Title: [PA] Ex is pregnant. Need advice for worst-case scenario.

Question:
I have recently found out that my GF was pregnant. Shortly after this, she broke up with me stating that I am probably not the dad, because she had been in a relationship with her ex, and (contrary to our sex life), almost never used protection (note, this was all said in Skype, so there is evidence if I can use it). While she says she will not put my name on the birth certificate, I need to know what my options are if it is my kid and she does put my name on the certificate.

She lives a couple hours away, and I am in college right now, so I have virtually no income to speak of, and I wouldn't be able to see the kid that often, so I am trying to find a possible way out of legal paternity, especially given that I was planning on getting a vasectomy soon anyways (yes, I know none of that has really any legal basis, but I am wondering if her lack of good character might help me).

To go into detail about income, I do some freelance IT work, and I get some financial aid for college, but I have zero, definitive, weekly or monthly income to speak of. I just get paid once per semester for my college financial aid, and I get paid whenever I get a freelance job done.

My ex has no income to speak of (not even welfare, due to lack of hours from prior job), nor even a GED due to medical reasons. She plans on raising the kid with her ex (the other potential father), who may have a high school diploma, but no degree, and little income.

The only thing I can think of at the moment, is that if "harm" includes unwanted economic depravity, could I file a restraining order against her? I'm already well in debt from college, so could a forced child support order count as harm?

That being said, according to a (admittedly, not necessarily accurate according to the site itself) child support estimator, since she and I definitely make less than $950 a month, there shouldn't be any child support payments to speak of.

I am going to get a test ASAP to hopefully find out I'm not the dad, and just breath a sigh of relief, but I also want to be proactive if the worst is true.

P.S. If there are any obscure local laws regarding this issue, I live in Erie, and she lives in Mount Pleasant

Answer:
 You aren't getting out of child support because you are in college. You will be required to pay. At minimum, the judge can require you to pay the equivalent of full time at minimum wage child support. That is, the judge can go by potential income, not actual. This will require you to go get a job to support your kid. Answer #2: >especially given that I was planning on getting a vasectomy soon anyways (yes, I know none of that has really any legal basis, but I am wondering if her lack of good character might help me).

Well that has sod all to do with your possible paternity. and her character also has nothing to do with it: child support is only about the child.

>The only thing I can think of at the moment, is that if "harm" includes unwanted economic depravity, could I file a restraining order against her? I'm already well in debt from college, so could a forced child support order count as harm

Sigh, no.

And I'm not sure what sort of "test" you are envisioning taking "ASAP" because there won't be anything to test for until the child is born.

All you can do is if when the child is born she says it's yours (and it really does sound as if she isn't going to say that even if it is) is have a paternity test then. Also, if in fact the child is yours and several years down the line she then claims it is, ditto.

Do bear in mind that what you might pay now as a student will vary over the next 18 years of the child's life it it turns out to be yours.


Title: [NY] Stolen passport, no police report, now can't renew visa without police report, but no police report without showing up in person at precinct.

Question:
Update:

"Thanks all. Update: he did originally report the crime, and he has a slip from the officer who processed it. So I guess he needs a lawyer to help him obtain the police report quickly."

Posting for a friend in New York:

A PhD student who works closely with me returned home to India to renew his US student visa, but his application has been denied. Several years ago, his backpack was stolen in NYC along with his passport and visa; he subsequently obtained replacements for both, but now the US embassy wants a police report confirming the theft. So he's in a bind: the NYPD refuses to generate a police report unless he appears at a precinct to report the crime, and he is stuck in India. Any suggestions or help would be much appreciated. It goes without saying that he is a talented student who contributes much to my department and poses zero threat to national security.

Answer: How did he get a replacement passport and visa (particularly the passport as he was in the US at the time) without a police report in the first place?


Title: My grandfather cosigned my vehicle for me in Feb 2017, he has been making the payments since January 2019, can he revoke my rights to the vehicle via written letter?

Question: There is a lot of drama in the details, but basically my grandmother, apparently acting on behalf of my grandfather, sent a text saying I'm no longer allowed to drive my car because they "repossess" it from me and are now going to allow my sister to drive it, which I do not condone. I'm the primary signer on the loan and it's under lien. What are my rights?

Answer: Who is on the actual title of the vehicle?


Title: African American Neighbor denied business loan due to property being in impoverished african-american area

Question:
My neighbor was in the works to buy a commercial property in Pittsburgh. He, a black man, was purchasing an old gas station (non-working pumps) in a predominantly black neighborhood. His loan process was going smoothly, with no problems, when the bank stated they would not approve due to the area being impoverished. They also stated that the building was not good enough, yet no inspections had been done.

He's been planning this for years. Can the bank deny a loan based on location?

Fyi: Pittsburgh is one of the fastest growing cities with gentrification happening block by block. Either the business would have been successful due to gentrification or with the African American community supporting a fellow small business owner.

Answer: Yes they can deny a loan based on location.


Title: (OH) Getting out of a car contract!

Question: So last Saturday I signed some papers from a dealership that weren't very good. I'd prefer to get out of my contract and simply give it back. I paid $500 for the down payment but the dealership required $1300 so for the next few payments I'll still be paying that off before it drops down to the loan payment. Is this a way out? I have a former salesman friend who is pretty certain but I just wanted to get some more opinions.

Answer:
 > I signed some papers from a dealership that weren't very good.

Wat?

>  I'd prefer to get out of my contract

I'd prefer the bank forgot about the deed of trust and I just owned my house outright. I'd also prefer to be able to eat fried bacon for dinner every night without my heart exploding inside a month.

What you want isn't relevant. What does the contract you signed allow in terms of cancellation?


Title: My dentist is refusing to release my records to me unless I sign a waiver that is basically a gag order. Is this legal in Texas, USA?

Question: I want to transfer to a new dentist to continue treatment. My old dentist is refusing to release my records unless I sign a general release and waiver that has wording that says my treatment is to be confidential except with doctor's written permission. If I sign this is seems like a gag order.  I've paid my account in full and have a receipt showing I don't owe them anything. I've asked them in writing for my records or for their form to release my records. Their constant response is basically "No records without the waiver". Can they withhold my records legally? What should my next step be?

Answer: I wouldn't worry about it. No court will enforce a confidentiality agreement restricting a patient discussing their own medical history with their doctor. Answer #2: This is a scummy medical professional. Not only should you look for a new dentist, but you should report this one to the [Texas State Board of Dental Examiners](http://www.tsbde.texas.gov/complaints.html).


Title: I don’t know if I like my attorneys plea deal, what happens?

Question: I was originally charged with a second  felony, but everyone I asked said It seemed like they just sorta.. three the book at me and that it didn’t fit the situation. It got dropped to a third degree felony, but a sex charge, still pretty bad for sure.  My attorney stated he thinks it seems a little harsh. What happens if my attorney doesn’t agree with the state and the victim ( someone I know and on decent terms with) doesn’t want me in a lot of trouble or to go to trial.  I know I know, the state presses charges.  What are my options? They were offering PTI if it was available on the offense otherwise they said they’d change the offense. I know if we don’t take the plea and it goes onto depositions that will remove the PTI offer  but I don’t want to take PTI on a offense especially one I don’t think I committed. Also if I can get the no contact removed or my attorney can and explain to the victim not to drop charges just that they have the ability to say they want a lower charge and they can say they won’t go to trial, then  maybe they’ll negotiate more. The state is Florida.   Can it still be negotiated after formal charges or PTI still be offered after depositions are taken because I read once it gets to depos the state can’t offer PTI so what happens if we agree on PTI but not the offense?

Answer:
 > what happens if we agree on PTI but not the offense?

Then you don't agree. And you go to trial and risk conviction, which, based on your previous posts, is not a farfetched scenario.


Title: Inheritance Fight/ New Jersey

Question: [deleted]

Answer: So, your brother stole $100K from your dad, and you stole $110K from your dad?


Title: Bought new 2018 car. 7 miles on it. Next day when damage was visible i took it back. I want it fixed, how far can i go?

Question:
Now the thing is. When i bought the car, it had no visible damage. it was night time. the next day i notice these marks all over the car, I drove an hour and a half to go buy that thing. I like it so i am not trading it in. it needs a new paint job and headlights and front grill as well as spoiler and new rims as well as all the windows. Every bit of damage was unnoticable in the dark and it looked pristine. Anyway, when i did the math on the car, the screwed me over for about 5k more than the price. i have them recorded where the tell me its all included and blah blah blah but in reality i ended up paying for these "included" things. now the thing is, i probably cant go back on the contract but now that i noticed that the car is damaged all over where it needs to be completely painted and parts on the exterior need to be changed i want to get in there and tell them i want a different color, better rims, tinted windows a moonroof and a nicer spoiler. I let them rob me and i would have walked away fine and have accepted it until this happened. Now i want to squeeze those 5k ish back and more back into the car. Can i do this, if they deny can i sue? This is a huge dealership that sells brand new cars and doesnt really care about the buyer to be honest. They lied to me and got away with it. now that i have some huge issue i need to get those 5k back into the car. If they deny, can i sue? or small claims? of course first i will talk to them, then the manufacturer and if they deny. What can happen. Also, i know once you buy the car and drive from the lot its my responsibility but if you saw the damage and felt it. you could easily tell it is not caused by me. nothing in nature could cause it. its thousands of little scratches all over the car. everywhere. not a single part is free from these. Even used cars ive bought have never been like this.

Thank you for your time good sirs.

Answer: What makes you think that you are entitled to a partial refund, repairs, or upgrades on a vehicle contract that you signed and a vehicle that you took delivery of apparently without a suitable inspection (don't spend tens of thousands of dollars on something that you can't see in the dark!).


Title: My boss took my paycheck back.

Question:
I just left a job after six weeks (!!) because of an incredibly toxic work environment all centered around the boss and company founder. In addition to being inappropriate on many levels, I recently received my paycheck via direct deposit on 4/30, only to wake up to tons of bank notifications that it was TAKEN BACK two days later without notice.

Aside from this being ridiculous, it really fucked up my bill payments and I had to contact him to find out what the hell was going on and wait for it to be mailed to me.

Is there somewhere I should report this to? Is there anything I can do? Nobody should do business with this guy as an employee or a client and I feel like he legitimately stole from me, albeit temporarily. I’m in MO, USA. TIA!

Answer: File a wage claim


Title: I bought the domain of the company i work for. Best case worst case? What to do now?

Question:
My company just merged with another one and the name of the company will change. With the announcement of the new Name i thought i check the availability of the domain. They didnt register it so I did.
I am willing to let go of the domain. But what can happen in the worst case and in the best case.
When could i transfer the domain, and when is it "my"  Domain?

Answer:
 Best case- they offer to buy it from you for a billion dollars and you retire to a private island and live the rest of your life drinking fruity drinks by the ocean.

Worst case- they sue you into oblivion and you wind up homeless.  You manage to subsist for a few years by performing unspeakable sex acts in back alleys for pocket change.  Until one day, impressed with your talents, a "client" offers you a place to take a hot shower (your first in months).  Hoping that maybe there will also be a meal to go along with it - or maybe something worth stealing - you hop into the van without question.

You should have bathed in the park fountain again.

The hobo fight club is serious business for these guys.  The stars get a cell with a blanket and food for the night.  The losers get tossed back into 'the pit.'  You don't want to be in 'the pit.'

But you're not a fighter.  Oh, no sir.  You can only wish you were.

Because these guys have to train, right?  And that means practicing hitting stuff.  And that means you.  You spend your last days through slowly darkening vision and a series of worsening concussions getting pummled by winners and losers alike.

It takes less than an hour for you to start hoping that each blow will be the last one.  Occasionally you think back to the domain name - it's become sort of a mantra for you, and you wonder...

"Was it worth it?"


Title: Preparing to Marry My Indian Citizen Fiancée (USA)

Question:
Hey all,

I hope you can be of some help as the local immigration attorney here in upstate New York, USA has not been returning our calls for whatever reason. My Fiancée is an Indian citizen who has been here as a student since she was around 18 - she is now 25 and finishing up her masters thesis. She is currently working full time using an OPT visa which is going to run up at the end of June. With the way the laws set up I don't believe she has to leave the country for 2 months after the visa runs up, but we were considering getting a Fiancé visa if we need some more time. We are planning on getting married by mid august at the latest but might be doing it sooner as she has some family coming to the states in June.

Given all that information we're just looking for a bit of guidance and reassurance about what we need to do and what problems we might run into. This link - https://www.uscis.gov/sites/default/files/USCIS/Resources/A2en.pdf is a bit confusing for me so if anyone who has been through the process or has the legal know how could help it would be much appreciated!

Thanks,
Analemmaro
Topic:
Immigration

Answer:
 You do a K-1 visa when your fiancee is not presently in the country.  It's more expensive and more complicated than an adjustment of status for someone who is already here.

You need to find an immigration attorney who will return your phone calls to set up getting married and doing a status adjustment.


Title: Police officer did not respect that I have stuttering

Question:
Hello

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First of all I know I am guilty and all but I am just going to ask if it is worth.

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I live in a apartment complex and the complex is always tight on parking and tenants usually park in the street since the street is a dead end and there are no other houses/businesses other than this complex. Last month I parked in the handicapped parking for just 5 minutes to go up and grab my phone. When I came back to the car there was a police officer who asked my why did I park in this spot without a handicapped permit. I explained to him that I just went to grab something real quick (I know its illegal). He went in his car and issued me a ticket and asked me for my phone number and other information and I told him I have severe stuttering and I showed him my phone number and my address through my phone but he refused to read and said "no I don't read and you can speak just say your number"  I **tried** to explain that it is much convenient for me to have him read my into rather but he insisted.

&#x200B;

Now I need to go to court to pay the fine of $475. I am thinking to go to the judge and explain to him the issue hoping for the officer not to show/ hopping that the officer will understand that the officer was not polite/ and hoping the judge might reduce the fine for me since that I am a college student.

&#x200B;

I know I am fully guilty in regards to the ticket I received but I want your opinion about the stuttering situation.

&#x200B;

Thank you

Answer:
 >I want your opinion about the stuttering situation.

I don't think this had any bearing on you being cited or not. If you think the officer was unprofessional you can file a complaint with his department.


Title: Adding fence and gate to neighbour's existing fence? (Canada)

Question:
I need some advice regarding fencing!

My family will be moving in the next few months, and the new house is lacking fencing in a few spots. Currently, there are fences along each side of the yard, which I assume the neighbours paid for.

We would like to add a fence across the back (public property behind), and across the front, preferably with a gate (from neighbour's fences to the sides of our house).

I initially thought, "We'll just add the fences off of theirs", but I'm starting to wonder if that's in bad taste/illegal.

Do I need to get permission? Check property lines? Offer to pay for part of their existing fence? I don't want to create bad blood with neighbours, especially when I'm intentionally trying not to.

Thoughts?

EDIT: Thank you to everyone for their advice! Looks like I'll be checking property lines and having a conversation with the new neighbours before I do anything else! :)

Answer:
 Why not just go to them and say, "Hey, I'm hoping to close-in my backyard. Do you mind if I make the end of your fence the corner of a shared fence?"

If they mind, check your HOA Bylaws and municipal statutes for what you are legally able to do and follow those.

As for property lines, you should have those when you buy the house. If you're really nervous about the plot, get a survey done.


Title: [Virginia] Is there any risk for an illegal immigrant to press criminal charges against someone?

Question: One of my middle school students asked me today if "you need papers" when you file charges against someone. Apparently she and her family were threatened/harassed by some guys with guns, and they want to press charges. This little girl is worried that her family could get deported since they are undocumented immigrants. Is there a risk that pressing charges could get her family into trouble with immigration?

Answer: Sadly, yes. It could bring the attention of immigration to them. This makes things really quite complicated, and I'm not sure how best to advise you. The fact of the matter is that the crimes committed against them do not get rid of the crimes they've committed.


Title: Group Home in my neighborhood -WI

Question:
Hello!  I am a homeowner in a quiet area in a suburb of a major city in WI.  House values range from 130-250K in this area, so pretty much middle income.

This past weekend, we noticed that police had been called to the same home 3 times, with multiple squads responding each time.  I posted about these incidents on Nextdoor, and found that the home in question is a group home.  Apparently one resident is becoming unmanageable, trying to run away, and has punched in an elderly neighbor's window screen.  A different neighbor called the alderman when the home first opened up (looks like 2015), but all the alderman had to say was it was licensed with the state, and another home operated by the same company near our area is doing well.

Is there anything we can do to get this home out of our neighborhood?  I'm worried about a potential decline in property values, as well as general safety because we have a mix of young families and elderly folks.

Answer:
 Have you tried pitchforks and torches?

My heart breaks for your property value.


Title: Pornograghy in the work place?

Question: [Wa, USA]Is there any legal action I can take about the amount of pornograghy at my place of work? This is hard-core stuff, there are numerous posters, calendars, and a box full of magazines in the restroom. Please help

Answer:
 What kind of work place? Have you said anything about it to your superiors or asked them to remove it?

This *could*, in theory, create a hostile work environment depending on the circumstances, but we'd need a bit more context to really say for sure. For example, if you work at a porn company, it probably wouldn't. Answer #2: Is there any kind of human resources department or resource? You should talk to them, not "management."


Title: [PA] Got into fender bender, day later officer on scene says someone reported me (description) driving recklessly and he is now citing me for this. What should I do?

Question:
I ran into the back of a car and police officers were close by and came to scene. Officer said I smelled of alcohol, but I passed field sobriety test and he let me on my way.

Next night he calls and asks where I was coming from, then after I answer he says someone from that area identified me and my car as driving recklessly and he is citing me for this. Told me he doesn't want to get this third party involved. Should I fight this and say there's no evidence and see if the anonymous party comes forward, I know I could have been driving a little fast but wasn't "flying through stop signs and almost hitting mailboxes".

Also he told me I am being let off easy cause he gave me the benefit of the doubt I wasn't legally over the limit and didn't do a blood test. That because I was in an accident that I must have been driving recklessly.  I feel like this was him trying to deter Mr from fighting the citation.

Answer: Don't talk to the police anymore.


Title: [USA] I've been sleeping with my boss for over a year. My parents just found out and want to sue the company unless they fire him. What are my options?

Question:
Says it all in the title. Please no comments judging. We have a consenting relationship and I in no way have ever felt pressured by him, or obligated. It is in the healthcare field so although he is my boss I only actually interact with him 1-2 times a week. He is a superior but not who I report to or even get evaluated by. He is 15 years older then me, not sure if that is LEGALLY relevant.
Now I don't live in the same state as my parents, and am a legal adult. There are no technical rules at the company about sleeping with a subordinate. But I'm sure it would be highly frowned upon. My parents are so furious about it they want to call the company and threaten a law suit against them unless they fire him, they say the suit would be for him seducing me. Even though it was all mutual and consenting. There is no HR to disclose our relationship to, and I know if the company even got the phone call they would think there was too much drama surrounding me and probably fire me, even if my parents can do nothing they will still not want to be involved.

Now I really don't want to be sacked because I have an amazing job, and chances are I won't find one as good that pays as well in my city. But I also understand I took a risk when I slept with my boss. Is there really anything my parents can do? Or is it an empty threat? I don't have any texts or emails saved from him. My dad is also an attorney, but he hasn't practiced law in years, he works in a different field now.

Answer:
 Legal advice:

No laws were broken and you are a legal adult, thus they have no standing to sue.

Personal advice:

Kindly tell your parents to mind their own business. They could end up getting both of you fired.


Title: [US-KY] Unknowingly moved to new location near ATV off road park, the noise is driving us crazy, anything we can do?

Question: So about 2 years ago we moved to a new property in the country, its about 11 miles away from the city and is in a very rural area. We didnt however know at the time that we had moved near a 400 acre ATV, UTV off road park open 24/7. This off road park holds event every weekend in the summer and fall for many many hours and it lasts well into the night till 4-5AM, and all we can hear is the loud sounds of revving engines of them running up steep hills non stop, ands its within 700 feet of our property on the other side of the hill that separates our property. they do this until well into the morning when the sun rises, Ive had countless sleepless nights because of this, even earplugs dont help, its that loud, Why and how can the off road park get away with noise ordinances? Or is it just that the park owners cant control the noise because their paying customers are just enjoying themselves? Im at a loss, can I call the cops on what is probably hundreds of UTV's and loud large jeeps riding throughout the night? We are considering just selling off our property and moving somewhere else because the noise levels are so high that not even our 5 year old can sleep without being woken up. Any advice?

Answer:
 People have been recreating and having fun and now you move in and don’t like the noise and are seeking legal action?

That’s like buying an apartment above a bar and then trying to shut the bar down because it’s too loud...


Title: VA- A business placed a flyer underneath my windshield wiper. How is this legal?

Question:
I got off work and noticed I had a flyer under my windshield. How can business do this?

1.) They're touching my personal property.
2.) They could potentially cause damage to my personal property.
3.) The car was on a lot owned by an individual, thus not public.

I called to complain to them and the woman got irate and kept repeating that they're allowed to do that. How?

I'm sorry if this isn't the correct sub, but it was the only one I thought of that could answer this.

EDIT: I've found this ordinance on the city's website:

>SECTION 16-15. POSTING ADVERTISING MATTER ON STRUCTURES OR
VEHICLES OF ANOTHER WITHOUT CONSENT.

>It shall be unlawful and a Class 3 misdemeanor for any person to place or attach or to
have placed or attached any bill, poster, circular, notice, advertisement or plaque upon
any building, post, wall, fence or other structure or vehicle in the City, on or adjacent to
and within four (4) feet of any street, sidewalk or publicly owned property, without first
obtaining the consent of the owner of such property. (Code 1959, §16-1)

Legal speak causes me trouble at times, but to me it seems that they are strictly not allowed to this UNLESS they get permission first. Correct?

Edit #2: I love the downvotes for trying to understand my situation and consulting more specialized people.

Answer:
 > How can business do this?

They just do it. That's all there is to it.

> 1.) They're touching my personal property.

Yep. Legally this is considered "trespass to chattel" since they are messing with your personal property, but not depriving you of possession. However, in order to have anything done about it, you must first show damages, or at the very least, convey to the infringing party that such activity is unwelcome.

> 2.) They could potentially cause damage to my personal property.

Sure. If they did, then you might have a case.

> 3.) The car was on a lot owned by an individual, thus not public.

The owner of the property would need to convey that people passing out advertisements are not welcome. Then, if they did not leave, he/she may have a valid criminal trespass complaint. Answer #2: xrist, I hope Zapopa doesn't see this. Answer #3: The way it was explained to me once, the business had the right right to ask them to stop and take action. The business chooses not to invest the time or money in doing so.

They did not damage your car. I touch other people's cars all the time on a parking lot. It is not illegal.


Title: Alaska, job can't pay ANY employee.

Question:
Today is payday and I'm supposed to turn in time sheets and note verification forms to my job. I've just been told that we aren't getting paid because the company is broke. What do I do? Panic is setting in and I don't have any money for my family this month.
Topic:
Employment Law

Answer:
 * Turn in your time sheet.
* Report to DOL.
* Ask them if you should sue in small claims court now, or wait until they're done with their stuff.  (Note: if the company is broke, even if you win small claims you're unlikely to get anything.)
* Start job hunting.Answer #2: File for unemployment now. Start looking into any emergency government benefits you may qualify for, if necessary

Also file a wage complaint with the department of labor

----

If the company goes into bankruptcy, unpaid wages are the first of the unsecured debts to be repaid. You may be able to hold the owners/executives personally liable, depending on the circumstances

But bankruptcy proceedings, lawsuits, etc. aren't particularly quick, so these will not address your immediate concerns


Title: My sister's employer is making her work overtime and she says it's hard to say no?

Question: [deleted]

Answer: Yes, she can decline to do overtime. And they can fire her for it.


Title: My dad was asked to pick up a $500,000,000 check from a bank in NY - after some digging, looks like the money was laundered by an ex-Filipino president

Question:
My dad (who lives in Vietnam) was asked by the president of a large Vietnamese charity (looks legit) to fly to New York City (raises red flags) to pick up a $500,000,000 donation to which we have proof of its existence (by bank cover letter, and check photocopy including its id).

We believe the funds are illegitimate money stolen by a corrupt ex Filipino president. The money was inherited by heires and they are worried of the government repossessing it so they are using this charity as a big embezzlement scheme.

I am concerned for my dads life and have told him to get a good international lawyer. Upon asking the lady in charge of the charity for the retainer ($10,000) she simply told him to use some funds from the donation itself, and didn't offer it up front.

Can anyone offer some insight into what's going on here? This is not our usual business, thanks. Will be adding information upon request.

Answer: WTF?  Are you kidding me?  Isn't this just a common advanced fee scam?


Title: Job offering less than minimum wage in MA, can someone explain why its ok?

Question: For more background, I am 16 years old and was offered a job for less than the minimum wage in Massachusetts. I don’t want to seem like some dumb kid thats asking for too much so I figured this is the best place to ask? Is this allowed, and can someone explain why if it is?

Answer: Because it is seasonal work.  In MA a camp can apply for a minimum wage waiver.   When they apply, they have to show it is a seasonal business, the amount they want to pay, and if they will be providing food and housing along with some other information.


Title: (Any Canadian lawyers here?) — US citizen denied entry “inadmissible” to Canada, even though I have been here multiple times.....all due to a DUI that happened 10 years ago and will be off my record May 2019.

Question:
Hi there, I have a DUI from 10 years ago, and apparently in May 2019 it will be off my record. I have entered Canada many times before, but somehow yesterday I was pulled to another customs line, and then was deemed “inadmissible” to Canada and had to either 1)choose to go back to the US, or pay $200 for a weeks stay. (I’m in Canada for work from April 14th-25th)... Toronto from April 14th-20th and Winnipeg from the 20th-25th)..

However, the permit they gave me is until April 19th. What would happen if I overstay until the 25th? It’s never been an issue before, and my DUI won’t keep me from coming back into Canada in May. The permit says to give it to customs once I’m departing and going back to the states, but I’m flying straight to Winnipeg on the 20th for 5 days, then going back to the US. Is this going to be an issue if I try to come back to Canada in the future? It honestly doesn’t make sense, since I have come here dozens of times and this one time I happened to be sent to another customs line..

I know some people overstay by like 180 days or so, yet they are sometimes allowed entry. Any advice would help... thank u

Answer:
 The fact you were previously let in doesn't really change anything and isn't a valid argument.

Unless you apply for rehabilitation after 5 years, you are not deemed rehabilitated for 10 years after conviction for what would be an indictable offense in Canada (and a DUI is an "either way" offense, which is treated as an indictable offense for immigration purposes) and are technically inadmissible until such time unless you are given permission (which in this case you were via a temporary resident permit).

If you overstay or otherwise breach the conditions of your TRP, you may be refused entry in the future.


Title: [California] Father threatening to take house from mother

Question:
Hey guys,

My mother has been fighting with my father recently, and he's been threatening to take the house from her (assuming via divorce), but her name is on the deed to the house as she inherited it from her mother. Am I right in thinking he has no legal claim to the house, even though they are married and he lives there? Thanks in advance!
Topic:
Other Civil Matters

Answer: No, you're quite possibly not correct. It may very well have become marital property, meaning he may be entitled to half the equity, if they've treated it as a marital asset, invested marital funds, worked together to maintain it, etc. However, he can't just "take" the house from her.


Title: Riot Games illegally baring Males from a pax panel

Question: Is it legal for Riot Games to bar cis males from an event? They recently at pax (A paid event) had a panel where they barred all straight males from attending. The event was hosted in Seattle Washington and I'm fairly certain it is illegal to do such an activity. Was wondering if one of you more law savvy individuals could better explain the law, or if there is a case to be had.

Answer:
 It's not illegal.

This is one company, out of dozens, designating part of their content, in one of their rooms, part of each day, for women and non-binary folks.

Answer #2: A panel is neither housing nor employment nor is it a place of public accommodation, furthermore a law restricting a private group's right to have a private meeting would likely not survive a constitutional challenge under freedom of association.Answer #3: Any private event can choose who to allow as guests, as long as they aren’t specifically barring them because of protected class status. A private company who is, for example, attempting to make female/non-binary attendees more comfortable at an event that they are throwing, can legally bar men from attending panels, especially if said panels have a history of attendees harassing non-males. It isn’t discrimination. Answer #4: Only one Riot-based panel at PAX and it hasn't even happened yet. Either you ran into an individual who tricked you, you're lying, or it wasn't a PAX panel to begin with.Answer #5: Are they a private company? At a private event?Answer #6: So, if you want to attend, just tell them that you aren't cis. Nice and simple.


Title: A foreign friend of mine wants me to marry her so she can get her papers

Question: [deleted]

Answer: It's fraud. You can go to jail, if you're caught


Title: [CA] Being punished for taking first ever sick day

Question:
Some quick facts:
-I've worked for this company for over 2 years now and sick pay was just discussed last week (how to calculate how much you have- it's not on pay stubs/not posted anywhere, and how to use it, etc). Turns out I have over 47 hours accumulated
-Company is regulated by DOT and is a passenger transit company (if that makes any difference). Our shifts are ~1-2 hour blocks of time and we have a penalty system in place for missing/arriving late/calling in shifts (called strikes)

Story:
I attempted to use some sick time today (for a medically valid reason, not because I wanted a day off) and followed the procedure outlined last week. Later in the afternoon, I received an email asking for medical proof (understandable) and advising me that I would be given maximum strikes for the day (10) for calling in my shifts. These strikes not only put me on "probation", meaning I cannot be up for a raise, and cannot have any screw ups in the next 8 weeks (though I have never had a strike before in the past 2+ years), but these strikes further prevent me from taking any more sick time in the coming weeks.
I guess I just feel that it's wrong to be punished this severely (or at all) for taking a sick day-especially my first one ever. I don't want to sue or anything, I just don't know if what they're doing is totally legal, do I have any options?

*(on a slightly just complaining note):The company (ie my direct supervisor) is requiring me to jump through a lot of hoops (phone calls, sending pictures of verification, emails that have time constraints) all today so that she can process my strikes. Can that not wait a day when I'm back?*

Tl;dr
Being punished for using sick day to point of not being able to use a sick day again/wouldn't ever want to use one even if able

Answer:
 CA passed the Healthy Workplace Healthy Family Act of 2014 and it went into effect on July 1.  Part of the law is that you are required to receive a certain amount of sick leave and you should be receiving an updated sick leave tally at least for each pay period.  Check out this website: [HWHF](http://www.dir.ca.gov/dlse/ab1522.html) and the [FAQ](http://www.dir.ca.gov/DLSE/Paid_Sick_Leave.htm).

This portion is especially relevant:
>Retaliation or discrimination against an employee who requests or uses paid sick days is prohibited. An employee may file a complaint with the Labor Commissioner against an employer who retaliates or discriminates against the employee for exercising these rights or other rights protected under the Labor Code. Local offices are listed on our website at [http://www.dir.ca.gov/dlse/DistrictOffices.htm](http://www.dir.ca.gov/dlse/DistrictOffices.htm).

Note that if you're covered by a CBA, you're excluded from this law.Answer #2: Are you in a union? Is there Memorandum of Understanding regarding sick leave and accrual?  This all sounds really excessive.  Most organizations and companies don't require medical proof (doctor's note) unless consecutive days are taken.  For instance, my job requires a doctor's note for five consecutive days.


Title: Landlords don't want to fix our unit's washer/dryer--instead, they want to install a new one in a common area

Question:
I live in Michigan.

Myself and a roommate live in the bottom floor of a house divided into two rental units.  Previously there has been a stackable washer/dryer down here, and a washer/dryer upstairs.  Currently, upstairs is between tenants (new one moving in Dec 1) and our dryer has been broken for about two weeks.  Here's how things have gone down:

1.  Landlords attempted to repair dryer.  Unsuccessful, tried again, unsuccessful.

2.  Landlords suggested that they don't want to fix the old one and instead are going to buy a new washer/dryer for *both* units, which they're going to install in a common area (the front entryway, accessible to both units).

3.  We say, "hey wait a second, our lease says *this* unit has a washer/dryer, not access to a common one."

4.  They say, "but the new ones will be new and great.  Really, you're getting something out of the deal."

5.  We say, "our lease says this unit gets a washer/dryer.  We're losing something of what we've agreed to if we no longer have that."

6.  They say, "you know what?  Fine.  Yeah it does.  But we're not lowering your rent--you're already getting a great deal.  If you want to be difficult, we'll get your unit a smaller, used dryer.  Guess you'll have to move a bunch of stuff to fit it in.  Like that [big piece of furniture of mine], the lease doesn't say you get to have that there, so you'll have to move that I guess.  It's not up to us where you put the thing."

Would they be likely or unlikely to be fulfilling their obligations if they technically see to the presence of a washer/dryer in this unit, but the new dryer is smaller/worse, and we have to rearrange stuff to fit it?  It does seem as if they're basically saying, "OK, you got us on this obligation, so we're going to make it hurt for you."

The Michigan [landlord-tenant rights brochure](http://www.legislature.mi.gov/publications/tenantlandlord.pdf) everyone passes around isn't very informative here.

Answer:
 That would totally be fulfilling their obligations.  The unit is supposed to come with a dryer, so they're providing a dryer in the unit.  It may be used and small, but it should work....  What's the problem?

Answer #2: Time to bullshit the landlord.  Tell him that it is a well know principle of common law that appliances furnished with an apartment are expected to be repaired or replaced in kind.  You signed this lease based on a stacking 220v unit; having to give up floor space and use a less efficient dryer is diminishing the value of what you are paying for.

Tell him to either repair or replace the dryer in kind, or you will sue him in small claims court for $100/mo x months left on your lease.

After he gawks at you for daring to stand up for yourself, tell him you are also willing to negotiate an amicable early end to the lease.  Tell him if he does a walk through now, and returns your deposit early, minus any damages, you'll be out by the end of the month.  Tell him you have a lot more free time than he does, and small claims court filing fees are cheap.  And, since you pay rent with a check, you know just where to collect a judgement from with minimal hassle.Answer #3: Non-legal contribution: As a functional point, a full sized dryer usually has to have 220V service, plus it can't be far from the vent, so options are pretty limited.  In the stackables I've owned, there is only ONE power connection for both parts of the appliance.
So having a dryer right next to the stackable may not work out from a connection point of view, unless the electrical is available.


Title: My 19 year old brother is severely violent and autistic. He is destroying our home. What are my family’s options? (DE, US)

Question:
I want to start this out by saying I am 16 and feel  lost. I don’t know what to do at all and where to go. I have 5 siblings, the oldest is 19 and has autism. The youngest is 7. My oldest brother has been more violent. He is putting us all on edge (parents and siblings) and is destroying our home.

My parents are getting too old to deal with him. My brother is kicking holes in walls, breaking windows, and beating up my parents, my siblings, and anyone he sees. We have to defend ourselves and spend most of our days locked in our rooms.He is aggressive in school, at his weekend group home (who can no longer take him because he is aggressive towards other students and staff), and at our house. He’s kicked holes, broken a window, and broken countless doors over the years (2 are completely destroyed, and mine is filled with holes).

I feel so utterly trapped in life. I love my brother, but we cannot deal with him anymore. We’ve had to live our lives sheltered and behind closed doors. I never get to go out with my family or see my siblings because we are always locked in our rooms. What are my options? We aren’t able to live like this anymore. Anything would be greatly appreciated

Answer: Call CPS or the local police. You and your younger siblings have the right to a safe home, free of violence. There are people who can help your brother.Answer #2: Have your parents sought out any medical help?Answer #3: You can contact Adult Protective Services for your brother, and CPS for yourself and your siblings if you need help that your parent can’t / are not able / willing to provide.


Title: [MA] Sister facing domestic charges

Question:
For a little background information, my sister just got out of an emotionally & verbally abusive relationship, denies that he's ever been physically abusive. Since the breakup he has harassed and threatened her via text and on Facebook, as have friends and family members, including their roommate. Last night she asked me if I was available to come with her to her apartment to collect her things. She decided against bringing me along to avoid confrontation, and instead called local PD to escort her. They did, but after a while of being there they apparently "weren't needed" and left. The ex boyfriend was not there, but his friend and their roommate was. After the police left the roommate began to verbally harass and insult her, and she apparently lost her temper and punched him. He called the police, the police arrested her, and since he is their roommate, she was charged with domestic assault and arraigned this morning, and has to return to court next month.

So far I have told her to save & document any and all communication between involved parties, seek a restraining order against the ex-boyfriend, and look into hiring a lawyer, which she is reluctant to do. I've never dealt with a situation even in the ballpark of this though, what should she expect?

Answer: Well if she wasn't hitting somebody in self defense she will probably be found guilty of disorderly conduct at minimum. She needs an attorney and needs to keep quiet.


Title: Medical Malpractice - Cancer

Question:
Today my doctor got an ultrasound back that indicated I had a substantial mass on my left testicle. I had previously had a scan done 11 months ago after some testicular pain and the doctor either did not recognize or did not tell me about the mass that the new radiologist easily identified. I have been living with what is likely testicular cancer for 11 months without knowing it. Do I have a malpractice claim against the hospital/radiologist who misinterpreted the scan if the mass ends up being malignant?

I am located in Albany, NY

Answer:
 Lots of ifs. Need to know if the previous scan actually did show the mass. And if a doctor following the prevailing standard of care for that specialty would have recognized and diagnosed it from that scan. And what, if any, damages you had from that failure to diagnose, assuming there was one. Worse prognosis? Loss in quality of life? Extra procedures, higher medical bills?

I do hope it's not malignant. Wait to find out, and then talk to a medmal attorney if the diagnosis is not as hoped. You have 2 1/2 years in NY to file a medmal claim, it appears.Answer #2: I don't have any legal advice, I just want to offer you some encouragement because a cancer diagnosis is super scary and stressful. My grandfather had testicular cancer last year. You know "Nuticles," for pets? Ball implants for your dog after a neuter...They do the same thing for humans, and you even get to pick out the size of your new ball or balls. My grandfather went up a couple of sizes just for the hell of it. Don't fret...just look up the statute of limitations to file a claim on medical malpractice in your state and be sure to keep your records organized. Focus on getting well, then pursue the malpractice claim if there turns out to be anything to pursue.


Title: [MI] Had a terrible lawyer, made a negative but accurate review about him. He called and threatened to 'make my situation worse' if I didn't take the review down.

Question:
Is this even possible? Can a lawyer go back into the court and somehow make this worse for an individual after the court date?

I already took down the reviews, but jesus christ, how powerless can one be?

Answer: You can make an ethics complaint to the Michigan Bar Association. They can discipline an attorney for pretty much anything and generally the state bars take this *very* seriously.


Title: [FL] Ex applied for food stamps, State may open a child support case against me

Question:
This is in the state of Florida.

Keep in mind through all of this, my ex was investigated for food stamp fruad about 10-11 months ago due to not reporting money I was giving him and claiming he paid rent when he did not. They dropped his benefits. So I do not understand how the state can consider giving him food stamps again.

My ex and I have 50/50 custody, I have them 183 nights, he has them 182. Right now there is no child support order in our parenting plan. I have, in the past, given him $400 a month because he was watching the kids while I was working Monday-Friday (he works nights). When they started school, I dropped it to $200 month. It's just a curtesy from me since I would be paying a daycare otherwise. (I do have a statement from his attorney confirming I've paid him monies, so there is documentation.)

He works part time at UPS. However he is constantly out of work due to a shoulder injury from years ago which he has gotten surgery for and doesn't do any pain management for. He will just not go to work when it suits him. He makes money under the table, of which I have no way of proving. He does not pay rent. He also has next to no medical and dental costs because the free insurance he gets at work is fantastic.

I work 45 hours a week and make 2k a month after taxes. I am remarried. I pay rent and insurance as well as uninsured medical bills. (Probably have about 2-3k in medical/dental/vision expenses a year.)

Now, if this was a simple issue of supporting the kids, it would not be a big deal. But as it stands, I spend more in the care for our children.

*I have paid 100% of their medical bills even though it is supposed to be a split cost. But I will tell him what his portion is to reimburse me and he ignores it.

*I have paid for all their school supplies and back to school wardrobe. The ONE thing he said he was going to get, he failed to do. I have messages from him stating his sister would be buying them school clothes, and he claimed he would be as well, but has not.

*I spend at least 100-200 a month doing things with the children on the weekends, like going to the movies or bowling, etc. He will occasionally take them to a local spring, but it is a once every few months occurance.

*I have a statement from his attorney that states my ex is capable of finding an additional job. So by his own admission, he is willfully underemployed.

*I have a statement from him stating he starts training in a week for a new position with better pay and more hours. When I asked him about this and why he was applying for food stamps, his story changed to "not better pay, MAYBE more hours." So he's already showing that he will lie during this case as it suits him.

So it seems to me, I would not be supporting my children, but rather supporting his laziness. This irks me because when you factor in my rent and medical expenses, our income is about the same. He just eats out all the time, has a new vehicle with absurd monthly payments, and buys optional things like a new dog, or a new grill, or his 2-3 week long vacations out of state a year. Meanwhile I budget and plan and live frugally.

I would like to know if a judge will consider these factors in our child support hearing. In the state of FL, support is based on income, even in 50/50 custody situations. But when one parent has more expenses, what happens? What kinds of expenses will be considered? What about the standard of care provided by the parents? At my house, things stay clean, the kids each have their own bedroom, we have a routine, I read all their school papers. His house is filthy, they ALL co-sleep in the same bed, he doesn't know when things need signed and turned into the school.

I just have a real issue in paying the state so he can recieve food stamps when he has already PROVEN that in the past, he lies on the applications. I also find it suspect that he applied for food stamps using old paystubs, and not the paystubs he will be getting from his new position which will most likely be substantially higher.

Part of my has a definite negative bias against my ex. I know in many cases, child support is the only way some deadbeat parents are involved with their children. But in this case, he is the deadbeat and willing to lie to extract money from the state, and I have to foot the bill.

Does having a child support hearing automatically mean someone will end up paying child support, or does the judge consider the whole picture and sometimes dismiss the case?
Topic:
Custody Divorce and Family

Answer:
 These are great questions to ask your attorney. You need an attorney. Answer #2: >I just have a real issue in paying the state so he can recieve food stamps when he has already PROVEN that in the past, he lies on the applications.

Sorry, but that's just tough cookies. It's a government based assistance for food. They aren't going to deny him the opportunity to receive a necessity just because he lied previously. It doesn't mean they won't investigate him more than other applications though.

>Does having a child support hearing automatically mean someone will end up paying child support, or does the judge consider the whole picture and sometimes dismiss the case?

A judge has the ability to drop the case, but likely won't considering it's for support of the child and for the sake of judicial economy doesn't want to entertain another "come to Jesus" hearing when he can just issue a definitive order then and there.

As for what's considered, it's all based upon a calculation. It will take what you make and take what he makes and calculates your contribution. Then other factors off-set the contributions like insurance and daycare paid for the children. If you want to see how it works, there's calculators online. Just search for one for your state.


Title: Legality regarding displaying content from a sports league(athletes, stats, etc) on a website?

Question:
I'm currently working on a website where users could play fantasy-style games, like fantasy football, with another sport. Would there be obvious legal issues if I displayed pictures of the athletes, their names, their stats, etc... on the website? Located in Canada.
Topic:
Canada

Answer:
 Name and stats shouldn’t be a problem, those are facts and are not covered by copyright.

Images are copyright protected though so you’ll need permission from whoever own the ones you want to use.


Title: [Iowa] Former roommate left all his possessions won't come get them and claims I'm withholding them from him

Question:
Roommate was added to the lease and quickly removed (beating a woman, taken to jail and losing his work release rights in 2hours removed). Hasn't paid rent or utilities in 3 months. Left all of his items here and told me that he doesn't want them. Landlord informed me that I have to let him in to come get them. Been telling him too, but he told the landlord that I wasn't.

Get an email from his family saying he was denied entrance by maintenance and law enforcement and that I have no legal authority to do so. I'm the one that offered to get cops to come over and help with property retrieval, but he refused saying he didn't care about his property anyways.

Get a email from his attorney's office saying I don't have any right to dispose of the goods, and that they can have a signed affidavit for a pickup person for them sent to me and they asked where the items could be picked up.

Told them I could transport them to their office same day. And that I'll take the affidavit asap. That was two weeks ago and they haven't responded to any of my contacts since.

Now I'm in this weird as hell limbo where the landlord is telling me it's my problem, this convict is informing people that I'm keeping his property from him and I'm behind about 1600USD (excluding the months his items have just been left here).

I used iowafindalawyer.com (since I'm just over the cutoff for legalaid) and every office tells me that they don't specialize in landlord-tenant disputes despite having that on their profile. And inform me to try somebody else.

I'm at my wits end. Can somebody just point me in the right direction?

Update -- LANDLORD IS HANDLING IT AND IS PUSHING FOR THIS WEEK! THANK YOU ALL!

This has been stressing me out to the point where I haven't been able to sleep. Thank you all again.

Update 2

So they set up a pick up time on Saturday that interferes with my schedule. I gave them a list of time frames where would work for me, and maintenance and management told me that they could not do those because staff does not work at that time.

Which I understood. Now they're telling me, during this pickup time the landlord setup, they will not be there and I can contact the police. Is there any benefit of having maintenance on staff? Is there any downside for me taking the responsibility of letting them in? Is there any upside for them if they don't be there?

Answer: I'm a little confused why you are involved here. It sounds like he was a co-tenant with you, not a subtenant. If so, the matter is between the former tenant and the landlord. The landlord should schedule a time with the former tenant to retrieve his belongings (which may involve notifying you) but it's not your job to provide access to the unit for him if he's no longer a co-tenant.Answer #2: How much stuff are we talking? Can it all be boxed up? Or is it big stuff like bed, dresser, etc?


Title: My package was delivered to the wrong address, I witnessed it, and the neighbor is withholding it from me.

Question:
So basically, as the title states, my neighbor is keeping my package and denying that it was even delivered.

I was waiting on my package to be delivered and saw the UPS truck pull up to my neighbor’s house, drop off a package with a female, and then leave. I thought this was odd because I also had a package that was supposed to be delivered that day.

I checked my phone for a tracking update and the UPS site said that it had just been delivered. I looked on the proof of delivery and it did not have a signature, but instead, some text that just said “met with customer: woman”

I knocked on my neighbor’s door and asked if they’d gotten a package delivered to them wrongly, to which the woman’s boyfriend (I assume) slammed the door in my face.

I’ve filed a police report, but the police said they can’t do anything because the only proof they took my package is me seeing it happen. Is there anything else that I can do?

The item in question was just over $200 in value and I live in Oklahoma, right around Tulsa.

Any help would be appreciated.

Answer:
 Generally, companies are not liable for misdelivered packages. However, they often will reimburse you if you did not receive it through no fault of your own.Answer #2: Letter to neighbours then Small claims.Answer #3: Contact the shipping company.

Did you give them the wrong address?

Answer #4: You should know that sometimes UPS marks a package as delivered before it has been. I've been passed up with a "delivered" showing online only for it to come two days later. I used to ship to customers, they sometimes called describing the same thing. Even with ones that required signature. There's a chance she also ordered a package and yours will arrive. If not, contact UPS to see if they have any information for you, and contact the company you ordered from and let them know you did not receive your package.


Title: [USA] Rival Company blocked our IP address

Question: I do part time work for a advertising company in Orlando. We have a competitor that is in the same business we are but also provides websites for mutual clients. They blocked our IP address today effectively eliminating our ability to facilitate our clients needs. Is this legal? Thanks

Answer:
 Step 1:  Get a VPN, you can get them for less than $5/mo.  Continue doing your work.  It makes you look good as a company when you can outsmart the bad guys.

Step 2: Tell your clients what the company is attempting to do.  It's not illegal, but it's definitely shady.  Answer #2: Blocked it from what and how?Answer #3: Technical solution: Use TOR or a VPN.

Business solution: Tell clients.

Legal solution: Probably not worth it.


Title: Mediating my parents divorce. HELP!

Question:
Ok, So, all kids are grown up and over 18, be being bilingual and a rational adult, i am offering my assistance for them to split amicably.  I am stuck on 1 factor. any advice would help. they don't have any $$ saved up, just a bit which they plan to divide up to kids.  most $ is sunk into the home that they own in USA.. they paid down about 100k  and owe another 180k in mortgages on it still.  They have another little property abroad worth about 40k.  They dont want to sell either.  my father Is willing to accept the cheaper home abroad IF he can get about 20k  for a car to keep working out of the main house they own in the states, then my mother can keep the house.   My mother already has a car that's fairly new that should run for a while which she's happy to keep.

So to make this long story short, if i help them  split everything up in a way they see fit, is there any way I can take out 20k our of the money they paid down on the house without them having to sell it right now?

PS: the House in US will be getting sold in about a year, but my mother has to remain living there till than because of family situation. both are cool with that but don't know how to resolve getting cash out of house now so he can move out and still drive to his job..

Answer:
 If they see eye to eye and are willing to agree to it, they may be able to find a lawyer willing to help them prepare the paperwork on this and advise them on how to structure the proposed offset payment. That will be far safer for them, long-term, than relying on their kid to draft their divorce, no matter how good your intentions are or how well-adjusted you may be.

In particular, the divorce process can't compel the mortgage lender to let either of them off the hook for the mortgage. Structuring buyouts and sale clauses is worth having a professional do, because untangling a badly-written one can cost a lot of money down the line. Since most ways of getting $20k in cash out of their equity are going to involve more loans, there's additional complexity there that should be reviewed by a professional.

The direct answer to your question is usually "take out a HELOC against the equity," but adding more loans to this situation before talking to an attorney is a recipe for trouble.


Title: Indiana: delay removal of ventilator.

Question: The patient has been declared brain dead, and they may well be right, but we wonder if something could be missed or if there could be some recovery with reduced swelling. Are there any legal options in Indiana to delay the hospital removing the ventilator?

Answer:
 You can try to hire a lawyer to obtain an injunction against the hospital preventing the removal of life support, but (and this is might sound more harsh than it is meant to be) "brain dead" is dead.

I'm sorry for your loss.


Title: GF took medicine prescribed by doctor looking at the wrong patient's results (Germany)

Question:
Hi all, hope this is the right place for my question.

My GF (27) has been having weird periods for a while now and she went to see a gynecologist in January.

She got a blood test in order to see if anything was problematic. After a while, they contacted her saying, first, that they couldn't find her results and then, a while after, that they found them back.

When she went, they gave her the results (a normal paper with a list of tests / values) and a prescription for some herbal substance that was supposed to 'softly' help regulate whatever was going on.

However yesterday we realized that the paper **they gave her was actually the results of another patient**. We have no specific knowledge in medicine so we don't know if the herbs prescribed were supposed to be for the other patient or not.

Furthermore, we don't know what are the actual status of my GF, if she should have been taking else instead, if the herbs were actually counter-productive (although it's herbs so this should be okay) or what happened with the actual results. Plus we have the medical results of another patient.

&#x200B;

Should we do anything special (legally?) about it (additionally to get checked by another doctor obviously)? Is there anything we might benefit from letting the original doctor know? Should we give back the results to the original patient? I know that medical secrecy / confidentiality is super serious (especially in the EU) and this seems like quite a breach in the doctor's system.

&#x200B;

Any tips & advices highly appreciated!

Answer:
 > although it's herbs so this should be okay

this is a common and dangerous misconception about "natural" medicine. there are plenty of plant/animal derived substances that can be very harmful. but that's not the question here.

seems to me like the doctor (or their assistant) made a mistake. this happens. contact them and ask what to do. while this is inconvenient, as long as there are no damages, there is nothing you could sue for. and yes, while medical secrecy is important, it also requires you to proof intent or at least gross negligence on part of the doctor's office, which is unlikely and honestly also not worth your time.


Title: Crazy landlady trying to charge me "fines" and outrageous interest (WI)

Question:
My girlfriend and I signed an 18 month lease on a two bedroom house in Wisconsin that began on October 1, 2014 and our monthly rent payment is $700 due by the first of the month. On November 17 I received a voicemail from our landlady saying that all vehicles must be parked in the garage and since we had been leaving one car in the driveway overnight she was "fining" us $300. There are two of us and two cars, and this house only has a one car attached garage. There is nothing in our lease about parking or any type of fine, and in our city you can't park on the street overnight from November 1 through April 1. I called her back and left a message to the effect of "Sorry, we can't park on the street overnight, we have two cars, and there's nothing in our lease about parking".

I paid the rent for December, and on the 16th received another message from her while I was at work. Her voicemail said that she had given us four weeks to correct the problem of parking a car in the driveway she was "fining" us another $300. I followed up that week with several calls and left her messages that restated what I told her in November, telling her that our lease did not mention parking restrictions nor "fines".

At this point I started to get uncomfortable with where this was going so I sent my January rent via certified mail. It cleared and I heard nothing from her during the month of January. I sent out the February rent via certified mail as well and it cleared my bank on the 2nd of February.

Last night I received a letter from her that's absolutely insane. She claims that because of "the fines you failed to pay and the late fees" I owe her $7,640! She has been "fining" me $300 per month from October through January ($1,200), and since I have not paid them has been charging me late fees of $70 *per day* since November 1 ($6,440)!

My lease says that "Monthly rent is $700 if received by the 1st day of the month, if received after that day a $70 late fee shall be due". In 15 years of renting I've never been late but I've always assumed that a late fee is a one-time charge per month. In any case this lease does not specify that the late fee is applied every day that the rent is late. She has indicated in her letter that she has been applying my rent payments to the fines and late fees so I've not actually paid my rent since October.

Again, my lease has nothing in it about parking restrictions and I'm renting an entire house. The lease looks like it's one of those forms you can purchase at an office supply store. The city I live in has no restrictions about parking vehicles in driveways, and this house is not part of an HOA (and even if it were, I'm not a party to any HOA agreement that may exist). Her letter says if I continue to park in the driveway parking fines will be assessed, and that if I do not pay them late fees will continue to accumulate and that she will report it on my credit, change the locks, and file for eviction.

I'm pretty sure that if she attempts to evict me she'll be laughed out of court. I cannot imagine anyone reasonable thinking I owe this woman $7,640 but I am worried about how to proceed from here. Do I reply with a letter? What should I say? I don't want to somehow bind myself to owing this money.

I'm concerned that her letter states she'll "change the locks and file for eviction". That seems to me like she will lock me out before going to court. From what I've read that sounds like "constructive eviction" and is illegal. What do I do if I come home from work and the locks are changed? My driver's license has this address on it. Should I carry around a copy of my lease? Can I call the police if I'm locked out?

Is there any way I can stop this woman from attempting to collect this from me? How do I protect myself?

Sorry this has been so long, this is the most batshit insane thing I've ever been involved in and I want to make sure I proceed correctly since I'm in this lease until April 2016.

TL;DR: Rent is $700/mo, crazy landlady tries to "fine" me $300/mo for something that's not in lease then applies $70/day late fees, sends me a letter saying I owe $7,640 and she'll "change the locks and file for eviction" if I don't pay.

Update: [I contacted an attorney and he sent a letter to my landlady. Unfortunately, crazy landlady is still crazy](http://www.reddit.com/r/legaladvice/comments/2w4nsx/update_crazy_landlady_trying_to_charge_me_fines/).

Answer:
 OP PLEASE do a follow up in the future! Answer #2: http://www.tenantresourcecenter.org/understand_your_rights
Toll-free (from anywhere outside of Dane County): 1-877-238-RENT (7368) - Call the toll free number as you are not in Madison and probably outside of Dane county.  They can provide you with assistance for free.  I hope it works out... give us an update when you can :)  Very interesting.


Title: Can I re-adopt my birth father as my legal parent?

Question:
Tl;dr- Seeking information on reassigning my birthfather as my second legal parental figure, and potentially what sort of paperwork/legal process would be involved

I hope this post comes off more positive than some other posts on here, as it's kind-of a wonderful one-of-a-kind situation that requires a potentially delicate touch.

So 22 years ago when I was born, my birthfather and mother gave up all parental rights to me by signing it over to my adoptive mother and father. They're all lovely people, but my adoptive father passed away roughly ten years ago. Only this past year have my birthfather and I begun to reconnect (due to my desire to meet him as an equal as opposed to an adult/child relationship), and it's been the most wonderful experience I could ask for. He's a near clone of myself given 20 extra years to steep in everything that makes me, me; and I'd like to surprise him this year by setting up a sort of re-adoption in the legal sense. Even if I don't technically need a legal guardian anymore, I feel like he'd be pleased with this sort of thing, as he's a lawyer and this sort of thing brings him alot of joy when it works out for his clients. My question for r/legal advice is where should I look to establish this process?

Answer: The first question you have to answer is if your bio dad wants to adopt you.


Title: Subpoena received from a client at work, do I need a lawyer?

Question:
Long story short: I am a professional who works with children. One of the children on my caseload is in foster care and there is an adoption trial coming up. I was unfortunately subpoenaed to appear in court for this trial to provide information. I have never received a subpoena before and will be missing a weeks worth of work (Unpaid) due to this trial. I read that it is recommended I get a lawyer. Does anyone have any insight or advice? I am unable to speak with my supervisors about this at this time as they are all on vacation and unresponsive to my emails. And I am not financially in a place where I can hire a lawyer. Any help, experience or advice is appreciated!
Topic:
Small Claims Procedure

Answer: You don't need a lawyer and I can't imagine your testimony would take more than a few hours. Call the attorney handling the adoption and explain the financial burden and see if they can accommodate somehow.Answer #2: No, you do not need to hire an attorney as you are a witness. Be prepared to answer questions honestly and professionally. Why would you not be paid for going to trial? It’s related to your job.Answer #3: This subpoena is work related and you should be paid for the time and not be forced to use sick or vacation time.Answer #4: Why are you taking the whole week off for this? You'll be testifying for one, two days at absolute max (and two days rather than part of one day for any witness testimony is highly unusual) and you are not required to stick around and listen to the whole thing. You also don't need to hire an attorney, and the site you saw were advising attorneys for people who receive very different types of subpoenas. That doesn't apply to you. All you need to do is show up and answer questions honestly to the best of your ability.


Title: CA: Is it legal to have alcohol on your lunch break?

Question: [deleted]

Answer: Sure. And it's legal to fire you for being publicly intoxicated at work and deny you unemployment.


Title: If my neighbor puts up a wooden fence, am I allowed to do things to it?

Question: Can I paint my side, hang outdoor ornamental art on it, or use it as a trellis to hold up vines I plant next to it? Nothing destructive. Btw, I'm in California.

Answer:
  It's likely not "on" the property line per say. It's most likely a few inches from the property line on your neighbors side of the line. In some cases a fence can become a defacto property line but it doesn't seem like this is the case since it isnt pre-existing.

If your neighbor owns the fence, paid for it, and its on his side of the property line you wouldn't have a right to deface it in any way. You can put up your own fence on your side of the property line, pay for it, and paint it as you'd like, though.Answer #2: No, it’s their fence.Answer #3: Is it a shared fence, or 100% on their property?  If it's set back on their property by a foot or so, and not right on the property line, the argument that you have anything to say about it gets weaker.

Otherwise, California seems to consider any fence on the property line the shared responsibility of both land owners.  If you're responsible to (partially) pay for repairs and replacement, then your right to do non-destructive things to your side of the fence gets stronger.

At the end of the day, it never hurts to talk to your neighbor about it.  As long as it doesn't harm them, I don't see why they would care.


Title: [Austin, Texas] I was fired based on a false complaint from a mentally ill homeless customer. Please help.

Question: [deleted]

Answer:
 No. That is not retaliation. File for unemploymentAnswer #2: Being rude to a customer and getting mouthy with the general manager are both perfectly legitimate reasons to terminate an at-will employee.  I don't see any claim here, nor do I see any reason why anyone in HR would be obligated to hear your dispute.  File for unemployment, polish up your resume, and look for a new job.
Answer #3: Internal company procedure isn't a major concern for the legal system.

http://research.lawyers.com/texas/employment-law-in-texas.html

>age, race, or gender, or in retaliation for filing an employment-related complaint against the company for workers' compensation, an unsafe work environment, or discrimination.

If they fired you for one of these reasons you'd have some claim.

You weren't. It's entirely illegal to fire you for speaking back to a superior (your conduct was unprofessional) being complained at by a mentally ill person, or them not liking your face. The government doesn't care about the company's HR procedure.


Title: How long would you continue to work if pay is not coming in?

Question:
Our December checks bounced and the company has yet to make us whole. They said they’d reimburse fees for bouncing checks but they still haven’t corrected our pay. This has happened before for this company. Once they were a full month late and a bunch of people quit.

They claim the delay is due to inter bank agreement, but we all know they have cash flow problems. They cut hours for a few people and haven’t been able to keep up with operating expenses. They have lots of unpaid bills. I read somewhere that you can try to collect unemployment if your employer fails to pay you on time. I’m in Pennsylvania.
Topic:
Employment Law

Answer: About fifteen seconds. File a complaint with the department of labor, or whatever your local agency is called.


Title: My local mail carrier keep losing my important mail{NJ}

Question: I have had such a huge problem with my local mail carrier that I actually signed up for this service call informed delivery that notify me what kind of mails I am suppose to receive that day. My mail carrier on more than lots of occasion keep either deliver my mail to my neighbors by mistake or losing my mail. I have filed complaint with the post officer supervisor but she seem like she could careless on the phone, whenever I asked to speak to the Post Master General, she always said he is either not in the office or busy and refuse to let me speak to him. I am talking about mails like tax refund or paycheck or other stuffs that would be a pain in the ass to have it resent to me....Beside talk to my local Congressman and hope something will be done about this issue, Is there anything else I could do to get my local mail carrier stop losing my mails on purpose?

Answer:
 Damn, I was going to suggest Informed Delivery.

You can take your emails printed out of the envelopes you were supposed to, but didn't, receive straight down to the counter. Refuse to leave until the situation is resolved.

If they call the police for trespassing, great, you can explain it to them.

You can start calling higher-up usps phone numbers. Going to be hell getting someone that genuinely cares/can help, though.

You can get a PO box so your street-level carrier never touches it.

You can talk to your carrier in person one day when they're delivering the mail. Ask what the F the deal is.


Title: [US] When a drug dog is doing a search on a car and scratches it, are the police responsible for that damage?

Question: No drugs were found in the car.

Answer:
 The police have something that's known as sovereign immunity, or in other words a legal shield that prevents people from suing them for doing their jobs.

As long as the stop was for an appropriate reason and the dog was there in an official capacity doing official business then the dog is immune from lawsuits. As are the police and the police department.

If the dog is not there for a valid reason then it's just a guy with his dog hassling someone and damaging their stuff and therefore the guy is responsible for fixing the damage caused by the dog.

It hinges on why you were pulled over. As long as there is a valid reason the answer is "no".


Title: Is it legal to publish a photo book of dead people's hands? [x-post: r/books]

Question: Hi! I am a former funeral director in the state of California. I have chosen to change careers and move to Oregon or Washington. My question for anyone who might know or have experience in photography, death, and the law is this - Is it legal for me to publish a book of ONLY the hands of deceased people? There is only one photograph that depicts tattoos on the hand and only one that depicts nail art. Do I legally need permission from the next of kin to publish a book of their loved ones hands? Again none of the photos represent any personal characteristics that could identify the deceased nor is there any writing in the book. It is photos only. Any advice or links to legal references would be greatly appreciated. Thank you!

Answer:
 Not a lawyer but I work in book publishing. A major publisher would, I think, be leery of publishing such a work without permission from the families of the deceased. Even if it were perfectly legal to publish it, there's something ghoulish about profiting off of a deceased person's body without their knowledge or permission that would make for terrible PR if someone got wind of it.

The tattoo raises another (theoretical) issue as has been discussed in other threads on this sub: the tattoo artist would have a claim too, possibly.


Title: Is there a firm definition of religion in the United States?

Question: If I argued feminism is my religion, what legalities would hold me back?

Answer: For what purpose?


Title: Overpaid hospital and can't get refund

Question: I overpaid the Atlanta Medical Center about $600 for the birth of my daughter. I have been calling them about my refund since last October and they acknowledge they owe me the money and say they will issue the check and never do. They've done this about 5 times now. What can I do to get this money back?

Answer: Get them to acknowledge the debt in writing (this could include an email).  Send them a demand letter (basically "I demand the $600 you owe me, you have 30 days to send a check to this address").  If the demand letter does not work, sue in small claims court.


Title: MASS: Was in a small car accident that resulted in cosmetic damage, person I hit could be making ridiculous claims...

Question:
I live in Massachusetts. I rear-ended someone by accidentally removing my foot from my brake pedal at a red light. I hit the woman in front of me via what was a very light tap. I took photos of the damage, which was entirely cosmetic (two small paint scratches about the size of nickels on her rear bumper). The woman I hit was furious, immediately claimed that she had whiplash, screamed at me for over 10 minutes accusing me of texting and driving (I wasn't), and was generally very over-reactive in what was a very small accident.

I just got a letter today that she filed a claim (this is annoying, but I expected it). I haven't spoken to her insurance company yet, because I don't know what to do. I haven't ever been in an accident before, and I'm really unfamiliar with the process.

A) What should I say / not say to her insurance company in my statement?

B) If her claims are egregious (I'm honestly expecting her to claim injury), what is my recourse?

C) Any other helpful info would be appreciated (i.e. do I contact my insurance company? should I talk to a lawyer before talking to her insurance company?)

I don't have much money and really can't afford an attorney, and I'm sincerely stressed that this person wants to turn this into a huge ordeal.

What do I do?

Answer: Call your insurance, that's what they are for.


Title: Can life insurance money given to a minor be withheld ever after they turn 18?

Question:
IOWA - My younger step-sister inherited half of a life insurance policy when her mother died when she was younger, and the other half was given to her sister. It is a significant sum, but due to some odd circumstances and because their parents were divorced at the time, the money was put into an account for each and has been managed by their paternal grandmother.

When the older sister turned 18 the grandmother stayed in "control" of the account and would give money to that sister when she needed it.  My younger step-sister is treated very poorly by her family, especially the grandmother. She is 17 right now, but we have two concerns. The first is that her dad and the grandmother keep talking about how the younger sister "owes" the older one (not sure why) and that they are going to pay the older one back with the money in her account. Is this allowed? We are worried they are going to take money out of the account before she turns 18 and hide it.

The second concern is that the grandmother keeps talking about how even when my younger sister turns 18 she will not be allowed to access the money in the account, and that the grandmother will "keep control" of it. We have no trust in her as an account manager, and I know while my sister is a minor there are at least hoops grandma has to jump through to withdraw money. Those will go away when my sister turns 18.

TD;LR To sum up, my legal questions are 1. Can we do anything now or retroactively to make sure money was not withdrawn to "pay" the older sister back? and 2. Can the grandmother actually withhold my sister from taking control of the account when she turns 18?

Answer: She really needs to consult an estate planning and trust lawyer, should demand an accounting of the money for the entire time it was managed (through the lawyer), and gonfrom there. Be prepared to find that nonsense occurred.


Title: I want to adopt my step daughter. She's been my little girl for 13 years and her biological father is nowhere to be found.

Question:
We're in Oregon and she's almost 16. This is just to make it official and to make last name the same as mine. We all know she's my daughter.

The last we know, her biological father was in California and the last support payment was received through a garnishment over a year ago. The payment is irrelevant to finances, but it could help proving abandonment.

What information do I need to provide to a family lawyer if I need to see one to start the process for a formal adoption?

Answer:
 You can adopt here when she turns 18 and her dad doesn't have to be involved so there won't be any huge legal bills if he decides to fight it. It will be the same result with less hassle.Answer #2: > What information do I need to provide to a family lawyer if I need to see one to start the process for a formal adoption?

All of it.  Go talk to one tomorrow and see what the possibility of success is.  Determine from there whether you want to go forward.


Title: Schedule Change No Notification (CA)

Question:
Hey Reddit!

So I work at a franchise Carl's Jr. In San Diego CA. From the start I have told my employer I can NOT work on Friday. I've worked there for two months and every single week my manager has scheduled me on friday, and time and time again I'm schedule Friday. I have constantly told her not to schedule me on Friday but without fail she does. This friday as an act of disobedience and not giving two Sh*** I refused to call her. I was next scheduled Sunday (today) 4-11:45pm. I went in to work only to see that I was crossed off on the schedule and the manager there refused to let me clock in. I called the scheduling manager and she told me she changed the schedule because I didn't call her on Friday. in her own words "You didn't call me so I refused to call you" I was stunned by was she said something so childish coming from a Store manager. I told her how she is a Manager and REQUIRED to call me. She told me to come in tomorrow and "have a talk with her". I checked the schedule for next week and I have TWO hours only.

TL;DR worker can't work friday manager schedules him anyways and when worker doesn't call manager takes his other hours away as punishment. Manager refuses to call worker and notify of schedule change.

Also on a side note when is the schedule required to be posted for employees? Im tired of her Posting Sunday night in the store only.

EDIT: The reason I Can't work on Friday is because I Work one day a week at another job. The Store manager at Carl's Jr. knew that.

Answer:
 >Also on a side note when is the schedule required to be posted for employees?

There's no law saying when a schedule has to be posted.

>Im tired of her Posting Sunday night in the store only.

I suspect that won't be a problem much longer.

The manager did nothing illegal.  They can certainly fire you over this if they want to.Answer #2: >  I was stunned by was she said something so childish coming from a Store manager.

Her actions were less childish than yours. You're the one who failed to show up to work on the day you were scheduled.

If they need you to work Fridays, they can schedule you. If you refuse, or don't show up, they can fire you. Case closed.


Title: Car accident on job, victim is involving their attorney

Question:
 So I got in a car accident in November 2016 in King County, WA. I rear-ended some people that have their attorney involved. The plantiff was insisting I was working at the time of the accident (which I was) and they threatened a lawsuit if I did not sign a declaration about where I was working. Presumably this is because they wanted to go after the company's insurance, and not after me. The lawsuit was detailing that it would be for personal injuries and they are already getting my full car insurance policy coverage limits (25K). I hit a 2001 mercedes and I'm not sure how much money worth of damages I did to it (it seemed relatively scratch free, my car took most of the impact). I'm having trouble wrapping my head around how her medical bills from that accident would have stacked up that high after this car accident. I suspect it might be fraudulent or that they are blaming other existing health issues on the car accident.

So, here's the catch. There was no car accident report filed with the company. I had a very negligent manager who would oftentimes manipulate the times I was working (among many different shady practices). After contacting the company's HR, they have sent me the accident report which I have yet to finish. Going to be doing that this afternoon. I was scared of the lawsuit and contacted their attorney to let him know in person about where I was working at the time of the accident to make sure I wouldn't have to deal with it.

I'm pretty sure that the company is throwing me under the bus, though. It's difficult because I am still working for them (not many entry level jobs pay well). They are saying that I was not working for them at the time. I remember personally calling in and asking my boss to clock me out because I was in "a serious car accident." So my boss either obliged OR retroactively adjusted my times in the computer (I think he did the latter). Apparently, I clocked out at 6:10 (which does not make sense due to the nature of the work). The attorney is trying to get me to give him information like whether or not the time clocking was done on the computer and if my boss would know my password and my personal phone logs (proving that I called back to either the store or my manager's personal cell) but I don't think this is wise. Giving him information against the company I was working for would probably result in me losing my job. My idea is to bring all of that same information over to HR or literally plead with the attorney to just drop it because I'm losing my job one way or another most likely. The job isn't as big of a deal as I can just find a replacement fairly easily but I'm pretty much paycheck to paycheck right now and cannot afford to personally pay out some stipend to a multi-millionaire over a potential lawsuit.

Regardless, my goals are to keep my job AND to avoid a lawsuit. Probably cannot afford rent this month if I get fired. What would be my best course of action?

P.S.: I'm going to the library right now to get the accident report printed and filled out. Maybe that will give me some leverage on the situation.

Answer:
 Get a lawyer.  Before you do anything else.

You can't avoid a lawsuit at this point, the lawsuit exists.  Stop talking to ANY ATTORNEY THAT'S NOT YOURS.  Especially the other guy's.

I know you're broke, but you really really really need a lawyer.  There should be ones that work for cheap or pro bono - look for legal aid in your area.


Title: What are my rights with memorialized accounts on Facebook?

Question: (NH, USA) My sister just recently passed. Without my permission or the permission of anyone else, Facebook memorialized her account. I have her email and password and written consent from my sister to use her account. When I finally tried to access it, Facebook won't let me. What are my rights and what can I do to resolve this issue?

Answer:
 There isn't really a legal issue with facebook accounts, you will need to take it up with Facebook, it's their policy. Answer #2: Facebook allows you to set a legacy contact for your account. They can get access to your account in the event of your passing.

It's possible your sister had one, but that it was not you.

Also, my condolences on your loss.Answer #3: Contact Facebook, they allow family members to take over memorialized pages.


Title: [PA] might be purchasing an impact grade self-defense cane as a gift, worried it might be banned under the offensive weapons ban as a "blackjack".

Question: Cane in question is a [Ka-Bar cane made from aircraft grade aluminum](http://www.amazon.com/Ka-Bar-2-9406-8-Aluminum-Cane-Black/dp/B00CTKO460). I'm thinking of getting it for my brother who requires a cane due his RSD (nervous system disorder caused by impact to his knee, walks with a limp, constant pain.). He's been walking with a cheap collapsable cane for a while and has expressed interest in getting a solid cane that could be used in self defense if necessary. My chief concern is that I can't really find anything concerning the legality of such a thing in PA and I'm worried that it could be considered a blackjack which, to my understanding, is pretty much limited to law enforcement and maybe private security (not mentioned in what I've read, but I've seen security with nightsticks before and I'm assuming that counts.) On top of the unclear legality of such an item, I'm a bit worried that, God forbid, he gets into a situation where he needs to actually use it, it's status as a marketed self defense item could bring some legal trouble that just a robust stick or sturdy normal cane wouldn't.

Answer:
 As I understand it, the test is whether the object has a "common lawful purpose." E.g., [Commonwealth v. Karlson, 674 A.2d 249 (Pa Super. Ct. 1996).](https://www.courtlistener.com/opinion/1986206/com-v-karlson/). Arguably, a cane, no matter how well constructed, serves a lawful purpose (mobility aid) and would, therefore, not violate the offensive weapons ban. Answer #2: As a cop in PA, I've made many arrests under the Prohibited Offensive Weapons statute.  In my opinion the cane is fine as it does have a lawful purpose, unlike brass knuckles or a switchblade.  Realize, however, that if your brother actually used it beat someone senseless, due to its construction it could very easily rise to being a "deadly weapon" and get him charged with agg assault, depending on specific facts.Answer #3: I wouldn't recommend a cane for self defense. Only if you were agile, it would be useful. It takes a bit of focus to move like the clips you see on youtube. Not saying it's impossible, but improbable.

Blackjacks, brass knuckles, and sap caps are illegal in many places.

Ask him to visit a local gun range and ask them about non-lethal defense tactics. They will gladly point in a good, legal direction.


Title: Saint Louis, MO. I am insured as a dependent on my wife's health insurance plan. Is my wife or her employer able to view my health history (i.e., view the details regarding my claim such as the kind of medical procedure and what is it for?) or is that restricted?

Question:
Can I call the insurance and give them my ID and tell them to make my information restricted? My fear is that they would alert her regarding that.

Currently I am taking legal action against her and her family but if they view my private medical records then that could put me in a weaker position.

Thank you

Answer:
 I'm guessing there's a detail or two that's been left out.

To answer your question, your wife's family has no right to access your medical records. Ever.

As for the wife, unless you explicitly forbid it or if you are legally incompetent (read: comatose) she can access your records. As the primary, she **will** see whatever shows up on the bills, but that is usually pretty bland (so an STI screening would probably show up as "laboratory tests").

Depending upon what it is you are afraid they might find out, they may put you in a position to have to reveal them yourself. So for example, W alleges you gave her the bubonic plague and your defense is "I don't have the plague, I spent the money on a breast enlargement." That would require paper proof - tearing your shirt off in court will not exonerate you. (But if you do, give me a heads up!)

Please note that medical staff do not always follow HIPAA and will occasionally blurt out something they shouldn't.

Here's a link I randomly found on the google for you: [Link](http://wiki.answers.com/Q/Can_your_husband_access_your_medical_records_under_the_HIPAA_law)