Title: I caught my neighbour going through the trash that my boyfriend and I had just thrown out. [Australia]

Question:
Yesterday afternoon my boyfriend and I threw out the three bin bags from our apartment (bedroom, bathroom and kitchen) as well as a few cardboard bags for recycling. About 15 minutes later, I started filing my nails at my window (we are on the second floor and the bin area is almost beneath us).

I looked down and noticed my neighbour (a woman in her mid 40s) taking the cardboard bags out of the recycling bin. I assumed she was just keeping them for her own use as she was folding them up and putting them aside.

I was then alarmed as she took our garbage bags out of our bin, and started opening them and going through them with her bare hands. She started taking some of the bags apart. I quickly told my boyfriend who went down and spoke to her.

My boyfriend went up to her and said "Hi there, I'm just getting a letter I accidentally threw in the bin" and she looked scared. She said "I'm just sorting out the recycling stuff to make sure that everything is sorted properly."

I'm inclined to believe that she was sorting out the recycling however she was going through our garbage bag. This woman is pretty strange and when we told our roommates about what she was doing they were really upset, particularly as they have recently thrown bills out that they didn't destroy first.

Legally is there anything we can do to stop her? We don't have any proof that she has taken anything out however we can't help but feel a bit uneasy that this woman is going through our garbage.

Answer: Buy a cheap shredder and shred any important documents before you toss them in the bin.


Title: [KS] How do I go about offering a reward for information leading to a missing person?

Question: Title says it all.  I am trying to locate my 2 year old daughter.  Her mother took off with her and law enforcement is having difficulty locating her.  I am trying to do everything I can and wish to offer a reward for information that leads to her.  Any other ideas would be appreciated.  Thanks in advance for any responses!

Answer:
 Have you tried finding her via social media? If you already have a social media profile it's probably blocked but you could try setting up a second profile in your name, or perhaps with the help of a mutual friend of family member that's sympathetic with your case and would be willing to help you find her. People are sloppy, she will pop up somewhere like Instagram, Facebook (most likely), twitter etc. If you are friends with any of her friends or family you might be able to find her on their friends list and be able to view her profile and posting activity via their profile.

Also, a private investigator might be more fruitful than simply offering a reward.


Title: I got rear ended but I don't have insurance

Question:
So, I was going to turn right and the guy behind me didn't see me I guess and rear ended me. I slowed down and I put my blinkers. The driver who hit me does have insurance, but I do not. Do I have to pay for anything? Or does he? Will their insurance cover the costs of my car or what? I'm only 17 and my family is very broke and that was our only car that my mom had to get to work and such. Idk what we are going to do and I am panicking like hell. Please help.

PS please don't bash me or my mom for not having insurance, we had insurance up until last month where it was either rent or insurance. Times are super tough and bad stuff just keeps happening to us so just leave the negativity out of this one please.

I live in Michigan. Idk if that will help but that's where I'm from.
Topic:
Traffic and Parking

Answer:
 They're at fault. Their insurance will pay.

You're facing a very large fine and a license suspension if the DA pursues it.


Title: Being exposed to petroleum jelly fumes at work leading to lipoid pneumonia.

Question: (GA) I just started this job where they use petroleum jelly (liquid form heated at 100 degrees). I am working directly in front of a huge barrel full of this stuff for 8 hours, 5 days a week. Today I had this buildup of muscus in my throat and was wondering what was going on. I later looked at the harmful effects of inhaling this stuff which leads to lipoid pneumonia. If I do catch this pneumonia, am I able to press charges? When I applied for the job they did not state any harmful chemicals to me or any side effects. This is my first day BTW.

Answer:
 Report it (professionally and politely) to your **employer**.

Ask for Personal Protective Equipment. (*You* are the first link in the chain in that you are also repsonsible for your health and safety.)

If both those fail you should really **see a damn doctor**. You can *think* you have lipid pneumonia. You can *believe* you have lipid pneumonia. But without a medical degree you can't *say* you have it.

It could just be a cold. But follow the proper chain first.


Title: [MA] employer won't buy me a new uniform

Question: I work during the summer as a hotel bellhop. There are currently two of us working there and we have to share the same jacket each day, worn on top of a dress shirt. As the days get hotter, this jacket is getting more and more disgusting. The opportunity for employee dry cleaning exists but we can't do it because we have one jacket between the two of us, and one of us is always here working. My employer says I'll be fired if I refuse to wear the jacket, is there any protection against this? Are dirty uniforms against any OSHA standards?

Answer:
 Massachusetts requires that employers pay or reimburse for uniform costs, and for cleaning costs associated. I would contact the State Department of Labor and ask them, but my suspicion is that they would require that the company give each of you your own uniform so that there would be an opportunity to clean them.

Search [this doc](http://www.mass.gov/courts/docs/lawlib/400-499cmr/454cmr27.pdf) for uniform to find the two relevant sections.Answer #2: Disney lost a lawsuit regarding sweaty uncleaned uniforms, but it was because they broke a contract with their union - so I'm guessing that there are not OSHA standards.


Title: Can a student at a public secondary school be denied the right to start a new club? (violation of any laws, maybe Equal Access Act?)

Question:
(New York)
The club is not a controversial one. Student needed 25 students in her school to sign up in order to have meeting with administrator. Administrator said club will not likely be "approved" because similar to another club, although student has clear evidence that the two clubs have different goals, students with unique interests, etc.

Can a publicly funded educational institution deny a student the right to start a club under these measures? She had provided a club flyer, 25 students interested, and a faculty member who agreed to advise.

The school pays their faculty advisors for each club, I think the school did not want to fund any more clubs. Can they do that?

Answer: Yes. A school is not required to permit a student club to be formed/exist.


Title: Do I need to sign the lease?

Question:
Hi, I'm a 17 y/o who recently moved into a house with two roommates, and one of their mothers. The mother is the one with the apartment, and as I turn 18 shortly before the lease expires, she wants me to co-sign the lease with her. I'm unsure about this, as it's 1,300 a month total and if she fails to pay, I'd be held liable for that when currently I only pay my 4th. I am the only one out of my roommates who is turning 18 and the only other one that would be officially on the lease as anything other than a dependent. Is there a way I can be registered to live at an address without being responsible for missed payments if my roommates mom falls through as an adult? Or do I need to share the responsibility with her like that because I'm now 18? This just feels like a lot for me to take on a week after I become an adult, especially as I was just layed off and am stressed about my small payment as it is. I'm in Minnesota if that changes anything. Thank you!
Topic:
Landlord Tenant Housing

Answer: You can refuse to sign. She can also make you move out.


Title: MA Want my sister out of my apartment

Question:
I(38m) have had my sister(44f) living with me for about 2 years. She is a crazy person. I allowed her to move in after she got in a fight with her previous landlord.

My original agreement was she could stay with me rent free for two months to recoup and find a new place. She has not paid rent or for utilities in the time she's been here.

After her latest episode of crazy, after a funeral for a relative she decided to text me and a few of my siblings complaining we are mean to her, i walked away when she went into a rant about someone she was fighting with on facebook. I've decided I've had enough, I've been extremely generous to her and don't need her bs.

I am a month to month tenant. I have no lease and have a verbal agreement with my landlord that I'm allowed to sublet.

I've informed my sister via text she needs to be out by the first of the year. I've also told her if she chooses to be difficult I'll move to a 30 day notice and evict.

I plan to send her via certified mail a 60 day and a 30 day written notice.

I would like to find a tenant that pays rent for the start of the year. I understand if she doesn't leave there my be some cross over into January. It's a thee bedroom the third bedroom is unused but I'd like to avoid subjecting and roommates to her.

What steps should I take to protect myself and ensure she leaves my apartment on schedule.

Answer: Give her 30 day notice to vacate. That's all you have to do. If she doesn't leave, file to evict her.


Title: Do I have a case against the medical system?

Question:
For backstory I am 24, and my entire life has been, for lack of a better word, inconvenient. I grew up overweight and in high school I was at my highest at 355.

I had terrible attendance throughout elementary school until I officially dropped out, always missing more days than attending.

I didn’t like going to school, I didn’t feel comfortable interacting with others, the lights hurt my head, and not to mention before I even got out of bed I’d be waking up shaking uncontrollably until my muscles clenched to the point of pain. I was always sore. I don’t think I can recall a day where something wasn’t physically annoying me.

In middle school I started showing signs of depression. I wasn’t good at keeping friendships, and I was bullied a lot. My family doctor’s legitimate advice to counter this was to LOSE WEIGHT, never looking into the other physical and mental symptoms I was experiencing. Literally every appointment she’d talk about how to lose weight and how everything would follow suit. I had this doctor for the majority of my life up until recently.

After I dropped out officially after several “long term breaks” beforehand, I bounced around to psychiatrist after psychiatrist getting evaluated, and slapped with diagnoses after the other. I didn’t know what was wrong with me, I felt completely dysfunctional, and I was barely educated but still bright and that was the hardest part of it I think.

I obsessively researched disorders, treatments; I looked into forums to see if maybe one person was experiencing the same kind of life I was, because I KNEW it was wrong.

 I ultimately felt hopeless and got into drugs, ended up going into a psychosis and admitted myself into the psyche ward, where I was not taken very seriously since my chart was riddled with different things from different doctors, and the doctors found me frustrating (if you have BPD in your chart, they will automatically treat you like you will be a problem).

I have a new family doctor now, and a new psychiatrist. My family doctor sent me to an actual specialist for pain who got me set up for a MRI  (not sure if relevant but last doctor said she was sending me for one after my hospitalization but she never did?). For once in my life I’m getting legitimate help.

My last psychiatrist actually took the time to hear about my back story, and helped me organize my thoughts. I’m on the waiting list to see a specialist because she’s noticed I display several traits of aspergers.

So MY QUESTION/TL;DR

Do I have a case? I feel like I missed out on my entire life by being misdiagnosed and disregarded. I have bad social skills, I haven’t had a lot of work experience, I’ve been living off disability benefits for years.

When my MRI results come back, and once I see a psychologist I just want to know if there’s a chance I can build a case against the medical system. If these things had been noticed when I was a child I could have had a completely different life, and I feel that I deserve compensation for their ignorance.

Topic:
Medicine and Malpractice

Answer:
 > I just want to know if there’s a chance I can build a case against the medical system.

You can't sue "the medical system".

If you have evidence that a specific medical provider committed medical malpractice, you can try to sue for that.  Medical malpractice is more than just "they didn't get it right" or "they could've done something else".  You'd have to prove that they violated the standard of care in their treatment of you.  That's a tough hill to climb, and given the time that's passed and the disconnected nature of your damages, it's unlikely you'd prevail.


Title: [CA, USA] Are employers legally required to provide post interview feedback? If so can 'not a good fit' pass this requirement?

Question:
I've interviewed for a couple of companies, and most of them provide constructive feedback, some state 'not a good fit' and others just do not provide any feedback, when I don't get an offer.

What is the labor law in California, if any exists, that holds companies to a higher standard regarding interview feedback?

I feel people deserve more than a one-line response for 5 hours of interview rounds. It would be great if there was a fair law for this.

Answer:
 >What is the labor law in California, if any exists, that holds companies to a higher standard regarding interview feedback?

There is no such law.  Nor, IMO, should there be.Answer #2: No. They never have to contact you again. You are owed no explanation for why they did not hire you. Any feedback is solely at the discretion of the company. Answer #3: I wouldn't get any work done if I had to give an in-depth analysis for every person interviewing who didn't get hired. I certainly wouldn't be able to be on reddit.

This sort of law would never pass but if it did **the unintended consequence would be that I (and lots of other people) would almost never conduct interviews** and would rely on other methods to find suitable employees.


Title: Advice for opting out of company-wide mandated fingerprinting.

Question:
My company works with government agencies installing and configuring software services. Teams that connect to and work on-site with these customers are sometimes required to be fingerprinted and have them sent to the entity. My company is saying that everyone is required to be finger printed this week to simplify this process. My company will not be keeping this data and it will be sent to an FBI database. Re-fingerprinting required every 5 years.

I really don't want to do this based on principle. I am part of our internal IT and never access our customers data or would be required to. This could be an excuse, but I'm wondering if anyone has a for surefire/respectful way to get out of this while still having a good chance of maintaining my job. I've thought about claiming a religious reason but that seems greasy.

My state is Minnesota and this is a privately held company and apparently we can be let go for any reason or whatever that is technically called. So I need something convincing and with some reasonable legal basis I imagine.

Thanks for any advice in advance.

Answer:
 You're working alongside a government agency.

There's no chance you'll avoid fingerprinting as well as keep your job.

You can find another job that doesn't require fingerprinting.Answer #2: There is zero chance the government client will relax this requirement for anybody. So if you want to keep your job you have to do this.


Title: 17 y/o needing legal advice due to both parents getting into a physical fight.

Question:
Im from the United States and live in the state of georgia. tonight my dad and his girlfriend of about a year  got into an argument which led to a physical fight. she punched him fist closed and he punched her back. after that he got over her and spit into her face. she then threatened to kill him in which he responded with wrapping his hand around her throat. i called the police and sent them to my house immediately. these kinds of fights happen often but this is the first time the police have been involved. since im still technically a child, whats going to happen to me? im assuming that they could both go to jail.. im just worried about what could or couldn’t happen to me.. sos please
Topic:
Custody Divorce and Family

Answer:
 My dear, goodness, you are being indoctrinated by fire into adulthood. This sounds incredibly stressful and I am so sorry to hear that you are going through this. There is a resource center in your area called the Georgia Legal Aid center. They offer pro bono legal services. I believe that you might find some useful information on their website https://www.georgialegalaid.org/resource/emancipation-of-minors. Perhaps you could give them a call tomorrow?  In the meantime, I offer you this: I, too, was thrown into adulthood before I was ready for it. It was terribly difficult, discouraging, and heartbreaking at times. However, I can wholeheartedly say that while you could have come into adulthood by gentler means, you will come out of this stronger than you can ever imagine. Stay in school, volunteer, get a job, find what drives you and what you are passionate about.  The coming days will bring you great challenges, so the grit that this experience imparts in you and let it propel you to where you want to be.  Best of luck to you, dear.Answer #2: > since im still technically a child, whats going to happen to me?

Nobody can say for sure, but ***don't worry.*** You won't be left to fend for yourself. :)

There are community resources and state agencies dedicated to helping kids in situations just like yours. If you feel unsafe, you can call Georgia CPS at 1-855-422-4453. You can find more information on [their website](https://dfcs.georgia.gov/child-abuse-neglect).

Everything will be just fine. Hang in there. :)


Title: (Oregon) have an asshole room mate living in the garage, tried to evict him as a house, and he simply said "no, I'll make this a nightmare for you if you try"

Question:
He's not on the lease or any paperwork (but only one guy is, and there's four others), and he stays in the garage which im pretty sure isn't legal already. Over time we realized hes a total sociopath weirdo pathological narcissist who thinks we fuck up everything and he doesn't do anything wrong and doesn't deserve any blame for the havoc he causes to the house or the people in the house. He's just an ass, and were all sick of him. The primary lessee tried to evict him last night and he just said "no".

Where do we go from here? Should we all get on the lease? Should we tell someone about him being in the garage? I'm very clueless with this kind of stuff, sorry im just 27 and haven't had to deal with this kinda stuff before.

Answer: You need to follow the process to remove a tenant which starts with written notice to vacate. You can't take matters into your own hands and kick him out on your own if he's unwilling to leave. Depending on what your lease says you could all be evicted.


Title: Meeting Room Bugged

Question:
I’m involved in a Union negotiation. I was offered a room to make some private calls. Is there something I can say, or speak out loud, in an empty room, maybe a statement that will protect me from someone illegally recording my conversations.

Like an email statement from an attorney saying anything discussed is privileged.

Just in case that info ended up in court or discovered by an opposing entity then it would be a got ya.

Answer: If you’re that worried about it you should probably just find another space you know is safe. If you have a vehicle go to the parking lot and call from there.


Title: Picture of my wife was used in national TV show without permission. What are our options?

Question:
(Throwaway account for obvious reasons)

My wife found out tonight that two pictures of her were used on a national TV show having to do with abused children, without her permission. She only found out about it because a family member texted her about it.

The pictures aren't indecent or lewd or anything, but they're from a period in her life that were very traumatic (when she was a minor), and the last thing she'd want is to be publicly associated with the subject matter of the show. Needless to say she's fairly upset about it.

What legal recourse do we have? This _is_ illegal, isn't it? Aren't television studios / producers supposed to get permission to use a person's likeness on a national show, _especially_ one about abused children?

Edit: Location is California

Answer:
 Who took the photos?

> Aren't television studios / producers supposed to get permission to use a person's likeness on a national show, especially one about abused children?

No.


Title: We need to get roommate out. He’s not on the lease.

Question:
This guy has been a nightmare to live with. He’s been spiraling out of control over the past couple weeks and has been showing signs of delusion.

Today he attacked one of our roommates from behind and ran off with his laptop.

He’s jobless, out of school and has nothing to lose. Therefore, we’re genuinely afraid he’s going to come back and do something tragic.

We need to get him out of here and don’t know what we can do legally as he’s not on the lease— despite the numerous times he’s told us he’d turn in the papers downstairs— and subletting is illegal at this apartment complex.

TL;DR: We don’t feel safe around a roommate who is currently nowhere to be found. We want to get him out as soon as possible. He’s not on the lease and subletting is strictly prohibited.
Topic:
Landlord Tenant Housing

Answer:
 Whether he's on the lease or not, he is a tenant.  You'll have to follow legal eviction proceedings to terminate his residency.

Given that he's already committed an act of violence against another tenant, you may be able to get a court to order that he find another place to be while you handle that.  Your first step needs to be making a report to the police about any laws he's broken.


Title: My roommate is accusing me of poisoning her wine

Question:
My roommate called the cops on me because she claims that I put poison in her wine. The cops came, spoke to both of us, and left. They told me her wine smelled like peppermint. Shortly after her and her friend began to harass me so I went and filed a protective order against her. I'm afraid that she will try to continue the allegations against me as revenge. Is this even possible to do? The officer claimed there was no reason to believe the wine had been "poisoned" but I am afraid of what she will try to accuse me of.

I am in the state of Virginia

Answer:
 Obligatory "Check your Carbon Monoxide Detector" statement.

Is this a new thing with your roommate? Based off some of the other posts you've put there it seems like her behavior has recently gotten erratic.

If so this may be a mental health issue, not a legal issue. Answer #2: She can accuse you of anything. But if she wants to actually have this go somewhere (other than her to the funny farm) she'd have to have the wine tested. So, I doubt she's still got it for testing.

What are the provisions on the order?Answer #3: Did your roommate start acting erratically *after* she stopped paying for her rent, or is the not paying rent part of the erratic activity?

There's a difference between someone suffering from mental health issues, possibly paranoia, and someone making a scene because she doesn't want to pay the rent and is out to make your life difficult.

Honestly, start looking into another place to live at this point and talk to your landlord. You might be able to work something out to break your lease with minimal fuss to you, especially as you have a police report.

Call the police every time she gets weird with you. Answer #4: Get a copy of the report. She already accuseded you of it and called the police. So you are kind of past that pointAnswer #5: Possibly due to financial shortage she has gone off psychoactive meds as well as not paying rent. Don't assume she will be rational and be very careful about consuming food she has access to in case she were to attempt to retaliate.


Title: If I report my SOs mom for a abuse, is there a way to make her still pay for college?

Question:
Full disclaimer, I am a 17 year old girl with a girlfriend, I have known her since we were 10, so this relationship is very serious.

My girlfriend has been acting funny lately and started not letting me come over. She came to school the other day with a busted lip. There are other things that made me think someone hurt her.

We were fooling around like we usually do on the weekends, but when I went "down there" she got angry and left my house.

The reason I think it's her mom is because she has a history of stuff like that. She once used a hair brush handle as punishment for my SO being gay. She used the hair brush handle inside her so she would know what being with a man felt like. My SO reported it, but didn't want someone looking between her legs, so she was not taken seriously and called a liar.

We are supposed to be going to UC Davis the fall together, but she won't be able to if her mom doesn't pay for college. I don't want to call the police and mess that up. Can we make her still pay for college?

Answer:
 No, also reporting a sexual assault without the consent of the victim is hugely disempowering.Answer #2: >Can we make her still pay for college?

No, but it's got nothing to do with reporting the assault. Parents simply aren't obligated to pay for college. If they choose to do so it's at their own discretion.


Title: So I walked home to this today...

Question:
"Attention Residents:

Effective immediately the office will no longer be accepting any packages for tenants. We apologize for any inconvenience.

Thank you,
Management"

This is after 4 months into the lease. I receive medication from Amazon consistently. I work from 8-5, the exact hours USPS is open. Effectively making it only possible for me to pick up my packages once a week on Saturday mornings..

Can they just do this? If *anyone* as any advice in my favor, I'd really appreciate it. I've been seeing the "well you're screwed" on here way too often..

What about older people? Or people without cars? They're just shit outta luck?

Answer: Yes, they can do that (unless your lease says otherwise). Have your packages sent to your place of employment, or Amazon ships to local pick up spots (I believe they are kind of like lockers). Answer #2: Well no one is screwing you. Unless you lease stipulates otherwise the office doesn't have any obligation to hold your mail for you.


Title: FL - Final written warning because management cannot figure out who messed up?

Question:
Hello LA, my friend doesn't have a reddit account and asked me to see if we could get some advice.

He has worked for a large electronics retailer for about 3 years and was handed a final written warning (along with 31 other people in the store) because on black friday this year, a till came up short just under 100.00. My friend definitely did not make this mistake, but since this is a final warning, he could face termination for a tardy or something small like that.

We know that FL is a right to work state, and I've been fired due to write ups for small things adding up. I ended up getting that job back because I had managers who wanted me back and thought my write ups were ridiculous, but my friend does not have this luxury and has been having problems with his manager not letting him transfer for a year. He has been a good asset to the company, always reaching his numbers and has been promoted three times since he started.

Is this legal? Should he contact HR?
Topic:
Employment Law

Answer:
 This isn't a legal matter.

Employer writeups are a matter of policy, not law. And he can be fired for virtually any reason or no reason at all, regardless of the presence of a warning.


Title: [California] Company I work for hired a convicted rapist

Question:
Okay so we told him he was hired him but he hasn't gone through orientation or filled out any employment paperwork.  However, he has filled out an application and we asked for copies of his ID and Social Security Card.  Interview went well enough to hire him on the spot.  Obviously, we didn't do a background search before this decision.

Background search was conducted afterward and we find out he is on the Sex Offender Registry for "rape by force".  Convicted about 20 years ago in California.  In the interview we asked him if anything was going to come up in a background search and he "yes, but it was a long time ago".  We did not look into the issue any further.  As of now our plan is to not call him, hoping he doesn't give us a call as well.  Are we at risk for being sued by him?

Answer:
 > Are we at risk for being sued by him?

It depends.  Did you tell him he had a job?  Did you give any sort of assurances?  Did he sign a contract?

Likely, at the end of the day you can not call him and that is the end of it.  However, as deplorable as this mans previous actions are . . . he has apparently paid his debt to society, and is attempting to contribute back to it.

A *huge* problem besetting our penal system is rehabilitation and reintegration.  It is very difficult, if not impossible, for those with criminal records (especially felonies) to find employment.  Many resort back to crime (this is mostly drug and money crimes, however).  Of course, it isn't your job to fix the system, it is our societies job.

Again, you are likely free not to call the man back or acknowledge him in anyway.

E:  Please see the link grasshoppa posted regarding Cali and their tons of laws that do things.


Title: [FL] Can my teacher punish me academically for misbehaving during class?

Question:
In class today, we were all listening to a presentation about the upcoming test in a few days. I lean over during the presentation and I whisper to my friend about something (I forget what at this point), and my teacher catches me talking and says that she will give me a zero on my study guide for not caring about the subject and not wanting to study. I take full accountability for my actions, I will accept disciplinary punishment for talking, but should my grade really be dropped to a C because I talked in class??
Topic:
Juvenile and Youth Law

Answer: Yes


Title: I got scammed by brazzers and don’t know if I just made it worse

Question: So I bought 2 1$ video trials which subsequently opened up 2 accounts which upgraded to premium and long story short I was charged 70£ in the end (I am from the uk but I don’t think that affects anything as probiller and brazzers are in Canada). When I realised what I had been charged I called up probiller and claimed my child had made the order and I would like a refund. The guy I had was nice enough and said he would refund me the money, but on one condition, I had to agree to allow them to contact my bank and hire a private investigator and that if found guilty of fraud I would have to pay for the investigation. I thought they were bluffing and hung up the phone. However, it has been 3 days since that and I am starting to get nervous. As you might’ve guessed I’m actually a 17 year old boy and lied about the child. Do these companies normally bluff about this kind of stuff, or should I be more concerned? Any advice would be much appreciated, please help me make up for the fact that i am a huge idiot.

Answer:
 You didn't get "scammed by brazzers."

You got exactly what you signed up for.  Pay them.

If you lie to try to get out of paying it, you're committing fraud.  Don't do that.


Title: If I come across a dead body, am I legally required to report it?

Question: Ignoring the moral, ethical, and common sense side of things, is it a criminal offence to just turn around and walk away? Im in AB, Canada if it makes any difference.

Answer: Even if it's not, you probably should report it. If the person was actually alive you could save their life, or if they've been missing it would solve a case.Answer #2: Unless there are injuries that are obviously incompatible with life (a severed head would be a good example) no one but a properly equipped medical professional can determine whether someone is really dead so ISTM it comes down to the question whether you are required in your jurisdiction to render aid (that is, call an ambulance) if you find someone helpless.


Title: I called 911 when I was hungover

Question:
Hey guys, throwaway because this is pretty embarrassing. I hope this is the appropriate sub for this question. So a few months ago I got way too drunk and called 9-1-1 the next morning because I thought it was alcohol poisoning.

The paramedics were very annoyed since, although I was extremely dehydrated and couldn't move, I was simply very hungover. They gave me the option to go to the hospital which I declined, and they took down my SSN.

Will this incident show up on background checks? Although this doesn't classify as anything illegal to my knowledge, this would be an embarrassing reflection of my character to potential employers. Thanks in the advance.

Answer:
 It's not going to show up on your background check because you haven't committed a crime.

However, they are going to bill you for the trip; and can certainly use the court systems to collect from you if you refuse to pay.Answer #2: Probably not, no. However you should expect a bill for EMS to respond to your house. Especially since you didn't go to the hospital.


Title: Can I withdraw from my deceased father’s bank account (PA)

Question:
My father passed away unexpectedly with no will of any kind but I am next of kin.  He has a Wells Fargo account his social security is deposited into.  They haven’t been notified of his death yet as I’m still waiting for the death certificate.  I have his atm card and pin, is it ok for me to take the money out?
Topic:
Wills Trusts and Estates

Answer:
 INAL, but I do work at a financial institution

Do NOT withdrawal any funds if you are not a joint on the account. If you do it constitutes fraud.

If the Social Security was deposited after his death, it will be retracted. Also, SSA notifies all financial institutions of deaths, so even if you have not notified the bank, chances are they already know and the account has been flagged.


Title: [Houston, TX] Should I put up a beware of dog sign, or not?

Question: I have a 10 month old Dogo Argentino puppy(she's pushing 90 pounds and is a big strong dog) and she has started becoming very protective of the house, but has never bitten or even nipped anyone. She has some obedience training but not any protection training or anything like that. I've heard conflicting information on whether or not I should put beware of dog signs up.

Answer:
 Picture of said puppy in her Christmas scarf for your time.
http://imgur.com/a/ODTmw


Title: I inquired about a help wanted classified ad and was told my race is not eligible for hiring

Question: Many businesses are family owned and seeing family members working is largely not considered nepotism. However, when a business is apparently only employing a select race in the US, and different races are never seen working, and when inquiring, like I did today, I am told I cannot apply, are their any precedents to cite in an acceptable lawsuit?

Answer:
 What's the job? There are certain reasons where racial discrimination is allowed, like actors playing a part.Answer #2: So i'm not clear. You asked to apply, and were actually told you couldn't apply because of your race?

Or were you told you couldn't apply, and you assume it's because of race because you never see anyone of a different race working? Answer #3: Contact the state department of labor.  Race-based discrimination is illegal in most cases.Answer #4: If you would be the 2nd or 3rd employee then it’s probably ok, otherwise the NYC anti discrimination law covers the employer and they are going to have issues.


Title: My university takes a deposit from all students, and refuses to return it if you wait too long to claim it.

Question: At my university in Canada, a $100 deposit is taken from all students who attend.  After graduation, no effort is made to return the money to the students - students have to remember to go into the office to get their $100 after graduation, and as you can imagine rarely do.  In addition if you wait to long, the university will refuse to give you your deposit back.  My question is, is it legal for them to refuse to return a deposit because you waited too long to claim it, especially if the university made to effort to return it?

Answer: What does the fine print concerning the deposit say?


Title: Question about PTO

Question:
Tennessee

I was just fired yesterday. I saw it coming for a few months and I wish I would’ve used that time to use my paid time off. Unfortunately I did not and I was fired when I had about 80 hours of it saved up.

Do I get any compensation for that? Or did I just get screwed out of 80 hours of PTO?

And for anybody who is curious. The reason I knew I would be fired for the last few months is because my job has goals that are literally impossible to achieve. I’ve had a few friends there that would’ve been fired too for the same reason but they managed to get out in time

Answer: In, TN, you're entitled to payout of the accrued but unused PTO at the end of your employment only if your employer's policies say you are.


Title: Is this "rape by deception" ?

Question:
 actual post:

>I replied to an ad on Craigslist for a gig: do an "legal" porn shoot and get paid $3000. I met the "talent agent" at a motel, we signed paperwork, and proceeded to film. The contract said I would be given the $3000 dollars by direct deposit within 12 hours of he shoot, my face would be blurred, and everything is legal.

 >I requested a check in the mail instead of getting direct deposit. The agent told me the check would arrive in 3 days of the shoot. Now it's been 8 days with no check. I've texted him and called him countless times over the series of 8 days. He's told me he'd "check the tracking number" 4 times and completely stopped replying after I accused him of the gig being a scam.

 >Now here I am desperate without money, worried I have a  tape circulating around with my face on it, and totally distressed that I've been scammed to do stupid shit on camera.

 I'm interested in a broad answer, but states that seem like they have something on the books for this scenario in particular are Alabama, Tennessee, and Kansas. Apparently there are 27 states total that have provisions for rape by deception, but they seem to revolve around impersonation of a significant other.

Answer: Yeah, that's probably insufficient.  As you point out, rape by deception requires lying about your identity, usually to impersonate a significant other, Revenge of the Nerds style.  This is just an unpaid wage claim or breach of contract


Title: Tx- roommate left all of things when skipping rent

Question: We had all been living together basically month to month on a verbal agreement basically with only one actual resident on the lease. When it came time to sign a lease and pay rent at the beginning of this month one roommate skipped out to go hide out/live with someone else. However, he left all of his things and they still occupy his room. I texted him about rent on the third telling him to pay his part and sign the lease which he agreed to then I never heard from him again. I've tried getting ahold of him the last several days but he won't return any of my messages. At what point to we have a right to get rid of his things or try to recoup lost rent? Should we take pictures of the damage done in his room along with what he left behind?

Answer:
 The advice here isn't very good- The roommate who ran is a tenant and you need to get an eviction notice before moving his stuff, or he may come after you for taking his property. You need to get a writ from the court about the abandoned property. Once it's been posted for an appropriate period, you can move his stuff.

[This](http://boards.answers.findlaw.com/index.php/topic/228112-abandonment-of-property-for-non-payment-of-rent/) thread should give you some good direciton.


Title: [NYC] Cheating lawyer claims to have used up retainer but won't give invoice

Question:
I used a lawyer to understand my options while potentially facing some false accusations. I paid her a $6k invoice. 2 weeks after I started using his services, I asked her to keep me updated on how much of the invoice is used up already.

She said that he doesn't send invoices till a month after. I didn't have to go to court in this situation (thankfully!). So I contacted him once things seemed to have simmered down completely to ask for the remainder of my money back.

In the email, I asked her for an invoice. She responds back saying that the retainer has been used up and that she charges $350/hr to create invoices. And that providing that invoice would need further charges.

I feel cheated. At the same time, I'm concerned that the stuff I had shared with this lawyer could be harmful if leaked. What are my options here? I am concerned about responding to the email too lest she charges me for that. She seems pretty ruthless and I'm a little weak when it comes to standing up for myself.

Answer:
 Lawyers don't simply get to take your money and not tell you what you're being billed for.

Write to the firm one more time, demand an accounting for the charges and amount remaining in your retainer.

If they don't provide it promptly, file a complaint with the state bar.


Title: [WI] Is seeing someone drink out of a brown tinted bottle enough for a cop to pull someone over?

Question: While driving

Answer:
 Yes, that would count as probable cause in the right circumstances.

Have any more details?


Title: My landlord is withholding my entire deposit, and her agent sent me unprofessional, accusatory emails. Are they acting in bad faith?

Question:
My ex-landlord is withholding my entire security deposit of $1150. I emailed her twice after I moved out, but heard nothing. After two weeks of this, I emailed her "agent" (landlord’s friend who put the original craigslist posting and helps her with rental matters). The agent claimed that I left my bedroom and bathroom in an unacceptable condition, and that the repairs would cost more than my entire deposit. I After I pressed further about what I did, the agent sent a long email with a more detailed account of the “disgusting” mess I left the room, personal attacks, and other unrelated accusations.
I believe the landlord and her agent are acting in bad faith, but there are some complications.

Some details:

- the room/bathroom is in DC

- I rented a bedroom/bathroom from the landlord's large, 6000 square ft in DC. She is the direct property owner.

- Rent was on month-to-month basis. I lived there for 9 months.

- I lived with the landlord and with four other roommates. There was also a live-in housekeeper.

- The room was used before me. The landlord’s agent told me I left the carpet so dirty, that the cost of replacing it was beyond my deposit cost. This “carpet” was an area rug that had been visibly used before.

- The landlord’s agent did not provide an itemized list of deductions

- I was not given notice of an inspection.

- I was not given a formal lease.

- I did not take pictures of my room when I vacated.

- The agent claimed to have taken pictures when I vacated.

- I have only been able to correspond with the landlord’s agent since I left.

- The actual landlord is currently undergoing chemotherapy for an aggressive breast cancer (and was while I was living there), so she’s been hard to reach.

- The landlord was doing strange/suspicious things before I left. She raised the rent of my room from 1150 to 1500 for the next tenant. A couple months in my stay, she asked my roommates and I to pay for our monthly rent in cash.

I’m not really sure what to do here. I could submit to small claims court, but there’s a good chance my ex-landlord can’t appear because of her chemotherapy/breast cancer. I did the best I could to clean the place, but I have no proof of it. Because I had a personal relationship with the landlord (whom I saw every day), I stupidly did not take all the precautions I should have. It’s been three weeks since I was told I wouldn’t get my deposit back.
Topic:
Real Estate law

Answer:
 According to [this site](http://www.nolo.com/legal-encyclopedia/dc-district-of-columbia-security-deposits-36203.html), your landlord has 45 days to return your security deposit and/or give you an itemized list of deductions. That link also has other information relating to how a security deposit can be collected, what can be deducted from it, and how you can work to get it back. I suggest you read all the information there.

You're saying it's been about 3 weeks, so they have another about 3 weeks or so to get you an itemized deductions list. Unfortunately, since you didn't get pictures or a walk-out inspection report, I doubt there will be anything you can do to dispute any of the deductions. Your only recourse at this point would be to hope that they fail to properly give an itemized list of deductions from your security deposit within the 45-day period stipulated by law. Answer #2: >The landlord was doing strange/suspicious things before I left. She raised the rent of my room from 1150 to 1500 for the next tenant

What's dubious about that?

Also, you haven't commented on whether or not you left it a disgusting mess.  Did you?


Title: Urgent

Question: [deleted]

Answer: This is way beyond internet legal advice. You need to contact an immigration attorney.


Title: [Uk] inheritance tax

Question:
Hello all. Im in the uk, and my so's mother got terminal cancer. She started giving her daughter money, but died fairly quickly. In totally she got 50k plus gifted to her before her mum died.

We are now about to buy a house and this money will he the deposit. However, were concerned that it could land us in hot water somehow as her father hasnt, as far as we are aware,done anything regarding the will. So is my girlfriend going to get a surprise tax bill? Is there anyway to avoid this?

Answer: /r/legaladviceuk is a good place to start. We're handsome yanks over here. :)


Title: Money missing at work and they're blaming me.

Question:
Okay, so I'm an assistant manager at a Dominos, and there's a bunch of orders that have been zero'Ed out under my name, (we have a log in and password) but I didn't do them.  And everyone in the store knows everyone's passwords.
I've been working little hours due to the fact that I'm going to school, so they feel like my motive to "steal" is because of that, and I assured them that I didn't do it!
They're saying that $2,600 have disappeared in a matter of 90 days.
Their only set of proof they have is what the system says, that those orders were canceled under my name.  No videos or nothing.
Now my company is telling me that I have to pay the money that is missing, they fired me so I don't have a job.
And they told me I have to put down $500 minimum or else they'll press charges.

What should I do?

Answer:
 Why in the hell does "everybody" know the assistant managers password? It's going to be difficult to prove you're not liable. This is exactly why you have a password.Answer #2: Surely they can look and see when the orders were placed and zeroed out, right?

If you aren't working many hours, and the theft is happening when you aren't there, you should be in the clear, right?Answer #3: I also work for dominos. Have your GM look at the time the orders were cancelled and review the camera footage to see who actually did it. If your GM likes you he/she should be able to back you up on this. If not go to the DM and explain your story. Your GM should be able to go into back office in pulse and there is a canceled order report that will show all the things that were bad ordered including the time. It should be easy to get out of this if in fact you didn't cancel the orders. I changed my password for the POS for specifically this reason. I don't let any of my AMs know my password. If they need something I will come do it myself. If you have any questions i would be more than happy to answer them.


Title: [CA] I was in a car accident and the person at fault is committing perjury and harassing me with frivolous lawsuits

Question:
California.

A few months ago, I was rear-ended by an uninsured and unlicensed driver. It became a big mess because he refused to provide his info, I had to get law enforcement to track him down via license plate, just a ridiculous situation. In the end, my insurance company paid for my damages (I think approximately $6-7k) under my uninsured motorist policy. I had some out-of-pocket expenses (lost wages, rental car, property in my car that was damaged) that the driver agreed to pay me after I threatened small claims court.

A few weeks after the driver paid me for my out-of-pocket expenses, he learned that my insurance company is coming after him for the $6-7k that they had to spend to fix my car. He keeps saying that the money he paid me is all I’m entitled to and doesn’t seem to understand the difference between what he paid ME for MY costs, and what he owes my insurance company for THEIR costs.

So he filed a lawsuit against me to try to force me to return the money he’d paid me for my OOP costs, then when I appeared to contest it, he told the judge that he didn’t want the money back from me, he just wanted the judge to rule that he didn’t have to pay my insurance company. The judge explained that the two matters were completely separate and the driver dismissed the case but made it clear that he still didn’t get what the judge was saying. I’d hoped that was the end of it.

Now he’s threatening to take me back to court where he apparently wants to try to make the judge rule that the accident was MY fault (If you’re saying WTF here, you’re not alone) to again try to avoid paying my insurance company and obviously he’s just going to get laughed out of court again.

 My question is whether or not I can do anything to stop these ridiculous actions. I started a new job very recently so taking all this time off to sort this out is affecting my job. Can I counter-sue for lost wages or some kind of harassment (and if I did, would I be likely to be awarded anything?)

Another issue is that he’s committing perjury. At the last court hearing, he produced a receipt that he claimed I’d signed when he gave me the money saying he didn’t have to pay me anything else. a) I never signed it and have texts proving that I wasn’t even home when he dropped off the money, and b) Even if I had, he still doesn’t get that the money he owes my insurance company has nothing to do with me. The signature is very obviously not mine, as in not even close. In addition to this, he lied several times in a police statement that he’d introduced into evidence at the last hearing and again, I have texts proving the very obvious lies. Can I do anything about this? When I brought it up in court, the judge said he'd dismissed the case so it didn't matter.

To be honest, I kind of want to go scorched-earth on this asshole who hit me and is facing no consequences for his many lies and the fact that he was driving in the first place with no license or insurance. It’s really frustrating that he’s able to drag me through so much crap and I have no recourse.

Answer:
 Your insurance company should be handling this for you, up to and including retaining an attorney on your behalf?Answer #2: If he's suing you in small claims, you really just have to suck it up and go.  Explain to the judge calmly what happened, and it should be fine.  All he can sue you for is money he paid you, or his own damages, and it's very unlikely that he'd win on either count.  He can't sue for a general determination that you were at fault, at least in small claims.  If he sues you in Superior Court, contact your insurance company.  (Actually, advise them of any small claims matter, too.)

As for his alleged perjury, it's only relevant if there's a context in which those facts are relevant.  Then you calmly and level-headedly bring up the facts without mentioning the word "perjury."

>To be honest, I kind of want to go scorched-earth on this asshole who hit me

The courts aren't here for that.


Title: At-Fault Insurance company offering less for total loss than we owe on lease.

Question:
Hello all,

I posted a few weeks ago about my wife’s accident where a company truck hit and ran from her, left plates at the scene. I will link down below.

Needless to say they were at fault, & they set my wife up with a rental car, and we have been conversing for the last week and half or so.

I just got off the phone with the at fault parties insurance company. They offered us $15k for the total loss of her 18’ civic w/ 12,000 miles on it, when she owes 19k on the lease. They did not mention any sort of compensation other than this and informed her she will have to have the rental car back within 5 days of initial offer, leaving her car-less on January 30.

I told the adjuster that I would have to make a few phone calls to let her know how I’d like to proceed from here, but what do I say to rebuttal an offer so we don’t end upside down on this accident that wasn’t her fault.

Also, we do not have gap insurance coverage on the vehicle.

Can anybody advise on how they would proceed from here? Also, thank you for everyone’s help on the previous post on this. You guys and gals are life savers. Truly appreciate it.

(This is in Ohio)

https://www.reddit.com/r/legaladvice/comments/agcjdc/my_wife_was_victim_of_hit_and_run_last_night_but/?st=JRCFNLF7&sh=d1c01872

Answer:
 If the offer for the vehicle at $15k is the fair market value for the vehicle as it sat before the accident, you can accept their offer to pay out what they owe.  If that number is off you can gather data as to why you believe their assessment of value is low and what amount you believe is appropriate.

>when she owes 19k on the lease.

The balance on the lease has no relationship to what the at-fault party is obligated to pay you.  They owe you fair market value.  Regardless of whatever financial arrangement you may have on the vehicle.


Title: im being sued in small claims for $650 in a few hours and need real quick help PLEASE because i think i didn't prepare quite enough (debt collector bought it from 2012 and i'm 90% sure i paid but i dunno because i haven't seen what she has..this is the 2nd appearance btw)

Question:
Massachusetts (district court, small claims)

ok so i went first time, magistrate sent us outside to talk, i told her "i have no clue what this is even about but i'm here, and i don't have $650 just so you know"

so she said it was from a sears card, and this was almost 6 years ago and i know i had a sears card once, then she started fast talking me, and said is this "this your signiture?" and it looked scribbly like mine i said "it might be, but i dont know why i would owe any money to sears"

i didnt see anything else about the contract (the date, the billing, nothing) then she fast talked me and said "ARE YOU SAYING ITS FRAUD" i said "no, i just don't have any clue what this is about honestly, i have no memory of this or why i would owe this amount"... then she kind of rushed me along and said "how aout we meet in a month and talk then" i said "ok"

i pulled all my CR's and found an old sears thing on there from 2012 i settled i forgot all about. so im really pretty sure i don't owe this

anyway i didnt send a validation letter or anything but i have all my CR's (real ones) and notes and stuff, im pretty prepared, but i might have f'd up by not sending letters or doing anythign with the court for my defense

**my question is about this article**

http://www.nolo.com/legal-encyclopedia/debt-collection-defense-requiring-that-the-collector-document-the-debt.html

>When You Are Sued: Getting Documentation of the Debt

>If a debt collector sues you, most state and local procedural rules put even heavier documentation requirements on both the debt collector and creditor. In many states, a creditor or debt collector that is suing for collection of an account must:
**attach to the complaint a copy of the account or written contract or agreement,** or

>**state in the complaint why the account or document is not attached.**

This is often referred to as the “attachment rule.”
If the creditor or debt collector doesn’t do this, you may be able to get the lawsuit dismissed. Or, you can ask the court to require the creditor or debt collector to provide the missing documentation and information. This is often called “requesting a more definite statement.” In either case, you’ll have to prepare and file a formal motion with the court.

1) i have none of this. do i ask the judge today? was i supposed to do something already?

next is this part:

>What Documentation Must the Creditor Provide?

>But what must the creditor provide by way of documentation? At a minimum, it must produce:

>**A copy of the original written agreement between the parties, such as the loan note or credit card agreement, preferably signed by you.**

>**If the account has been sold to another creditor (it has), then that creditor must prove that it has the right to sue to collect the debt. This usually means producing proof that the debt was assigned to it. Often such proof will be a bill of sale, an “assignment”, or a receipt between the last creditor holding the debt and the entity suing you.**

2) how do i find out if she has this.

3) did i mess up by not finding out about this info until 3 hours before court?

right now my main strategy is to just ask her to prove prove prove why i owe this and why i owe that much.

my backup plan is one of those idea's maybe?

i really dont think i owe this but if i'm found a judgement against me i'm screwed because i'm in a tough spot right now. can't squieeze blood out of a rock but i really really don't need a judgement on my credit report because i've been spending years trying to slowly fix my errors from back in 2011/2012.

 im getting so so close. i really dont want a bs $650 laqsuit im pretty sure i already settled like 5 years ago to mess several years of work up.

please help (on the questions i had about that article mostly?)

why don't i have a copy of the contract!??!

Answer: Small claims court is much less formal. These procedural rules are often forgiven or less emphasized. If you have a concern about this, which I think is valid, bring it up to the judge. Answer #2: if you have nothing to prove you settled this, and they have ANY documentation linking it to you (You said it shows on your CR) then you are going to be ordered to pay.


Title: arrested for intent to distribute

Question: [deleted]

Answer:
 You can ask for a public defender when you get to court.

You need a lawyer.


Title: Ex-friend leaves her child at home, blames me

Question: [deleted]

Answer:
 Ask the police if they are charging her with making a false police report. She'll probably be charged with child endangerment regardless so there will be consequences for her actions.

As for civil remedies you don't really seem to have any damages so there wouldn't be any point going down this route even though it is provable slander. Answer #2: Why did you get named?Answer #3: > I just feel like Amy needs to be punished for ruining my good name.
Please let me know if I may have a case. I have the police report, call/texts logs, everything to show to the right lawyer.

I think that entirely hinges on whether you covered for her or not. You left this part out of your story but if you lied to the police for her you have no chance to recover for slander.Answer #4: >The fact that she lied to the police, used my name, and made me look bad to them, just makes me mad. I deal with the police almost every night at my work, so I have an outstanding relationship with them. Now, I'm not sure if I do.

If you have a good relationship with them, they'll believe you over the negligent parent trying to throw you under the bus.

Answer #5: How's the child?


Title: Posted on r/suicidewatch thought I could get some legal advice from here. Being accused for second degree assault on police officers. Please read.

Question: [deleted]

Answer: You need a defense attorney and a therapist.  Both of these are jobs for professionals.


Title: [NJ] Moving back to California while pending marijuana distribution charge in NJ

Question: Hey guys, so my parents own two houses one in NJ and on in LA, I have my valid state ID from california and i have a new jersey driver license. I got arrested for distribution of marijuana and i was ROR'ed it was a 3rd degree felony : 1 count of distribution/dispense/manufacture CDS namely marijuana over 1oz and less than 5lb, it's a 3rd degree charge. I have a prior misdemeanor possession conviction. I'm almost sure that i'm going to get probation from new jersey, i do not want to do probation in jersey because it is literally hell and it's almost impossible to work especially with a marijuana felony. I know transferring probation once it has been started is kind of difficult, but it can be done. I want to know would it be beneficial to just say that I live in california before getting sentenced? Would that basically force them to have to send it over there? I wasn't told that I couldn't leave or that I could leave the state. I didn't have to post a bail and i was ROR'ed and left within 30 min of being booked. I hope this makes slight sense, what I'm trying to aim at is avoid the very stupid probation system of new jersey and also attempt to work back in LA where I feel like employers maybe more lenient on potential employees who have a marijuana charge. Thank you all for your responses in advance.

Answer: No knucklehead, you should not lie to the court. And not enjoying New Jersey probation is not going to be a compelling reason for them to transfer you. Better find something more interesting.


Title: (GA) Liability for allowing a hayride on our property

Question:
We jointly own a farm with several relatives. Our neighbors are having a bonfire/party and have asked if they can have a hayride that originates and ends on their property but makes a loop through ours. Is this a good idea? Is there any liability for us if we are not involved but they cross our property?

They also do not have a wagon so we have considered letting them borrow ours. Should we? We will not be involved other than the use of our wagon and land. They have a tractor and will be doing the driving.

Answer: You probably want some general liability insurance if they're using your equipment and going on your land. Or, if you want to reduce your liability you can lease your property and your equipment to them upon proof of them insuring your said property and equipment. This is one of those situations that boils down to what you can afford to lose and how much you trust your neighbors.


Title: My 75 year old grandma was charged for having her legally prescribed pills in a pill box instead of the bottles they came in

Question: My grandma went to an event where there were metal detectors and police looking through people's purses and backpacks at the entrance. Her pill box with all her medication was in her purse, with pills that were legally prescribed to her. She has arthritis and wears glasses so it's hard for her to open the bottles and read the small print labels. Apparently it's against the law to keep pills in any place except the bottles they came in and my grandma has been charged with multiple counts of this: New York Public Health - Title 4 - § 3345 Possession of Controlled Substances by Ultimate Users Original Container. I get that drugs are bad and all that but I feel like charging a 75 year old woman with arthritis and glasses for have her legal prescriptions in a pill box is a bit ridiculous. My grandmother has never been trouble with the law at all and has never had dealings with the police before and she is so stressed over this that she can't stop crying. I am going to retain a lawyer for her on Monday but I am wondering if there is any chance we can get this thrown out so she doesn't end up with a criminal record?

Answer: Hey OP, I'm going to make another top level post to make sure you see this: don't go to the media without talking to an attorney first! Folks have been recommending it a lot, and it's a very risky move.


Title: short notice on month to month lease agreement

Question: i live in Arkansas in a apartment the collects rent every time i get i paid (bi weekly) $280. i will soon be closing on a home and i was given an option to close a lot earlier then expect (may 23) so on May 11th i gave him my notice that im leaving my apartment on the 23rd... now hes saying that rent will still be drafted until jun 30th or until he finds another renter. i don't really care about my security deposit and i do plan on leaving the apartment clean and just about ready to move in.. however i dont want to pay any more then i have to, would it be possible that i pay rent one last time on the 25th and close my account so no more payments are taken.. could i be sued for not paying? and whats the likeliness? or am i just better off paying until the 30th of june?

Answer: Arkansas is a state where people can be arrested and charged with a crime for not paying rent, so I'd suggest you work this out with the landlord and give proper notice to terminate your tenancy and pay rent until the notice period is up.


Title: Employment advice after being raped by previous employer

Question:
California

My gf, "Marie" worked in an elementary school as a counselor.  Marie was raped by the principal of that school and the principal was let go.  Marie had the option to continue employment at the school but chose not to due to that being a traumatic place for her.  She ended up suing the school district and won a small settlement.  In her settlement, she had to sign an NDA.  The NDA stated she couldn't mention the case to anyone.

Fast Forward 6 months later...

Marie has since moved states and is looking for employment.  She has been offered two jobs pending reference check.  They have wanted to speak to her previous supervisor.  Being that he was her rapist she doesn't want anything to do with him, but she also can not mention the rape.  They have both denied her the job because of being unable to speak to her previous supervisor.

Is there any further legal recourse?  What steps can she do?  How can she find work?

Answer:
 She can give the new principles info since the old one no longer works there. She can give the superintendents number. She can give them the HR number for the district. She can call the district and ask who she should direct someone to for reference info. Answer #2: If the principal does not work there anymore, why would she list him?  I'd look into listing someone from the school board, or perhaps the vice principal.

>Is there any further legal recourse?

As in, suing someone? For what?

>What steps can she do?

Provide a valid reference to someone in a supervisory capacity.  Whether that be a school board member or another in-school boss.  She could also, if asked, use the NDA as a reason for non disclosure.  "I'm sorry, I cannot provide the principals name due to an NDA. Here is the vice principals information" or something similar.

>How can she find work?

Outside my wheelhouse.  I want a job.

Best of luck to you and your gf!  It sounds like she has been through some terrible things.  I wish for the best.


Title: Lawyers with Criminal Past - Felony Charge

Question:
Hi, can lawyers with Felony charges but not convictions work as lawyers?

I have become aware that a lawyer for my competitor has these on his past. I don't know how he past the bar admission with these. I am in New York

First
CHARGE: Burglary - Felony - 3rd Degree - charge but not conviction

Second
Charge Category: Criminal and Traffic
Case Type: Misdemeanor Second Degree

Third
Offense Description: Trespass on Land
Classification: Misdemeanor
Arrest Disposition: Pre-Trial Diversion

Answer:
 Yes. I have friends with felony convictions who were admitted to the bar.

You are barking up the wrong tree. Answer #2: Are you aware there is a difference between being charged with a crime and being convicted of a crime? It doesn't appear that you are which tells me you should leave the handling of legal matters to your attorney. (whom I can assure you does understand this important distinction). Answer #3: Yes absolutely.

In fact, one semi-infamous case found that a murder conviction did not preclude admittance to the bar


Title: [FL] My friend went to the Dominican Republic with a guy she's only known for a few months, and I haven't been able to contact her in 12 hours. What do I do?

Question: [deleted]

Answer: Let her enjoy her vacation without your interference?Answer #2: Why do you think this is an emergency?


Title: Can I die for backchild support?

Question:
Edit:sue, not die

My ex is in arrears for over $6,000 and going since he isn't paying currently. I have a case manager, but she is the laziest one I have ever met. I literally have to spy and call her when his employment changes. I haven't received any tax refunds for him, and she hasn't gone through any other channels that is legally allowed to get him to pay ( I. E. License loss, jail time)

I'm so sick of waiting around for her to actually do something about this. Location is colorado

Answer: Can you *what* for back child support?


Title: California: My boss reduced my pay the day before a paycheck and reduced pay on the paycheck

Question: My boss reduced my pay from $13 to minimum wage the day before paychecks, and on the paycheck I received minimum wage.  He didn't tell me at the start of the pay period. Is it legal for him to adjust my pay after the fact. The pay period began and ended before he told me.

Answer: That's totally illegal in CA. Retroactive pay decreases are not allowed. Google "DLSE complaint" for how to file an unpaid wage complaint.


Title: Dad is almost in hospice care and has an abusive significant other who doesn’t care for him

Question: My dad (65M) is nearing the end of his life after having very poor health and a recent broken hip.  He can no longer take care of himself and can only walk 10ft without having to sit due to heart problems.  He will not be getting better because he prioritizes alcohol/cigarettes over his well being.  He is physically terrified of his significant other and she is a danger to herself.  She suffers from severe depression, severe alcoholism, severe anxiety, and has not seemed help because she does not feel capable.  My dad cannot help because he is in bed 16 hours/day.  The situation is bad, and she is getting worse by the day.  She has a history of extreme violence.  He reached out to find a way out and my siblings and I are in need of some advice.  What can we do?

Answer: If you’re in the US then you can call APS.Answer #2: What medical care is he receiving now?  If he’s in a hospital/clinic/center, they will most likely have a social worker on staff.  If he’s not in a facility, talk to his doctor.


Question:
https://9gag.com/gag/am7ROwo

The video shows a guy using a wireless video transmitter to override the video on the screens in Time Square.

I'm assuming this isn't legal, but what law would it fall under?

Answer: I'm sure there are FCC regulations that it violates, and maybe the CFAA.


Title: DUI, Possesion of Marijuana and Reckless Driving (KY)

Question:
So I really fucked up over the weekend, attended a wedding Saturday night, drank some there and decided it was a good idea to drive home.  This ended up with me spinning out and hitting my car against the barrier on the highway.  The officer who pulled me over said I was going 100 mph, but I drive an old Buick that usually cant go passed 85mph so I'm not sure how true this was.  With this I was given a DUI and reckless driving,  I blew a .11 when I got back to the station.

Along with this I had smoked weed earlier that day (7+ hours prior so nothing was in my system) and had the grinder and bowl in my car.  The officer found these and I now have a possession charge as well,  however the amount was just what was left in my grinder, not enough to smoke.

I'm still waiting to get my car back and see the total damages, but this is my first offense and I've never had any kind of offense on my record.  I'm not sure what to do now, I just finished college and still haven't started my job, so I'm short on cash and lawyers seems like a pricey option for me.   I want to know what should I expect out of this and what I can do to minimize costs, or damages to my record, thanks in advance.

TL:DR
Reckless driving, DUI, and possession. No prior offenses, looking for next steps.

*Edit*:
I do recognize how this whole situation could have been much worse.  I was irresponsible and endangered not only myself but those on the road.  At any moment I could have harmed another person and that was not fair of me to be so reckless.  I want to learn from this experience and never repeat this mistake.  I was lucky this time, I don't want there to be a next time that ends much worse.

Answer: This is one those situations that you cannot afford NOT to have a lawyer. You screwed up, bad. You have no excuse to not get a lawyer. Beg and borrow until you can afford one.


Title: Being charged w/ "Break /enter w/ intent" I've done my research & fairly sure I can beat this. Ontario/Canada

Question:
Hi /r/legaladvice , I'm being charged with 'break and enter with intent to commit an indictable offense.'  This is my first time being charged with a criminal offense, and I cannot afford a lawyer.

 I've done my research and based on the circumstances, I'm reasonably sure I can beat the charge entirely, If not then certainly have dropped to a lesser charge.

I'm already pretty confident in  my defense (probably because I'm not guilty of the crime lol), though I would be a fool not to seek counsel.

One thing I'm not sure of is when/where/how to I get my disclosure from the crown? Also I have some generic questions regarding mys defense, specifically I need an attorney to advise me what parts of my planned defense I should avoid entirely, and possibly ideas for a better wording if applicable.

Note:I absolutely will be contacting legal aid to have a professional represent me, but I assume  there is always a  possibility of getting an incompetent attorney or worse.  So I would just like to be prepared with an additional opinion.

That being said.. I was sort of hoping I could chat with someone privately (I know, I know get in line) just as I want to explain in detail the circumstances etc and don't want to be possibly identified.

tl;dr -> First time being charged, though I have an interest in law. I feel this will be very simple charge to beat given the circumstances and Im basically hoping some one can A)confirm this or B) let me know if I mention anything that  should NOT be used in/as a defense in this situation.
Topic:
Criminal Law

Answer:
 >  I was sort of hoping I could chat with someone privately

We don't do that here, as it raises potential ethical concerns.  If you don't feel comfortable posting it here, we will unfortunately not be able to help you.Answer #2: > fairly sure I can beat this

--

> I cannot afford a lawyer

Do not represent yourself.

>  So I would just like to be prepared with an additional opinion

Representing yourself in a criminal trial is not a good idea.

> I was sort of hoping I could chat with someone privately

Nobody here will engage you in a private discussion, as it comes too close to a lawyer-client relationship.

I apologize for not having more useful advice, but you did not give much information in your post.


Title: (Minnesota) - Ex-Husband Won't Refinance House per Divorce Decree Year After Divorce and is Behind on Payments - Looking for Options

Question:
As stated in title, divorce decree stated that ex-husband would take ownership of house and refinance house in his name (it is currently in both names with mine as primary lender).  He has not done this in the year since divorce and is now behind on payments.

&nbsp;

Have searched for options, however, it seems the only thing a judge can do is charge him with contempt of court, which doesn't help with the house refinancing; and I recognize the courts can't force a lender to offer refinancing to someone.

&nbsp;

Am at point where only option seems to be to file for bankruptcy to get away from this situation.  Looking for options.  Thanks.

&nbsp;

(Edited for better formatting)

Answer:
 > the only thing a judge can do is charge him with contempt of court

You mean put him in jail for contempt of court?  That can be persuasive.


Title: [California] At what point do I call CPS on my neighbors?

Question:
I am a terrible writer so please forgive the writing...

My neighbor has 3 children aged from 4-8 years old. Like clockwork every school day at 2:45 the mother locks the door and will not let them inside until dusk to eat and get ready for bed. On weekends it is from 8am to 1pm for lunch and then back out from 2pm til dusk. Under no circumstances are the children to be let in. They bang on the door for 5 minutes to be able to use the restroom and get yelled at the whole time.

I've heard her youngest crying and her screaming back "I'll give you something to cry about" followed by a couple of smacks and louder screaming.

Ive seen the oldest outright punch the youngest in the stomach and stand over him and as he cried.

I've heard her kids talking about what happens with the other neighbor kids. Ive asked them a few times about what happenes and they get red faced and leave.

What do I do in this situation? Do I call it in? Do I even say anything as to not even get involved in this situation?

EDIT:Thank you for the replies, I just wanted to make sure that doing this would be warranted and that I'm not just being over protective of someone else's kids.

As for being anonymous I'm pretty sure she will know it's me. Our front doors are 10ft apart and I've had to knock on her door a few times to let the kid in to pee and gotten yelled at that my dog is a menace. (My 10lb Maltipoo chills at an open window to see everything and her kids like to have her lick them through the screen. Not exactly a threat.)

I'll post updates on the situation.

Answer:
 Sounds like a call situation.

You only have to *suspect* something is wrong to call CPS. Sounds like it has gone beyond suspicion here...Answer #2: If you ask yourself the question "should I call CPS?" means you **should** call CPS.

It's better to have CPS check everything out and conclude there is nothing going on than children getting abused because nobody ever called.

Your story has enough leads to suspect something is going on in that household.Answer #3: Since this is legaladvice, you should know that it's not required that you call this in.  However the situation as you perceive it is sufficient to justify calling it in without fear of (legal) repercussions.  Answer #4: Yes. Call. Answer #5: Can't even use the bathroom? That is terrible. Sounds like the mom either is doing something she doesn't want them to know/see or just can't stand her kids. Either way this is reasonable to call and explain the situation.


Title: I want to know the legality of packages delivered that are addressed to my address but are supposed to be delivered to a neighbor. Details inside.

Question: [deleted]

Answer:
 > 123 Sesame Street. However, I'm 123 Sesame Street Ave.

Meanwhile, the guy at 123 Sesame Street Avenue Boulevard Parkway is wondering just what the fuck is going on!Answer #2: IANAL - But a few things:

- No, if something is incorrectly delivered to you it definitely *does not* just "become yours".  Opening/Keeping your neighbor's packages would open you to charges of theft (since you know it belongs to them), and possibly yes felony charges regarding *intentionally* interfering with mail.
- That being said, you also have no obligation or responsibility to deliver the packages either - you can always simply put a note on them and leave them out for the mail-man next time he comes by.

As several people here have suggested, you could also put "return to sender" on the packages - but it is likely to piss your neighbor off and start a passive-aggressive feud that likely won't end well.

Honestly I suspect your neighbor was just trying to make a joke, and appreciates you returning the favour and bringing his packages over (as he does with yours) or having the mail-man do so.  Assuming you don't mind bringing packages over once in a while and are on reasonably good terms with this neighbor, I would advise you to continue doing what you've been doing and bringing him his packages.  You have no legal obligation to do so - but it is the nice/neighborly thing to do.


Title: Upstate NY - neighbors have a rooster that crows 2-3 times per minute, for hours on end

Question:
It's driving the neighborhood crazy. This rooster is constantly crowing and annoying everyone. We are at wit's end at this point.

The neighbors are ... Let's say less approachable than we'd like.

I figured I would post here to bounce some ideas to determine if any of these ideas are reasonable:

* Calling police for excessive repetitive noise
* Calling animal control
* Anonymous tip to the town to see who they can contact

I'm somewhat afraid one of the neighbors are going to go on their property and kill the damn thing. I'm their direct neighbor and don't want fingers pointed at me.

Answer:
 I had a neighbor is Los Angeles who had a crowing rooster and it completely busted the myth that roosters only crow at dawn because that thing crowed all day long. I reported to animal control anonymously after I found the legal provisions that said it was illegal to have a crowing rooster within a certain distance of occupied dwellings. So, see if there are any provisions like that and/or if animal control handles these issues. That's a reasonable route for sure.

Unfortunately in my case though, my neighbors got the citation and cut the roosters vocal cords. He had a gargling crow from then on out. Ugh.


Title: Playing ball with an insurance company (WA)

Question:
So I was riding my motorcycle in Downtown Seattle during rush hour. I was in the center lane behind two vehicles approaching an intersection, with a bus only lane to our right. As we arrive at the intersection both cars begin to slow rapidly and rather than brake abruptly and end up pinned underneath the fella's rear bumper I decided to take it to the bus only lane to avoid an obvious collision.

So before I T-bone this guy at 30 something mph I see the front vehicle (who probably caused the abrupt braking) slowly begin to take a right turn on the far end of the intersection across the bus only lane. I see him making that maneuver and I think to myself "Hmm I hope I make this" and then I hit him. My bike connects with the dude's front right wheel and I go sailing over his hood and thankfully land on my backpack.

I get up and talk with the dude who feels very remorseful, so we start exchanging information. Here's where it gets good. This other fella approaches scene and starts examining the damage and taking pictures. It turns out it's not even that guy's car, it's a company vehicle. The manager starts saying some stuff about the bus only lane and I shut him down. The police arrive and take our info and we all go our separate ways.

That was Friday. Today is Monday, the day the manager is supposed to call insurance and begin the claim. I sent him a text Saturday requesting he text or email me his insurance information and I received no response. I am out of transportation until I receive some compensation and I also am holding off on going to the hospital until I am guaranteed to not be held accountable for the crash. My plan today is to request a copy of the police report so I can get that man's insurance info and start talking directly to them.

I've only been in this situation once before and that time I had video footage of the dude backing into my bike and taking off. I don't really know how this process is going to work so any info you guys can provide about how fault is determined, how things like medical bills factor in, and how to communicate with the insurance company would be very helpful. Even a link to another post that really breaks down insurance situations would be excellent. Thanks!
Topic:
Traffic and Parking

Answer:
 > I am out of transportation until I receive some compensation

Compensation for what? Did you have full coverage on your bike? You may be able to get compensation from *YOUR* insurance company, depending on your policy, but why would the other guy's insurance company pay you a dime for an accident that appears to be *your* fault?

> I also am holding off on going to the hospital until I am guaranteed to not be held accountable for the crash.

Um, I hate to break it to ya, but if you could not stop safely, and had to go into the bus lane to avoid hitting the car ahead of you, you are at least partially at fault here, and maybe even fully at fault. It's your responsibility to maintain a safe speed and adequate distance between you and the vehicle ahead of you to be able to safely come to a stop as needed. Not sure why you would contact the other guy's insurance company, they don't represent you or your best interests. You should be dealing with your own insurance company instead.


Title: Just got an email from someone threatening to expose the porn videos I watch to family and friends?

Question:
Uhhh I don’t even know what to say about this other than someone knows my password (they stated it in the email) and told me I need to pay them $1000 dollars or they would release a webcam video with the porn I watch?

Should I be concerned about this?
Topic:
Computer and Internet

Answer: r/scams. This is a typical scam about blackmail. Ignore and move on


Title: [AB, CANADA] Caught Selling Copies of Study Material on Kijiji

Question:
Hi everyone,

I'm using a throw-away account for obvious reasons.

I had a wake up call this morning when I received an email to a Kijiji Ad I posted from a member of the police.
I have been selling PDFs of some study material published by IQ Publications that I scanned in order to get some side money as a broke college student.
I understand that this is a serious offense, and I really have no excuse for doing it, except that I remained ignorant to the consequences of my actions.
Since I received the email, I have deleted the files from my USB/computer/Google Drive and I don't intend on selling or distributing it again.

The email states, " Good afternoon, I am assisting the University with looking into a complaint with regards to your Ads posted on Kijiji. The description that you provided on the Ads does not include the ISBN or the publishing ID numbers. Would you be able to provide that to me as I am unable to obtain any information without those numbers. Also, repetitive ads have been detected where levels of suspicious activity is increased."

And ended with the contact information of a member of the police, name, number, department, and email included.

I haven't replied to the email and I don't intend to.
But I'd like to know where I stand in this situation and if I should take any further steps in the future.
I feel like a complete idiot because I know my actions can have severe consequences.

Thanks for reading.

Answer:
 Do not contact the police (if it even is the police). If the police track you down, then refuse to answer any questions until you hire an attorney. You should inform your folks because you will likely need their help to pay for one.Answer #2: [Surprise! Copyright infringement can have criminal consequences in Canada](http://laws-lois.justice.gc.ca/eng/acts/c-42/page-22.html#h-57). There's also a chance that this is someone trying to scare you. Either way, the answer's the same.

Don't speak to the police. Don't speak to people who might be the police. If you are approached and questioned by the police, or arrested, state that you are not willing to answer questions until you have spoken to a lawyer, then call a lawyer at the first opportunity.

This is also likely an academic discipline issue, and you may be suspended or expelled from your university over this.


Title: I work in a grocery store. Would also working at a big name soda company's warehouse or factory be a conflict of interest? (IN, USA)

Question:
Sorry if this is a dumb question, I'm genuinely curious.

Edit: I'm a receiver in the back room. I receive Coke, Pepsi, and RC products from their drivers and I communicate with their sales reps and the people who stock the product. Sometimes I'm asked to refuse orders from drivers, although I've never had to do so for any of the soda guys.

Answer: I don't see this being a conflict of interest.


Title: Too much change given at bank

Question:
Local if it matters: burb of Chicago.

Actual event, just doesn't seem important enough for LA.

I go into bank.  Present a check for cash in amount of $120.  Teller actually gives me $160.  After getting to car, I discover the mistake, go back in, explain what happened, and hand over $40 to teller.  I didn't want it to come out of her salary or something at end-of-shift.

Two questions:

1. If I had left, I don't think they would have had any way to figure out the overage was me in particular.  I assume the books would come up wrong at end-of-shift for that teller, but the mistake could have been in any cash transaction, unless they could somehow identify it on CCTV and went through every transaction manually (for a $40?).  Since it was the bank's mistake, not my mistake, what would have been the legality of me just walking off with the extra $40?  Am I responsible for double checking their amounts?

2. (not a legal issue) The teller seemed kinda P-O'ed.  Why?  I thought she'd be happy that I brought the overage back so she wouldn't get in trouble at end-of-shift for being short.  Shouldn't the bank want to reward my behavior with at least a smile and thank you?

Answer:
 1. Pretty sure it would be theft, that’s not your money. You aren’t expected to double-check (although I recommend you do, not all errors are in your favor!) but if they contact you to resolve the mistake you’d be obligated to return it.

2. She was probably pissed at *herself* not you.


Title: Public Space Menace

Question:
 Hello Legal advice

**Question first then story**

**In a public space in a public, with a public, free to join group, can I ask an individual to not associate with us without being sued, violating some other rules.  If they do get asked to leave can I be sued for emotional harm?**

Hello all

My partner and I run a meetup.com (am I allowed to call out the company by name?) and have for about 3 months now. The two of us run a mixed group Tuesdays and Wednesdays and a male or female only group on Thursdays. My partner and I go to different locations and enjoy the guy/girl time apart from each other. So do the other group members. I haven't had any issues enforcing the rules before this person came and insisted that they be allowed to join my group. Think of every negative reason why you wouldn't want to be around the opposite sex and you have our interloper.

They claimed that if I did not allow them to join the group it would be discrimination. I tried inviting them to the mixed group or to my partners group that was happening the same day. They said that this was the only day they were free and this was the only convenient location. So the group just kind of dealt with them and broke early that night.

The next week we announced on meetup that we would be switching locations of the groups. And my favorite human being showed up again.

Not only is it breaking the theme of the group, which is enough to keep someone out in my mind, the bastard also seems to not like any of us. Constant insults, critiques, and telling us that what we enjoy making is a sign of our 'internalized hate'.

Most of the other group members have expressed interest in not continuing the meet up at this point.

The coffee house(s) owner(s) does not want any part of this argument. Meetup specifically forbids hate groups and this person is threatening to get our group banned for discriminating.

Answer: No, you don't have to allow an asshole into your private group. However, you cannot prevent them from going to a public place. If he harasses you then you can leave or complain to the coffeeshop owner, who can ask them or you to leave. If you want him gone you can make the group private or host at someone's home where they can tell them they are not welcome. If he complains to Meetup you can deny you see a hate group. Heck you can preemptively complain to try and get their account banned


Title: Landlord 'evcits' sleeping tenants by tying them up and dumping them in rural cemetery. Shamelessly stolen from my local subreddit.

Answer: Real estate law is so complicated, I'm sure it was an honest mistake.


Title: (FL) Lawyer refuses to pay his bill

Question:
[deleted]
Topic:
Business Law

Answer:
 >Go ahead sue me".

Take him up on his offer.  You have documentation of the calls and invoices of all of your costs.  His statement about accepting $1500 for the work indicates that he actually did have work done on his boat, which will stop him from later denying that anything was done.

I wouldn't worry too much about the verbal nature of the agreement.  The long and the short of it is that nobody would incur $10,000+ in expenses to do work on somebody else's property unless there was an expectation of payment.

Even if a successful claim can be made that the verbal agreement is not enforceable, there's still a solid claim for unjust enrichment.  That is simply a legal claim where one party is enriched at the expense of another under circumstances that the law considers unjust.

In the meantime, I'd also be working to perfect the mechanic's lien on the boat.  Hopefully the work was only completed recently so you can still serve the appropriate notice on him.


Title: SO's parents have taken out fraudulent debt in her name.

Question:
The backstory:

My SO is a super senior graduating in May from university.  The state is Colorado.  She has had at least one credit card in her name since before she was 18 because her parents lied about her age to "build her credit".  I think it is more likely to extend their credit line.  Her parents currently have at least one credit card in her name with what sounds like very significant amounts of debt. Her parents run a private business which has been passed around in various names and filed for bankruptcy at least twice. It is currently in her siblings name with the day to day formally designated to her dad.  My SO has filed for bankruptcy, although neither she nor I know the details and it was handled by her father's lawyer.  As of now her parents are completely broke, as is she, but her goal is to finish school,  unfortunately in a different state 12 hours away.  Engagement is hopefully months away, but I have no intention of Marrying in to this cluster f\*\*\* so its time to get it taken care of.  The good news here is that due to some domestic issues between her mother and father she is now prepared to deal with in a legal sense and she has been able to pay for school with grants and scholarships so she shouldn't have any student loans.

&#x200B;

The issues:

\-My SO is in the dark about 90% of all of this and so we have no idea how much actual debt is in her name.

\-We don't know what her parents have done 100% fraudulently and what actual accounts and events she may have actually unknowingly signed.

\-We don't know where to start, is there a report we should get before seeing a lawyer? What kind of lawyer do we even go to?  Do we need to make reports to govt. agencies?

&#x200B;

Both of us would really appreciate some advice here.  Thank you in advance.

Answer:
 [Personal finance has a good FAQ on identity theft](https://www.reddit.com/r/personalfinance/wiki/identity_theft). The TL;DR is that she needs to figure out what she's actually signed, should pull her credit report, and needs to decide whether to file a police report to escape responsibility or whether she prefers to eat the debt.Answer #2: She needs to take out a credit report and make a police report.

Unless she goes to the police she stands zero chance of getting this to go away.

I find it hard to believe that she declared bankruptcy as a minor, but parents are capable of some crazy identity theft.Answer #3: You start by contesting the debts as fraudulent and filing a police report for identity theft and fraud.

identitytheft.gov is a very good resource to start with. And r/personalfinance has a very good FAQ in it on their wikiAnswer #4: Credit karma is free and shows what accounts are opened in her name currently and whatever is in collections. She needs to figure out what's hers legitimately and dispute the others as fraudulent accounts .only thing is her parents whichever opened the cards will probably be arrested for identity theft