Title: CT - Oil delivered to my house- I didn't ask for it.

Question:
Long story short, I went to get my mail, and there was an invoice for a relatively small amount ($120) of oil delivered to my house. However, I never called to have oil delivered, this is not my normal oil company (never used this one, or even heard of it), there is no customer name, no driver name, no truck number - nothing, just my address, and "Fill up" in the directions. For all I know, a driver could have been driving around and picked my house at random (although I cant imagine why). It was only 50 gallons -I just had it filled up about 3 weeks ago. I tried to call, and I keep getting a busy signal, and when I do get through, I tell them my problem, and I'm put on permanent hold (last time was 20 min). The upshot is that they charged me 20 cents less a gallon - so it's a good price. But still - what should I do if they won't even talk to me about it?
Topic:
Business Law

Answer:
 Get a locking cap for your oil fill pipe.Answer #2: Is this a new house for you?Answer #3: All that you have is an invoice... Can you confirm that $120 worth of oil have in fact been delivered and that your tank is once again full? Answer #4: IANAL but my dad owns a fuel oil delivery business.  This has happened to him before, both as the deliver and receiver.  Seriously, a competing company delivered to his business and filled him up!  Seriously, these mistakes happen.  Drivers thought they knew the house or it was a new customer and they thought your house was new customer's.  It would be ridiculously expensive to use this as a scam, especially with the slow rate of repayment these days.

Either way, they *could* come back out and pump it out.  It would probably not be worth their effort.  You *could* fight it and they would probably let it go because it wouldn't be worth it to try to collect.  However, if you are going to use the fuel eventually *and* you got a pretty decent discount, I'd say let it go.  It wasn't a planned event but you'll still come out ahead in the end.

With that said, I would let them know they delivered to the wrong address and you will need X time to pay them for the delivery.  Who knows, they may end up being a more affordable company for you to use in the future?  On automatic, of course!


Title: Tickets sold price x3

Question: Hey everyone! A few months ago I bought a ticket for a a tour with Michelle Obama on Viagogo. It turns out they asked 3x the amount of the ticket price. On my ticket there’s a complete different price (€200 less). I’ve been asking them for months to pay me back the difference. The site is been on the news for likewise stuff that isn’t correct. What can I do now? Is there maybe someone who can send a legat ‘threat’ to them for me?

Answer: You have no legal threat here, you agreed to a price and got what you paid for.  This is capitalism, you are not entitled to pay only the face value of the ticket when you are buying on a resale site.


Title: [CA] Found a dog, want to keep him, what steps do I need to take?

Question:
There's been a dog wandering around the alley by my house for the past month. He was starting to look worryingly thin, so I took him in. I took him to the vet, no microchip, no collar, no tags.
The vet told me I could keep him when they'd didn't find a microchip, but I can't find anything about what I am legally obligated to do with a found dog in Long Beach, CA.
I've searched lost dog listings that I can find online, and I don't see any matching his description. I walk around the neighborhood a lot and haven't seen any lost dog posters with his description. He's not neutered, leash-trained, or house-broken, and had a pretty bad case of fleas. So it doesn't seem like he has had a home.

TL;DR What am I legally obligated to do with a found dog in Long Beach, CA?

EDIT:
I called Animal Care Services of Long Beach, since they should have accurate knowledge. Recording here for posterity.
In the event that you can care for the dog while searching for an owner, due diligence is to put up flyers for the dog. If no one has claimed the dog within 30 days, you may keep the dog.
If you cannot care for the dog while searching for an owner, turn it over to Animal Care Services. It will be scanned for a microchip. If a microchip is found, the dog will be held for 14 days while the owner is contacted to pick up their dog. If no microchip is found, the dog will be held for 6 days for an owner to come forward. After the holding period is up, the dog will be adopted out.
Thank you all for your advice. I have cancelled his neutering appointment. :)

EDIT 2:
Posting flyers had success. The pup's owners have been found. He is safely with them. They are going to call me to discuss any repayment for veterinary expenses (vaccinations, wound cleaning, de-fleaing). I guess he gets out of their backyard a lot and never wears a collar.

Answer:
 /r/dogs has this question at least once a day, so poke around there. Every state/county is different in terms of who you must notify, and what counts as "due diligence" in notifying the public that you found a dog. Some places it's 5 days with no one claiming it and the dog is yours, some it's 30 and you must notify animal control before the clock starts.

Definitely put up a Craigslist ad and maybe a couple of posters about a "found dog". HOWEVER, many, many times, a random person will come forward claiming that it is their dog, when in reality they just want a free dog/they use it as "bait" for dog fighting/ they sell it. You must have them prove it is their dog. For example, in your posters, only have a picture of the dog's face (or no pictures at all), and then they must identify a brown spot by its tail/white paws/heart-shaped scar on its stomach/etc.

Good luck! I would save receipts for all vet bills/food, in case you find the owners, you can politely ask to be compensated for your care (they aren't legally required to pay it, but they might.)

Edit: Here is one of many threads on /r/dogs about random people responding to "lost dog" ads:
https://www.reddit.com/r/dogs/comments/3crsfe/help_found_a_dog_owners_want_him_back_need_advice/Answer #2: IANAL, I'm a vet. You need to make a reasonable effort to contact the owner. That means you have to get the dog checked for a microchip and should email pictures and a detailed description to your local shelters/pounds and small animal vets. Forget about Craigslist only, that's way too niche to count as a "reasonable effort" -- you have to give the info to the places where a reasonable person would inquire about their lost dog.


Title: [WA] witnessed a car accident last summer and called the police. The prosecution called me and wanted to "chat about the case". What should I expect?

Question: No one had contacted me until a few days ago. What would happen if I do can them? What would happen if I don't? Thanks for the help

Answer:
 They want to see if you have anything relevant to say to aid in their criminal case against the defendant. Did you give the police a statement at the time and do you know what the initial charges were?

If you are uncooperative, they could subpoena you and compel your testimony in theory.


Title: Oregon companion dog

Question: So i currently rent out a house that doesn't allow any pets. Recently i have been feeling lonely and isolated from everyone as i have been having heart problems and i'm supposed to be taking it easy for the next year. I'm in college and all my roommates go out on the weekends leaving me home by myself. I read online that companion dogs are a great way to help you feel less lonely, and better overall. It just so happens that my sister is looking for someone to take her dog for about 3 months while she is working out of state. He is very well behaved and I would love to take him. I was wondering if anyone knew the laws surrounding companion dogs in Oregon, and if landlords have to allow them if I am granted a companion dog?

Answer: It sounds like you're asking about an emotional support animal exemption? I don't know oregon's laws on those, but you would need to be diagnosed with a mental or emotional disability, and have a professional agree that a support animal would help alleviate symptoms, in order for such a legislation to even apply.  And then you would need an animal of your own.  No one will consider a three-month borrowed dog an ESA.


Title: Worried about getting fired/punished after a clean drug screen. Would like some advice on my options with current employer.

Question: [deleted]

Answer: Yes you can still be fired.


Title: I was billed more than a year later?

Question:
I had my daughter in May of 2017. While hospitalized, I got an epidural. The anesthesia company JUST NOW sent me a bill. $130. It’s not bad (I’ll pay if I have to) but more than a year later?! Can I fight this?

Edit: Omaha, Nebraska (location of epidural).

Answer: You owe the money. Why would you want to fight paying something that was provided to you? You bought it, you should pay for it.


Title: Running an "adult" in-game guild?

Question:
Some time ago, I joined a guild in a popular online game that was made around the premise of "adult" (i.e. erotic) roleplay.  Frequently, we'd allow other players to join in on our roleplay sessions.  Everything done in these sessions is done in a way where it would be impossible for someone to "accidentally" walk in on us, so the only people that would see anything explicit would be those who already expressed interest.

However, as this is an online game, it's impossible to know anyone's actual age, and I've recently wondered if I should be concerned about minors joining in.  We do usually ask anyone new if they're old enough, and don't go on to ask for any identifying information.  Everything done is with in-game graphics (which are never more explicit than seeing someone in underwear) and text.  However, these sessions usually involve everyone writing fairly explicit descriptions of sexual acts.

Do I need to worry about any trouble from potential minors?  (Location not given because, being an online game, we could have people pretty much worldwide, but primarily US.)

Answer:
 >Do I need to worry about any trouble from potential minors?

It depends, really.  Laws vary from state to state, country to country.  For the most part, I'd venture to say you're *probably* okay as long as you assume the other party is an adult.  If you find out they are underage and then you *continue* ERP, that's when you can get in trouble.

But depending on the size of your guild, it wouldn't hurt to have some kind of vetting system in place.  Off the top of my head, I'd say have the GM get a "throwaway" cell phone and have guild members call him to confirm they are adults.  I'm sure there may be other ways you may want to check out.

One can't have too much protection nowadays.


Title: License plate flipper

Question: Is it illegal to have a license plate flipper in the state of florida?

Answer: I can't even begin to image any jurisdiction that would allow that. There is zero legitimate reason to have one of those, ever. However, IANALAnswer #2: I wouldn't think they are legal in any state.


Title: California: Driving school car hit me and kept going, they were clearly at fault but I’m also a fairly young driver, what should I do?

Question:
I was driving home today and I got hit by a driving school car. The road I was on had 2 lanes and it comes to a large 4 way intersection. On the other side of the intersection, the lanes merge.

I was in the left lane and a clearly marked driving school car was directly to my right. We were both stopped at the red light. When the light turned green, I gradually accelerated. Suddenly, I see the driving car (which I’ll now abbreviate to DC) drifting towards me. We’re pretty much exactly side to side. I SLAM the brakes on and feel a distinct **thump.** The guy did NOT pull over and kept driving. I called the number on the car and left them a message basically saying “your driver just fucking hit me, we were on X road and *description of what happened just like I wrote it above*, the license plate is XXXXX. I repeat, the license plate is XXXX and they just hit me. I am driving and I don’t know how bad the damage is but they definitely hit me. Please call me back ASAP, my number is XXXXX.”

Luckily, the damage isn’t too bad. Just scraped up the side of my car a bit but I am PISSED. I got my license just over a year ago and I am a damn good driver (for my age). I have never gotten pulled over. I have never gotten a ticket. I have never been in an accident. Hell, I’ve barely scraped the curb while parking. My car isn’t great but god damn it, it is MY car and it was my grandma’s car before that. I got it when she passed away and it’s one of the few big things I have to remember her by (and I know this is emotion & not legal stuff but I’m pissed, sorry).

So what should I do? The guy did not stop or acknowledge hitting me and my dashcam is unfortunately not working. I am going to call the driving school every day until I get through (this happened at ~5:10pm so I think they were closed for the day) but legally, what can I do? What should I do?

Thank you.
Topic:
Traffic and Parking

Answer:
 Police report! They’ll probably contact the company and get the drivers info.
You could also call the company first thing tomorrow and let them know you’re going to the police. May make them a bit more receptive if they have to cover their ass! Good luck.


Title: If a drug dealer quits can the Government arrest them for dealing?

Question:
I'm just wondering if the Government has the ability to blackmail ex-dealers into giving info by treating jail time on them.

I live in Australia but I would like to know how it is in the US.
Topic:
Criminal Law

Answer:
 So long as their dealing occurred within the statute of limitations, the Government can charge the ex-dealer with a crime.

The statute of limitations is a time period after which no charges can be filed. It differs from state to state (and country to country) and is typically measured in years.

So, to give an example. If the statute of limitations is 5 years, and the guy quit dealing 4 years ago,  the police could, in theory, charge him with drug distribution for the deals he made in that year.


Title: Another business stole my name

Question:
I'm a contractor in California. I have been in business since 2015 and using the same name. Recently, I discovered there was an llc registered in Louisiana on 7/18/18. It has the same exact name with , llc. And is in the same industry (construction). I found the business by searching my own business in Google I have since filed for a trademark. I have been looking at the qualifications for trademark infringement and discovered that since he is not in the same geographic area I may not have a case, but my problem is that most of my customers find me online and his competing name will confuse my customers - especially since contractors are rated from places like home advisor, yelp, Angie list, and may be confused by finding other companies with the same name.
Will I have a case when my trademark goes through? I would really like to push to get this a-hole to stop using my business name.

Answer: Exceedingly doubtful that you would have a valid claim. You are not in the same location. Doubtful that you would be able to show that people are confusing the two of you. Further, given that you did not even apply for the trademark registration until after this business begin using the name as well, you probably don’t have trademark protection based on registration. You would have to rely on common law trademark protection. Again, I think it’s very doubtful that you have a claim.


Title: Guy video tapes a pat down at airport, and worker feels uncomfortable... who's right?

Question:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4_xG-VIfuDE

This was taken place at the Denver Airport. Was just curious who's right, as the workers arguments didn't really make sense.

Answer:
 [This site](http://www.tsa.gov/pressroom-channel/photographyfilming) says that TSA does not prohibit filming at their checkpoints.

>TSA does not prohibit the public, passengers or press from photographing, videotaping or filming at security checkpoints, as long as the screening process is not interfered with or slowed down. We do ask you to not film or take pictures of the monitors. While the TSA does not prohibit photographs at screening locations, local laws, state statutes, or local ordinances might.


Title: (WI) Ex owes over 10K in back child support. He is owed money in unclaimed property who should I contact to try and have this seized?

Question:
I know the title sounds greedy. However, just a little background my ex is actually in prison for the next 70 years for hurting my daughter. I am owed over $10,000 in back due child support support.

There were enforcement orders and liens put in place against his property at one point do to owing that much in child support arrears. When he went to prison child support stopped enforcing the order. I was told by the courts that I could still try to have it enforced even though he has no way of paying due to the fact that the victim of his crime was my daughter who he is ordered to pay support for.

I could really use the extra help , and from what it looks like on the Wisconsin Revenue unclaimed property website he is owed anywhere from a few hundred to a few thousand dollars.

Who would you recommend contacting to try and have these funds seized? Should I start with child support or the Department of Revenue?

I understand it is a possibility that these funds could end up being seized for his court costs or other legal obligations, but I'd at least like to try.

I appreciate any suggestions on who to contact, What specifically would be good to ask them or push for, or any other things you think would help.

Answer: Not from your state, but my best guess would to be advise the child support office so they can assert a lien on your behalf with the Department of Revenue who is now the funds holder for the unclaimed property.Answer #2: I just want to chime in and agree that this doesn't make you greedy at all.  I say this as a divorced father who's got a terrible relationship with my ex.  My kid with her is an adult now, but her wanting child support was never greedy or inappropriate.  On the contrary, I was happy to provide my fair share.  I am sorry that is not your experience.  Please know not all men are like you ex.


Title: My truck was stolen at a Dillard's in Houston that had no security measures in place at the time of the incident. The power was out, so no security footage. The store was running on a generator.

Question: [deleted]

Answer:
 Can you clarify why you think you should pursue action against Dillard's?Answer #2: Of course not. That'd be downright silly. They owed you no duty to police the parking lot.Answer #3: >Can I and should I pursue legal action on Dillard's?

You can, but you will not be successful.

Your recourse is against the thief.

What did your insurance say when you contacted them?Answer #4: Maybe Dillards should sue you for not having a low-jack and / or car alarm? Would that make sense?Answer #5: What are you going to pursue them for?

They have no legal obligation to protect your truck at any time.

Cameras and lights on parking lots are so that they can meet codes and stave off lawsuits for people who "fall" in the parking lots or "employees that push carts into cars."

When you saw that the parking lot lights were out and the in-store lights were low you could have left. You chose to stay, and as such, willingly engaged in business within that location despite the lack of lighting and security.

Even if they HAD some obligation to protect your truck it would likely be largely waived due to that fact.Answer #6: I don't see what claim you'd have against them.  They have no duty to put security measures in place to prevent theft by 3rd parties.  And they had no control over the fact that power went out to the security measures they do have.


Title: Creditors took $10,000 out of my wife's bank account with no warning.

Question:
To make a long story short, my girlfriend had alot of credit card debt. She got hurt at work about 6-7 years ago and when she lost her job and interest on her credit cards went up she was no longer able to make the payments. She had to file for bankruptcy and completely destroyed her credit.

&#x200B;

Recently she sold a property that was inherited to her and she had about $13,000 in a bank account. we just found out today that her creditors took $10,000 from her bank account leaving her balance at $3,000.

&#x200B;

What should she do? is there any legal way for her to get that $10,000 back? like I said, she was hurt at work and has not been able to work ever since the accident, so her income is very limited..

Answer:
 If the creditor went as far as putting a lien on her bank account (which is how I'm assuming they were able to get that money), you are FAR past the point of being able to do much about this.

>is there any legal way for her to get that $10,000 back?

If she owes the debt, then no.


Title: (CA) I was tricked by my employer into looking like I quit when in reality I was laid off - and now they're using that to deny unemployment insurance.

Question:
I worked part-time for a mom-and-pop shop in my city for over a year, and they laid me off in March a very sketchy way. When it came time for the schedules to restart, I wasn't informed of when I was on during the following two weeks. I went into the shop myself two days later and saw that I was nowhere on the schedule. After contacting my employer about this, she ignored me for a full day until I reached out again. After that, she told me to come in on a Thursday, to which I was promptly laid off.

When I was being laid off, she had me sign three documents. A notice of termination, a product confidentiality agreement, and a letter that she wrote. She wrote the letter in my voice, in which she wrote that I was quitting my job to focus on school. She told me "It looks better on a resume if you say you quit". I was confused, but signed it because I didn't understand why else it would matter (because this was my first job).

My family helped me file for unemployment, but I was just denied because I "quit". I did not quit my job, and I have a letter of termination proving that I was laid off - signed by my employer. I sent this to the EDD, but it doesn't seem like it was taken into account.

Should I reach out to the employer? Should I file an appeal? What should I do?

Answer:
 You can appeal and be denied again. You should read everything before you sign it.Answer #2: NAL- Former UI caseworker. Do not reach out to the former employer.  Appeal for the aforementioned reasons. Many times the State will have a history of this type of behavior on the part of an employer, which may work in your favor if that is the situation.

Best of luck.Answer #3: What evidence do you have to support your claim?


Title: Lease expired April 15 and tenant refuses to leave. Massachusetts

Question:
Our tenant hasn’t paid rent since October. The lease expired April 15 and he refuses to leave. He says he needs a couple of more weeks to move his furniture etc.
He says that we must start eviction procedures in order to get him out.
Is it necessary to actually start an eviction since he is clearly in violation of the expired lease?

Answer:
 Yes, if he refuses to leave you're going to have to evict him. The specific term you're looking for is "unlawful detainer".Answer #2: You know you're in trouble when your tenant is giving you advice. These are things a landlord should know before the first tenant steps through the door. There's no excuse for this level of ignorance, and I highly advise you read up on your state's tenant rights immediately.Answer #3: Stop right now and call a lawyer. It will be way cheaper in the long run.  You are dealing with a professional scam artist, aka squatter. They probably have their own personal attorney that will take you to the cleaners if you make any wrong moves.

At this point, get that lawyer, do EXACTLY what they tell you to do and that is it.Answer #4: you have to serve a 14 day notice for unpayment of rent. sounds like a professional tenant, and you clearly waited too long to evict for nonpayment.

mass dot gov has the step by step you must follow. dont miss any steps, he could stay longer on a technicality


Title: Fired for libel and defamation for writing a novel

Question: Jackson, WY. A friend was fired for writing a novel for libel/defamation. They said they'd sue them if they got it published. Another friend recommend that they get it insured so a lawyer would cost $2,000-$3,000. But it's vague on from who or how to buy this insurance. Where can they find information on this?

Answer:
 Say what now?

I'm very confused by your post. There are too many indefinite articles and endless sentences and I can't make heads or tails of what's happening. Can you give some more clarity please?


Title: [GA] Manager is trying to get rid of my pets and tells me she will have animal control and court permission to enter my house and take them.

Question:
Just yesterday, I received a letter from the manager talking about she has a no pets policy. My family moved here about 20 years ago. 7 years ago we got pets but she never told us anything and she has seen them ever since we got them! We never saw anything about no pets.

 This neighborhood never had a accident where a pet when wild and was causing harm to the community. We did have other animals wonder into the neighborhood but those animals never belonged to anyone living in the area.

I have 2 small dogs and a bunny. She is giving us till Aug 31, 2017 to get rid of them or else, unnecessary force is going to come at us. I feel like she changed the contract and never told anyone about it but she can't hold us against it if we didn't sign the new one, right?

What can I do to stop that action? Can court actually give permission to animal control and officers to invade my house? What rights do I have against the manager?

Edit: I have found the lease agreement and unfortunately, It does say pets are not allowed. Thank you for everyone who read and contributed to help me out.
Topic:
Landlord Tenant Housing

Answer: What does your lease say? That is what will determine things.


Title: My [m21] coworker [f16] almost 17 has been asking me out on dates and have been pursuing sexual actions with me.

Question:
Throwaway because I feel more comfortable that way.

I live in Minnesota and I do believe the age of consent is 16. (Correct me if I am wrong) but this co-worker (I am not in a higher authority than her, in matter of fact i believe she would be in higher authority than me because she has recieved multiple raises from our place of work) has been insisting we go out on dates and that we hang out, outside of work she has also at one point told me she would be very interested in have sex at one point with me, both via text message and twitter private messages. I have not brought up sex at all, I have been very distant towards her, even with the going out on dates part. She of course didnt say it specifically like that but has said the word sex and clearly directed it towards me. Now she lives alone after being emancipated from her parents for about a month now. Which leads me to my question. From all the text messages and twitter PM's that I have taken screenshot's of is this a viable source of consent or do i need more physical proof of any sorts to make it 100 percent legal consent? Any advice would be much appreciated and well considered.

Edit: Thank you very much for your help. I really do appreciate everyones peraonal and legal advice.

Edit#2: A lot of you are taking my question way out of proportion, and assuming I do not understand the natural Law of consent. Say in a scenario where her and I go out for dinner and just so happen to go back home to watch a movie. I in no way in hell would pursue anything, but to say at that moment she starts something with me and I ask her if she is ok with it. What is proving my word against hers in the court of law. Some of you say she can withdraw the consent at any moment. So why would anyone have sex if anyone can withdraw consent at any moment. Isn't everyone a rapist if they were like fuck I said yes to this guy or girl last night, but I want to change my mind. No I would not just whip my dick out in front of her. No I would not attempt anything unless if she was going with it first. No I would not expect her text messages to be a viable form of consent at any period of time. The true nature of the question is what is age of consent, what is holding my word against her word in the court of law if I chose to trust the wrong person, and if I chose to have sex with her given consent prior to seconds before engagement, can she withdraw at any given time in the future. If no means no, why does yes mean maybe after I choose to I can withdraw in the future depending on how I feel.

Answer: Someone who is immature enough to hound you for sex when you work with them is not the kind of person that you should engage in any non-work relationship with at all if you want to keep your job and avoid drama.


Title: Apartment with Windowless Bedrooms - New York

Question:
**Background:**
Me and 4 of my friends rented an apartment in upstate NY for the school year. Because I trusted them and it was finals week I didn't have time to check out the apartment and we all signed the lease (very stupid I know). A few of us went up to move in this past weekend and we were greeted with the problem that 3 of the 5 'bedrooms' did not have any windows while 2 of them had 2 large windows.

**Problem:**
We are now stuck with deciding who gets the 2 bedrooms and who gets the 3 jail cells.

I've been doing a bit of research and a lot of it says that a bedroom is not considered a bedroom if it does not have a window. For clarification these 3 bedrooms without windows have 1 exit which is a door to the main hallway and that is it. They also have a decent sized closet.

I am curious if this is grounds to break the lease if the bedrooms are not legally bedrooms. Any input or advice on this situation would be greatly appreciated.

Answer:
 Solution:  Bidding.  It's how my roommates and I used to decide bedrooms.

All sit together in the same room.  Open bidding for the best bedroom first (at 1/4 or 1/5 or whatever rent / total rooms is).  Keep the auction going until no one is willing to bid more.  Now there is one feweer room and less rent to be covered....  Open bidding at equal share of the remaining price...  Remaining roommates bid on this room..  Then there are 2 and the last room remains and pays whatever rent is remaining (which was usually small in our case).

Each roomate pays exactly what they are willing to pay for the room they want.  Easy-peasy and completely fair.
Answer #2: I'm going to bring it up again.   [It's my thing.](https://www.reddit.com/r/bestof/comments/34novp/user_thinks_a_stalker_is_leaving_random_postit/)

OP, regardless of the code compliance issues, make sure those bedrooms are well ventilated.   Get a smoke alarm, a fire extinguisher, and a carbon monoxide detector.

The fact that the residence cannot meet code should be grounds to break your lease.  But from a practical point of view you're talking about trying to find a 5-person apartment in a college town in August, so the landlord has practical, if not legal, leverage.Answer #3: Does your lease say that you are getting 5 bedrooms?


Title: Can a school club charge me for something I’m not even going to be there to do

Question:
I’m planning on quitting a club at my school but they’re saying they’re going to charge me for things that I’m not even going to be there for.

For example, If i quit, I need to pay for every meal they will supply us. Even after I’m not with the club anymore. Is this a thing they can do?

Topic:
School Related Issues

Answer: Did you sign something agreeing to that?


Title: [TX] Utility company telling me about neighbor

Question: So I was home doing some gardening and the gas company was at my neighbors house who isn’t home at the time. He then comes up to me and asks about them and then begins to tell me how he’s there to cut off their gas because they are behind on payment but he can’t get into the back because the gate is locked and he’s not sure if their dogs bite. Is there no privacy policy or anything of the sort when it comes to this sort of thing? I wouldn’t want them telling my neighbor my business if this were the other way around.

Answer: While it is unethical he was not breaking a law by telling you your neighbor has a debt.   It would have to be slander or some non public information for it to be a crime.


Title: (WV) My disabled son is being bullied out of high school by both the students and the administrators.

Question:
This is my son's senior year in high school,he is disabled because of Asthma/anxiety/misaphonia we have a 504 plan in place with the school he attends but he is being grossly mishandled in my oppinion.
He is an honor student and he is collage bound.His junior year he completed his CIW class and was certified,this year he intended to take robotics at our local trade school but was bullied out by football players in the class.He has misaphonia and he goes into a panic when he hears people chewing,at the begining of the year the teacher explained that there would be no eating in class,and the football players made it impossibile for him to continue.They made threats against him at school and online.He has lost a great deal of weight,he might weigh 105 pounds now,when he started as a freshmen I would say he weighed 160.The school has a profound impact on his health.Last week he had to call his mother from the vice principal's office because he was having a panic attack,while he was in this office he walked next to a set of post hole diggers and said that he would like to hit some of the kids with them,the vice principal said,"You don't want to do that." My son said, "your right I'm sorry."they both called my wife and she picked him up and took him home.When she arrived home there was a message from the vice principal asking her to call him back,she did and he told her that our son had to be suspended for making terroristic threats.Now we were under the impression that this was for a day,but he called back the next day and said it was for 10 day's.Now we have been in contact with the board of education and they think the situation was mishandled and tommorow my wife has a meeting with all of them about this,but the damage is already done in my oppinion.I wanted to contact a lawyer a month ago,or contact the ACLU, or something but we had avoided that.I'm not sure how to even go about that.This really dose not begin to explain everything that has happened to him at all.I don't know who to contact or how to contact the ACLU,or if I even should.I cannot afford a lawyer,I make minimum wage as a security officer.I just need help,advice,something.Thank you for reading my post.
Topic:
School Related Issues

Answer: Google "your county" Special education advocate.  They're usually free.  They basically go with you to talk to the administration.


Title: [California] Customer has abandoned prepaid order for custom item.

Question:
Hello All,

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I am trying to determine how to handle a situation that our company is currently facing.  Google searches for abandoned property laws in California are mostly focused on tenant law and financial institutions.  Here is the situation:

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We build custom merchandise for clients throughout southern California.  A customer placed an order with in early May.  The order was ready mid May.  Customer delayed pickup until end of May.  We have been attempting to reach the customer since mid June with no response to our emails and voicemails.

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A few possibly important items:

This order has been paid in-full (over $5,000.00).  This is a requirement due to our custom nature.

Our very basic agreement states that customers will pick up within 5 days of the scheduled pickup date or face storage charges. (We have never had to enforce this and we do not have the actual rate specified)

Custom nature of the business means it is cheaper to start from scratch than modify this item for a different customer.

We do not have the excess space to hold the order long term (these items are typically 3'x6' or larger).

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My questions:

How long am I required to hold onto this order?  What notification do I have to provide to the customer before destruction/removal/resale?  Am I allowed to toss it in the dumpster or do I have to try and sell it and hold that amount in escrow if the customer ever shows up?

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Any help or advice would be greatly appreciated!

Answer:
 Try searching for “UCC” or “uniform commercial code” in your searches. This should narrow your results down to your situation better.Answer #2: You really should include an abandonment policy in your contract for this exact reason. For example, I do computer repairs, custom builds, etc. and specifically specify a storage fee if item isn't picked up by the 14th day after completion, and it goes to the dumpster or up for resale after 60.

Since you want to dispose of or resell it, refunding the customer should allow you to do so. They can't claim you didn't deliver if you cancelled their order and refunded them.

Of course you'll take a loss on anything you can't recover by selling it if you refund them.


Title: On the verge of suing abusive father, need advice on what would count against me.

Question:
I posted this in legal before I knew there was was a legaladvice subreddit.
My father verbally and physically abused me and my younger brother when we were children and teenagers. He would even go so far to publicly embarrass us. I am 23 and a Navy veteran now, honorably discharged for medical reasons. I may have been molested by him as well b/c I have recurring nightmares of being touched innappropriately. He is also psychologically manipulative and a compulsive liar. (I was going to have my VA coordinator search the database for his dd214 to confirm at least one of his lies.) My father somehow convinced/guilt-tripped me to visit him during my military leave when I was distracted and vulnerable enough,accept an Ipad from him, add him back on facebook, come down for family visits even though half of his family may have started seeing through his facade, he even convinced/guilt-tripped me into selling him one of my prized oil paintings when I could have sold it for a higher price. I have had enough of his bullshit. Im angry with him, and Im angry with every adult that chose to enable him instead of report him. Im sick of accepting gifts or any creepy hugs/kisses on the cheek from him. I have even had a nightmare about him last night trying to hit me. I have refused to go back to his house to retrieve any of my belongings, no matter the amount, b/c I don't want another panic attack and I don't want to be provoked into murdering his ass anyways. I have had enough. So tell me Reddit, if I sued him today, would any past part of giving in to his demands count against me? If so, what can I do about that?

Answer: What do you want to sue him for? You don't even know if you have been sexually abused. You are past the statute of limitations for assault. Lying is not illegal. Getting you to visit him and giving you stuff is not illegal. Being a shitty parent is not illegal.


Title: My almost dad has died, what do I do?

Question: Early this morning the man I considered my father was killed. I am at a loss and am unsure what steps I need to take now. I am the executrix of his will and have no idea what I need to do or how to handle things or what the process is. They took his body for autopsy, when can I expect it be released? How do I proceed with getting his affairs in order? I'm in New Hampshire if that helps. Any advice would be welcome.

Answer: Sorry for your loss.  Consider donating his body.  There are organizations that will arrange everything and return you cremated remains.  The cost of funerals is insane and the industry takes advantage of people in grief to guilt them into spending tens of thousands of dollars.


Title: [AZ - Phoenix] Dead tree needs to be cut down, can landlord make me pay for it?

Question:
Had my landlord come check out the property, they noted that a tree in the backyard has died and they want to get rid of it so it doesn't fall on the house. The property manager that was with him kept talking about splitting the cost of cutting it down with me and I don't think that's my responsibility?

There is a clause in my rental agreement about taking care of the yard but it doesn't say anything about dead trees. Can they really make me split the cost of cutting that thing down?

Answer:
 Not unless something you did, or didn't do, killed it. That said, we don't have a copy of the lease, so we can only go on what you say it says. Something you "might have done" is turn off the water outside, or throttle it way back. Do you pay for water?

FYI, we're losing trees on our property right and left because of the drought here in CA.Answer #2: Yard maintenance does not generally include removing dead trees. That's like saying well, the roof gave out while you lived here, you need to pay for the new roof. Trees are long-lived items that any one tenant is not going to be accountable for.

Do you know what kind of tree it is and any idea how old it was? Some trees are prone to pests, bark beetles are a big problem in Phoenix. And others like queen palms, are easily diseased. Some trees, like citrus require deep irrigation but most desert trees, once established, are not going to be killed that easily. I don't think they should assume that you didn't water it correctly, even if you did I might have died.

That said, I did just get a referral from a neighbor who had a HUGE eucalyptus tree cut down. I have one like it I'd like removed and estimates so far have been more than 3 grand. This tree guy did it for $500. I can PM you the guy's number if you want to pass it along to your landlord.


Title: Went to a party, could be charged with trespassing, and supplying alcohol to minors.

Question:
It was my girlfriends graduation party, we were informed of where it was at a house. We showed up, and as I was walking to the entrance I was stopped by a kid saying he wasn't sure how he was going to leave, because his truck was parked on a muddy incline with bad brakes. So I agreed to move automobiles in order to make a safe way for him and others to leave. After over an hour of collecting keys and moving automobiles I went inside to find my girlfriend. When I found her she informed me people were breaking things, and she had heard the house didn't belong to anyone. I immediately insisted we leave, which we did. The next day I receive a call saying said house had been broken into by some kids and a party thrown, and that the kids were being charged with breaking and entering, and they had a list of people who were there and that everyone over 21 was being charged with supplying to minors, and possibly trespassing. I'm 22 and have no idea what to do when questioned about it. What are my options? There is no proof I was there or bought alcohol. Only thing that places me there is people that said I was, nothing else.
I live in Oklahoma, United States.

Answer: If you end up being charged with anything or being questioned, request to have an attorney present. If you simply answer questions alone or fail to get an attorney, you could accidentally shoot yourself in the foot and supplying alcohol to minors is not a small offense.


Title: Did she commit fraud?

Question:
My roommate was supposed to pay me my portion of the security deposit when I moved out. She transferred me the money through Clear Xchange and when I received an email from my bank that the funds were being processed into my account, I signed a paper saying I received the money from her. Then she canceled the transfer. Is this some sort of fraud? If so, how do I get authorities involved?

Now I know that I shouldn't have signed the form until the funds were posted to my account, but I was pressured into signing. I'm suing her in small claims court, but I feel like there should be legal ramifications for her actions.

Edit: California

Edit 2: Just to update, I spoke to an attorney that said I should add damages for fraud to my lawsuit in small claims court. I sent her a demand for payment of my security deposit and gave her ten days to pay me or else I would be filing a lawsuit and requesting damages as well. A check came in the mail for my security deposit on the tenth day. So in the end I wasn't compensated for the stress I went through but at least the situation is over.

Answer:
 Depending on California statutes, this may be a criminal act. In some states it is a crime to stop payment on a check with the intent to defraud.
It is at least a breach of contract. Contact your local police or an attorney to discuss the appropriate remedy.

http://www.wklaw.com/bad-check-law-penal-code-476/

http://www.legalmatch.com/law-library/article/when-can-you-stop-payment-on-a-check.html


Title: [NY] Found a gap between the wall and the floor after a series of unfortunate events; can I break my lease?

Question:
Upstate, NY; TLDR at the bottom

Some BG info (relevant, I promise):

- I transferred to a new University and decided to rent a room off campus to save money. I signed a lease that ends August 2017, and moved in with 4 other girls to a ground floor apartment.
- Week into school starting, my window screen went missing. Thought was kinda weird, but forgot to mention to my roommates; was still adjusting to new place and school.
- Day after I realized screen was missing, was sexually assaulted (the "incident"). In short, was sleeping (bed was directly in front of the window) and someone was leaning in through the window to inappropriately touch me. They ran when they realized I was awake, I called the police and filed a report, police found nothing.
- Requested a new window screen. Got a replacement that was too small for the window and left for me to install myself. Took them 2 weeks to replace and reinstall a proper one.
- My sister came to give me moral support; moved the bed so it would be away from the window. Found a huge gap between the wall and the floor, about 3 feet long and 1-1.5inches high, varying. You can look into it and see a bunch of dust and who knows what else. I had no knowledge of this gap before I moved in, and I would have never moved in if I knew it was there. I don't know if this is important, but my entire room is at a slant. My friend looked at it and said the floor probably sagged from the weight. I've emailed my landlord and received a vague "we'll let you know" response about what they're planning to do about it. I'm still waiting. Yes, I have pictures.
- Because of "incident," decided to take health leave of absence (HLOA) from school. Spoke to landlord/rental company, they refused to let me back out of the lease; said I'd either have to find a subtenant, pay the rent, or have my roommates co-pay. I've been looking for a subtenant, but my roommates refuse to allow a guy to move in (which I understand), and no one is looking right now -- semester has already started. Yes, I've been posting and looking and working with some people but this post is already long enough.

Is is possible to have someone inspect the gap and deem it not fit to live in, and break my lease? Also, the company is requesting I send my keys back because I'm not living there anymore (but my name is still on the lease.) Do I send them back?

**TLDR; an incident happened, I'm taking a leave from school, found a huge gap running alongside my wall in my room, hidden behind my bed. I wouldn't have rented if I knew it was there. Is it possible for me to break my lease? Also, do I send my keys back with my name still on the lease?**
Topic:
Landlord Tenant Housing

Answer:
 It is not uncommon for there to be a gap between the wall and floor.

Typically there is a piece of wood or plastic moulding that covers this gap. It is more cosmetic than a fault in the building.

You can't really use that as a reason to break your lease.


Title: S.O. and I are not married and purchasing property jointly - will he have to pay a gift tax if only he is paying towards the down payment?

Question:
Additional information: we are planning to purchase our first home in Southern California as joint tenants with his savings for the down payment of 25%. We are concerned that this may be considered a gift by the IRS since it's an unequal contribution to the down payment and it would be like conferring half of that amount to me (roughly about 45k). We have thought that maybe opening a joint checking account would allow us to get around this. Any advice would be appreciated!
I don't know if this matters, but I posted this in /r/personalfinance and /r/tax and got suggestions to seek legal advice. So here I am.

Answer:
 >S.O. and I are not married and purchasing property jointly

*[Sigh.](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ECBCxKDv5BI)*

Please use our search function to search out some posts with situations like yours and read up on why it's a terrible idea.


Title: Dad having legal issues

Question:
Texas USA

My grandma has Alzheimer's and she is no longer able to make legal decisions. My dad is constantly fighting with his sister about their inheritance. It's about a million total. I don't care about any of that but he does and this is the problem. His sister (my aunt) is POA and she has taken most of the money out of the account and put it elsewhere. It seems that she trying to take it so then when it's time to split it, there will be less for her to have to split. I do not know the details about much, but what can we do so that my dad does not get done dirty. My dad cannot see account transactions or anything like that. Any advice is welcome. Thanks!

Answer: It’s illegal for her to move money. Call adult protective services. She’s stealing.


Title: Administrative remedies for gun application denial? [All Federal]

Question: Hello,  does anyone here know if there are any administrative procedures in place (i.e. remedies that must be exhausted before filing suit) for challenging the denial of a gun application for reason of being the user of a controlled substance?

Answer:
 The FBI has a guide on how to appeal a DENIED response on an NICS check.

https://www.fbi.gov/services/cjis/nics/national-instant-criminal-background-check-system-nics-appeals

That said, if you have a medical marijuana card or have been convicted of any crime involving possession of federally scheduled drugs, including marijuana, that is going to be a hard stop on the NCIS check even if you get your record expunged.


Title: (Texas) Let someone use my credit card, they may be refusing to pay me back.

Question:
I have recently downloaded the Reddit app, and I have not figured out how to search yet so if a situation similar to this has been post please refer me there.

I went on a cruise with my friend and her family. I used my Carnival credit card to pay for my cruise as well as a part of my friend and her family's cruise. We have a falling out in our friendship, and I am not sure if I will ever see my money that they owe me.
Is there anything I could do about this legally? I feel like I'm kind of screwed since the card is in my name, but I would like to know if I could take them to small claims court or something.

Any help would be great! Thank you in advance.

Answer: Got proof that you paid for it and that it wasn't a gift?  If so, yes.


Title: A neighbor left my daughters unsupervised for three hours. Can I press criminal charges or file a civil suit against them?

Question:
My wife had an agreement with a neighbor down the street that they would alternate days picking up both family's kids from school.  Today was the neighbor's day to pick up.   My wife was three hours away on business and I was out of town.  My wife received a phone call from my daughters saying that no one was there to get them.  My wife called the neighbor and asked where she was.  Neighbor says her son didn't go to school today so she didn't have to pick up our daughters.  My wife explains she is three hours away and needs her to go get them.  The lady says her son has a baseball game that she can't miss.  My wife was unable to find someone else to help, so drove back to get the kids.  They were alone outside the school for three hours.  My wife told the woman she was irresponsible and she blew her off and told my wife she was overreacting.  Seeing as there are common human trafficking kidnappings of preteen girls in the area, both my wife and I did not think so.

Is what the neighbor did illegal?  We had an agreement, and evidence of the agreement is present in my wife's text messages.  Can I press criminal charges or file a criminal suit?

Answer:
 Backing up a bit, could the girls not go back inside the school? Where was the school in all of this?

You can't press criminal charges and it's not clear any crime was committed. You can report the situation to the police, but you might (theoretically) get in trouble yourselves, for having an unreliable person assigned to make sure your daughters are safe. Were they not told to call the police if you felt they were in danger?

Since nothing bad happened and the girls are safe, it's probably best to just cut off contact with this person and find a more responsible person to help with pickup duties. And speak to the school about their policy in light of leaving kids unattended outside for three hours.


Title: (China)(India)(thailand) Can you legally leave a mixed-up test tube baby aboard if you find out they are not biological relevant to you?

Question: Can you legally leave a mixed-up test tube baby aboard if you find out they are not biological relevant to you either in China, India or Thailand?

Answer:
 What?
You mean abroad? As in abandon a child that you have physical care of in another country?

There is most likely laws or treaties in place that would make this a crime.

Possibly the Hauges convention for abducted children?


Title: [DC] Neighbor(s) with landlocked yard seek easement for curb cut

Question:
This is not my legal issue, but one that popped up on a local blog that could be mirrored on my block. The blog post is here:
http://www.popville.com/2015/09/from-the-forum-curb-cut-takes-public-parking-space/

I'll give a quick explanation of the basic issue raised by and I have a couple of questions for varying hypotheticals.

Brief background: that a LOT of houses in Washington DC have landlocked backyards, with the two sides being bordered by neighboring yards, the back directly abutting another yard (no alley) and the front access being block by the house (being row houses one must go all the way around the block).

Some houses are situated on the end of the block, meaning the side is bordered by sidewalk. In the case in the blog above, the property owner has converted the landlocked backyard to parking and now wishes create a curb cut to access the parking. Previously they had used the neighbors driveway for access (all visible in the picture). The issue for neighbors is that this is a very high demand area for parking. The curb cut essentially takes a public space (since there is now a curb cut) and transforms it to a private one. Some neighbors are understandably pissed.

My questions about the original situation (1) What rights do the owners have here? Is this a by-right permit or does it need approval? (2) Is there any way for the neighbors to oppose the permit? This has a negative impact on all the other neighbors, all of whom also have landlocked backyards. (2) Since they have been using the neighbors curb cut for years do they have a chance at an access easement on the neighbors?

Thinking more broadly, do other row house owners have the possibility for access easements? I can think of one friend with a landlocked backyard. The yard was intended for parking (horses) and accessible through a small archway between their house and the neighbors. Obviously cars do not fit in this archway. Could they get an easement to access their otherwise landlocked tiny backyard for parking through the neighbors tiny fenced in backyard?

Answer:
 You will need to provide a shitty MS Paint diagram of what the block looks like.Answer #2: Not sure how it's selfish.

If the neighbor doesn't get the curb cut and can't use the parking lot, think of all the extra cars that will be fighting for the same finite amount of street parking. Sure, you're losing one spot, but you're also losing however many cars fit in the lot.


Title: $100 late rent fee over $4.50 I was owed?

Question:
* Ohio
* Apt. lease $559 rent + $30 water + $50 short-term lease fee
* Rent due on 1^st, late on(after?) 5^th
* Late fee is $100, with acceleration clause that I don't understand
* I lost $4.50 using on-premises laundromat end of Nov./ Dec. (reported it twice), but...
* All staff quit and there was no management for about a month

I finally remembered to change my pre-set billpay so I cut $634.50 for March. New management wanted me to fill out a form to get it back, but their hours are my hours so going there meant missing work. I was laid off on my birthday so now I have time, but they've already collected (have?) the $4.50 (from themselves? laundry people?) in the office.

They left notice on my door on the 4^th saying to pay $4.50 or they were charging the late fee, and they had the $4.50 for reimbursement in coins. I haven't left my apartment and didn't get it until now. They're not going to want to waive the fee because they did it before. My stove hadn't been fixed in over a month; I had called and left at least seven messages about it. It took me threatening to file rent in escrow for them to fix it. I sent check on the 29th, the day old management contacted me and scheduled a repairman to fix the stove and I guess the new management didn't get it until the 8th because of holidays.

So can they legally charge me the late fee? What are my options?
Topic:
Landlord Tenant Housing

Answer: yes, they can legally charge you the late fee. you did not follow any procedures for properly withholding rent. they may have owed you the $4.50, but you are not able to just "deduct" that from your rent as you please.


Title: My wife and her entire department was just told they are being converted to a call center (which is a 180 degree shift from her normal job) does she have any legal/any action she can take?

Question: This is in Pennsylvania

Answer: Absent a contract saying otherwise, her employer can change her job duties as they see fit.


Title: Ohio job trying to keep my checks for not giving full 2 weeks notice

Question: Hey guys pretty straight forward i was 2 days short my 2 weeks because it came time to start my new job and now my old job is trying to keep my check. Anything I can do?

Answer:
 In Ohio, you final paycheck is due by the next scheduled pay date, or within 15 days, whichever is sooner.

Not providing them with the courtesy of a full two-week notice is irrelevant.


Title: Contract Date Question

Question:
I'm working on securing an appearance of someone at an upcoming event. In the contract, it specifies that "flights must be booked and ready at minimum of five weeks before appearance." When we signed the contract, it was about five and a half weeks before the event, but we didn't receive the signed contract back until three weeks before the event.

Location: United States, California

Does this nullify the entire contract? Or do we still have to fulfill the contract to the best of our ability?

Answer:
 1) we can't interpret a contract for you, that is casting depth into "actual legal advice"

2) even if we could, effectively interpreting a contract off one sentence fragment is not possible.


Title: Bought a card collection from someone, it was missing the most valuable cards.

Question:
So this guy was selling his old pokemon cards on Facebook. After going back and forth with him, we agreed to $180 + an Xbox one for all of his cards (I have screenshots of the cards offered and the messages exchanged.)

Anyway, we meet up in a town in between us, he has the cards in a carry box (like a tool box essentially) and says he wants to keep the box which is fine. I unload the cards and out them in my car. Give him the money and xbox. They all seemed to be there.

However, after I left, I felt uneasy, I pulled over, looked through the cards and noticed some of the expensive ones were missing. The cards that are unaccounted for are worth $200+.

I texted him immediately, he says they should be there, but they're not. He "finds" 2 of them in a different part of the tool box, but says he doesn't have the others.

I told him I want the cards or i want to trade back because this isn't what we agreed on.

Can I call the police in his town saying that he stole my Xbox/money or is small claims court my only real recourse?

Answer: No. Filling a false police report is illegal. This is a civil matter. You would sue him in small claims if you are not able to work it out with him


Title: [VA] adopted a puppy but was lied to about the puppy's health, vaccinations, and deworming

Question:
Was told my puppy I adopted was going to be put down at the end of the week if nobody adopted her because of her deformed arm that was i was told was injured from her mothers umbilical cord wrapping around it. Was told she was up to date with vaccinations, and that she was dewormed, and that her bloody stool was due to vaccinations. After getting all of her papers and taking her home, a vet friend informed me that she was very sick, and after taking her to the vet, I was told she was unvaccinated and the papers I was given were fake, that she has a bunch of worms, and that her leg is a result of inbreeding. I have other animals as well but luckily did not bring her around before finding out she wasn't dewormed or unvaccinated. She was adopted from a well known adoption kennel for golden retrievers.

Is there anything I could/should do? They outright lied to me about this puppy's health and she could have died if I had gone on thinking she was healthy

Answer: Did you get a receipt? Contract? How did you pay?Answer #2: They also told me the puppy's arm would be the only other cost at $300 to amputate but a vet told me on top of her arm and vaccinations and other problems it would be around $7000Answer #3: I am curious what type of establishment you got the dog from. You said it is an adoption kennel? So did you buy it from a person who breeds Golden's? Generally when you buy from a breeder the contract will state that you don't breed the dog, and also that if there are any health issues with the dog within the first 6 months to a year, they will actually "trade" you your unwell dog for a new puppy. If it is a rescue clearly they are doing something very wrong if they are giving out fake papers and not taking care of their rescues. Is the place a registered 501c?Answer #4: In the midwest, rear limb amputation on a dog costs $3-4k.


Title: Forged check

Question:
Hi, r/legaladvice. I think I'm going through the proper channels to deal with this, but am wondering if anyone hear can help me know what to expect as those cogs slowly turn.

So, last Thursday I was expecting a check in the mail, but got no mail at all. I was in contact with the person who sent it, they confirmed that they had mailed it. Today he called me to say it had cleared his bank and he sent me a copy of the returned check.

It seems someone stole the check from my mailbox, forged my signature, signed it themselves and cashed, or deposited, it as a third party check. Obviously this is check fraud, my "signature" is laughably different than my actual signature, and I didn't sign it over, but I'm wondering what steps I should take and what resolution I can expect.

The person who sent it has been in contact with his bank (he might be more angry than even I am) and I emailed the USPS fraud people. Anything else I should be doing?

Thanks

Edit: This happened in Las Vegas, if it helps.

Update: I'm going to the bank in the morning to file an affidavit. Then the bank will refund the money and a new check can be cut to me. It helps that they had written me checks off that account before and the signature clearly isn't mine. (It's legible! Who has a legible signature?!?)

I'll ask the bank for its recommendation about police reports, etc. I'm sure they take this very seriously and have a procedure for tracking down the thief.

Answer: File a police reportAnswer #2: Call the police.  Stealing checks is pretty common, and they can most likely get the video from the bank, and hopefully the ID of the person who cashed it.


Title: Withdrawing money once a fraud check clears

Question:
Please excuse any terrible grammar in this post.

I have a friend who received a check in the mail for $4000, he had suspicion about it being a fraud, but he decided to deposit it into his BOA account. A day later it clears and he wants to go in to withdraw it all from his account. Once he walks in to the bank to withdraw the cash, Will the teller know that the check that was deposited in the account was fraud before handing over his money?

Answer:
 >Will the teller know that the check that was deposited in the account was fraud before handing over his money?

No. It may show as "available", and they may give 'your friend' that $4,000 in cash.

**BUT**... that does not mean "it's over". Once the check bounces (which it WILL), the bank will take that $4,000 back from your friend.

"But he only has $100 left in his account" you say? NOPE. Now he has -$3,900. And they will come after him for it.

All 'your friend' is managing to do is changing from being a *potential victim of fraud* to being *a person perpetrating fraud*.Answer #2: The funds have been released, but the check can still bounce for up to several weeks after it has been accepted by his bank. The teller's not going to stop him from making the withdrawal, necessarily, but if the check bounces later on the money's going to be taken out of his account whether it's still there or not. He'll end up with a large overdraft.


Title: Pre emptive child support?

Question:
On phone and can’t edit title, this is in New Jersey

My cousin (24 y/o father) has a child (2 y/o) with a woman (39 y/o) he’s dating. They are not legally connected. The woman has become completely non responsive when it comes to caring for the child. They lived together until recently and my cousin has had to work 12 hour shifts 6 days a week, as well as take care of our grandmother while taking care of the baby without any support from her.

Recently they’ve been having conversations of separation. Which, for the 2 of them is the right call, but obviously there’s a child involved.

I mention all of this because during these conversations she’s started saying things like “I don’t feel comfortable around you” which is NOT what’s actually happening. Because of that he has moved out, taken his name off the lease, changed his mailing address and made an agreement with the landlord to pay the rent for the apartment with receipts for proof. Meanwhile he is still taking care of the baby essentially alone.

I’m asking for advice o  how to protect himself from this. The woman is crazy and self centered and at some point it’s not out of the question for
Her to start using the magical buzz words to essentially ruin his life. He’s not trying to take the child away but doesn’t want to lose rights to her  either.

Any advice?

Tl:dr cousin (father) has baby with woman, she’s crazy and may try to ruin his life by making things up. How can he protect himself?

Answer: He can file for custody and support.


Title: Items stolen out of my bag by airport staff

Question: I traveled from Budapest Airport to the UK yesterday evening. I checked in a bag with my airline at approximately 7:00pm. When I landed in the UK later that evening, as my bag came through on the carousel I could see that the padlocked strap on my bag was hanging off. Upon inspection of the contents when I arrived home, I found that the leftover money I had securely stored in my case that amounted to approximately £105 in 2 currencies had been stolen. The contents were secured with a TSA Approved padlock on the zips and a padlocked baggage strap. I've contacted my local force and they said it's out of their jurisdiction unfortunately. Any advice?

Answer:
 You can complain to your airline and contact airport police in Budapest, but that money is long gone.Answer #2: [Things you should never, ever, ever put in checked bags.](https://www.reddit.com/user/UsuallySunny/comments/6h97hf/things_you_should_never_ever_ever_put_in_checked/)

You can file complaints in both locations, but there is little chance of recovering cash.Answer #3: In addition to this very good advice, I would suggest not using a TSA approved lock in the future unless your bag is travelling to/within the US or you are otherwise required to use one. The TSA keys are very easy to get.Answer #4: Your first step is to contact the airline.

If you booked the flight with a credit card, I’d check if they have travel insurance, which might cover this. If you had travel health insurance, a few companies also add luggage insurance.


Title: Options with clawback on signing + relo bonus?

Question:
Hi r/legaladvice!

Until recently I was working for a company based out of Florida, working in their Boston office.

Upon accepting the job ~9 months ago I received a 5k signing bonus, and 7500 in relo assistance.

The terms for accepting the offer included a 2 year clawback, pro-rating the amount I owe should I leave or get terminated.

There's plenty of reasons why I left, but now they sent me a document saying I need to acknowledge I owe them money by 6/24. I'm moving to work for a different company in California.

I know they aren't set up to be a debt collection group, and I figure eventually I'll be compelled to repay.

I was wondering if I could get advice on what my options are? Is there anything preventing me from paying a symbolic dollar a month for a year or two until my finances are ironed out?

What legal action can they take if I fail to acknowledge receipt of the document?

What happens if I sign the document, then just never pay?

Anything helps!

Thanks-

Answer:
 You freely admit you owe your former employer money because you signed a contract that says you do.

Then you come here asking us how to NOT pay? We do not advise people on how to break ~~the law~~ **a valid contract** here.

>Is there anything preventing me from paying a symbolic dollar a month for a year or two until my finances are ironed out?

Yes - your signed contract and the fact you left before the clawback period ended.

>What legal action can they take if I fail to acknowledge receipt of the document?

Sue you in civil court - likely small claims.

>What happens if I sign the document, then just never pay?

The company collect on their judgement against you, including legal fees, wage garnishment fees, interest, penalties, etc.

Pay your debt. If you simply cannot pay it, you should have stayed with your company until you saved enough money to pay your debt to them.


Title: [NV]traffic court for at fault accident, caused due to diabetes medication

Question:
Hello, I am asking for my mother. She was recently diagnosed as a diabetic, and after a few months was advised to double her daily meds. Day one of this change, she made an improper Lange change resulting in an accident. She was cited for mandatory appearance for failure to maintain lane change.

She would like to know if it is reasonable to get the potential fines reduced due to the medication causing her blood sugar to drop and her to lose control.

Would it be worth a consultation with a local traffic attorney?

Answer: Nope. If her medication causes her to be unable to drive she could get a DUI for that.


Title: Landlord Violated my Lease Agreement and my Privacy came into my room while I was in my underwear sleeping

Question:
So to start off here is the policy regarding the landlord's right to enter my room within my apartment.

LANDLORD’S RIGHT TO ENTER. In the event of an emergency, or if it is otherwise impractical to provide any required notice, both we and the Manager, and our respective agents, employees, repairers, services and representatives may, without notice, at any time, enter the Premises. Rooms may be entered to respond to an emergency situation and appropriate administrative requirements, including maintenance, pest control, safety, health concerns, Student Code of Conduct violations, or to search for university property. The entry can be gained by use of a passkey or other means (to include disarming any intrusion alarm, if applicable, or by breaking a window or other means if locks have been changed in violation of this Lease, and you will be liable for any damage caused thereby). With one (1) day prior notice to you, we and/or the Manager can also enter the Premises to show a Bedroom or the Apartment to government inspectors, lenders, prospective buyers, prospective residents, other tenants or insurance agents or to perform maintenance or pest control.

So basically what happened was I live in a four bedroom apartment in a large apartment building. Anyway, without any notice or request early in the morning while I was sleeping, they sent some repairmen to come and check our windows to ensure they were functioning properly. Anyway, my roommates were out and about in the living room and allowed them to enter and when they asked about my room, my roommates informed them I was sleeping. They decided to attempt to enter anyway and went over, knocked on my door loudly and announced "Security and Maintenance!" twice. When I didn't answer because I sleep with earplugs, they simply unlocked my door and came in. When they turned the light on I pulled out one of my earplugs, very confused and discombobulated and looked over at them. The lady said "Security and Maintenance! Hello! They're here to check your windows!" And without my permission they all came into my windows and spent about 30 minutes checking my windows as I passed out again and went back to sleep. I was in my underwear the entire time without a shirt and was very uncomfortable with the situation. Is there anything I can do about this legal wise? I don't want to move out of my room or anything like that but I would like compensation from them. What Can I Do? Thanks

Answer:
 You are not entitled to any compensation for this. Your roommates let them in and they knocked on your door several times. They likely assumed it was empty when you refused to answer. Answer #2: > I would like compensation from them

For? What can you quantity as damages?


Title: Customer service death threat

Question:
I work in for a large credit card company.  I deal with angry / difficult customers on a daily basis.  After several years of being at this position, I can honestly say that I heard it all.. profanities, cries, screams, lawsuit threats, life ruining situations ect ect.. Don't get me wrong I still fell bad for people that lost a lot, sometime everything but it's part of my job to deal with those cases and I can honestly say that it takes a \*LOT\* to get to me.

Recently I had a call from a customer that seemed to know who I was as he used my last name (something we NEVER give out for obvious reasons).  That person lost a lot of money due to a fraudulent transaction he made with a dishonest customer.  Somehow, it seems he figured out who I was in RL and made pretty serious threat toward me and my direct family.  The moment he mentioned those threats I told him that the call was being recorded (that disclosure is already mentioned even before I start talking) and that at this point I would need to close this conversation and hung up.

I did report the issue to my HR team but it seems like they are treating this case a little to lightly for my taste.  Obviously working with this individual I know exactly who he is and his location but I'm not sure if I should report this to the authorities.  Could this have repercussions toward my career?  I know technically I should let my company deal with this, but I have the feeling they are simply trying to let the situation die-off ..which I would be "ok" with if it weren't for the fact that this customer had personal info on me.

What are my options.. if any?

Answer: You may report what he /she said to the police and they will decide what action to take, if any.


Title: (MO-Joplin) Can my work tell me I must resign because I need time off after surgery?

Question:
Hi all! I am a CNA in home health, and I have been off work since October for a torn labrum in my shoulder. (I can't lift, and lifting clients is a huge part of my job.)

My doctor finally scheduled my surgery for December 2... the day after my LoA ends. I told my supervisor, and she said I'll "just have to resign." Is that legal? Aren't I protected by ADA or FMLA or something? What are my options, legally?

Note: I've worked here since February 2015, and at my annual evaluation, was told I had "the highest scores [she] had ever seen."

Answer: If your FMLA is done (12 weeks) then you have no further protections for work. You don't have to resign but you will be fired for cause since you do not return to work when your FMLA is upAnswer #2: I should probably mention that I was using PLoA, not FMLA. So after my 45 days of personal leave are up, I should still have 12 weeks of FMLA?Answer #3: Did the shoulder injury happen at/because of work?


Title: My sister is being abused and won't leave him for fear of legal repercussions.

Question:
I will try and make this short. This is occurring in Ohio.

My sister is being abused verbally and physically by her boyfriend. She has a daughter from a previous relationship that is 12 and she has a 2-3 month old baby with the abuser. He will not allow her to see family. He threatens that he will take the baby away from her if she does not comply with him (like he will leave her overnight and take the baby). He also claims due to him not having a job and staying home with the baby that he will get custody if she leaves. She has apparently been advised she cannot leave him and take the baby or this will be kidnapping but she fears for the baby's safety so she stays with him. She has had the police called to her house several times (by her) after he pushes her or abuses her verbally and she was told on the last occasion that they could not do anything because there were no bruises. Now I found out she is waiting for him to abuse her again and hoping this time it leaves obvious marks so she can get it documented and leave him. This makes no sense to me. She should be smarter than to keep her children in a home with someone who at any moment could take his abuse to the next level, but I also understand her fear of losing custody, or helping him somehow gain custody after the fact. Her daughter from another relationship is fearful enough she primarily stays in her room, and is also left with the abuser because sister is working 2 jobs 7 days a week to support them since he refuses to work. She can move with family 3.5 hours away in the same state but again claims she was told doing so would be considered kidnapping. I cannot convince her this is not the case. Please if anyone has any legal advice that I can show her I would appreciate it.

Answer:
 >She has apparently been advised she cannot leave him and take the or this will be kidnapping

That is incorrect. She can leave with the child. If he files for custody she may be required to return to the home state until custody is worked out. She would be well advised to contact a local DV shelter who can help her sort through this without putting anyone in danger.

As a side note someone (read you) should call CPS about the fact that there is serious long term DV going on in a home with two young children.


Title: If the state charges you with a crime and you are acquitted may the state then charge you with a different crime out of the same instance.

Answer:
 Double jeopardy specifically exists to prevent the state from using its superior resources to try charge after charge until something sticks. The state gets one opportunity to bring the best case they have, and if they lose, they don't get another shot at it under a different criminal theory.

In the US, dual sovereignty sometimes means that the feds can bring charges after you're acquitted at the state level or vice versa, because it is a different party bringing the prosecution. However, this only applies to things that are both federal and state crimes - the feds can't take a second shot at enforcing state law.


Title: My manager led me to believe that I'm full time and even approved my vacation time last week. Now I'm told by corporate that my average hours fall short of full time, and I'll be receiving half a paycheck this week. I plan on quitting today.

Question:
Is there any legal recourse I should be taking? Should I contact corporate and try to work things out, or complain about my manager? I'm not sure which direction to take.

To go into a little more detail, I've been working at my company for over a year. At the year mark, I was told that I would be receiving a possible raise, a review, and a week's paid vacation. Last week, I asked my manager if I could take some of my vacation time, and he approved it. I was off all last week, and my boss told me that I used four days of vacation time. It had been a month past my year mark at this point, and he kept saying that I would still possibly be getting a raise after my review. If he was ever planning on giving me a raise, that is a month's worth of lost wages that I'll never get back, by the way.

Yesterday at work, I had a bad feeling. I went to my boss' boss because my manager wasn't working, and asked him if my vacation time had gone through. He contacted corporate, and corporate told him that, because I only averaged 30.91 hours instead of the 32 required for full time, I would not be receiving any vacation time. So, the days that I took off that my manager approved for vacation, were just days off...and technically I'm not full time at all. I looked at the schedule for next week and saw that I was only working 3 days while all of the other full timers get five days. I was planning on putting in my two weeks notice anyway, but all of this screwing around with my paycheck and vacation time has really got me fuming. I think it might be better, especially with my meager hours, for me to quit right away and focus my energy on the many other job opportunities in the area.

I want to go in today, get my tiny paycheck, and tell him I won't be working tonight. But a friend of mine says that I should also call corporate and complain about being misled, mention my boss's blunder and imply that this was illegal and that I would be taking legal recourse. But I'm completely ignorant as to whether or not this is actually illegal. Can someone help me out concerning information as to how to go about contacting corporate, and the procedures I should take? I already made up my mind about quitting today, and I just want to make sure that I know my rights. My job is in South Brunswick, NJ.

Answer: There is no requirement in NJ for paid vacation leave. The employer's policy seems clear, and in my opinion unfair, but you did not meet the standard. It's unfortunate your boss made an error but that doesn't mean you have any legal recourse.


Title: Shall I sue for sexual discrimination? Need advice.

Question: I hired my architect for my development project because he ensured me that he would be able to replicate and produce the same plans my previous architect has drawn (they were fired bc of my budget constraints) and would do it in a timely manner. He was unprepared and late at the first important meeting he had to attend with my team. When I called him to discuss next steps and path forward, he decides to quit because my questions were very “disrespectful” to him and I didnt trust him. He told my partner when she called that he felt insulted because I dont show him any “respect”. He said he would return the "balance" of the work he's done. (He hasnt done any bc my attorney called him the day before for a briefing and he said he was unprepared and never got the chance to look at plans). So bottom line is that he withdrew from my project, and is trying to keep the retainer by falsifying his hours worked. I coudlnt help but feel that this was sexual discrimination because of the way he spoke to me On the phone. What sort of respect was he looking for from me? I was asking him client-type questions and wasn't hostile at all. I felt that the whole conversation was weird from the start bc he was very dismissive and unreceptive (different face from when I first met him). In my eyes, he should return the full retainer as it was his decision to withdraw without a good reason and by doing so wasted my time and delayed my project. In short, can I sue him for sexual discrimination and financial loss (together as cause or effect or separate). As you can understand, I am livid. Please advise best next steps. My gut tells me he won’t return the deposit at all, which would him a thief at this point.

Answer:
 >I coudlnt help but feel that this was sexual discrimination because of the way he spoke to me On the phone.

There is absolutely no basis here for a complaint of sexual discrimination, much less a lawsuit. This doesn't serve as evidence whatsoever.

Ask your attorney if you have any recourse according to any agreements you signed, but as far as this is concerned? no.Answer #2: Sexual discrimination is typically something that happens in the workplace. You, on the other hand, have a contractual dispute. From your description, it sounds like this architect is a bit of a nut job. Regardless, you have a contractual dispute. You also have an attorney. Let your attorney handle this.Answer #3: No sexual discrimination case whatsoever.

You had to go with a cheaper Architect and found out the hard way why he cost less.

You have to review, or have your attorney review the retainer agreement to see if you have a claim there.Answer #4: I don't see anything that says sexual discrimination. I've seen plenty of people decide to quit for far more simple questions from a superior.


Title: [PA] Is it legal to refuse an employee access to the HR department during business hours, i.e., "you can go see them, but only on your own time, not on company time"

Question:
Not me specifically, but I overheard a director of another department advise an employee today when the employee mentioned he needed to speak with HR briefly that while he was free to do so, he coukd do so only on his own time, i.e., after work, before work or during his lunch break

.

This struck me as odd since during our lunch break, most people tend to want to eat lunch since we only get a 1/2 hr. Plus, before/after work, HR isn't staffed. My knee jerk reaction was that it is a ludicrous policy that can't possibly be legal.
.

So my question is this: is it lawful to refuse an employee immediate access to HR for any reason and why or why not?

Edit: clarity.

Answer: There's no law that says the supervisor must allow the employee time away from their job duties to go talk to HR.  Having said that, depending on the nature of this meeting, it may be time worked. Is there a reason this can be taken care of over email or a phone call?


Title: (Ontario/canada) religious rights on growing a beard

Question:
I work at a fast food chain and as Iv'e become more serious about my religion.  ive decided to follow requirements for growing and keeping a beard.

I brought this to my manager and explained it is apart of my beliefs.

She said she cant make any promises as it is against company policy (even though an ex coworker who was here in the last year of me working here had been employed with a beard, he was employwd for many years though)

And she will need to talk to the store owner to clear it up.

I will not shave and as of right now they are okay with me having the stuble i have since deciding this.

Im easily a top 10 worker, but as it is fast food am easily replaceable.

Any way if any one can offer help or guidence incase she comes back saying no, so that i don't have to quit.

Answer: This seems like something where they should be able to offer reasonable accommodation, such as a beard net.


Title: Road rager said he is going to murder me? Can I take any legal action?

Question:
I was on the freeway cruisin just above the speed limit and this douchebag in an suv comes flying out of nowhere, swerves around me and cuts me off. I then lay on my horn for about 5 seconds, and then I overtook him in the other lane and get back in front of him before the lane closed. I know that wasn’t the most mature thing to do and I probably shouldn’t have, but I was already having a rough day and I was irritated. The car then starts riding my ass about 3 feet from my license plate all the way until the highway turns to two lane again so I go into the right lane to let him pass. He still insists on staying behind me and tailgating. So I take the next off ramp just to get away from the situation, and he follows me. The be pulled in front of me again, stopped the car at the stop sign, and hops out of the car and approached my window. I had my girlfriend in the car as well. This guy is about 6’5”, 320 lbs with an eyebrow piercing and white trash meth head clothing. I began to roll up my window for the safety of my girlfriend and myself, but he put his hands on my window and holds it down not letting it roll up and tells me “I am going to murder you”. Quote. He didn’t say he was going to kick my ass, kill me, or fuck me up. He said the word murder. I immediately grab my USMC Kabar knife that I legally carry in my car, in its sheath, place it on my lap ready to be drawn, and tell him that he need to step away from my car and go on with his day. He gets very mad and strikes my window with his palm, all while repeating he’s going to murder me and my girlfriend, and other obscenities. I followed him to read his license plate number while my girlfriend called 911. And he pulls into a supermarket parking lot, and hops out again and starts screaming at me. The 911 operator told us to move to a different parking lot and wait for an officer to arrive. When the officer arrived, he said that his computer was down so he couldn’t run the license plate, and the guy was gone, but they will alert highway patrol to find him.

My question is, can I get penalized for brandishing a sheathed, legally carried knife if someone is threatening the life of my loved ones and I, and what charges can be brought against him and/or will the police even look into it. He did not appear to have a weapon, but he could easily overpower and strangle my 110 lb girlfriend if I happened to be knocked unconscious, and he may be able to take me as well. Part of me wants to have done more about the situation and give the guy what he deserved, but part of my also tell me I handled the situation in a manner that kept me and my girlfriend safe. Sorry for rambling, it just happened and I am still shaken up a bit.

Answer: You were both pretty much engaged mutually. I think you would be in the most trouble, if anything. You can't claim you were scared of him but then proceed to follow him to "get his tag." If you had to use that knife on him, you would've been SOL. You were in a vehicle, you could've driven away at any time.


Title: Can I get fired for this?

Question:
Throwaway account. I'm in Florida.

I'm a mental health counselor, I work for a organization that serves adolescent girls. Recently, I attended a three day mandatory conference. The focus quickly became apparent- serving "girls of color." I have no issue with this at all, it is no joke that black adolescents are over represented in the juvenile justice system. I was excited to build my cultural competence, and to learn evidence-based practices to use when working with this population specifically. This did not happen. There was no training, just panel after panel of black women describing all of the injustices that occurred in their lives from white privilege. Their words were valid and I'm glad they had a platform to express them- but I was given nothing tangible to help me to help girls.

Anyway, the real issue for me is that in every panel it was stated "now we'll open up the floor for questions, especially from women of color." I truly felt discriminated against, as if my questions were less valid, less important. In one training, it was stated "discrimination is a tough topic, but for the white women in here, you have taken the first step by being here." First step!? I have devoted my life to working with youth and helping them tackle the systematic barriers in their way!

I left this training feeling demoralized and discriminated against. I have thought seriously about writing a letter to HR- and have the intention of naming the individual that made the "first step" remark as she represents and works for the organization that employs me. I am unsure if naming this person would be slander- that's certainly not my intent. Also, due to the touchy subject matter, I'm wondering if I write a letter if I would be able to be fired for it...I'm scared because I've worked for organizations where retribution is a very real thing (info from former coworkers, not my personal experience). My intention of writing this letter is simply to inform my organization of my experience, in hopes that next year's conference will be a little more inclusive. But again, I fear being fired or asked to resign. Is this a battle I should even consider? I'm looking for any info regarding the possible legal ramifications...

Topic:
Employment Law

Answer:
 Yes you can be fired for complaining. Answer #2: >Is this a battle I should even consider?

This isn't a legal question, and the discussion of the legal ramifications is relatively straightforward.

If you choose to speak out on this issue, your employer may do with your feedback what they will.  The best case scenario is that they incorporate your feedback into next year.  The worst case is that they come to believe you missed the point of the seminar and allow that belief to govern how they manage your continued employment.  Both outcomes would be generally legal.  Answer #3: I think you should re-direct your complaint into constructive criticism, "It was very moving to hear from these women, X person and Y thing specifically. I do wish there was more information about what I can do to avoid or prevent these injustices to happening to more young women of color, specifically in my role as Z".

Something like that.


Title: [GA] Rented a cabin for the weekend, rental company forgot to lock up the garage, my friend and I went in, took the dirt bikes for a spin, and now they're pissed.

Question:
Title explained most of it. A few friends and I rented a cabin in GA over the weekend. The garage there had 2 dirt bikes which we took for a spin. Since I never learn to ride, my friend offer to teach me, and in the course of things I fell along with the bike going 5 MPH. In addition, my friend didn't put the kick stand all the way down and it fell. So both bikes probably got a few scratches caused by non intentional low velocity contact with the ground.

My friend contacted me today (he was the one who set the cabin up) and told me that the rental company was pissed we got into the garage; the guy accused us of breaking in (garage door was unlocked) and threaten us with trespassing, damage to property and what not.

The rental contract never said we can't go into the garage, nor did it mention the dirt bikes.

Throughout this whole deal, we never got to talk to the actual owners of the cabin, so we figured the owner got pissed the rental company didn't properly lock up and the company is just taking it out on us. At the same time, my friend and I are starting out our careers, we're a few hours from the county so going to court would be a pretty big inconvenience, and it probably won't bode well for us to get into legal trouble. I was just wondering if you guys have any advice.

Answer:
 Unless your rental contract said you were renting dirt bikes then you had no reason to believe that was something you should do.

But either way, you damaged someone elses property. You need to pay for the repairs. So ask for quotes and pay for repairs Answer #2: If not for damaging the bikes, you could probably just "I didn't know I couldn't do that" and get away with it, but now it sounds like you need to pay up and make someone whole.Answer #3: Are you seriously mad that you crashed someone's dirtbike and they want you to pay for it?

Professional legal advice: If something doesn't belong to you, and no one gives you permission to use it: don't use it.

The reasonable thing to do would have been to outright offer to pay for the damage before it even got this far.Answer #4: It really doesn't matter if you intentionally damaged the property or not, nor does it matter if you were allowed to use the property, nor does it matter if you thought you were allowed to use the property.  All that matters is that you used the property and damaged it.  The owners can sue both you and the rental company.  Whether they do that or not probably depends on how bad the bikes were damaged, how pissed off they are, etcetera.  You might be able to convince the owners to go after the rental company only (by convincing them that the garage door was open and that you didn't know you weren't supposed to use the property in the garage), but I doubt they will care much about your motives, and I bet they believe the rental company that the door was locked over your statement that it wasn't.


Title: [USA] Girlfriend isn't from the USA, needs VISA, but I don't want to Marry Her

Question:
My girlfriend is from Ukraine, and I am an American with dual citizenship. I am moving to Washington DC for work soon, and want to bring her with me. Is there any way for her to get a VISA without marriage? What options do I have?

If we do a VISA marriage, is there anyway I can protect myself from her in case we break up (I dont want to lose my house)? We have only been dating for 6 months and I dont want to get married until we have spent 4-5 years together at least.

Answer:
 She can get a visa to go to school.

> If we do a VISA marriage, is there anyway I can protect myself from her in case we break up

Get a prenuptial agreement drafted by your lawyer. You should both sign it before she moves into with you.