even if she was TECHNICALLY right, but sentimentally incorrect.

Answer:
 No, he doesn't have a case for wrongful termination. The company can fire him for almost any reason or no reason at all, so long as it's not due to his membership in a protected class or a few niche categories that don't apply.

He should file for unemployment. If the employer contests it, he'll have a chance to present his side at a hearing.


Title: Landlord is blaming flytipping behind the house on me, whivh will lead to me being fined/charged. What actions should I be taking? Please help

Question:
I moved into the landlords property 5months ago(UK), when showing me the house the back gate was closed and I saw no reason to go into the communal alleyway.

 After id moved in the landlord gave me a list of things that need repairing and told me if anything else needs doing then to add it to the list. I could see that the back gate leading to the alleyway was being held up by a brick so I went outside to check what work needed doing on the gate.

When I opened it there were huge trash piles bin bags,general waste,child items and broken chairs etc. There were child items and bits of trash leading to the back gate, I assumed it was either the last tenant or the landlord himself that had dumped waste behind the gate. I text the landlord about the waste and he said he'd see to it, a few weeks later I noticed rats in my garden entering and leaving through under my backgate so I rang the local council and informed them about the flytipping and rats and never heard anything back other than they'll send somebody out.

Now months later someone from the council knocked on my door telling me that I need to move the waste or i will see legal action. I informed them of the situation (they were very sceptical) and passed on the landlords information. I rang the landlord and informed him about the council arriving and he asked to see pictures of behind my gate (I sent them) and I didn't hear back.

2 weeks later i get another letter from the council saying the rubbish needs to be removed so I rang my landlord to ask what is being done about it. He said he had spoke with them and that he knows nothing of the waste and then proceeds to tell me that if they find out it was me I will be fined.

My landlord is denying all knowledge, I have pictures that were sent through facebook to my mother of the waste all behind the back garden(a couple days after I moved in) but I dont know if that's enough evidence. Since I've moved In the waste has grew larger and larger to the point where i can't get out of my back garden as the neighbors are now flytipping behind my gate. I'm a separate note ive just recorded a neighbour throwing waste multiple times behind my gate, but I still don't believe that thats enough evidence to prove that I haven't dumped there.

Answer:
 You may want to try /r/legaladviceukAnswer #2: Learned a new word today.

And quite honestly,I realize it was not your responsibility initially,but leaving it alone 5 months especially when you saw rats was probably not a good idea.

I think a reasonable person might have just cleaned it up but I am not your lawyer and this is not legal advice.


Title: (ex)boyfriend put hidden camera in room a few months ago, judge recently placed no contact order. Trying to get it removed. What do I say in court?

Answer: Closure is a myth in many cases, but you can say you don't want it. They don't have to oblige.Answer #2: What you need is to get some therapy.  This loser put a hidden camera in your bathroom.  You shouldn't have contact with him anymore and you don't need "closure" whatever that is.  You need to never speak to him again and get help for whatever issues you have that makes you think you need to speak to him.


Title: So I am a little confused about the age of consent laws. Is 18 and 16 legal in the state of California? I need to know if this is legal ASAP.

Question: There's this girl I want to fuck (hopefully tomorrow). I am 18 and she is 16. We both live in California. I need to know soon, thank you.

Answer:
 No. 18 is the legal age to consent in California. Full stop. And no, you can't leave the state to have sex or anything so please don't try. Answer #2: Do not. It's illegal to have sex with anyone under the age of 18. Find someone your own age. No suggestive texts or nudes either. Just stay away from her full stop. This is not a road you want to go down, and it could end with you on the sex offender registry for statutory rape. After jail time of course.Answer #3: No. It is not. Answer #4: As has been mentioned, age of consent is 18 in California. If you are within three years of age, it's a misdemeanor. If not, it's a felony. Even a consenting pair of seventeen year olds are committing a misdemeanor. A hypothetical case like this is often not pursued, but risking it is a bad idea. Especially if she later regrets it or her parents are upset, this could go very badly very quickly. And of course, don't take lewd pictures of her or accept them from her, as that can carry criminal charges well beyond what has been discussed.

The available loophole is getting married. For most couples your age, I don't suggest that as a good solution.

In your answers to other comments, you've indicated that you will take the consensus advice, but I wanted to include the relevant legal details that I hadn't seen yet.


Title: Parents were in a terrible bicycle accident, police are withholding the name of the woman who caused it?

Question: [deleted]

Answer:
 >  In my eyes, i see it almost like a hit and run and she should have to help pay

That's very likely not going to be true.  At best, she's only partially responsible.  In many cases, she'd not be responsible at all.

As is, the police don't have to give you her name and number just because you want it.  Your options are to file a sunshine request, or to file a Jane Doe lawsuit and get a subpoena issued.


Title: I am a young woman in a car dealership who isn’t sure what to do about the sexual harassment I’m receiving.

Question:
Here is the original post: https://www.reddit.com/r/relationships/comments/7l573v/i_21f_dont_know_what_to_do_about_the_sexual/?st=JBGSIRF8&sh=e55335fd

I also have texts from the first incident. I texted a co-worker right after it happened, telling him how upset I was after the situation. I’m not sure how to handle the situation. Of course I want justice and for this guy to not be a manager anymore but I also have to protect myself and my money.

Also, I live in Florida.
Topic:
Employment Law

Answer:
 You should go to HR to report it. You could talk to an employment lawyer and see what they say, but without you speaking up the company cannot resolve the issue. Answer #2: I mentioned waiting on HR in the other thread, but there are other evidence-gathering things you may be able to do before risking it.

You won't be able to record audio without everyone's consent. I'm not sure about video though. If the guy's looming over you and rubbing his body against you, you might be able to record that from somewhere in the room with the audio stripped out. Some cursory checking suggests video is fine. Something else you can do is transcribe the conversation(s) into a notebook and use that as your documentation.

If you have a sign saying that your workspace is being recorded and that sign is obvious and prominently displayed, you may be able to get around Florida's recording restrictions, as they are aware of the recording and free to not harass you on audio. Of course they can ask you to not record as part of your job.

If you can get supporting testimony from the woman who was pushed out, that could help you if HR decides to do the same to you.


Title: My Father Abandoned My Underaged Siblings to Vacation Internationally for 5 months

Question:
throwaway, just in case.

&#x200B;

I've moved away and been completely no contact with my family for almost 8 years, but I recently reached out to my youngest siblings. During our last conversation they told me that my father left the country in March, leaving my 16 year old sister to watch my 10 year old brother. According to my sister, he isn't planning on returning until July. He's paid all of the bills in advance and left them grocery money, but they have no adult supervision except for a bi-weekly visit when another one of my siblings comes to town to check in. My mother lives in the same state, but has definitively decided she has no interest in parenting. Apparently this isn't the first time he's done this, and even when he's stateside he's hardly present and they're left to raise themselves. This is level of neglect is incomprehensible to me and I don't know what to do.

I cannot wrap my mind around the fact that he left his youngest children home alone to go visit his second family halfway across the world. It's obvious neither of my parents have want to take responsibility for their children, and honestly neither of them should have custody, but I'm worried about them ending up in a poor foster care situation. I'm not in a position to take them in and neither is my other adult sibling. They deserve a healthy home life and my parents deserve to answer for this. What are my options?

&#x200B;

TL;DR: My father is leaving my underage siblings home alone for 5 months and my mother doesn't want them. What's the best way for me to help them?

Answer: Call child protective services for the county the children reside in. Let them know the details, and they will get your siblings out of there.


Title: Pre Paid for Dance Classes (CT), Can I get a refund? [Serious]

Question:
(Throwaway account)
We signed up my daughter for Dance Classes, and paid in full for the year.

After one acrobatic class, my daughter hurt her finger, because the teacher did not spot her correctly.When my daughter told her she needed to be spotted, the teacher said she "thought you were kidding" and only half spotted her, my daughter fell on her hand and strained it, and still has trouble bending it.

The next week, my daughter was in line to take a turn to do a acrobatic move, and the teacher did not control the flow of the students, so my wife witnessed her just standing there for 20 minutes of a 40 minute class.

We talked to the studio owner, and she had no idea hat my daughter even got hurt. When we asked about the control of the acrobatic class, she said my daughter needed to speak up to the teacher.

We are very unhappy with this studio, and would like a refund.

The studio owner said that on the website, the prepaid tuition is non refundable. Am I out of luck? or can I get a refund.
The classes are prepaid for the next 7 months at $260/month. (about $1820.00)

tldr. Signed daughter up for dance classes, and prepaid for year. We are unhappy with the studio and want a refund, are we out of luck?

Answer: You can always sue her for basic contract breach if you can make the case that the classes were just totally awful and you didn't get what you paid for. But next time don't pay for 7 months at a time before you get an idea if they are any good or not.


Title: What's the legal basis for social media websites to deplatform users like Alex Jones (infowars) and Stephan Molyneux but host videos that show extreme violence like police brutality, cop killing, etc.

Answer: there isn't one, they are platforms and private companies so they can deplatform anyone they want.


Title: [OH] Dad wont let me take dog with me when I move out. Do i have legal standing?

Question:
4 years ago, I bought a dog (with cash). I've bought food, treats, dishes,  toys,  medicine and paid for vet bills. This includes for helping out with our other dogs.

Now I'm looking for a place with my friends before  I get married next year and keep saying I'm taking my dog.

He says this is the only house my dog has known so I can't take him.

If it comes to it do I have legal standing?

Answer: Dogs are property. This dog belongs to you. Take him with you when you leave. It is not illegal to take your property with you when you move.


Title: [NYC] Landlady says she won't return security deposit - can I sue immediately?

Question:
I moved out of my apartment. Took plenty of photos. I have texts from the landlady (who lives in the building and regularly showed my unit without notice) saying it all looked fine.

I asked for my security deposit back. She said no. I told her I'd take her to small claims for it. She says I have to wait at least 30 days. She feels that she didn't ask enough rent in the first place - I'm moving out because she tried to up my rent 50%, among other things - and this is her way of getting higher rent for the past months I was there.

The 30 days appears to be true for when landlords need to inspect, clean, etc to know costs to take out of the deposit. She's not claiming anything specific to take out, simply that she doesn't want to give it back. NYC seems to only state "reasonable time" which is normally considered 21-45 days.

Since she's already said she has no plans to return my deposit, can I sue her now? If she's given a response it seems like she's had reasonable time.

The building also has all sorts of code and occupancy violations. She also threatened to file a police report saying I hit her (no such event occurred) if I try to get my deposit back.

Answer:
 > Since she's already said she has no plans to return my deposit, can I sue her now?

No, because she has a reasonable time in which to return it.  21-45 days.  At any time during that, she can return it and be in compliance with the law.

So, 45 days from your move-out, if she hasn't returned it and hasn't otherwise followed the law for not returning it, *then* you can sue her.


Title: [CA] My younger brother died due to cancer and left a significant fortune. He had told me that he left a will in which half goes to me and half to his son. Now, after death his son declines there is a will left and claims all money goes to legal heir which is he, himself. Need advice.

Question:
Apparently, will wasn't registered. It was written in presence of son and his wife as witness.

I'm going to hire an attorney soon, but at this stage I want to discuss legal aspects of this case. Can you guide me?

Answer:
 If you can prove the existence of the will, you may be able to get something.  However, if your brother just "told" you about it, then I wouldn't be surprised if he was lying just to keep you happy while he was still alive.Answer #2: Was it written or just signed in the brother and wife's presence?  If he had a "significant fortune" it is likely that an attorney drew up the will.  Try to find out if your brother spoke to anyone and contact that attorney's office.

A holographic will would still be legal but there wouldn't necessarily be any copy of it.  If the son destroyed it, there won't be much of a recourse for you unless you can get the wife to talk about it (or unless you have some kind of evidence that he destroyed it).

Answer #3: Have you seen this alleged will?  You might be chasing after something that doesn't exist.Answer #4: If the will is real and the son is a beneficiary of the will he can't be a  witness to it, can he?


Title: Is it legal to remove the bedroom door of your 18 year old?

Question:
My parents threaten to remove my door (which doesn't have a lock) off of it's hinges whenever they're annoyed with me. It's usually for something petty like my room isn't clean enough or my dog is begging for attention because I'm unavailable.

Doesn't this violate privacy laws since I'm a legal adult? Drugs and other taboo or illegal activities are not committed in the room in question.

Answer:
 > Is it legal to remove the bedroom door of your 18 year old?

Yes.

> Doesn't this violate privacy laws since I'm a legal adult?

No.Answer #2: > My parents threaten to remove my door (which doesn't have a lock) off of it's hinges whenever they're annoyed with me. It's usually for something petty like my room isn't clean enough or my dog is begging for attention because I'm unavailable.
>
> Doesn't this violate privacy laws since I'm a legal adult? Drugs and other taboo or illegal activities are not committed in the room in question.

Keep in mind the flip side to all of this:

- As an adult, your parents are no longer obligated to support you

- With proper notice, they can evict you at any time.

- So, while continuing to live in their house (whether or not you're paying rent), you are subject to their rules of their household.

While not debating the merits or validity of their "annoyances" with you, it may be advisable to not "rock the boat," so to speak, until such point as you're ready to branch out on your own.


Title: Question regarding minors and statute of limitations

Question:
Recently my 15yr old daughter told us that she had been molested at different times by 3 guys in our families when she was between 7 and 10. These guys were between 12 and 16 when this happened... We've already called them and let them know that she remembers. She was checked and no physical damage was done to her.

Since these guys have families (2 of them have weeks-old newborns), I don't want to pursue charges, but my wife does. I know it's an irreversible event, but they're still family. I'm just glad my daughter is ok. We don't plan on coming around them anymore either.

Can something still be done in the state of Texas to these boys? I'd hate to put her through the wringer only to find out that all we can go on is her word against theirs.

On a side-note, am I an A-hole for not wanting to press charges? That's the vibe I get from my wife.

Answer:
 Saying "they're still family" doesn't really sound all that supportive of *your* daughter. Frankly, the decision should be made by your daughter alone, if she wishes to go to the police and see if they will lay charges. I'd be pissed if I worked up the courage to tell my parents something so traumatic, just to have one of them tell me not to go to the police because "they are family and just had some kids".

Get her into counselling. Contact a sexual assault centre.


Title: Came back to my my apartment to find it without electricity, called my landlord a bunch to get it fixed and now I'm being charged with harassment.

Question:
I came home to my apartment last night to find that the electricity to my room had been cut off without notice. Like the police had instructed me, I called him (albeit more than 10 times) and left three (concerned, but not angry) voicemails. Is that seriously harassment? I pay my rent and electricity is part of what I'm paying for.

How can they claim it's harassment when I didn't have electricity? I'll admit, I called him excessively but what am I supposed to do about being denied something that I'm paying for? I had nobody else to call.

I'm in Michigan, if that helps. If there's any other info you need I'd be glad to provide it.

Answer:
 > How can they claim it's harassment when I didn't have electricity?

You can still be guilty of harassment, even if it's for a "good" reason.  You don't have a right to an immediate response on this issue, and it sounds like you went above and beyond normal behavior in notifying them.

Have been charged or cited by the police?Answer #2: >I'll admit, I called him excessively but what am I supposed to do about being denied something that I'm paying for?

Did you honestly think that after his ignoring you 9 times, that the 10th time he was going to pick up?


Title: 19 F Australia - herpes after sexual assault(?)

Question:
There's a whole lot of grey area here, so I'm pretty confused about what legal action I can take - if any.

*In simple form:*
- Guy had sex with me when I was 'passing out' / really fucking drunk
- Next day tells me to get morning after pill because he didn't use a condom
- Month later, I have herpes (having not had unprotected sex with anyone else prior or sex with anyone at all since him)

*Expanded version:*
Was having a (very) drunken girls night, when Guy I've been texting offers to pick me up so we can 'hang'. Back at his place, he shows me his pool. Without thinking I take a run and try and jump onto this floating inflatable flamingo thing, fully clothed. He takes his clothes off and gets in and, at this point, I *do* remember wanting to kiss him because I wrap my legs around him being all cutesy. We kiss, it gets cold so he shows me to the shower. He leaves the room & I proceed to get unchanged & shower solo. 2 minutes later, he comes in to "join" me and I protest, but he gets in anyway while I'm trying to cover myself up. He made some joke like "don't be so vain, I just wanted to warm up - I was freezing". So I shrug it off but get out the shower immediately.

~20 minutes later, we're watching Brooklyn Nine Nine on the couch and he's poured me a tall glass of jack & coke, but mainly jack. I remember realising I was still wasted because I couldn't follow the plotline at all, no matter how hard I concentrated.

Show finishes, he takes me to his bedroom, I say that I'll sleep in another bedroom or couch but he refuses. He insists on spooning me "for warmth" and I definitely agree, maybe even like it. But then he says he can't sleep when he's this turned on *annnnd* this is where things get hazy. I remember protesting, saying stuff like "we should wait until morning", "sorry I'm so tired/drunk, I won't be any good", "wait until I'm sober I'll probably fart and embarrass myself" (trying to lighten the mood) but then he wouldn't stop and saying "seriously get off me" and "fucking stop". But again, I still feel like I'm half-sleeping the whole time and not really putting up much of a fight.

Wake up next day, I'm angry/hurt/upset, gather up my things & try to leave. He tells me I should take the morning after pill - I ask why, because he would've worn a condom. He said he did but that *I* insisted to take it off because it felt better (this, via text, later changed to "it fell off and I thought you noticed and didn't care"). I'm obviously furious, but I suck it up, take the morning after pill - get my period a week later and while still emotional, I'm on OK terms with the guy - i.e. not feeling like I need to take any legal action.

Then.... I get diagnosed with genital herpes. He tells me he had been diagnosed in August last year. He said he didn't need to tell me because it wasn't during a "break out" & therefore was highly unlikely it would be transmitted. But even if he had been having an "episode" I definitely would've been too drunk to recognise it or remember.

Basically, I feel like I need some sort of closure or retribution. I could look past the questionable assault as something that may have been my fault - (perhaps I was too drunk, perhaps I gave him the wrong idea by coming home with him, perhaps I egged him on and encouraged it, perhaps he was drunk too) - but I can't get over the fact that this man has infected me with a disease I will have for the rest of my life. I want justice - I just don't know if its possible.

Any advice / opinions would be really, really, really appreciated. If anything, this was really cathartic for me to just vent and let it out.

EDIT: Trying to cut down on the rambling, and stick to the important stuff.
Topic:
Criminal Law

Answer:
 Forgive me if I missed this detail, but have you called the police?  Did you report the sexual assault/rape?

>that may have been my fault

No.  Get that thought out of your head.  It is not your fault.  Even if you were both drunk, you were telling him to stop.  He did not.  It was not your fault.


Title: [Ontario] Officer pulled me over, said I was doing 100km in a 60km zone, wrote my ticket down to 75km in a 60km. Should I fight the ticket?

Question:
So I (18 M) was pulled over at 12:31 am on a dark highway, I was caught going over the speed limit, not sure what the speed was but it was well over the speed limit.

My parents want me to fight the ticket because it says 75km in a 60km zone, and I haven’t told them I was doing higher.

If I go to court, will I be able to dismiss the ticket? Will the officer tell the court I was doing 100km or stick to the speed on the ticket?

Answer:
 > My parents want me to fight the ticket because it says 75km in a 60km zone

The officer cut you a break.  This is not grounds to challenge the validity of the ticket.  It's a favor, not an error that's going to get the ticket thrown out on some technicality.Answer #2: >If I go to court, will I be able to dismiss the ticket?

Highly unlikely

>Will the officer **tell the court I was doing 100km** or stick to the speed on the ticket?

Choice A - he gave you a break and you are taking him to court... he has no reason to give you a break now. You are looking at the much higher penalties for the 40km over the speed limit instead of the current ones.

Pay your ticket already.


Title: Can my parents quit my job for me?

Question: I am falling behind in school and my grades have not been so good. My parents want me to quit my job but I don't want to. I live Ontario Canada and I'm 16 years old, can my parents legally call my workplace and quit my job for me? I can't find anything online about this in Ontario.

Answer: You're really asking "Can my parents forbid me from working there" and the answer is yes. You are a child and they are your parents.  Once you become an adult, you can work anywhere you want, but they no longer have to feed/clothe/house you.Answer #2: Yes, you are a minor.  They can stop you from working.Answer #3: You are a minor. Your parents can forbid you from working.


Title: Lawyer missed my arraignment and now I have a capias warrant for my arrest.

Question: [deleted]

Answer: Get a new lawyer. This got serious and you have a lot to risk. A new attorney will help you determine your options going forward. They may be able to help ensure you don't get photographed and 'booked', but that is really why you need them. It is down to their abilities, connections, and negotiation skills. With out a new attorney, you will probably spend a night or MUCH, MUCH more in jail. It is possible that may help you pursue getting some fees back from the other lawyer, but that should be a distant thought for now.


Title: Texas employer changing final pay amount if two-weeks notice not given?

Question: I work for a company in Texas that included a form as part of its initial hire packet that basically came out to: If you quit without giving two weeks notice, your pay will be reduced from whatever rate it was per hour to 7.25 an hour. I believe that I did have to sign this sheet before I was officially hired. I can't seem to find anything that says whether or not this is legal or not. Does anyone know if it is?

Answer: They can reduce your pay going forward at any time, so if you gave them one week's notice, for instance, they could choose to pay you minimum wage for your work in that last week (so long as they notified you, of course). It is not legal to retroactively reduce your pay for hours you've already worked, however; you'd need to be paid your previously agreed wage for those hours.


Title: How would Rodriguez v. United States apply in this situation?

Question:
A driver is stopped for a traffic infraction, his passenger admits to being on probation when the question "Are either of you on probation or parole" is inevitably asked (CA).

I do believe that due to the passenger's "fourth waiver" status, the areas in his immediate reach can be searched (basically the entire interior of the vehicle) but the driver can decline consent to any other areas.

Now, does the passenger's status create a loophole? I ask because I have a brother who's on supervision whom I frequently take to work and what not. I can envision a scenario in which I decline consent, but am told, "well, you're passenger's on probation so we're gonna bring the dog out". Not saying it will happen, but I always try to prepare myself for circumstances.

Thanks in advance for your thoughts/advice

Answer:
 >we know SCOTUS said that vehicles/drivers can't be detained longer than is necessary to allow the arrival of a K9 to perform a sniff

That is not what the Supremes said.  They said that absent REASONABLE SUSPICION, the extension of the stop to wait for a drug dog violates the 4th amendment.


Title: (Australia) Roommate refusing to return property

Question:
My current roommate (and now former friend) originally agreed to hold on to some of my possessions when I moved to the United States in 2014

I moved back in 2017 and have since lived with him for about a year now

We've been given a notice that we need to move out by Jan 9th 2019

As part of preparing to move out. I informed my roommate I wanted these possessions back (a computer, game consoles and other items, mostly electronics)

He told me I "gifted" it to him, thus making it his. And to "look it up, it's the law"

I still have receipts for almost every item he has. And thus can demonstrate they ***are*** mine, or at least that I purchased them

Do I have any legal recourse with regard to getting these items back? Googling turned up little, except that I could issue a "Letter of Demand" as a precursor to small claims court. Though I'm not sure if that directly relates in this instance

Answer: It's not every day we see [both sides of a dispute posted here](https://old.reddit.com/r/AusLegal/comments/9w18g9/had_a_falling_out_with_a_friend_and_now_they_are/).


Title: Please help/guide us in the right direction: Wife of 30 years to physically/verbally abusive husband. How do we find a lawyer? (from California)

Question:
Hi All,

I'm sorry if this is not the correct forum but I could really use some guidance. I am posting on behalf of a friend whose mother is really in a tight bind. To quickly summarize: Parents have been married for 30 years. Her father has had multiple affairs, has been verbally abusing her mother, and recently has been physically abusive with choking and threatening with a weapon. She has some footage of a choking episode on her cell phone. We are seriously concerned for her life, but want to proceed in a manner that will not tip off her husband in any way. Husband has been progressively monitoring her activities more and more, and lately will not let her out of his sight. He regularly looks through her phone and has audio/video surveillance all over. He has complete financial control over her and has stowed away the bulk of their savings (they run a small business together) for many years. She has little to no money for any significant retainer for a lawyer. To top it off, she has no formal education and can't speak english very well. It would be very difficult if not impossible for her to support herself.

Our current plan:
1. We've called the domestic violence hotlines for the county but they couldn't do much in the area of legal advice. There is a hotline for legal services related to victims of domestic abuse, but they will not be open until Monday 9am EST.
2. We have a plan brewing for distracting the husband for a few hours next week in order to give the wife some time to grab a few necessities and bring her to a safe home.
3. After she is safe we will contact the local police department to attempt to place an emergency protective order against the husband.

Beyond that, we've got nothing. All three of her kids are wholly in support of their mother and would go to bat for her, but two of them are still young and in college, so they are unable to financially support her. Luckily we have some friends who will be able to house her.

My main question is: Does anyone know any good divorce attorneys, particularly with cases involving domestic abuse in the L.A. area? And what kind of fee system do they employ? Are there any that would waive or offer a significantly reduced retainer and charge a larger percentage of the final settlement later on?
If my friends and I get together and try to scrape up some money for her to hire a good lawyer, about how much should we expect to save for?

Thank you again for your time and patience!

Oh and let me mention again that we are in Southern California, in the LA to inland empire area.

Answer:
 We can't suggest attorneys here. Look for family law attorneys in your area. Generally speaking, you will have to pay a retainer fee. If you cannot afford an attorney, look into legal aid organizations. Family law attorneys in almost every state, if not all states, are barred form taking divorce cases on "contingency" so they cannot get x percent of a settlement. An attorney in my state was recently disbarred for doing so.

Retainers may be $1500 - $2500, or higher. Your attorney may be willing to work with you.