Title: Laid Off - Suspicious Job Offer - Please Help

Question: [deleted]

Answer:
 I agree that it's fishy and sounds like someone is messing with you, but based on the information provided I don't think it's necessarily related to your old boss. There are plenty of other explanations; you may have applied to a shill listing that is being used by identity thieves or other predatory employers. It may be a legitimate opportunity and they just don't have their shit together. It could be a third-party recruiter who is recruiting for many companies and is just poorly organized.

The other advice here about asking him to get specific is good, but it's possible that there could be a legitimate reason for him not having a copy of that email or your application.

You might consider asking him to send an offer letter; tell him you'd like, just for the sake of making sure everyone is on the same page, an offer letter form the company outlining the nature of your employment, the job you'll be doing, and the wage you are to be paid. This should not be a problem for them to do...


Title: Can a parent of a 16 year old force them to get on a plane and go to a summer camp in a different country for 6 weeks. (USA to Canada)

Answer: Legally, yes.


Title: My surgeon messed up and completely missed my tumor.

Question: [deleted]

Answer:
 ...so what exactly did she remove???Answer #2: Since you're in Texas you might be screwed. It's very hard to get money out of a tort suit in Texas since they passed tort reform.

 Go to YouTube, search med mal Texas lawyers song. It's called Don't Call Us ...Would link but I'm on mobile. Answer #3: It's not unusual to have an incision in a different place to the mass, horizontal incisions are also typically preferred on the abdomen.  You need to have a follow up u/s as the mass could be gone but you might have a collection giving the impression the mass is still there.


Title: Contact after fighting a restraining order

Question:
Hey, so a very recent girlfriend and her mom have set out on putting a restraining order on me after I went and knocked on their door (calmly, respectfully and only once) to see what was up after my (ex) girlfriend had stood me up and then disappeared without notice out of state.

I have hired a lawyer firm to fight my case because I don't want "restraining order" smearing my public record or preventing me from purchasing a firearm. To clarify, I am not purchasing a firearm any time soon, but I don't want my rights as a citizen taken away due to a single dumb dispute. They are optimistic we will win the case because I haven't done anything that necessarily is unwanted and repeated or violent.

Anyways, my question is, I still really love this girl. I am wondering is it out of the question to contact her once after fighting the restraining order and then not again if she pushes me away? Will that be grounds for getting the restraining order for real?

edit: legal advice only please. i don't need your opinions or extreme assumptions. I act under the confines of the law at all times but I am willing to tread very closely to that line, so you can screw off if you are going to try and tell me not to tread close to the lines I am allowed to tread. Thanks.

edit 2: And I must say that being in this /legaladvice subforum is just terrible, it's just like being in court. Everybody treats you like a criminal no matter it was what you said or did (or what was done against you, let's not forget, restraining orders are a commonly used cheap and abused court-weapon).
Good day to you all. May the angels of bad tidings have restraining orders falsely filed against you too, so you can take off your blinders and see the restraining-order-weapon legal system abuse yourself.

EDIT3: HEY GUYS, WHAT IS IT WITH REDDIT THINKING EVERY UPSET PERSON ON THE INTERNET IS SUDDENLY A MASS SHOOTER? HAVE YOU ALL LOST YOUR DAMN MINDS? OR ARE YOU ALL REALLY THAAAAT THICK?

EDIT4:
Well, this was typical. The internet and reddit are full of trolls. Who would have guessed. /legaladvice or /trolladvice pick one it does not make a difference

If you shuffle through this thread, all you can find is "mass shooter" this, "mass shooter" that. You are all affected by the internet way too much and the only people who suggest mass shootings are the people who would commit them, so I am not sure what that is supposed to say about you all.

Good luck to you guys in life, you will need it. I hope you don't talk to a loved one who is in a troubled time like how you have talked to me.

Answer: Looking forward to the followup post entiteld "I'm getting sent to jail for violating a restraining order, what do I do!?!?!" Some people just can't take a hint. Answer #2: Locked due to excessive off-topic and unhelpful posting.


Title: hour to salary fuckery

Question: my employer switched me to salary implying I was getting a raise. My bi weekly hours went from 80 to 108. Not only am I not getting overtime now \(knew that was coming\) I was not delighted to find out that they were not calculating my new salary as \(former hourly pay rate x total hours work\). They argued that they added 3000$ to my total year salary. So obviously i'm getting fucked over hard. Is this legal?

Answer: 54 hours a week isn't unheard for a salaried position. As long as you're still making over minimum wage, what they're doing is likely legal as long as your duties are exempt from overtime type of pay. If you don't like what you're getting paid, you can find another job.


Title: Cop lied to Internal Affairs/Need Lawyer?

Question:
~I apologize for such a shit- post. It was my intention to be brief. Not a duche. If it's appropriate, I'd like to post all the details(minus identifiers). I'd certainly link this to it.~

Brief synopsis on Throw Away
Account

I was accosted  & coerced into identifying myself by a local cop.

The Municipal Ordinance which the cop cited, was invalidated by the N.J.S.A. in 1979 & thid actiin was upheld by the NJ Supreme Court in 1982 [State v. Crawley](http://law.justia.com/cases/new-jersey/supreme-court/1982/90-n-j-241-0.html) & has been upheld since then.

Of note: the Cop lied to Internal Affairs when 1st questioned about the incident. Time line for this :

-I filed a complaint(civil rights / cop's demeanor) with the County Prosecutor the day after the incident. (Approx. 30 hrs) The matter was referred to the Local Police.

-I met with the second of command of cop's  department (less than 20 ppl in dept.) approximately 60 hrs after I was accosted. I filed a new  (more complete report). The Lt. & I then discussedthe situation.

-The Lt. stated that he had "talked to the officer & the officer described his "pre contact" actions. The officer stated that he was patrolling the area & not observing me.

- the Lt said that the cruisers are GPS tracked in "Real Time" & would be compared to both of our statements.

Q: should I get a lawyer?

- I'm not looking for a payday.
- I do want that local ordinance repealed.
- I do want the cops to stop enforcing it.
- I do want the officer's statement referred to a higher authority

-

Answer: How were you coerced? You're leaving out the backstory here.


Title: getting arrested for driving with a suspended license from a DUI

Question: My boyfriend got busted for DUI two months ago in Portland Oregon. today he got arrested for driving with a suspended license from the DUI. He has court later this week and we are curious  as to what will happen with that with his license if they could become a felony could he get jail time and the cost of everything.

Answer:
 He will be charged with the additional crime of driving with a suspended license.  Because he has acted like a fool, it is unlikely he will get away without some jail time.

But, it is possible.  Your boyfriend should speak to his attorney.  His attorney should be able to get the best deal possible for him.


Title: Billing firm for my son's tae kwon do class demands his medical info, and refuses to stop billing us.- in GA

Question:
[deleted]
Topic:
Contracts

Answer:
 >So I figure how can this contract be legally binding if I no longer want their service right?

Sorry, but that's not how it works. You can't just stop paying because you don't want the service any longer, any more than you can just stop paying your rent because you want to move out. If the agreement you signed says you have to pay for a year, you have to pay for a year.

You keep referring to the "billing rights act", but as far as I can tell it doesn't exist.

e: HIPPA isn't relevant at all here. You aren't required to release any medical records to them, but if you don't then they won't do what you want.


Title: Is closing an Indian reservation to non-tribesman constitutional?

Question:
The Navajo website says:

>*All areas on the Navajo Nation are closed to non-Navajos unless you have a valid pass or permit issued by the Navajo Parks and Recreation Department or other delegated tribal authority. Failure to have a permit is considered Trespassing on a Federal Indian Reservation.

This seems blatantly unconstitutional because:
1. It is a classification based on race or ethnicity. One cannot become a member of the tribe without meeting certain standards.
2. Without wanting to sound like a sovereign citizen, what about the privileges and immunities of United States citizens and the right to travel? Here I'm specifically talking about in wilderness areas where there aren't (or ought not be) issues of private property (i.e., no structures, fencing, farming, etc.).

Answer: Its Indian land. Yes its constitutional.


Title: How to become a Legal Resident

Question:
Hello everyone,

I am a 17 year old man in Mexico and I want to come to the United State. Like many people I want to find my American dream. However I do not know how to do it legally. I have no family to petition me or and skills that would make a company petition me for a working visa. I do not want to cross illegal but everyone here tells me it's impossible for me, and the only way to do it is illegally. This cannot be possible there has to be some way right? I always here Americans shame illegals and say they should of done it legally. And friends that have crossed illegally always say they have wish they would have.

So how do I do it.
Thank You
Topic:
Immigration

Answer:
 IANAL but have worked in immigration law.

It's not easy for Mexicans to immigrate to the United States, even when they are qualified.

But it is not impossible. It will have a lot to do with your field of study and your career choice, and often luck. Consult an immigration attorney about the best career fields for eventually obtaining a US visa so that you can start working toward your goal now. I suggest you also research the J-1, TN, L1 and H-1B for your own understanding.Answer #2: Consult with an immigration attorney. This stuff is highly complex, hideously expensive, and subject to a fair number of restrictions.

The US most assuredly does not make it easy. Answer #3: Okay being real here: if you truly want to do it legally, you're going to need money, connections, or good grades.

If you have money (and I'm talking a lot of money), you can get in on investment visas.

If you have connections, you may be able to get sponsored in (I.E find someone willing to sponsor you on a work visa for their company for a niche entry level position.)

If you have good grades, you can apply as an international student to a college in the US or postgrad and get in that way.

Your last bet would be to find employment with a US company with presence in Mexico, work your way up, and then apply to transfer to a US location.


Title: Booby Traps: Workplace food, packages on the front porch, parked cars, locked bicycles ...

Question:
A group of car loving friends once mused about how to handle car theft. I suggested leaving a car parked and locked in a known high theft area ... *full of hornets*, or possibly rattlesnakes. Or maybe with a motion activated steel spike in the back of the seat.

Another group of friends wondered the same thing about chained and locked bicycles. A tiny amount of C4 in the seat with a GPS perimeter set to detonate if it moves 50 feet? Or another steel spike that launches up from the seat stem.

I've seen a lot of Reddit posts about packages being stolen from front porches. What about filling one with hornets? Or baby poop and just a *little bit* of propellant. Enough to cause it to cover the inside of a vehicle. Or several cans of that expanding foam.

The most recent I've seen, but have seen plenty of posts about, is having food stolen from the workplace refrigerator. Would it be illegal to put harmful substances inside food and leave it in public spaces? What if it was *less* harmful, such as fart powder. What if you'd identified the thief and knew they had an allergy and targeted it?

These are all hypothetical of course. Would a person get sent to jail if they booby trapped their personal belongings in public space? How far can you go, legally, to deter theft and start a **trend** of thieves being **instantly** reprimanded for their actions?

Answer:
 Booby traps which cause harm are very illegal.
Answer #2: Can we add an FAQ up top?

Booby traps - No

Can I be fired for this - Yes unless it is XYZ

Can I get out of child support if she signs something - No

ect...Answer #3: Booby traps are illegal.  If you kill, maim, or injure someone you would probably go to jail in addition to being sued civilly for the extent of any injuries caused.


Title: I was offered a "job" that doesn't really pay money, but offers royalties as compensation, and I have a few questions about the contract regarding the compensation and how it works exactly.

Question:
I was offered a job as a web developer that basically consists in making a website and a software that will later be sold to users.

[This is the contract I was given.](https://drive.google.com/open?id=0Bwhu5UdU6h6ackJGb0F3VlEyX2M)

The person that offered me the job did not offer money as compensation, but only royalties (15%).

Initially I was offered equity, but later he decided that royalty payments would be simpler to arrange.

My main concerns are the following:

If I understand correctly, the contract says that I will only get royalties as long as I'm working on that project. Does that mean that as soon as I finish working on it, any product/service that will be sold, even if I made it, will not earn me the 15% in royalties?

Since the service can only make a profit once it's completed, wouldn't that mean that I will end up doing all the work, finish working there, and then see no compensation at all, since I'm not working there anymore?

Or am I mistaken and I will always get the 15%?

In that case, how much would I need to work on the project to be entitled to that 15% of royalties?

Would I need to finish the whole project, or would I be entitled to it after I work for at least some amount of time on the project, or after some other criteria is met?

If that's the case, could he fire me when I'm almost done, so that he woudn't have to pay me anything?

Sorry for all the questions, I've never dealt with royalties like this before.

**Locations:** I'm in Italy, but the contract is from Canada, and I think it says that it will "follow" Canadian laws or something like that, please have a look at the contract to be sure.

**Edit:** I decided to decline the offer.
Topic:
Contracts

Answer: Not a lawyer but you should not take temporary royalties in lieu of payment. Even stock shares are not a good idea. If they don't have the money and don't want to give you anything worth actual money then odds are your getting a shaft for your work


Title: [TX] Locked out of house by landlord, oral month-to-month lease, have pets inside

Question:
Currently trying to move out of my house in Austin, TX. I've sublet a room from a family of 2 w/ a baby. Here's a few facts:

I do not know if my roommate's lease allows for sublets or not.

I have not signed any documents and the rent is paid on a monthly basis.

Notice was given 5 days ago that I was moving out.

I have animals inside the house.

They've locked me out of the house and are attempting to put a lien on my belongings.

They were overly eager to have me move in because I would be babysitting for them. I had paid rent elsewhere for the month of October and was supposed to move in the first of November, but they told me that I could move in whenever and they wouldn't charge me until November so I moved in Oct. 18th. When I gave notice 5 days ago, they claimed I owed them rent for October. This was not brought up any point in the last 3 months and feels vindictive.

From my understanding of Texas law this would be recognized as a month-to-month oral lease. Also, in accordance with Texas law, I would owe them money for the next 25 days of rent as I did not give 30 days notice.

However, if I want to access the house and remove my things this month (for which I have paid rent), they are illegally locking me out and attempting to seize my possessions. (They have yet to bring up the owed rent for next month. I don't think they're well versed in residential laws).

What would be the fastest way to remove my pets and belongings without violating the law?

Answer: Call the police and explain you have been illegally locked out of your home and to please send somebody to talk to them and let you in to get your stuff and tend to your animals.Answer #2: Call the police.  Tell them that you have been illegally evicted.Answer #3: Call the police and tell them you've been locked out of where you're living. Answer #4: If the police aren't willing to help, see if a local animal rights org will at least help you get your animals out.


Title: Canceling Gym Membership - Removing Credit Card enough?

Question:
I was pissed I had to cancel my gym membership by having to go into the gym and talk to a manager (especially since the Gym location nearest me closed down), so I decided to try to cancel by removing my credit card information online.  Now 3 or 4 months later, they say I have to pay all of those months, it was a month by month plan.

I don't know the details of the contract.  Do I need to pay these last few months? I talked to them on the phone and they said they would move forward with collections agency if I did not.  I live in Iowa.

Thanks for any advice.

Answer:
 You have to pay.  You agreed to a certain cancellation policy when you signed the contract.

By removing your credit card, you're just racking up a valid debt that the gym can successfully sue you for.Answer #2: > I don't know the details of the contract.

Sucks cause thats what you need to know.

Absolutely merely removing your CC does nothing.


Title: I got scammed by Travelers Insurance. Please Help

Question:
Hi guys this is my first time posting on reddit for help. I just moved to a different city for a job ( fresh out of college). Long story short, my 17 y.o beater car died and I had to buy another car(hence the need for insurance). I found an employee discount page for insurance that took me to a company called MERCERS. From there I was directed to an insurance agent ( unsure if it was under MERCERs). The agent  promised me that if I bundle my renters insurance and auto insurance as well as payroll deductions with Traverlers, I would get a greater discount. After an hour on the phone, we agreed to the price of $1548. In two weeks, my coverage jumps to $1825.2 without sending me any notification ( I was unaware of this for 2 months as I am still adjusting to a new city). When I tried to reach out to them to get answers, I was given the old run around ( "drop calls", line transfer, long hold, voice mails) you name it. As a result, I decided to terminate the service. They continue to send me a bill and threaten to take me to the collection agency ( ruin my credit score) if I did not pay ( due to the fact that I terminated the service on a Wednesday and payroll ends on a Friday). I called them again to investigate the reasons why my insurance ballooned without my knowledge. They replied that they needed "proof of continuous coverage" prior to their service. I called up my old AAA insurance company and send them my documents for proof of continuous coverage. They (Travelers) told me that this was all they needed and that I will be given a refund back ( the lady gave me her word on the phone). I requested for it in writing and she said " I can do that". I hear nothing for the next 2 days and decided to email them. They told me that because my coverage did not meet their expectations (100k/300k liability), they cannot honor that refund. According to Travelers, I claimed that I was covered up to 100k/300k in my previous insurance. This is not true as I had ordered the insurance through the phone and the agent entered the information without my knowledge. I double check the original agreements document and found that it only requested for proof of insurance coverage and did not mention the minimum coverage. I did more research on this company and found that I am not alone. There are many others who are scammed by this evil corporation TRAVELERS. They will give you what you want to hear and increase the cost behind your back due to hidden fees and missing documents that was never specified in the original agreement. I contacted my company's ethics officer (HR) and request that they give me directions  to deal with this situation as this is not ethical. I get a reply back from the ethics officer who stated that she cannot help me and that she can find another agent. I contacted the company's legal department who typically gives free legal advice. They told me that they cannot help me as it is a conflict of interest. I don't want other people to get scammed by this company. I want my money back and was considering taking them to small claims court but am unsure how to approach this. Im very frustrated that my company would not take responsibility and cover for their employee as well as how shady insurance companies are. I would really appreciate any legal advice on how to fight this. Thanks in advance.

TLDR: I got scammed by an insurance company called Travelers. I worked out a price with the insurance company for a bundle package (renters insurance and auto insurance). They balloon the price without letting me know claiming that they needed proof of prior continuous coverage. After I gave them the documents they still deny the refund because it did not meet their qualifications of (100k/300k). I would like to get justice, any help would be appreciated. I am located in Denver,CO.

Answer: You could try posting over in /r/Insurance. But I have to say, this whole thing reads like a rant from someone who doesn't know how insurance works. I don't have any real knowledge of Travelers but they are by no means a fly by night company so I suspect that your complaint isn't valid.


Title: Left my job today (put in 2 weeks). Employer just told me today is my last day...

Question:
Located in Minnesota. I gave my resignation this morning to my current employer. I did not have to give two weeks notice but did out of respect. I also inquired about my vacation time (I still have a weeks left unused 40 hrs.) They said I would not be compensated for that vacation time. So, I said I will just use the vacation time instead. So I will be working one week and then taking the remaining 40 hrs vacation.

I am getting ready to pack up and leave for the day and they notify me that today is my last day at the company. Can they do this without paying me for that vacation time and last week that I worked? (I will be receiving my regular direct deposit on Friday)

Answer:
 > Can they do this without paying me for that vacation time

Vacation time payout in Minnesota is [up for negotiation between you and your employer.](http://minnesotaemployer.com/2012/02/21/do-employees-need-to-be-paid-for-unused-vacation-or-pto-upon-termination-under-minnesota-law/) Unless they previously agreed to pay for your unused days, they don't have to.

> and last week that I worked?

Unless I'm misunderstanding your description, it sounds like they're telling you not to work that week, so you don't have to be paid for it.

Unfortunately, I think you just learned the hard way that your former company didn't have as much respect for you as you did for them.


Title: Washington state - Rear ended other party is now claiming it never happened

Question:
Last Thursday I was rear ended while turning right on a red light. We chose to not call the police since the damage was light <$1000. I did get pictures of his car my car, his licence, plate, vin and insurance card. He said he wanted to pay out of pocket so I got him an estimate the next day (Friday) he answers saying that he should have the money by Monday.

 Monday comes and he says he won't have it until the 20th of next month so I tell him to forget it I'm calling his insurance. His insurance just called me saying thier insured is denying being in an accident. I sent them the pictures I have and screen shots of the text messages. I try to call the person who hit me and his number is now going straight to vm. What recourse do I have to get my car fixed?

Answer: Don't go through his insurance, go through your insurance.


Title: Resident physician fired for having mental health illness

Question:
My residency program refused to provide accommodations for a documented mental health illness.  When I spoke up, they terminated me.  They also refused to allow me time to see my treating psychiatrist.  If the medical profession itself fails to recognize the importance of mental health, how can we expect anyone else to...
Topic:
Employment Law

Answer:
 >My residency program refused to provide accommodations for a documented mental health illness

Well that might or might not be allowed because the accommodations would need to be considered reasonable.Answer #2: Were you accommodations reasonable?

Did you answer all questions regarding mental health accurate?


Title: Sister recently got the NileVirus and her boss is refusing to pay her till she returns to work

Question:
Hi all,

My sister is somewhat in a pickle right now. She came down with the NileVirus after a bad sinus infection and got severely dehydrated. She ended up going to urgent care and getting an IV for it last night.

Today, since she is still sick, she can't return to work; however, today should be her payday. The place she works at has a boss that frequently tries to do some shady stuff and is somewhat outdated. (No direct deposit, small enough for no health insurance etc...) Her mom also works at the same place and her boss won't let her pick it up for her even though this is for medical reasons?

TLDR: My sister is wondering if this is illegal to withhold her check until she returns back to work. This is for Montana.

If it is illegal, how should my sister tell her boss? Threaten to tell the department of labor?

Answer: Employers can’t usually give checks to anyone other than who they’re for unless specifically authorized a long time beforehand. She can request that they mail it to her instead.


Title: My grandmother is going to pass away within a year and she has assets and a will. I'm the second in charge but I'm not sure what I need to do to make everything fair?

Question: My older sister is apparently #1 head of the estate, I'm #2.  We live in Michigan. I am not certain that she would do the right thing to keep everything fair, considering there is 100k in my gma's savings, and she owns a couple pieces of property.   She is willing to make us joint-heads of the estate, but is this even possible?  It'd be nice if my sister and I had joint ownership and had to agree on how things were sold, how money was divided up, etc.

Answer: The will should spell out how everything is distributed. A will isn't a guideline or a suggestion; it must be followed unless it contradicts state law.


Title: Need help with possible adverse possession claim

Question:
The background is that my aunt, A, has been living on land purchased for her for 13 years now in New Mexico. The deed was not put in her name instead it was put in her brothers name, G. Now G's son, G jr, is turning 18 and he wants A and her kids off the property so G Jr can live there.

A had been paying the property taxes this whole time along with putting a house on this property. She has had made all the current changes to the land and even installed a well there. My understanding for adverse possession in New Mexico is that you have to occupy a property for 10 years and contribute to that property.

My question is does A have an adverse possession case? If so how does she go about claiming it and receiving the property herself?

Answer: Adverse possession must be adverse to the claim of the true owner. It sounds like your Aunt has been living there with G's permission.


Title: [NJ] Can employer refuse to pay you for time working past scheduled hours?

Question:
I work based on an hourly wage and my manager only reports the hours I’m scheduled to work as the amount of hours I spend working. I like my job and all but I asked why he does this and he told me that the owner and company won’t pay for any time spent past your scheduled hours, they will refuse to pay you for these hours because they claim you were scheduled to work x hours and don’t have to work the time extra, but obviously if I’m dealing with a customer this can’t work.
They tell us if your shift is over then just leave and tell the customer the system locks us out even though it doesn’t.
So if I’m scheduled for 20hrs a week and I’m dealing with a customer and end up working 21 hours that week, they will only pay for those 20 hours I was scheduled for.
I haven’t worked more than my scheduled hours yet but I assume it’s bound to happen since I work in a retail phone store and things often take time and we can’t predict when people come in.

Is this legal? Can I get someone to investigate or something for this? I would prefer reporting them anonymously if possible. Is there any thing I can do to stop them from this practice? All suggestions appreciated. Thank you.
Topic:
Labor Law (Unions)

Answer:
 In short - they must pay you for hours worked but are within their rights to fire you for working unscheduled/unapproved overtime.Answer #2: People got written up at a retail store I worked at when they stayed over their scheduled shift helping a customer.

&#x200B;

The solution was to avoid all customers anywhere near the end of your shift or hand them off to the manager right before you have to clock out.

&#x200B;

Make sure it's awkward for the manager so the can learn how dumb this policy is.

&#x200B;

Like others said, by law they have to pay you but can also fire you for working over your scheduled time.


Title: I was charged for Amazon prime that I never signed up for, but none of my amazon accounts have prime.

Question: I was charged about $14 CAD for Amazon prime membership, but I've checked all of my accounts and none of them have prime, and I never pitched prime. Should I be worried that someone has my card info?

Answer: Sounds like a mistake. Prime is way more expensive than that. Start by contacting Amazon.


Title: Lawyer hasn't made any progress in 3 years

Question: A little backstory- girlfriend and I got apartment with mutual friend in Oklahoma. Things went way south, during one argument girlfriend punched roommate, he called cops for domestic, didn't press charges. After that whole thing ordeal, girlfriend went trough a lawyer to get it exponged off her record. Lawyer said it'd be $1000, and we paid him. After trying to set up a hearing date (maybe wrong terminology?) no date was every agreed upon and lawyer pretty much started ignoring girlfriend and moves out of his office. Now 3 years later we found him and want to try to get a refund because he never did agreed upon services. After contacting him, he wants to try to finish the expungement but we no longer need it because she took a different career path (she waned to get into nursing school before) Should we be able to get a fedund from him? If we are entitled to one and he doesn't want to give one,  how would we go about getting it?

Answer:
 Report him to the bar. Answer #2: FWIW, $1,000 for an expungement is cheap and if the guy promises to get it done within a few months you might want to get it done.

You say you don't need it anymore, but I can pretty much guarantee that some time in the future you will.  These things drag with you forever.Answer #3: Do you still have a copy of the retainer letter? It will detail at what point the fees are deemed "earned." Ask him for an itemized bill of any work he did. Depending on the terms of the retainer letter, you may can request the unearned fees back. If he refuses you can report him to the bar.


Title: [NEW ZEALAND] Someone copied and published content from my blog post - is this legal?

Question: About two and a half years ago I wrote a technical article on Medium.com, which included some graphs. I recently came across a book that was published (which I bought to see the content) last year that copied my words and graphics as-is. I was wondering whether this is legal, and who owns the rights (if anyone) to the content of my post.

Answer: When you signed up for Medium, was there any language in the user agreement that stated your words are your own, or is there language that states that your words become property of Medium upon publication?


Title: My former employer has apparently been gossiping and exposing my termination to people who don't need to know- is this legal?

Question:
Long story short, I was let go from a casino due to discrepancies with the money till. Without going into detail, I was *not* stealing from the till, however that was the accusation made against me and therefore the reason for my termination.

Now I have customers whom I used to see in the casino texting me and saying all kinds of malicious rumors that they are hearing *from my ex-boss and other employees*. These rumors are not coming from the customers.

I can definitely see my ex-boss and the other employees doing this. That place was a *major* source of drama, gossip, and the occasional shady dealings. Is it legal for my ex-boss to be disclosing to customers openly that I was fired for stealing when in fact I was *not* stealing? I obviously cannot prove this either way on reddit, so i suppose you'll just have to take my word for it and see the situation as I describe it.

Answer: If he is lying, you can sue for slander. If he is saying you were fired for a short till, that's true and legal for him to say.


Title: Trespassing at public library

Question:
My daughter was in the library she was playing music on her phone. Then the librarian kicked her out. She ran out of the building. A few hours later she walked back in to get her 10 year old brother and the librarian called the police and pressed and is pressing charges for trespassing. Now the cops keep harassing me telling me to bring her down to the station last friday the officer came to my house shining his flash light in all of the windows. He told me over the phone today to bring her to the station tonight by 7:30 or he will go to her school and get her tomorrow. What should i do?
Topic:
Criminal Law

Answer: I am 99.9% sure you aren't getting the whole or truthful story from your daughter. It is never a good idea to talk to the police in situations like this without the presence of a lawyer. I recommend you start looking for one immediately.


Title: Friend (25F) Illinois wants to discreetly rent her home... Multiple Questions

Question:
She got the loan with grant money for the down payment. She is required to live there until the grant is paid in full. She wants to rent the house while moving back in with her parents to save money, while possibly buying an investment property in the near future.

Is there any way for her to claim she & her renters are roommates if this ever comes up? And how can it be proven on paper?

How can she receive rent money into her bank account & justify it if her bank records are requested for future loans?

Can her renter use her property address for his personal use without it coming back to hurt her in any way?

She will make next to no money on this, it’s basically to pay for the house.

Answer: As others have said that’s fraud. A more legitimate solution to save money would be to actually get roommates and continue to live there.


Title: Other driver was at fault but only wants to pay 80% of cost.

Question: My daughter was in an accident a month ago. Thankfully she wasn't seriously injured but she did go to the emergency room. She was on a four lane highway in Georgia where we live, in the right hand lane. The other driver came into her lane and pushed her off the road. There is damage to the entire driver's side of our car.  The county sheriff came to the scene, stated the other driver was at fault but did not issue a citation. The other driver has clear blue insurance which I've never heard of. They have been difficult to work with. Three weeks after the accident, their adjuster finally came to assess the damage. This week clear blue insurance company offered to pay 80% of the cost of repairs and medical bills. Our insurance company has offered to enter arbitration with them but we would have to pay for the repairs first using our $2000 deductible which there is no guarantee that we would get that back. What should we do?  Do we need a lawyer?  We can't really afford a lawyer or the $2000 deductible.

Answer:
 >As it is we're paying $750 a month

Not legal advice, but have you considered looking for new insurance.
$750 is astronomical AND a $2K deductible . My early 20s GF pays less than that every 6 months with a $500 deductible.

Anyways: You're free to talk to a lawyer, you can probably get a free consultation. If you're not happy with 80%, you can sue the driver afterwards, or go into arbitration.


Title: Ex working with my special needs child

Question: This whole situation has been exhausting, so I'm going to try to make this as short as possible. I was involved with my recent ex off-and-on for the past 5 years. My special needs child is attending middle school this year. My ex is a paraprofessional under the special education director, and she now works exclusively with my son. Basically, the problem is that we had a pretty bad breakup. She pressured me into moving out of my previous house and into a more expensive house. I had just recently lost all other options of childcare, so she volunteered to help me if I moved. On the first day of school she asked to make copies of my son's psychological evaluation for her boss. I told her that I didn't want her to read the documents, but she could provide her boss with the copies. Well, she read them anyway. On the third page, it stated that my son's biological mom was present during the evaluation. My ex and I were not talking around the time, and his mother asked to be included. I didn't see anything wrong with it. She and I discussed our answers to the questions so as to provide the most accurate information. After reading the evaluation, my ex called me at work and told me that she was moving out. In the process, she stole my laptop and two digital audio recorders. Her reasoning for doing so was probably to cover her ass because she had been emotionally abusing me for the past 2 years and she suspected that I had evidence. I contacted the cops, but they couldn't help due to state law. It was a civil matter, so I would most likely have to take her to court for my belongings. My ex has made it quite apparent that she disliked watching my kids. She had become comfortable saying really mean things regarding my kids, as well as my parenting. I really do not want her to be working with my child. When I contacted the school to express my concern, they told me that they wouldn't do anything because it was a domestic issue, and the breach of confidentiality occurred outside of the school. No action was taken at all. Is there anything I can do?

Answer: Nal- escalate your concern. Its valid.


Title: I think a dealership illegally sold me a car.

Question: Need help. So I bought my 2006 VW GTI in March last year from a dealer in Chesapeake, VA and it had just passed its inspection that February. I go to get it inspected today, and it fails for no catalytic converter. It was lightly modified with an exhaust system when I bought it, and I assumed that since it had passed inspection while at the dealership, that it had a cat. I have not done any modifications to the car since I bought it. Obviously the dealership had some kind of shady agreement with the shop that did the inspection, and I'm potentially out of a lot of money to get this fixed. Unless I can find a shop that will let it slide. Do I have any recourse with the dealer since it is illegal to sell a car with no catalytic converter? Tomorrow I'm going to take it to the shop which passed it while the dealership had it and try there, maybe mention to them that they passed it in its current condition before. Other than that, I'm out of ideas. Any suggestions?

Answer:
 You can sue them for the cost to bring the air pollution control system up to spec. I would say you have an excellent case since the VA requirements specifically state the catalytic converter must be inspected.

http://www.vsp.state.va.us/Safety.shtm

(#17)

But reach out to them first to see if they would be willing to make it right without having to go court.


Title: Fathers ex-girlfriend refuses to leave my house after his passing.

Question:
My father passed in mid October. His ex-girlfriend has moved SOME of her stuff out of my home, but is still coming up with excuses as to why she cannot move all of it. I have offered to PAY for her storage. I've offered to buy a U-Haul and move it myself! She comes into the house and has a huge chip on her shoulder as if to say "Why do you get to stay here and not me?". Because it's my childhood home, you're not his spouse, and the house isn't paid off and we will be moving in the future!

I've been very cordial. She is not homeless. She has 20 places to stay at and she does. She just uses my house as a place to store her stuff. I am not telling her this to be mean or personal, but the process has to start. We need to get moving.

&#x200B;

My thought is that she will not move her stuff until she sees what happens with the estate payout, but that's not happening. You are not using my own home as leverage.

&#x200B;

There is no documentation say it's her house. My father never intended for her to stay / have the place after he passed. I have been VERY, VERY delicate about this. I've helped her move everything I could. I've given her entire days - WEEKS of time to get her stuff out and it is always another excuse.

At this rate I am considering renting a U-Haul, buying her a storage locker and moving it myself. There is no time in this process for emotions or petty mind games. I have to move too, she's lived here 1 year, I've lived her 15. It's not easy for me.

What do I do!? I am from PA.

Answer:
 Start the eviction process.

Give her the required notice to leave, and if she doesn’t leave in that time frame, evict her. Answer #2: OP - I recommend you edit your post to clarify how long she has lived in the house, when she moved out, etc., so that persons more experienced in PA landlord & tenant law can comment on whether you need a formal eviction. Better yet, speak with an attorney to get their professional opinion.Answer #3: > At this rate I am considering renting a U-Haul, buying her a storage locker and moving it myself.

Terrible idea. Follow the process to remove a tenant.Answer #4: Does she pay any rent for the property? I’d begin the eviction process if I were you. [Eviction Notices for Nonpayment of Rent in Pennsylvania ](https://www.nolo.com/legal-encyclopedia/eviction-notices-nonpayment-rent-pennsylvania.html) Answer #5: You might be best off just hiring a law firm to evict her.  A little more expensive, but you're buying a service so you don't have to deal with the headache.Answer #6: Does she live there? Like were her and your dad living together in the house?


Title: Abusive ex-wife has full custody of our son after lying in court and winning, what can I do to save my son?

Question:
Long story short, I live in California, Orange County. my ex wife is manipulative and abusive. She has cut me off from friends and family, controlled everything I did in the day, made sure my finances were drained, only let me sleep 2-3 hours a day, etc... Her abuse has ranged from verbal to beating me and cutting me with a knife in her anger.
We have a 10 month old son she has also abused physically and verbally, I have proof of this and her abuse ranging from police reports, pictures, text messages, other witnesses, recordings etc... Well, she kicked me out one day after I fled from her abuse and filed domestic violence charges against me with a whole bunch of made up stories and over the top things. When we went to court she had "witnesses", people who never saw me do anything because I never did anything and one of them was our school counselor. Her testamony against me was she "felt there was domestic violence in the relationship and that Troughawry was the perpetrator." Her evidence against me was some suicidal threats from me, though I was seriously depressed dealing with her abuse.
I was told by my lawyer at the time to accept the charges in mediation so I did.
I fear for my son's safety, she has abused him as well as her mom but her mom won't talk or say anything. She has also hurt her dogs multiple times and has always tried to say I am the one responsible.

Now that we have already gone through court and I accepted mediation, what can I do to show the courts she is lying? I have a lot of evidence I never got to show because I could not afford to file for domestic violence at the time, and I can disprove quite a bit of the things she said in the DV papers against me as false and made up. I was told to file for grevience against our counselor too, would this be a good decision?

Answer:
 I'm sorry, but this is a situation we can't be of any help to you. Family law cases are extremely complex, and all we can do is to advise you to talk to your attorney about what options you have. If you don't have a lawyer, you definitely want to bring one in to assist you. You may be able to appeal the ruling, but it is a difficult process best handled by an attorney.

It is doubtful the mediator acted in bad faith or did anything worth complaining about, but it is your right to do so.


Title: If SWIM is a victim of a robbing/shooting, must he/she show up to testify if subpoenad?

Question: A friend of mine was robbed doing a medical marijuana compliant delivery to a patient. During this robbery, SWIM had a registered weapon with him/her and never mentioned it during the investigation with the detectives because the detectives were already reminded by SWIM that they would help, but not testify in court. If SWIM testifies, then A. he/she is lying under oath and incriminated themselves or B. he/she is going to tell the truth AND still incriminate themselves if not granted immunity, which the untrustworthy detective doesn't seem to promising about. Does SWIM have to show up for court? Does he/she have to go if the detective is trying to give them the subpoena and they never receive it?

Answer:
 For the uninitiated: SWIM in internet parlance means **S**omeone **W**ho **I**s **M**e. Somehow, someone got the idea that the third word was 'isn't' and that posting 'SWIM' instead of 'I' or 'me' would be the one weird trick that prevents the FBI/DEA from arresting them. That someone is probably in federal prison.

*I am a bot, and this action was performed automatically. Please [contact the moderators of this subreddit](/message/compose/?to=/r/legaladvice) if you have any questions or concerns.*Answer #2: The whole SWIM thing is dumb.

It provides precisely no legal protection at all.  None.

We know it's you.

You know it's you.

Anyone who might use this against you knows it's you.

The jury will know it's you.

So just say it's you.

To answer your question... Yes, you have to testify.  It's not a "court request," it's a court **order**.Answer #3: I don't even read questions with SWIM in them.


Title: I'm 18, dating a girl who's 15 in MN, unsure of what the law allows.

Question: Like I said I'm 18 and live in MN I don't know what the law permits but my gf wants to get more intimate (I remain adamant that theres no sex until at least shes 16, but she says other things are fine, i dont think so so it becomes a problem for us) but I'm scared of breaking the law, I can't risk being a sex offender for the rest of my life but I dont think she wants to wait the 6 months or so before she turns 16. So basically I just need to know what (if anything) is permitted under minnesota law

Answer: Criminal sexual conduct in the third degree. Felony, up to five years and $30,000, registration, the whole life ruining shebang. Tell her to take cold showers for six months. Sexual acts not involving vaginal, anal, or oral penetration are criminal sexual conduct in the fourth degree. Answer #2: If you are currently sexual with her in any type of way you are committing statutory rape in Minnesota. Your age gap is such that your physical relationship has been deemed inappropriate and illegal. When she is 16 you will be able to have sex provided that you are within 48 months of each other.


Title: Unmarried rights to child

Question: So my boyfriend said he doesn't love me anymore. I got upset and he instantly grabbed the baby because i was going to leave. He signed paternity papers at the hospital. We live in oregon. If i were to say call the police right now because I want to go home with the baby what would most likely happen in this situation? Hes been treating me like shit lately and he knows i won't leave without the baby. He doesn't want me to leave. What the fuck do i do now? He works full time so I primarily take care of our son. He's made a habit of leaving all the time when he's off work im pretty sure hes cheating on me. Just so you know I don't want to play tug of war with the baby that is my last untention but he wont sit down and talk like an adult about what were going to do. Hes just ignoring me acting all happy with the baby which he is just doing to piss me off cause.he doesn't hold him a lot. Especially on his days off. Please tell me what I should do. If calling the cops doesn't work in my favor I'm gonna pretemd to make up and as soon as he leaves (again) I'm just gonna pack as much as i can and get the fuck out of here. Bad idea? Please help this is happening right now

Answer:
 1.  You have every right to leave with the child.  Do.

2.  Make sure you have someplace safe to land. Friends or family where you can stay for a while.

3.  If "treating me like shit" involves any abuse, please seek help.  There are quite a few shelters focused on domestic violence victims with small kids.  If you are worried about violence, do use a shelter, rather than a family member.

4.  After you have gotten somewhere safe, and if you trust him, see if you can seek counseling together.

5.  Expect to have a custody case filed against you.  Try to find an attorney (or free legal aid) as soon as possible.Answer #2: If there is no custody order, you have the legal right to take your daughter wherever you want. He has the right to file for custody/parenting time.

The police are unlikely to get involved in custody issues.


Title: If I wanted to write a story in a real-world location, could I leave names the way they are or would I have to change them?

Question:
So I have an idea for a story that I want to take place in Boston. Would I have to change the names of things or could I use their real-world names? For example, if I wanted the characters to go to a Santander Bank building, would I have to change the name like how the GTA games do it or could I just say the characters are in a Santander Bank?

I guess the root of the question is about the limits and extent of fair use

Answer: IANAL but a public city is pretty fair use as long as you don't include things like How To Bomb (place) or rob (place/person/company). I know for a fact that the scifi series The Dresden Files uses Chicago and its surrounding areas as the setting, and that Tom Clancy used the backdrop of the Australian Olympics in a terror plot in Rainbow Six.


Title: Can a citizen (without involving the police) record someone admitting to a crime?

Question:
A woman I know accused a man of sexually assaulting her. It happened a few weeks ago so she can't go to the hospital for evidence. Apparently he has been heard by multiple witnesses that he doesn't think rape is that bad and people shouldn't go away for something that "just takes a couple of minutes." Rumors are flying. He said / she said. You know the drill.

A friend and I were discussing what could be done to gather evidence at this point. They said that a citizen could put on a wire (with no police involvement) and get him to admit that he did in fact rape her. Would this be admissible evidence into the case, or is there something that prevents this from happening?

(I know there is some parallels to a particular political situation, but I promise this is completely separate)
Topic:
Criminal Law

Answer: Location is required for us to be able to answer


Title: [PA] Can I get in trouble for flipping off someone with their kids around?

Question:
Long story short- I lost my temper with a screaming mother in my neighborhood.

She was criticizing my driving around a turn where she had a group of kids playing in the intersection. I explained that I came around the corner fast and breaked hard because my breaks were replaced this morning and I was checking them out. I was going 24mph in a 25mph zone. (I checked the reading as I was driving.)

Long story short, she kept screaming and I flipped her off as I drove away. I swung around and SLOWLY drove back down to take a picture of all the kids playing. In the intersection.

She said that she was going to call the police for me for giving an "obscene gesture" in front of kids and then flipped out calling me some also inappropriate  names....with the kids there.

Either way, we both must be having a bad day. Can she actually call the cops on me for this? (If she has my license plate #?)

Thank you.

Answer: no, you are fine


Title: Employer removed severance from Employee Handbook

Question:
State - Massachusetts

Hired in 2008, the Employee Handbook stated 1 month of severance for every year employed, to a maximum 3 months severance.

In a 2012 update to the Employee Handbook, it looks like the severance section of the Handbook was removed. Severance was still listed as a line item in the table of contents, but the section was removed. Not noticing the section removed, I had signed the Handbook.

Our company has gone through a few rounds of layoffs, however those that left were part of the 2012 handbook, where it was not listed.

Where do I fall? If I am laid off should I fight for the 3 months?

Answer: An "Employee Handbook" is NOT a contract. It seems to be a perk that was offered, but is no longer. The employer can unilaterally remove things or add things to a handbook, as part of at-will employment.


Title: Foreclosure - Bank's Lawyer submitted that I didn't respond in 20 days, but I did

Question:
[FL] Just like the title says - I'm going through a foreclosure and am trying to do mediation for a loan mod without spending $ on a lawyer that I could use to repay the mortgage company.

When I was served the suppoena, I was told I had 20 days from being served. I submitted my response that I request mediation, submitted it to the court and also emailed and snail mailed their lawyer the response.

I got a letter today from their lawyer that I failed to respond and they are requesting from the judge to begin the foreclosure.

Is this just a tactic from their side to see if I will just throw up my hands and give up? Does this put me at a disadvantage? Do I need to submit a legal document responding to theirs stating that they are incorrect?

EDIT: Thanks in advance for any advice provided and I apologize for spelling errors and/or lack of depth - I am submitting this post on my phone in a hurry.

Answer:
 By "responding to the complaint", they want to hear your side of the story.  They don't care that you request mediation.  You failed to respond to the complaint.

You need to get a lawyer ASAP.  You're going to court.Answer #2: You demanded mediation. You failed to respond to the Plaintiff's allegations. You lose.Answer #3: >  I submitted my response that I request mediation, submitted it to the court and also emailed and snail mailed their lawyer the response.

That's not a "response" in legal terminology.  A response means a responsive pleading like an answer to the lawsuit filed with the court.  Or a demurrer.  Sending a letter doesn't do anything.  You need to hire an attorney ASAP if you want to dispute this


Title: My father passed away recently. Could smoking pot jeopardize the life insurance and workers comp claims?

Question: [deleted]

Answer:
 What you're asking would require people to completely speculate to as what the insurance company might claim/do. I think you're going to have to sit tight and see (1) *if* a toxicology report is done (2) *if* the marijuana shows up on the report and (3) *if* the workmans comp insurance denies the claim if (1) and (2) both occur.

If (3) occurs, you should come back and ask your question again.Answer #2: Can't speak to either with a lot of knowledge, but...

The type of life insurance policy, the verbiage in the policy, the length it was held, and whether there is any 'recorded' history of his use would all be factors in the answer.

Some insurers, as well as States have rules about contestability; for example, many life insurance policies will pay out for Suicide, but only after it is held for 2-3 years. Others will pay back the premiums paid, but only that. Having the policy language in front of you and looking at the rules on 'contestability' and whether drug use is specifically excluded will be the only way to get a more clear answer.

My guess is you'll probably be OK-ish in California. See section 10113.5 here: http://www.leginfo.ca.gov/cgi-bin/displaycode?section=ins&group=10001-11000&file=10110-10127.19

You still should discover if the policy in question fits the guidelines outlined here, and if not, what the language in the policy says.

Also, I'm sorry for your loss. Having lost a parent around the holidays myself I know it's tough.


Title: [TX] How liable would I be if a child got hurt on my property (possibly by my dog) after entering without permission?

Question:
We live in a house with a decent sized yard. We paid a lot of money to get a 6ft+ privacy fence put around our yard. There are some kids that live next door that play soccer for hours on end and kick the ball against the side of our house and our fence, which is already becoming a big issue to me because they are likely causing some damage that I can't see.

They regularly kick the ball over the fence. The fence is visible from the bedroom window and directly in my line of sight while sat at my desk. I like to have the blinds rolled up during the day and the cats will sit and sun themselves on the window ledge. A few times now I have seen the kids climb over the fence and use one of our buckets to get back over after retrieving the ball. They have noticed I have cats, including a hairless cat, and today they spent 15 minutes hanging over the fence taking photos through the bedroom window while I had to hide until they had gone because I was in the middle of getting dressed when this happened; I wasn't exactly expecting a group of kids to climb up and straddle my 6ft fence and take photos through my window. One of the kids came over to get the ball they had just kicked over and my dog happened to be out in the yard and come bounding towards him and scared him back over, leaving the ball behind.

Now, as well as the possibility of the kids getting hurt while climbing over the fence, I'm also worried about the possibility of my dog hurting them. She is a BIG dog, and she jumps up at people when she gets super excited. I'm an adult and she can easily knock me over and hurt me with her rough paws/claws, so I'm sure she could easily cause harm to a 10 year old. On top of that, a few years ago someone climbed over another privacy fence at another property we lived at and slashed the dogs leg quite severely. It cost hundreds of dollars in treatment and the dog has been quite different since this happened   (suffers seizures and is very nervous of being outside when it's getting dark) and I'm not sure how she would react to seeing someone climb over the fence again. There is potential of it scaring her and her becoming aggressive, and I want to know how liable we would be if this happened.

I already plan to go and speak to the parents this evening. I hear them telling the kids to stop using the side of our house as their soccer goal, but they don't take any notice and keep doing it so I'm not holding my breath that they will stop coming over our fence. Luckily they say they are moving quite soon though.

Answer: report each time they tresspass. you have a fence and no attractive nuasance, so in theory you should be safe. Answer #2: Document everything. If the truth is on your side the evidence will show it.


Title: Aunt's Husband Cheated. Can she file a restraining order to retain belongings of the house?

Question: My aunt recently found out that her husband was cheating on her. He took a bunch of belongings, including an 80k+ truck and left. Would it be legal to take the truck back, then file a temporary restraining order to help retain all belongings?

Answer:
 She can't use a restraining order for property.

Unless the items were **solely** in her name, she has no right to demand them.  Even if they are in her name, they may be marital property.

The proper place to decide who gets what items is divorce court.  Your aunt can file for divorce, and can ask for temporary orders to prevent disposition of property, pending the divorce outcome.Answer #2: Restraining orders are not gotchas that pissed off people can use. If she files a TRO in this case, shd may be looking at serious consequences.


Title: Felony threat from apartment complex for check over $500 bounced.

Question:
Hi all,

I am in a temporary financial bind due to the restaurant in which I work having flooded in a storm and closing for 3 weeks.

In this stretch, I wrote a $1000 check for my rent, under the impression that I had the available funds, but spaced two other bill payments I had set up automatically that came out. I have received an eviction notice and am moving to another location, which I can handle, but today I received a voicemail informing me that bouncing checks over $500 is a felony and asking me to find someone like a friend or family member to cover the debt or they will have to file felony charges.

I’ve taken the step of leaving a return voicemail saying that I have good intentions and would like to work something out, but the threat on the phone sounded very serious, and I want to be prepared for all circumstances.

Is this really possible? Can my life be ruined with a felony for a bounced rent check? Trouble finding good work for the rest of my life because of a rough financial spot? Does this stuff usually stick in court? I am filing for bankruptcy very soon - will this help me? Should I be looking for another type of lawyer too?

Answer:
 >  Can my life be ruined with a felony for a bounced rent check?

Sure.  Writing a check you know is bad is illegal.  You can **claim** you didn't know that, but no one has to believe you.

At the same time, while they can make a police report, they cannot force anyone to file charges.


Title: Besides the Better Business Bureau how can I tell if a company is legit (CA)

Answer: Be warned that the BBB is just a "fancy" Yelp. You can pay to have good ratings. The best way to find out if a company is worth your time is to talk to people who've used them and get their opinions.


Title: [Texas] [Child support] Ex husband is incarcerated, just found he has unclaimed property, what are my rights?

Question: My ex owed 20k in child support before he was sent to prison for completely unrelated charges. He will be there for the next ten years. I found he has unclaimed property totaling about 10k, all in Texas. Can the Texas attorney general go after this money for back child support?

Answer:
 The simple answer is no.

Unclaimed property is exactly that, unclaimed.  You are under no obligation to claim it at all.

If your ex does not want to claim it, it generally cannot be released to others.


Title: (WV) DUI In My Own Garage?!

Question:
Was told by a friend to come here for some advice on this.

Over the weekend, I was doing yard work. To get the lawnmower, etc. out of my garage, I need to pull my car out, so I simply backed it out into the driveway, never leaving my property. Anyway, during my several hours of yard work, I also consumed a few beers. Once I was done outside, I put everything g away, and pulled my car back into the garage, once again, never leaving my driveway or garage or property. I got out of the car, beer in hand and as I was opening the door in the garage to get into the house, I see flashing lights. Long story short, the officer said that I saw me getting into my car, beer in hand, I was given a breathalyzer, was over the legal limit and was dinged for a DUI and open container. Is this legal? I had never left my property, he saw me get in and then get out like a minute later. What are my next steps? Can this be thrown out? I'm all for keeping drunk drivers off the road, but I drove my car 10 feet from my driveway into the garage and the cop knew that. Just seems like overkill.

Answer:
 There is nearly certainly more information than what is listed here.

Does the officer's police report corroborate this version of events?Answer #2: I do appreciate all of the advice. This is just frustrating. I don't drive drunk, and I feel like the cop should have bigger fish to fry than some knucklehead who knocked back a few and was pulling his car into the garage. Sounds like I might have been better off shutting the garage door, going in house, and not answering the door.Answer #3: What sort of lawnmower do you have - were you drinking while operating it?  Is there a possibility you crossed the boundaries of your property while operating?Answer #4: I wonder what is on his dash cam.


Title: Why do vaccine/pharmaceutical companies need immunity to civil liability for their vaccination disbenefits? Wouldn't granting the ability for litigation make it more trusted?

Question: [removed]

Answer:
 Vaccines are critical for public health but are also crazy low-margin. Even if every lawsuit from anti-vax nutjobs who get their medical and legal advice from QAnon fails immediately, its still expensive to defend that and nobody would make vaccines. So Congress passed the National Childhood Vaccination Injury Act (and some other similar acts for other circumstances) to remove the liability from the manufacturer.

All these vaccines still have to go through clinical trials, testing and post-approval monitoring that any other drug goes through. It just removes the disincentive to the development and manufacture of the vaccine.


Title: (CA) savings stolen

Question: Dad was going to divorce stepmom. Dad got apartment to be safe and have a place once he told her. Dad withdrew life savings (not much, but still a lot) in cash to cover his ass should poop hit the fan. Stepmom went through his things, found savings, took them, took my sister, and bolted. My dad is practically moneyless now (not a lot in checking) and I may never see my five year old sister again. I hope this is the right sub. Please help. We are scared.

Answer: Dad -> Divorce Attorney. That's what's needed here. Find one that works on a payment plan.


Title: Reporting an online harassment crime (international)

Question: [deleted]

Answer: Ignore the person and move on. That's your best move here. Cyber-bullying isn't even illegal in most cases.


Title: [VA] Everything a friend tells me about their work situation sounds very illegal.

Question:
He is required to show up to work at a certain time, but doesnt get paid hours until he has a shovel/ leafblower/ whatever in his hands (theyre landscapers). He says hes missing out on like an hour a day.

Ive read the labor wiki entry for this sub. He gets paid under the table and doesnt have a w2, so cant go to the local labor board (the wiki says you need a w2).

The guy who owns the business has the business registered as a car detailing business when it isnt one. It used to be, but that failed, so now its a landscaping business. The owner is straight up making up info to supply the govt with. He has not made the govt aware at all that it is now a landscaping business.

My friend says "theyre all like that. Thats just the way it is in landscaping."

Where on earth to go from here?

Answer:
 He can't do anything. He's working under the table and not even paying taxes on it.

If it bugs him that much he can quit, but it sounds like it bugs you more than him.


Title: I didn't sign a lease so... Can I leave?

Question:
Hi there!

I moved into a place in February pretty quickly after leaving a terrifying roommate situation at my old location. Since I moved in so fast, I guess I didn't really have time to really gauge the place I was moving into. It's a room in a townhouse with two old folks as my roommates. The place, itself, is fine. My room is actually pretty beautiful if you're using just your eyes.

The problem is that my nose and ears are being taken hostage by the other tenants. In short, I barely even stay there (maybe like 10-12 times since I moved in) because the smell is nauseating and it's pretty loud.

Beyond that I'm just not able to afford living there anymore and I'm not in a position to pay rent for a place I'm not staying at.

My question is that I never received the lease to sign. The lady I was communicating with doesn't own the house (she was acting on behalf of her aunt who doesn't speak English) and told me that she would leave two copies of the lease for me to sign - one for her, one for me - but I never received them so I never signed them. I'm supposed to be leased through Feb 2017 but given the circumstances, I just really need to leave.

Can I just leave after giving them 30 days notice?

Edit: shit sorry! I'm in Fairfax county, Virginia, USA.

Answer: We have no idea since you didn't include a location despite the multiple prompts telling you to do so.


Title: I’m 16 and I recently came out to my parents that I’m a atheist, my mom is taking me to church almost every day. What can I do to stop this.

Question:
Topic:
Juvenile and Youth Law

Answer:
 Nothing. Your parents are allowed to take you to church if they want to, as long as it's not some acutely dangerous situation, like snake handling.

You're still a minor. For the next couple of years you are still under their jurisdiction. They certainly can tell you where to go and when. If they are not abusing you, and they are not neglecting your basic needs, you have no legal recourse.Answer #2: Sargent, sometimes your thoughts are best kept to yourself. Things like religion, politics, and finances tend to make some people angry and irrational if you don’t see eye to eye with them. That being said, your mom can take you where ever she likes. Learn from this mistake and move forward.Answer #3: You can't. You're a kid and your parents are in charge of you. When you're 18 you can do whatever you want.


Title: Hello I was victim to a hit in run vehicle collision, along with battery after I chased him down to get a picture of his license plate. In California help needed.

Question:
hello i was recently involved in a car accident. driver cut me off and was hauling a trailer behind his truck, while merging into my lane his trailer smashed into the right side of my vehicle. i caught it all on my dash cam, unfortunately his trailer was blocking his license plate so i had to follow him for a block to the next stop light to get out of my vehicle to take a picture of his plate. he then furiously runs out of his car and pushes me and further tries to prevent me from taking the picture and eventually smacked my phone out of my hand and smashes onto the floor.

Now here are the things i've done so far:
*Filed 2 police report. Hit and Run and Battery.
*contacted my insurance and told them the situation. they said they will be waiting on the police report to come in.
*tried searching his plate via online public records but couldn't find anymore information on the guy besides specifics of his vehicle.

I understand this process takes awhile and everyone i've spoken to has told me different things. Should i hire an attorney? It's been alittle less than 3 weeks and i understand this process takes quite sometime especially being the LAPD(Los Angeles Police Department) and how busy they are. I'm at a lost here, not really sure what to do. I just want to be compensated for my phone and vehicle.

Answer:
 You insuance will deal with the claim for your damages, the police will deal with the criminal aspects (battery).

If you want to pursue a separate civil claim for anything you'd need to hire an attorney, but i would wait to hear back from insurance.  Depending on your coverage they may cover all your damages, they may not.

What do you hope to accomplish in all this? You need to have actual and specific damages. You can pursue pain and suffering claims, but that can be an expensive and difficult process. For that you'd probably need your own attorney as well as doctors/hospital records, therapists reports, things like that....


Title: Does this even matter in divorce?

Question: (IN) At work a few years ago I was hurt in a bad car accident and became disabled.  I was due a huge bonus (C-level large) that was supposed to be contributed to my pension.  Long story short, employer balked at paying although my wife was under the assumption they did.  I just went along with same story when she asked.  (Waiting on two chunks of $$ from other biz deals to replenish, but nothing yet).  Now a few years down the road she's pissed after telling me she wants a divorce and finding out there is no pension because employer wouldn't fulfill their end.  Do I have any liability in divorce?  The asset was never received, I let a "not saying anything" turn into a lie and feel horrible, but regardless there was nothing I could do anyway.  What's the damage on my end?

Answer:
 Unless she is able to convince a judge that you did recive it and have somehow hidden it, it won't impact a divorce setlement.

The court will divide the actual marital assets, not those that she thought existed. This kind of deception would not be grounds for punitive distribution of the assets, so it shouldn't impact that (again, unless she somehow convinces the judge that what you've done is far far worse than what you did).  In theory, she could claim a share of the pension should your former employer ever fufill their end of the bargin and and provide that bonus, but even then she'd only be entitled to part of the money if it came through (and maybe have the right to sue to force them to provide it).  But, all of that's a lot of "if".

The practical fact is the marital assets are smaller than she thought, so you are both going to walk away with less than she thought you would. But you won't be any more harmed by this then you already have been.


Title: In US, Can you sue weather forecaster if he forecast false weather? Say if he forecast sunny weather and so you weren't prepared and suddenly it rains heavily and damages the furniture you had put outside. Can you sue him for damages?

Answer:
 I'm going to disagree with everyone else here:

*Yes, you can sue him for damages.*

However, you will lose and it will cost you a lot of time and money.Answer #2: No, you cannot.  They're predictions, not guarantees.  Answer #3: if you truly interested in this topic here is some good reading material

[ LEGAL LIABILITY FOR PUBLIC SECTOR FORECASTS] (http://sciencepolicy.colorado.edu/admin/publication_files/2002.21.pdf)

[  LEGAL LIABILITY FOR PRIVATE SECTOR FORECASTS] (http://sciencepolicy.colorado.edu/admin/publication_files/2002.22.pdf)


Title: My Deceased Mother’s Creditors are seeking me to pay for her hospital bills.

Question:
So a bit of background here. I live in New York. My mother passed away last year from breast cancer. She stayed in a nursing home for the last month or so of her life. She had $40,000 or so left in savings. We didn’t even get to apply for Medicaid before she passed away. We did hire a Medicaid/Medicare attorney to help us with the paperwork but before we even needed their services she passed away. However they did help us set up funeral expenses. We paid the funeral home and the nursing home in full out of her savings. The remainder of the funds we deposited into our account after her passing and closed her accounts. The attorneys advised all debts that needed to be settled were settled.

Once she passed the attorney advised that since she had no estate, to write on all bills “person is deceased, estate is insolvent”. Nearly every credit card company stopped correspondence. We moved houses too. Still in NY.

After a year I get a bill from a pharmacy company in NJ. It was addressed to my Mom but had c/o my name on it. I opened it and it was a bill for medicine provided while in the nursing home. I did like I always did. Signed a note saying she was deceased, estate was insolvent. They wrote back saying this money was still owed and as power of attorney I had to handle this.

They sent me a “proof of claim” notice that was notarized and signed by their supervisor saying they are owed this amount from the Estate.

They want me to call them, forward documentation of her death certificate and copies of her estate (which she didn’t have).

I’m nervous to call them. I don’t want them to sue me though as power of attorney. I could forward all this to the attorney we used last year but he was difficult to get a hold of. And I don’t want to overreact.

As a side note, my mother had no spouse or other children. As her son, I was her only living child or relative.

Is this a legitimate claim that they have and I should be concerned to get further legal help? Or is this a common tactic that means nothing that creditors try and do? If I am responsible and this should have been paid prior to her death, then so be it. We will find a way to pay it. But I also don’t want to be scared into paying for something that I shouldn’t. Any advice is super appreciated!
Topic:
Wills Trusts and Estates

Answer: Her estate wasn't insolvent - it had $40k in it. Why do you suspect this isn't legitimate?Answer #2: Tell them to go pound sand.


Title: FL - is it possible to get part of a DCF report removed or make the entire thing unusable? Any advice for when police come to get a report?

Question: [deleted]

Answer: I'm concerned that you think he "couldn't stop".  Yes,  he could have.


Title: Do I have to pay back money I didn't want?

Question:
Minnesota.

Couple months ago, I lost my job. My room mate's mother insisted I was a deadbeat and wouldn't be able to pay my rent and that she had do it for me (note that she isn't on the lease or in any way affected by this, but she's afraid her daughter might be).

I tell the mother I'm fine. I have money in the bank, and I'll find a job pretty quick. She demands I give her the next month's rent money so she knows I have it. I refuse, because fuck that. She has absolutely nothing to do with the lease. Room mate isnt concerned about me paying either, but her mom is freaking out about the possibility. I assure her I'll pay, but that's not good enough.

Mother tells me she's going to pay my rent to make sure it's done. I tell her not to. Ive got it covered, but nope. Mother arranges a meeting with the landlord to explain my situation and pays two months' rent up front. She also paid daughter's since it'd be unfair if she paid for me but not her.

Mother tells me I owe her but that she doesn't expect to ever see that money again and is disappointed by me. Says it's unfair to make her pay our rent.

Do I have to pay this back? I recognize that it benefitted me, but I really did insist she not pay it. I'm rather disgusted she'd forcibly involve herself in my life like that.

I have no interest in maintaining a decent relationship with her. I don't want her to get that money back (kind of like as punishment). I wanna take my rent money and donate it to a charity she hates, but I wanna know if she has a legal claim to it.

Answer: You can't unilaterally create a contract by deciding to pay on someone's behalf--especially not against their expressed wishes. The landlord could decide not to accept the mother's money and ask you for the rent due, but you have no obligation to the mother.


Title: FIRED THE WRONG PERSON

Question:
This happened to my girlfriend, I am posting on her behalf.

BACKGROUND: She recently started working at an auto factory (2 weeks ago). She is considered a temporary worker but has worked full time hours since she was hired.

She got the job through a agency that helps people get jobs, she gets paid through the agency.

THE PROBLEM: She showed up to work today as usual and her manager said she was not supposed to be here, my girlfriend was confused and asked why. Her manager replied with "I let you and a few other people go on Friday". Her manager then insisted that she leave and that she is not allowed to be there. The manager said she told the agency that she doesn't need anymore workers. The conversation of my girlfriend being fired and told that she couldn't be there was in a group of 30 people. This made her feel really uncomfortable and embarrassed cause she didn't do anything wrong. They handled it very unprofessionally.

When she called the agency when she got home she explained the situation and they said they would get back to her. They called her back shortly after and they said that the manager never called the agency to report any layoffs. It turns out the manager fired someone else on friday with a similar name to my girlfriends name. The thing is the other person is 30 years older than my gf, doesn't have the same name and looks completely different .

Any advice is much appreciated.

Answer:
 What are you looking for? Firing her is legal. Being unprofessional is legal.

She should talk to the agency and look for a new jobAnswer #2: The agency should try to find her a new job, if she is indeed fired.  If not, she should go back to work.

If you're asking "can she sue and get money for this," the answer is no.


Title: Comcast is trying to charge me $2,116.88 in spite of contrary verbiage in their own contract

Question:
I have a a Comcast Business account. On 11/30/2014, my business terminated operations and I have personally moved to a different state. When I called to cancel my business account, they tried to hit me with an early termination fee of $2,116.88, but I feel that their contract verbiage is such that I should not be charged an early termination fee in this case.

Customer service representatives tell me that business closure is not a situation that allows for waiving the fee. However, the contract specifically states in Article 1 that termination charges may be imposed **if** Customer terminates **without** cause. Furthermore, Article 5.2, which defines "Termination for Cause" specifically includes "either party has become [...] involved in [...] termination of its business" in the verbiage.

Am I misinterpreting? Do I have a case here? I am prepared to get an attorney involved.

The sections I am interested in are highlighted in these images: http://imgur.com/a/gVaUw

The full document is available online: http://business.comcast.com/docs/default-source/terms-conditions/bussvcsver_23_published_141017.pdf?sfvrsn=0

Answer:
 Wait.  You had a business but you *personally* signed up for the business' Comcast account?  This sort of thing is exactly why you need to create a separate legal entity like an LLC or a corporation.

That said, Article 5.2(c) of the contract states that a business may terminate a **Service Order** if the business ceases to exist.  It does **not** allow termination of an **existing contract**.  Look in the "Definitions" listed in Article 1 of the contract and you can see that a "service order" is different from the agreement itself.

So Article 5.2(c) does not help you here.


Title: Can a cop pull you over for no reason?

Question: [deleted]

Answer:
 They need a reason to pull you over, but proving they pulled you over for no reason is very hard to prove.

You went over the white line
You went over the yellow line
You accelerated too quickly for the area
You braked too hard.
I saw you on your phone
You tossed a a cig out your window

I can go on but in the end you had an illegal car and got caught.


Title: Help us define whether or not my friend, a salaried general manager, is being exploited.

Question:
I'm almost positive that a friend is being exploited. They are from Indiana and we have little idea on how to deal with this.

They are a salaried general manager at a franchise fast food joint with all the responsibilities of all employees combined. They have to make food, scheduling, ordering, show up for redundant weekly meetings at a different location 5+ miles away. Of which the salaried person is responsible for taking supplies back to the store including paychecks, that's typical overhead that the company owners are weaseling. The salaried workers are not being compensated for gas/time at said meetings. The list goes on and on, including threat of being fired for things that are out of their control. Chastised for CUSTOMERS not taking a survey. If they fail an inspection in any way even if the aforementioned general manager is not there, they will be fired instantly.

They understand that legal loopholes and the whole U.S. work force is being screwed but they have had enough. They are more than willing to just put in two weeks and move on but I have a feeling that they shouldn't be working 50+ hours a week and having to come in on time off if any employee calls off. The environment that the company provides is unrealistic as in the aforementioned salaried manager is expected to do all paperwork in store and on the clock yet the standards (labor dollars) are near impossible. Meaning if labor gets too high while they are supposed to be doing manager type paperwork they will be punished/written up. So they do things like schedules at home (off the clock) and so do ALL the other salaried managers. It's getting worse and more nit picky every month.

Any info would be so very helpful. Thank You for your time!

Answer:
 >So they do things like schedules at home (off the clock) and so do ALL the other salaried managers.

There's no such thing as off the clock. If my boss calls me at 11:00 on a Friday night and says he needs something by morning, I do it. That's the nature of being on salary. Don't like it? Quit.


Title: [NY] Possible trap by my building's board?

Question:
Hello,

I'm writing today to get some advice on an ongoing situation in my building.

A little background information: last summer we were forced out of our apartment for 3 months in order for construction to be done to the building's plumbing pipes under our floors (we live on the ground floor and there is no additional rooms or floors beneath us). At the time we were given written confirmation by the board and management company that our floors would be fixed and we would be reimbursed for our lodging during the three months. However our board reneged.

Since then,  we have been at odds with the board.  We do not do anything to actively engage or provoke them but needless to say the relationship has soured greatly.

We have been working to get ourselves voted onto the board along with others in the building.  However,  it has been over a year since the last annual shareholders meeting was held.  Recently,  someone sent out building wide letters calling out the board for their actions and implying that they would sue.

We have had zero involvement in the letter,  we have only put our names forward to be on the ballot.

Today, we received a call from the management office stating that they would like us to go to the board meeting tomorrow because they want to "explain the responsibilities" of a board member to us.  This is odd because the meetings are usually not held on Thursdays. And when we wanted to speak at a board meeting last year to discuss our situation, we were barred because they said it was for board members only.

My question is, are we obligated to go to this meeting? Is this something that boards usually do?

Answer:
 What possible trap could they set? If you see a big piece of cheese under a suspended net, don't grab it.

You are not obligated to go to the meeting. But I think you should go. This may be your only chance to address these people for some time. At worst, they tell you to pound sand (at which point you get a lawyer). At best, you may actually be board members now.  Answer #2: You are not obligated to go anywhere at anytime unless ordered by a government.

Boards usually have pre-board meetings to discuss board duties. Answer #3: You should be more concerned about the lack of an annual meeting than this one\-off meeting. What do your by\-laws say regarding holding the annual meeting? Are the shareholders receiving the annual financial statement?

In my building when new people want to run for the board we hold an informal session where we outline the amount of time we spend and duties of the board, plus answer their questions. The last thing we want is for someone to quit mid\-year because it's more time consuming or difficult than they thought.


Title: (Arkansas) I paid for and received laser tattoo removal. Before tattoo was completely removed, company shut down. Now, I have a halfway-removed tattoo, and I'm not sure what to do.

Question:
Background: I have a tattoo I regret and want removed. I contacted a laser tattoo removal company. The consultant provided an estimate of how many sessions I would need for the tattoo to be completely gone, as well as an estimate for price per session. The consultant said my tattoo would need 6 laser sessions at $200 per session. I prepaid for that many sessions, with the assumption being that the tattoo would be gone by the last session. The sixth session was completed, but the tattoo was only about halfway removed. The consultant said that every session thereafter would only be $150 since each subsequent session was not included in the initial estimate. So, 8 weeks after the last session (which was the 10th session btw), I contacted them to schedule my next (i.e.- 11th) session. The consultant informs me that they have closed permanently and will no longer be doing laser tattoo removal.

Do I have any legal recourse here? I've spent close to $1700 and my tattoo is nowhere close to being fully gone. It's almost gone, but it's still clearly visible.

Answer: You have two issues. First, whether the estimate was binding on the tattoo company. Did they promise that $1200 would get rid of the tattoo? Second, assuming the company *did* promise to get rid of the tattoo for $1200, whether there are any assets to recover. If it is a corporation or LLC that dissolved, it will either be impossible or very challenging to recover.


Title: Just got my second 2nd speeding ticket and need some advice badly!

Question: [deleted]

Answer:
 On Mercury, speeders are launched into low orbit to roast in the Sun's deadly radiation.   In your country, state, or province the penalties are probably lesser.

In general, online traffic school can only be used to reduce the fine for one ticket in a period of time.    Because Mercury years are shorter than Earth years, that is another location-dependent factor.

The insurance ticket may be reduced or dismissed if you get your insurance re-instated and go to court to appeal the ticket.    Some jurisdictions dismiss the ticket completely, some make you pay court costs, some reduce it a small amount.    District courts on Mercury reduces the fine by 50%, but the Municipal Court in Sol City makes you pay the whole fine.


Title: [Arizona] Am I responsible for my parents' rental lease after their deaths?

Question:
Both of my parents have died in the past 3 weeks. They had been living in Arizona for the past 3 years after emigrating from Ireland.

I am flying back over there this Friday to sort out everything with the house they were renting and when I emailed their landlord about meeting him to get the key he said that their lease isn't up until December and he needs it to be paid out.

Their rent is $1,200/month so he is looking for $9,600 as they already paid for this month. I guess they have technically broken their lease, but that seems excessive. I plan on only being there for 1 week to get everything out of the house. It's in a nice area and is a nice house so he shouldn't have any problems finding new tenants.

I don't think he should lose money because of my parents' deaths but he also shouldn't profit from it which he would if he's paid $9,600 and is able to rent out within a month.

Does he have legal grounds to make me pay out the remainder of their lease?

TLDR; Parents' landlord wants me to pay out the remainder of their lease after their deaths.

Answer:
 I'm sorry for your loss.

The landlord may have grounds to make your parents' estate pay valid amounts due under the legal agreement.  But *you* wouldn't owe anything, and the estate would stop owing rent when the apartment is relet to someone else.

Are there assets in your parents' estate?  If there are you might let your probate attorney address this matter.Answer #2: As stated by others, you are not responsible for the lease.  You need to get everything out of the house, fast, and then clean the home and return the keys.

The LL cannot just demand the lease be "Paid Out".  He is required to attempt to mitigate his losses, and make every effort to re-rent the home as soon as you return the keys and empty apartment.

You likely need an estate lawyer to deal with the rest.  Good luck.Answer #3: Your parent's estate is responsible for your parent's debt.  That would include paying off the lease as appropriate.

You personally aren't unless you directly co-signed the lease.Answer #4: You're not responsible for the lease, your parents' estate is.

As far as whether or not the lease terminates upon the death of the tenant, you'll have to see what the contract actually says. It's possible that the lease continues, but if the lease is broken, the landlord has a duty to try to rent out the unit to mitigate his damages.


Title: Is this relationship legal? (MN and WI)

Question:
My brother recently came home and told me that his best friend, who is 15 and in MN, is dating an 18 year old woman that is going to college in WI.

I’m sort of think that that age gap is a bit large and am a bit concerned as his parents don’t know about it. I’m just wondering if it’s a legal relationship? Do the differences in states make it trickier?

I’m not sure that it’ll really be a problem in the end as I suspect it will fall apart the longer she’s in college but I’m just wondering. Thanks!

Answer:
 > told me that his best friend, who is 15 and in MN, is dating an 18 year old woman that is going to college in WI.

Is it legal for your brother's friend to lie to him? Yes. Because this sounds like a variation of the "my girlfriend's in Canada."

It is illegal in both states to engage a 15 y/o in sexual conduct.


Title: Apartment complex requiring all notice of visitors parking at complex, background checks for frequent guests.

Question:
I live in Alabama and I just renewed my yearly lease about a month ago. We just received a letter on the 18th (dated for the 14th) which is included [here.](http://i.imgur.com/u1KJf8q.png)

It shows that any guests need a temporary parking pass that is set to expire. Anybody that parks at my apartment over 10 days a year will need to be listed on the lease as an occupant and will have to pass a 5 year background check and give a copy of their driver's license.

Our lease only states that we are not allowed to double park, park in the car wash, block garages, park on the curbs, etc.

We do not have assigned parking for tenants nor do we have designated visitor parking.

I will admit, we've had parking issues for a while now and the complex has tried several things but I feel like this is a little extreme and effectively makes it very hard for me to have guests over whenever I like. They tried to issue visitors tags without all the extra baggage before but never could get all the forms turned in. They claim this is the next best option for everyone.

My girlfriend feels as though she shouldn't have to sign any paperwork just to be able to come over more than 10 days a year and is very reluctant to have her name anywhere on my lease because of experiences of her own in the past.

What are my options for fighting this? Should I contact the company that owns the property instead of my local office?

**Edit:** I appreciate all the advice given. I don't think anything has been broken on the lease by doing this, it's just a big PITA. I'll be checking with my neighbors to see what their thoughts are. Perhaps if enough residents are aggravated about it they might change it. Thanks.

Answer:
 What does your lease say about parking for guests? If it is not guaranteed, you may have an uphill battle here.

They are not denying or restricting your parking here. They are denying or restricting the ability of others not listed on your lease to park. That is reasonable, especially if guest parking is extremely limited.