Title: Is this extortion?

Question:
TL;DR: I stole a few hundred dollars from the register at my work, but my employer is accusing me of stealing more than 6 times the actual amount. He is threatening to call the police if I don't pay him the amount he's claiming. He has no video evidence of my theft but coerced me to sign a document agreeing to pay him.

The long version:
I stole several hundred dollars from my workplace to pay for medical bills. I've had several trips to the emergency room for serious health problems and a change in my insurance, and after exhausting as many resources as I could think of, I panicked. My boss caught me (although he does not have any video evidence - we don't have CCTV in the store) and is now accusing me of stealing nearly $3,000 based purely on *all* of the voided transactions that occurred during my shifts over a three month period. However, 7 or 8 of the days in question I was not working and wasn't in the store at all. He says this "doesn't matter" and that he is still holding me accountable for all of his perceived losses during this time period.

First of all, I'm not sure how (if it's possible at all) I can prove that I did not steal the amount he claimed I stole. I have bank records of the deposits I made and the medical bills I paid from this account, but because the money was all in cash, I get that that's not really proof and probably wouldn't hold water in court. I confessed to stealing the real amount (~$400) but asserted that I wasn't behind any more losses. I understand that it's theft either way, and I've fucked up big time, but the difference between $400 stolen and $3000 stolen is no small matter. From what I understand, it's the difference between a misdemeanor and grand larceny if he were to press charges.

I know that I did commit a crime and it is both perfectly legal and absolutely understandable that he would terminate my employment (which he has done) and take legal action (which he has not done, and says he does not want to do). However, he has threatened to take me to court if I do not pay the full amount he calculated - around $2500. Under this threat, and one of my crime being exposed publicly, I signed a document he handwrote agreeing that I owed him the amount he claimed. I realize now that I shouldn't have signed it and should have waited to find legal representation, but I was feeling intimidated and panicked. My boss basically told me that if I didn't cooperate now I would end up owing a lot more money, and going through a lot more trouble, in the future. He tried to frame the difference between $400 and $2500 as a "consequence" or "payment" for my actions, and an alternative to having the authorities involved.

I don't want this to go to court - I'm 20, struggling with a lot of medical issues and PTSD after a serious recent trauma, and just want to make the situation right. I can't really handle a legal battle right now, and I don't have money to hire or consult with a lawyer. I also would love to keep this incident as private as possible. However, I feel that if it *did* go to court, he wouldn't have sufficient evidence to prosecute. There are no tapes to prove that I stole the money, and his only evidence is that money was missing from the register during some shifts when I was working. By signing a document agreeing to pay him for the amount he claimed (even though it was in the context of what seemed like coercion) have I fucked myself over in the legal sense? Could he use this document, and any payments I make to him (no payments have been made yet) as evidence that I am guilty of theft? Does he have to prove that I am solely responsible for the full amount he claims, or have I backed myself into a corner by putting my name on his document?

My employer is a pretty kind and forgiving man who I really do believe has his heart in the right place. I don't think any of us truly want to go to court, and I don't believe that he is being malicious or scheming. In all likelihood he has no other explanation for the losses he thinks he's suffered (remember, this is based only on voided transactions - his bookkeeping is not great) and I am the easy choice for pinning responsibility. I'm in no position to be given the benefit of the doubt, and my word means nothing to him right now.

I know I didn't steal this amount and although I want to return the money I did take over time (when I am financially able to), I also feel it's not right for him to essentially "charge me a fee" under the table. The total amount he claims I stole is a huge amount of money for me right now, enough to make or break me - I have medical bills, rent, credit card bills, educational costs, etc. I can't afford to pay him $2000 more than I took, but I don't know how to say no to his demands. I'm afraid that if it went to court, he would be able to convict and I would end up paying even more money than what he claims.

What should I do? What are my rights?

Answer:
 You need a lawyer, dude. You are going to jail. Answer #2: Your (former) employer is not a kind and forgiving man if you're at all telling the truth. He's exploiting you as you're young and inexperienced and yes you need a lawyer to help you deal with this situation.

Please don't steal, it's a shitty thing to do as you're now undoubtedly discovering as your kind and forgiving former boss is now trying to force you to pay him or else.Answer #3: >his only evidence is that money was missing from the register during some shifts when I was working.

That and the document you signed admitting you stole $2500.


Title: Are stickers in public places considered a crime?

Question:
I'm making labels with the website address for my comic and was planning to send them out to subscribers and patrons.  But I wanted to make sure if they or my site could be held accountable if the stickers are found on public property like at schools, coffee shops, bus stops, etc.

I would like people to use the stickers to publicize the comic but I also don't want to advise them to use them to do anything illegal.

Location Edit: I am in California but my readers are mostly across America and Canada.

Answer:
 Providing you don't tell them to post them in unauthorized places, you can't be held liable for what they do with them after they leave your hands.

They can certainly be held liable.  And your reputation can certainly suffer.


Title: In Kansas. Got a speeding ticket and would like to know if I can get it amended.

Question: [deleted]

Answer:
 Well your first mistake was speeding in JOCO.

Q: How can I keep a moving violation from going on my driving record?

A: You are no longer able to double your fine to keep moving violations off of your driving record. The Johnson County District Attorney’s office offers a diversion program which prevents it from going on your driving record.
For more information please see the District Attorney’s website http://da.jocogov.org/faq/traffic OR CONTACT (913)-715-3011.

Source : http://courts.jocogov.org/dc_traffic.aspx


Title: I have verified the active participation of a married politician on Ashley Madison. The evidence against him is explicit, extensive, and incontestable. Now I want to expose this guy. However, I first want to give him a chance to resign, but I want to make sure my plan isn't blackmail.

Question:
Before contacting the media (which I plan to do anonymously), I want to give this guy the opportunity to avoid having his reputation permanently destroyed. He has a young family, and my preference is to not drag their husband and father through the mud publicly if that can be avoided.

What I want to do is send this politician an anonymous email in which I provide him with irrefutable proof of his infidelity. At the end of that email, I will give him a short period of time to quietly resign. I want to let him know that if he does not resign within that period of time, the evidence of his infidelity will be published far and wide. I don't want him to do anything other than resign. I want no money or any other goods or services from him.

Is there anything illegal about my plan? Is it blackmail? If so, do you have any suggestions for how I might modify it?

Edit: Thank you all for your responses, and thank you especially to /u/Kelv37, /u/jasperval, and /u/Kakkerlak for answering my question without assuming a bunch of false facts.

Answer:
 Yeah this is textbook blackmail.Answer #2: Why would you think this wasn't blackmail?Answer #3: Everything about your plan is illegal.

Youre not the morality police. Just stop.


Title: I have a credit card number. Can I obtain the owner's name in any way? [California]

Question: I need to verify the person who swiped his card is actually someone he claimed to be.

Answer: I'm pretty sure you are not being truthful here, as the magstrip on a credit card that is swiped includes the account holder's name.


Title: Victim of Rape & Pregnant: Can I consider adoption?

Question:
Hi ya'll. I currently have an on-going investigation because I was raped (not that it matters about who, but WP Cadet). I'd like to consider adoption, but I am unsure of the family and/or military laws that pertain to that. Since it is an on-going investigation and the accused hasn't been labelled as guilty yet, what are the legal implications I should be aware of when considering adoption as the option.

I do have a lawyer for the criminal case but I am unsure if I am able to use her for the custody or adoption portion. Either way, I am worried and unsure of what to do. I am around 17 weeks. I would like to start considering adoptive families but I am worried he (and if he has a lawyer) may try to intervene. I am about 16 weeks now.

Answer:
 Your state is absolutely going to matter here.

As for the lawyer, I am not completely sure why you have one, the victim in a criminal case typically does not need to hire a lawyer but if you like them just ask about the custody issue. If they don't handle family law they likely know a lawyer who does.


Title: [Britain] Nephew got kicked out of college

Question:
My nephew has been working really hard in college, but he fell one mark shot and was kicked out for having poor grades.

As the dean read him his results, he laughed in his face as he told him that he'd been kicked out.

I guess they were **legally** right to kick him out, but can he get any relief in a civil court?

The dean's laugh could be seen as prejudice against him. Then again, just one mark could mean the difference between him becoming a professional or doing odd jobs for the rest of his life.

Answer: Relief for what? He didn't meet the standards. You have to draw the line somewhere.Answer #2: I'm confused. How is the dean having any sort of prejudice against your nephew make him fail his class? It's on your nephew to pass his classes and the dean has nothing to do with that.


Title: Is it necessary to call an attorney after an accident?

Question:
I was rear ended last night while on the way to the store with my 6 yr old daughter. I have some soreness and stiffness today and a scratch on my bumper. I went to the dr this morn they gave me muscle relaxers and a shot. The man who hit me has USAA auto insurance.
I'm not sure if it's necessary to call an attorney. I spoke with my mom who says I should hire an attorney.
Not sure what to do at this point.
Edit: this occurred in georgia

Answer:
 If the other insurance is going to pay your expenses (repairs/medical/rental/lost wages/etc.) without a fight, then there's no reason for an attorney.

If you don't think they are paying what they should, then talking to an attorney may be a good idea.Answer #2: In Georgia it isn't necessary to hire an attorney if the other party's insurance overs to cover all your bills. It's only when they don't make an offer that covers your losses that you need an attorney. Many times you get those daytime TV commercials, but usually those law offices don't get you much better than the initial offer without some sort of aggravating factor that probably doesn't exist in your case.

I think that if USAA offers to cover your medical bills and to fix up your bumper then calling a lawyer will likely leave you with less money (after you pay the lawyer) rather than more.


Title: Friend died of OD and cops took his phone

Question: his gf paid for the phone and was paying for the service as well. are they allowed to take the phone and go through it without a warrant? this just happened about an hour ago

Answer:
 If he is dead, yes.

The dead have no expectation of privacy. They probably need to search it to see where he got the drugs he OD’d on.

Some states (including mine) have somewhat of a murder statute for someone who sells drugs to a subject that results in their death. Answer #2: If you are worried about what they are going to find...remember not to talk to the police without a lawyer present. If you know of incriminating stuff on the phone involving you, you should start researching criminal defense attorneys now so you know who to call.


Title: Ways to protect original artistic designs when submitting to an international fashion company?

Question:
Hi legaladvice!  Throwaway here, due to giving specific locations and details.  :)

I am an independent artist who currently lives in Seattle, WA, USA.  I have created several silk scarf designs--these are very intricate, and each one took me quite a while.  I want to submit these designs to a luxury brand (rhymes with Fermes, and is an international company that is based out of Paris, France).  If the brand doesn't want to use the designs, then I plan to print and sell them myself (I don't want "Fermes" to be able to retain rights, if they are not going to use the designs/we don't agree on payment).
I was told to bring in a physical portfolio of my work to the flagship store in Paris, where I will be visiting in a few weeks.  I may also be asked to send in digital copies of my work.

**I'm wondering if there is any verbage I can include in my portfolio/on my designs to help maintain my rights** (until I decide to sign any rights over, if I decide to do that).  Would "all rights reserved" be enough?  Is there even a point in trying to retain rights, since the company is French and I'm American (so legal issues would be tricky)?

My main concern is not that they would steal my designs and print/sell them without my permission.  My main concern is that they would reject my designs, but then also say that *I* cannot sell the designs because they now own those designs.

Any advice would be wonderful, thank you!

Answer:
 Visual artist here:

I'd recommend sending lower-res versions of the design digitally, but include a few close up detail shots. If they still want you to send the original design at full resolution, it's watermark time!

Unfortunately, big name companies rip off small artists all the time and quite shamelessly. (Look up the YYZ pillow controversy at home sense). They will keep selling it until the public outcry causes them to stop but at that point they have already taken credit and made money on someone else's work.


Title: Poorly placed construction barrier damaged my car. Options?

Question:
I was out driving on the highway (SR-520 in Seattle, WA) this morning. One of the exit ramps was closed off with orange traffic barrels, and one of the barrels was sticking out into the road by about a foot. This is a narrow two lane road and by the time I saw the barrel there was no room to swerve around it. It ended up trashing my passenger side mirror and scraping the door. Do I have any options to make a claim against the DOT, or will this just have to hit my insurance?

I had to drive back the other direction on the way home and got a clear view of the barrel. It was still sticking out and other cars were slowing down and swerving to avoid it. I have photos of my car, but there was nowhere I could stop to get a photo of the barrel.

Answer: You should certainly inform DOT so they can relocate the barrel, but the bottom line is that you drove into a brightly coloured stationary object. If you didn't see it until it was too late to avoid it, I can only surmise that it is because you failed to look far down the road to spot potential hazards, as a driver ought to. Answer #2: You're going to have to run it through your insurance. You're responsible for being aware of what's in front of your car. Running into a blaze orange barrel is your issue, not the DOT's.


Title: Do I have any claim to property that was left to me and six other people in a will?

Question: My grandfather passed away in 2005. He left his home to all three of his daughters AND all four grandchildren (of which I'm one). One of his daughters moved into the home (my aunt) and her two sisters (my mom and other aunt) signed quitclaim deeds. The aunt who moved into the home also had her two children sign quitclaim deeds. In short, the only people who DID NOT sign quitclaim were the aunt who moved in and my sister and I. Here's the thing - my sister and I knew nothing about the home being left to us until yesterday. The aunt who lives in the home has willed it to her children (who signed quitclaims back in 2005). What should my sister and I do? Can we ask our aunt to buy us out of our third of the home? If we don't do anything, what happens if my aunt passes away? Would my sister and I then own the home - or our cousins who it was willed to through our aunt (even though they signed quitclaims)? I am in Tulsa, OK. The home in question is also in Oklahoma, but not in Tulsa.

Answer:
 So you were left property in a will but the executor never notified you.  This is fraud on the part of the executor (who was, let me guess, the aunt who is living in the home).

You need to get a hold of a copy of Granddad's will, the current property records for this property, and find yourself an estate lawyer.  Now that you know of the fraud, you have a limited time to act, so don't delay.Answer #2: > Can we ask our aunt to buy us out of our third of the home?

Yes, you can.

> If we don't do anything, what happens if my aunt passes away?

Her 2/3 would pass to her descendants.  Your 1/3 would be unaffected.


Title: The neighbors aggressive dog killed my cat. Anything I can do legally about it?

Question:
Ok, I've had this cat for about 8 years and she was really special to me. She had a very unique personality, ect..  I just bought a house in October and moved to a new neighborhood. There a several dogs around but my neighbor's is a known menace to everyone.  He growls and barks at friends that come to my house and I've had to hit him with a stick just to get my mail before.  My back yard is chained in but after my landscapers mowed my yard they left the gate open and sure enough the bastard killed my cat.  I'm pretty sure there's a leash law in effect but I'm not 100%.  I want to approach them about it but I don't want to say the wrong thing and make it worse.  Basically I think they should either keep the dog contained to their property or get rid of it.

How should I handle this situation?

Answer:
 You can report them to animal control. Sorry about your cat.Answer #2: You *may* also be able to sue them in small claims court for the value of your cat if you think it was worth it. Legally, animals are considered property and since their property destroyed your property, you are owed the value of your property. Answer #3: You won't get much for your lost pet, unless it was a rare purebreed that cost thousands. You say "known menace", has it been declared aggressive? If so and has been involved in a biting incident before, a call to Animal Control will probably force them to put it down.

Leash laws don't protect aggressive dogs.


Title: For FL divorce, can I be arrested OUTSIDE of FL for refusing to pay alimony?

Question:
If a Floridian judge awards my ex-wife spousal support and I willfully and intentionally disobey the ruling (charged with contempt of court), someone told me that as long as I don't step foot of Florida ever again, I cannot get arrested/incarcerated.

This is NOT for child support.

I know she can garnish my wages but I can repeatedly quit to frustrate her.

She lives in FL and I live in another state.

Answer:
 > someone told me that as long as I don't step foot of Florida ever again, I cannot get arrested/incarcerated.

They're wrong on that.  Interstate arrest and extradition happens all the time.

It's certainly possible that a particular warrant may not be serviced outside the state, but that's a per-case decision.Answer #2: That is, scientifically speaking, fake news. You can be arrested and sent back to Florida to face charges.Answer #3: 1] you are ordered to pay

2] you don't

3] she goes back to court, you are found in contempt, you are ordered to pay her Attorney's fees for this.

4] she goes back to court, a bench warrant for contempt and failure to appear is issued, you are ordered to pay her attorneys fees for this.

5] you get pulled over for rolling stop at a stop sign.

6] you break out in a bad case of handcuffs.

7] you spend 3 days handcuffed in a van driving from jaol to jail until you get to the county where the warrant is.

8] you pay it to get out of jail.Answer #4: You'd see a lot more people doing that if that were the case.


Title: Father sold Mother's retirement without her consent, just told her recently while he told her he was filing divorce. (PA).

Question:
My father sold my mothers retirement and used it to pay for a payment of hers without telling her. I wasn't sure if this was legal or not and if she should seek help? they're currently going through a divorce and my mother does not have any money as she quit her career for him to climb the ladder for a big job move early in their marriage. He is trying to pull any money from her that he can and it doesn't feel legally sound to me. All help welcome.
edit: he took the money out, didn't sell.

Answer: Husband took money out of the marital estate during a pending divorce action? If Wife does not have an attorney yet, she should get one.


Title: 18, just moved out of my parents house and they are withholding my State ID and Birth Certificate from me (Texas)

Answer: You don't provide any detail at all, so it's a little hard to help, but [here's a link](https://txapps.texas.gov/tolapp/ovra/index.htm) about getting a copy of your birth certificate, and [here's a link](http://www.dmv.org/tx-texas/id-cards.php) that includes information about replacing a Texas state ID card.  The latter page mentions reporting the ID card as stolen, which you may want to do, depending on the circumstances.


Title: TX Pregnant Friend was caught with a baggie with residue on it. Sheriffs came looking for her at a house she was previously staying in.

Question:
Hello,

I am typing this on behalf of someone.

My friend is 8 months pregnant and has a warrant. When she was caught they found a baggie with residue on her. She kept her mouth shut but they still charged her with drug possession but didn't arrest her.

The other day the sheriffs came looking for her. She doesn't work or anything. She tried calling county but got no where. No court date no nothing.

I told her to get a lawyer but she has no money. Anyways would it be a good idea to turn herself in? Maybe she being pregnant might let them be more lenient? Although i might try and help her with money in the future and work something with a lawyer when I am able to save up myself.

Also she is going to an out patient rehab. Methodome Clinic. She use to be a lot worst. As far as I know she barely does any.

Answer:
 Yeah she should go see an attorney because the police finding something that could harm the child might end up with her not getting to keep it.

Her being pregnant makes it worse, since whatever she's on is getting passed to the fetus. Answer #2: She really, *really* needs to consult a lawyer before doing **anything**.


Title: [WA] Employees are using data aggregator to legally get nude dating site photos of their bosses going back over a decade. No implicit blackmail is involved. How can this situation be fixed without firing the entire company?

Answer:
 If you have a or several contract employees you wish to fire and are not sure their behavior has reached the level of giving you cause.  Consult with your attorney.

You're being too vague. The way you've written this multiple employees have found nude pictures of multiple bosses (one of the effect managers) , you will/can not describe any of the circumstances  everyone has employee contracts.


Title: Publishing a website containing college logos and a fake transcript.

Question: [deleted]

Answer: Do you also want help making your offer letter for that Vanderlay Industries internship?


Title: I have no access to health insurance, both my father and the state are hurting me [MA]

Question:
A little backstory: I turned 18 over half a year ago, and my dad promptly kicked me out a month later. My mother passed away, however, so I get survivor's benefits from Social Security. I tried going through MassHealth for health insurance since at the time I was homeless, and was granted it. However, they contacted me a month later saying that they discovered I already had health insurance, so mine was being canceled. I tried telling them that It wasn't mine, and they said once I'm off of my father's plan then they would reinstate me.

I contacted my dad's health insurance company and asked them to take me off my father's health insurance, and they said that they couldn't, and my dad had to go through his employer, and they could not send me insurance information since I was not the owner of the plan. So, I contacted my father, and he refuses. So right now I need some kind of medical care, am unable to un-enroll/get insurance information from my father, and cannot enroll in state healthcare, and I have a part-time job so I am not offered health insurance through my employer. What options do I have?

Answer: You are still on your dad's plan, is this somehow preventing you from getting healthcare?


Title: Do defense attorneys ever argue that the jury should vote to nullify?

Answer:
 And risk getting benchslapped with sanctions or contempt?  Nah.

I'm sure it has happened (to someones detriment), but unlikely to be a frequent thing.


Title: Backed into car, left note but have yet to hear anything after a week. What do I do?

Question:
MD. I backed into a car late one night, was very distraught and panicked. Had to leave and have a friend write/secure the note (which was done). Didn't get the license number (dumb for lots of reasons). I didn't think there was much besides paint and maybe scratches, but I was also in tears and it was dark.

Now I have yet to hear anything, and I worry that they didn't get my note (which had name/contact info) and that there could be a dent or something (my car has just the impression of the license plate frame). My friend said the car was gone on Monday.

I called the university police and they said there was nothing I could do if I left my info and heard nothing. I'm not their jurisdiction goes in that part of town though.

What do I do? It pains me that there could be any kind of cost for this other person, much less the potential repercussions if they didn't get the note at all.

Answer:
 > What do I do?

Nothing.  You've done all you can.  If they contact you, give them your insurance info.Answer #2: How nice of a car was it? I've found notes from people that have backed into my car before and just ignored them. But I also drive older vehicles that are already not in great shape. One more dent and/or scratch is not going to make a big difference. It is likely the person saw the note and just didn't think it was a big deal.


Title: Consequences for lying about my age to buy stocks?

Question:
I’m 14, and I’d like to start getting into the stock market so I can have experience investing. I downloaded a stock trading app that asked for my age, and when I put in my birthday, I was denied access for being a minor. Could I just lie about my age and sign up anyways? Or do I have to, by law, actually *be 18* to trade stocks?  If this is the wrong subreddit, please direct me to the correct one so I can resolve this issue. Thanks
Topic:
Juvenile and Youth Law

Answer:
 There are many free websites that allow you to trade fake money on real stock performance to learn, and get experience. You should play around with these until you’re of legal age to get an idea of how it all works.Answer #2: Yes you have to be 18 to trade stocks, you have to give SSN as far as i know so they know exactly who you areAnswer #3: Lying to the government? Yes it’s usually perjury. Don’t lie on forms that the FEC reviews. I’m not a securities attorney, but you could likely set up some type of trustee account with a broker, but you would need to involve your parents.

If you are thinking of day trading, no, you aren’t going to be able to do that.


Title: Pending Divorce and renting. Can my spouse move back in?

Question:
I'm asking for a friend who is experiencing a problem. They are both on the lease of a house.  Husband who moved out and is living across town is refusing to remove his name from lease of house. He has made the divorce process very hard and said he couldnt afford to pay half of the $249 it takes to file in state of Oklahoma. Friend is ready to just pay it to get it done with as ex is doing some shady things such as refusing to change address so he can continue to pick up his mail and emotionally harass friend. We understand divorce process if he wont sign in person ie: serving him papers and waiting on response but my freind is afraid of him trying to move back in. She has already spoken to landlord who says without signed papers he cant do anything.

What options are there?

Answer:
 >  Husband who moved out and is living across town is refusing to remove his name from lease of house.

People can't just remove themselves from a lease.

To remove someone from a lease, *everyone* named on the lease, plus the landlord, all need to agree to do so.  If any one of those people doesn't agree to it, the name stays on the lease until the lease concludes.

What this usually involves is everyone agreeing to prematurely end the existing lease, then a brand-new lease is signed with everyone except that one individual.

If his name is on the lease, he likely has a legal entitlement to be there.


Title: Real Estate Nightmare

Question:
I'm trying to buy a house out in Virginia and have been very accommodating to the sellers. I paid for a septic test and found out that the drain field system has to be replaced, which the sellers agreed to do.

Problem is, the new drain field proposed by the septic company is located directly between two outbuildings. Outbuilding one has two bay doors on opposite ends, with one bay door directly going into the proposed drain field. Across the drain field is a pole barn.

After I found out where the septic company decided to put the drain field I called the engineer of the company to see how this would effect my ability to use the buildings. He stated that there was no other location (on ten acres) that passed the percolation test, that the system was only going to be 18-24 inches, and that only a lawnmower could drive over this area.

To make matters worse, my realtor is not helping me fix the situation at all. She told me my only options are to void the contract, in which I lose my earnest money, or I can follow through on the contract with the septic installed in the proposed location. To put it in context, the current owners have two RVs parked here and also have a boat on a trailer parked in the pole barn. They use the area in a way which will be denied me after I buy the house.

Since my realtor and her broker (they are best friends, yay) have hung me out to dry, I've spent the past day trying to contact a real estate attorney and the county environmental department to see what I can do. The proposed septic system also runs underneath my gravel driveway, which is also incredibly disconcerting.

I'm also a veteran and the house will be under a VA loan, if that helps at all. I feel stuck right now and any advice would be appreciated.

Answer: If you made the offer in good faith, and cannot receive the property in the shape it was supposed to be in, I don't see why you can't get your earnest money back. But a real estate attorney will be better to talk to.


Title: Can we leave? And if not how do we? Idaho

Question: [removed]

Answer:
 I'm not going to read that novel and just skipped to the end. Your lease cannot be both month to month and obligate to you to staying for a full year. It's one or the other.

If it's a month to month lease, give your 30 days notice and bounce.


Title: UPDATE3 Dr called CPS over small baby and missed appt More Questions (WV)

Question:
Update 3

So like I said I would do yesterday, today I called CPS. No answer, as usual. I leave a message, telling her that we just had a dr appointment, doctor said she was perfect, didn't wanna see us until 4 months, and I ask if she had gotten her new records, and please call back because I'd like to speak to her.

She called back but I missed her call, she called at 7 and they close at 5 so I wasn't really expecting it anymore. She left a message, that said, (I am transcribing)
"Hi there x, it's x from CPS. I was just calling you back to let you know, I don't really need her records from her new doctor (!!!), I'm just worried about her old records. I haven't got those back from her doctor (2 times they have failed to send records!!!!), so if you would like to call over there and tell them I'm requesting them, it usually gets them sent faster. But to get the ones from your new doctor, I'd need your consent for another release of information. If you have any questions, just call me back. If not, I'll see you guys Monday. "

Okay. So 1) what the fuck has she been doing this whole time? Seriously. 2) how has her old doctor just been not sending records? Isn't that illegal? 3) why are we coming in on Monday if she has no medical records, and hasn't spoken to anyone? She literally said she's not interested in seeing anything from the new doctor. I have told her that her new doctor wants to talk to her.

So it seems like she has nothing. Do I even have to go? I don't see why.

Answer:
 Sounds like she's just trying to close it out but old dr is being difficult.  She doesn't want new records because she doesn't want more paperwork to deal
With on a case she wants to be done with.Answer #2: IANAL: If its possible for you, why not just go to the old doctor and request her records then and there? She was only in for a few visits, so I don't see why they can't print them out for you there. If they try and give you a hard time, tell them that they have until Monday to print them, and you'll stop on your way to CPS to get them. It sounds like the old doc is just trying to give you a hard time as well as being lazy.

I, personally, would also bring the new records with me, that way they can see that she's been to an actual doctor and not just this loony toon. I tend to overplan though.

Have you considered filing a complaint against the old doctor? You don't want her doing what she did to you to someone else. I've never heard of a pediatrician being so against breastfeeding! Imagine how many mothers she might have gotten to stop breastfeeding, instead of directing them to a lactation consultant! I understand that there was "concern" over your baby, but really, this doctor went about everything bass ackwards. Just my 2 cents.


Title: Leaked nudes of my wife on Dropbox

Question:
So my wife was sent a link from one of her friends to a Dropbox account/album that has over 25 different girls from our county. They are full of nudes of all of these girls and i am assuming like my wife without their knowledge or permission. All of the photos that are on there of my wife are pictures she has only sent to me after we got married. So to my question, is there any legal action we/these other girls (which we will be contacting) can take against either the person who got them or Dropbox them selves?

edit: West Virginia

edit 2: been contacting some of the other women and it looks like they are underage in some of the photos. I will be contacting the local authorities with this information.
Topic:
Other Civil Matters

Answer:
 If she only sent them to you, and you didn't share them, how did they get in dropbox?Answer #2: >All of the photos that are on there of my wife are pictures she has only sent to me after we got married.

The photos got out there somehow. You should think about that so you can prevent this situation in the future.

You can contact Dropbox but historically they have not been very responsive to this sort of thing. They see it as an issue with the user, not themselves. Without a location, we can't tell you what other options may be available to you.


Title: I found out I was adopted by my grandparents through a Facebook message from my biological father when I was 18. I need legal paternity advice.

Question:
Location: St. Louis, MO

To start, I grew up being the youngest of 5 children: a sister (36), sister (34), sister (31), and a brother (29). And myself, 18. My parents are in their lower 60s.

I always realized there was a rather large gap in ages between me and the rest of my siblings. The youngest of them, my brother, is 11 years older than me and my oldest sister is 17 years older.  I figured that I was an accident, or unplanned. That my parents were done having kids after my brother, but then I came along and was completely unplanned, hence the big gap.  Being the youngest, and a decade younger than everyone else, I didn't get to really grow up with my siblings like most siblings get to do. By the time I was 2 my oldest sister was moved out and in college and the others eventually followed. I did however get to know my brother and youngest sister very well as I spent the most time with them. And even though I felt distant from the rest of them, I felt spoiled all the time. The way they treated me was how you would expect they would treat the youngest, they nurtured me, and I was often the center of attention. And I liked it.  My family took very good care of me growing up and I am forever grateful for the life they provided me as I am extremely fortunate.

BUT they were all hiding a life changing, massive secret from me and it wasn't until I was 18 that I found out the truth about my childhood.
A couple months after I graduated high school and a month away from starting college, I received a Facebook message from a strange man. It went a little something like this:

“Hello,

Please read me to my end. I have waited until you finished high school. I did not want to interfere with your life while in school. I hope you read my entire message. My name is Jordan and I am your father. Your oldest “sister” Julia is your biological mother, and I am your biological father. Your parents are your grandparents and your older siblings are actually your aunt and uncles.  I have pictures of you as a baby, I have friends in high places that have kept tabs on you the last couple of years. I know where you go to school and work and live and have known this for years. I have seen you grow up to some extent through your Facebook profile.  I know this is very confusing and may come as a shock but if you reply I will explain everything to you. I am not going to bother you with anything more, I understand how this might freak you out but instead of calling I figured this was the best way for you to comprehend the situation.  I can tell you a few things though. Your family will tell you to delete your Facebook page and all other contact info. They tell you this because they still want to hide you from me as I have never seen you in person.  I have nothing to hide from you and only the truth to offer. I will leave it all up to you if you would like to get to know your biological dad.

Your father,
Jordan”

Now at first I thought it was some sort of spam and I ignored it because this sort of thing simply just doesn’t happen to people in real life. I thought there was absolutely no way he is my biological father. There is no way my entire family kept this secret from me my whole life. There is no way my parents aren’t actually my parents. None of that made sense what so ever.

Later that day I responded and asked the spammer to go spam somewhere else. But he was pretty damn determined to convince me that what he was saying was the complete truth. He continued to reveal personal information that only my family or a huge stalker would know. It wasn’t until my mom (grandma) looked over my shoulder and saw that I was talking to him that I knew what he was saying was the truth. My parents completely flipped when they saw this guy was messaging me. They tried to block him and even got mad at me for talking to strangers on Facebook. I didn’t question anything as I was in utter shock that my parents knew who this guy was in the first place. Later when I was alone I told Jordan that my parents flipped when they saw his name on my computer. His response: “I told you so.”

A couple days later Julia drove across the country for an emergency family meeting at my parents’ house. My parents and Julia sat me down and told me they have to tell me something. But I already knew what they were going to say, and my world turned upside down.  Julia is my birth mom and she had me when she was 17. Her parents took me in and raised me as their own so she could go to college and live a normal life. They told me my biological father left when he found out Julia was pregnant and they never heard from him again.

Now there are two sides to every story and Jordan's side of the story is very different.

Here's a brief description of what my biodad's story is:
Jordan told me he questioned if I was actually his back then, because of some unfaithfulness in his and Julia's relationship, and because of that he stayed away until I was born. When I was born, he had a friend of his take a picture of me out in public (hence he has pictures of me as a baby) and when he saw my baby picture, he said I looked just like him, and it was at that moment that he knew I was his. At that point he said he tried to be involved with my life many times but my family shut him out and called the police on him. Maybe because of anger? Now I don't know if any of this is true, but I have reasons to believe my family is hiding this part of the story from me and I'm hoping one day I can find out the actual truth.

I recently contacted him and asked for some additional evidence or proof my family kept him out of my life 18+ years ago.  He showed me a letter that Julia sent to his family back in 1997 asking him and his family to stay away from her family.  It was signed by Julia.  He also sent me documentation that his family contacted a Catholic Legal Service for a free family lawyer in 1997 but they got denied.  He told me the reason his family needed free legal help was because they could not afford it.  He also never got the chance to sign my birth certificate because of my family allegedly keeping him away.  Not I'm not 100% believing everything he's saying but I also can't trust my family 100% since he has potentially shown proof that they kept him away.  So now I have to gather evidence and confront both parties.

**I need legal advice on to what Jordan's paternity rights were back in 1997. Was the only way for him to gain legal custody of me without signing the birth certificate was to hire a lawyer and demand a paternity test? What if he couldn't afford it? Were there any other options he could have taken? Do you know if it is possible to obtain police call records from 1997 in St. Louis?  Could my grandparents really adopt me that easily? Do you believe he left the situation until I was 18 to avoid child support? Although I heard he would still have to owe it even after I'm 18.**

His timeline of events and my family's timeline of events do not match up, but he has some proof that his story may be true and my family may be lying to me.  This whole ordeal is running my life and it's hard to focus on school.  I can't trust either party right now and I need additional legal help.

Answer:
 >Was the only way for him to gain legal custody of me without signing the birth certificate was to hire a lawyer and demand a paternity test?  What if he couldn't afford it? Were there any other options he could have taken?

He didn't need a lawyer.  Paternity petitions are pretty straightforward.  He could do it himself if he had to.

>Do you know if it is possible to obtain police call records from 1997 in St. Louis.

Probably not.  You could try.

>Could my grandparents really adopt me that easily?

Depends on the circumstances.

>Do you believe he left the situation until I was 18 to avoid child support? Although I heard he would still have to owe it even after I'm 18.

If you were legally adopted, his child support obligation would be terminated.

I'm sure this must be upsetting to you, but take a breath, and consider the alternatives.  You grew up in a good family that provided for you, and you were with your blood relatives.   You could have had it much, much worse.

Your family had their reasons for doing what they did.  Seek some counseling, try to understand where they are coming from.   In your own time, you can decide if you want a relationship with your biological father.


Title: If someone committed a crime like rape or murder while sleep walking, would they still be charged with the crime?

Answer: Charged, yes, found guilty, maybe. IIRC some guy killed his wife while sleepwalking and was acquitted due to doctor testimony about his condition.


Title: [NC] Liquour store denied me service

Question: Today was my 21st birthday, so to celebrate, me and some friends went to the ABC store. The cashier looked at my license (which clearly states "Turns 21 on 08-28-2018") and asked me what time I was born. I told her I didn't know and that it didn't matter, she said she couldn't properly verify I was 21 yet. I demanded to see a manager, and he said she was right, and told me to leave or he'd call the cops. This is absolute BS. Can I call the police on them and take them to court? It's my birthday!

Answer:
 You're not entitled to purchase liquor there.  Simply go to the next liquor store and try again.

Having said that, you turn 21 on the *day*, and the *precise time of day* you were born doesn't really matter legally, if that makes you feel any better.

>Can I call the police on them

No, they didn't commit any crimes.

>and take them to court?

For what?  You have no damages.

Also, happy birthday!  Be safe!Answer #2: Take your business elsewhere and celebrate.Answer #3: You can complain about the manager here: https://abc.nc.gov/About/ContactAnswer #4: As long as you are not being refused service because of your race, gender, religion, nationality, or (in some places) sexual orientation you can be refused service for any reason, even stupid ones.Answer #5: > Can I call the police on them and take them to court?

HAH. No.Answer #6: Happy birthday! Go shop literally anywhere else and move onAnswer #7: Dick move on their part, but its not illegal. Short of writing them a bad review, there's nothing you can do.

Happy birthday! Take your business elsewhere and celebrate.


Title: Retailers questioning my nationality before service or transaction begins. Is the question itself illegal, or only if they refuse service afterwards? What should I do if it's not illegal, but morally wrong? (Michigan, USA)

Question:
Hello everyone.  I hope my question, and the manner in which I submit it, is appropriate.  This is my first post on reddit, and honestly I'm slightly nervous.

My question is about discrimination based on nationality, by private businesses such as retailers to the general public.  Specifically, these incidents happened at gas stations (petrol stations) with convenience stores, in Michigan, USA.

I haven't studied law, but I know that a retailer to the public who refuses service based on nationality is practicing illegal discrimination.  I wonder whether the question itself can be illegal, since there is no logical reason I need to explain my nationality to buy gas (petrol).  Also, what action can I take to help prevent businesses from asking these rude and intrusive questions of potential customers?

In my experiences with this type of questioning, I never get as far as processing the transaction, so I cannot predict whether I would be refused service or not.  But that is the point, because I am so disgusted by this type of behavior that I refuse to answer the question or give my money to an individual who questions my nationality or ethnic background.  Whether I'm from the "right" nations or not, I strongly believe that all peaceful and respectful people of all nationalities shouldn't be questioned in this manner in the USA.

When I'm asked these questions, I politely but firmly ask why they need to know my nationality or ethnic background to make a purchase.  Since nobody has ever given me a logical answer, I leave immediately in a calm and peaceful manner, without making a purchase.

The following are two examples of my experiences:

I enter the convenience store, smile and say "Hello" to the cashier as I always do when entering a store, and get a bottle of water from the cooler.  I place the water on the counter, and instead of greeting me or ringing up the water, he says "Are you Arabic?"  I replied "You need to know if I'm Arabic to sell me a bottle of water?"  Then the flustered backpedaling begins, with the cashier telling me he was just curious, and whatever else he tried to say as I left the water on the counter, and was already out the door.

The majority of the situations involve a similar scenario, where I enter the store, greet the cashier and smile, and attempt to make a purchase.  Before the purchase, without any small talk, I am asked by the cashier "What nationality are you?" or "What's your nationality?"  After two consecutive days of this question, I had enough and decided to ask the cashier "What's *your* nationality?" as a reply to his question.  He replied "Middle Eastern."  I said "I've never heard of that country" and left the store.

If you made it this far, here's the interesting part:  I'm a Caucasian woman, a third generation citizen of the USA, wear no religious or ethnic clothing or jewelry, and have a Michigan accent that is so distinct that some Europeans could tell I was Midwestern.  I do have facial features that are "foreign-looking" compared to "real white people", but so does the majority of people in my very ethnically diverse city.  I think the concept of "foreign looking" or "foreign sounding name" are so ridiculous in the USA, but this is the term used locally, even by law enforcement.

Every time this happens, I leave the store wondering what I should do.  Should I report the business or employee?  If so, where should I report them?  This doesn't seem nearly important enough for the ACLU or similar groups, but it's important to me.  I want to do something positive and constructive so people can buy petrol or a bottle of water without intrusive questions.  I would even be willing to carry a hidden camera, if it's legal to do so.

Thank you.

Answer:
 Third-generation Americans don’t say ‘petrol’, they say ‘gas’, keep it in mind for your next attempt.Answer #2: Sometimes a question is just a question. Have you ever been actually told you can't buy something?Answer #3: There is no law against asking a question.

If they refuse to sell to you, that's another issue.


Title: FINAL UPDATE: Landlord accuses me of smelling spicy and throwing his cat out of the window

Question:
Hello all! I have a final update for those who have followed my [landlord issues](http://www.reddit.com/r/legaladvice/comments/31xss5/landlord_accuses_me_of_smelling_spicy_and/) and [subsequent move](http://www.reddit.com/r/legaladvice/comments/322ffp/update_landlord_accuses_me_of_smelling_spicy_and/).

When Girlfriend (now Fiancee!) was doing the inspection with her dad, she had brought with her some printouts of landlord-tenant law and left them at the house with my forwarding address for a check. We weren't sure anything would come of it, and were going to have a lawyer friend write Owner a demand letter.

I don't know why or how Owner changed his mind, but perhaps the printout had something to do with it. I got two checks in the mail; one for the entire security deposit and one for the entire prorated rent amount. I guess Owner talked to his many judge friends and figured out he should avoid the penalties that come with a judgment!

We have had no further contact with the sheriff regarding the cat.

All's well that ends well. This was a crazy couple of weeks, but everything turned out fine in the end. Thanks for helping me cope, and I wish the same for you!
Topic:
Landlord Tenant Housing

Answer:
 It's funny how people in the wrong back down as soon as you make it clear that you know they're full of shit.

Good job OP, and congrats on your engagement!Answer #2: GRATS!! Cash checks asap.Answer #3: lol I love this subreddit. Stories like yours are so entertaining, it's like a brand new soap opera ever day. Glad it worked out for you.Answer #4: I will never not upvote a /r/legaladvice **UPDATE** post. Thanks for the closure.


Question:
I witnessed my (Indonesian) wife attempt to murder our daughter (Two YO), forcing her to drink bleach. Daughter recovered.

I told my mother then and wife confessed to her days later also.

Wife has disappeared with daughter now, demanding ransom over the phone ($20k). I have no legal recourse currently there, and no escape path for her.

I want my elderly mother's witness to my wife's confession to her reported legally, ASAP.  It may be useless, however some day I hope at least that my daughter could see the confession, documented at law firm here.

Could you please recommend a service type?

Answer:
 Cal the police.  Jesus Christ.Answer #2: Service type?  Call the police.Answer #3: I guess you live somewhere that calling the police when your wife tried to kill your daughter wasn't an option?Answer #4: Where are you, and where is your daughter?Answer #5: Presumably your wife has possession of your daughter's current passport. Do you have your daughter's birth certificate? Talk to the embassy again and ask how to obtain temporary emergency travel papers for your daughter. As far as I know, there's nothing preventing you from removing your daughter from Indonesia and bringing her back to the USA, provided you have the necessary travel documents.

The right lawyer in Indonesia (for the right amount of money - and believe me, a few US dollars stretch a long ways there) would have access to resources to help locate your daughter and assist with reuniting her with you. You could then go to the embassy for the necessary travel document and leave the country.Answer #6: Contact and lodge a report with your relevant [Polsek/Polres](https://www.polri.go.id/tentang-satwil.php) (non emergency police line is 110), and in addition to that contact the local '[Komisi Perlindungan Anak Indonesia](http://www.kpai.go.id/hubungi-kami/)' (KPAI). Even if you believe everyone is corrupt, you'll still need to report it. Liase with KPAI for your next step/action.

Which citizenship does your child now? Where did this incident happened?Answer #7: I'm sorry, is this real? Your wife tried to MURDER your daughter, but still had access to her days later when she confessed and then kidnapped her?

Even if you did nothing, your daughter's grandmother did nothing as well? No way.


Title: At fault for a rear end collision, worried about being sued.

Question: I am at fault for a rear end collision that occurred in Virginia. I have insurance which covers 300k bodily damage.  There was minor damage done to both vehicles but the driver I hit went to the emergency room.  I was told the next day she has soft tissue damage with a sore neck and back.  She also got an attorney that day. I am young and recently married and really worried about being sued. Can anyone shed some light at all of this? Will my insurance cover the costs? I am worried that it wont.  Thanks!

Answer:
 > Will my insurance cover the costs?

Your insurance company will cover your liability for any accident that your policy covers.  It is nearly certain that this matter is covered by your policy, and that they will take care of it.


Title: [NE] Reported domestic violence, received restraining order. How to proceed?

Question: [deleted]

Answer:
 If someone has filed for a restraining order against you, you should seek a consultation with an attorney.  You are correct that you likely want to avoid the record of a restraining order if you can avoid it. You certainly should not make any effort to make use of an intimate video of the two of you in your defense.

You should, frankly, also stop trying to rescue this woman from a situation in which she clearly does not want to be rescued.


Title: Ex-Boss has been stealing from me, what do I do?

Question: [deleted]

Answer: Personally, I'd report him. Did you ever keep notes on your schedule, when you worked, that sort of thing, to help them verify how much you were paying in "tax" and how much you took home?


Title: Being scammed by rogue movers

Question:
The moving company is saying they will have to get a shuttle to transport my belongings to my apartment and will charge me $350 as the 18 wheeler can't fit based on their assessment of satellite images. They also said the road needs to be 100 feet wide, which is kind of ridiculous and the necessary width of the road is not listed in the contract. They relayed that ultimately it is up to the discretion of the driver and the driver will come out to make the decision the night before or the day of. I asked to be notified when the driver is on the property so I can speak with him but they said it is not possible so I suspect the driver will not actually be coming out to make an in person assessment. The thing is, the 18 wheeler can definitely come to my apartment complex. The apartment manager said they have never had a problem with a moving company getting the truck in and out and my lease even states that 18 wheelers can park on the premises with permission of the manager. I do not believe I should have to pay for a service that is unnecessary and simply a scam to get more money but I am not sure what to do at this point.

Backstory: My belongings were suppose to be picked up on June 29th or 30th for an interstate move. The company delayed and did not pick up until July 1st, and hours after the time they said they would come. They doubled the price I was initially quoted because it apparently took up more square feet on the truck than anticipated but my boxes were actually smaller than the dimensions listed in the quote. They also charged for a long carry and elevator fees, which while unfortunate, is fine.

Then I gave an earliest delivery date of July 5th. They said it is usually delivered within 5-10 business days and if they missed the target, it would be just outside that window. It has now been 18 business days and will be 19 for the delivery date they gave.

When they called to tell me about the delivery, they surprisingly said they would have to use a shuttle because an 18 wheeler isn't allowed to park there without a permit. This is false for where I live and I explained my the apartment manager gave permission and I have a letter. They said the letter would not hold up in court if they got a ticket, so they wouldn't accept it. They later called back and changed the reason for having to have the shuttle which is now that the truck won't fit. They did not accept that the manager said there has never been a problem saying that they have "10 years experience" in making these determinations and that my apartment manager wouldn't know. Further, they will be coming at 6am this Monday (although the hours for delivery are 7am-7pm) and the moving company's office is closed on the weekend and will not open until Monday at 12 EST so there is no measure of recourse if this goes further south.

Edit: dates, moved from CA to NC

Answer:
 Update: The amazingly kind manager of my apartment complex offered to call the driver directly to sort this out. After talking with the manager the driver has agreed to deliver using the 18 wheeler and asked for directions to be emailed. My apartment manager took care of it all and the directions have been sent. Hoping they actually do deliver and that things will go smoothly from here!Answer #2: IANAL, but I do work for a storage facility, and deal with movers on a regular basis.

My advice would probably be, for the future, when a mover gives you this much trouble, find a new one.

As for fitting an 18-wheeler in there, that's completely up to the driver from what I know. If he doesnt think he can fit it, it's a good idea not to try to. From what you're saying, honestly, the company sounds uncoordinated.

For a ticket, logically, if they have a letter saying they wont get a ticket, they'd be protected. Maybe that's wrong though.


Title: Tribal Police authority over non tribal members (AZ)

Question: As background I live in Arizona and when I ride my motorcycle I am often carrying my handgun legally in accordance with state law. I even went through the trouble of obtaining a permit just to be extra safe. State law allows anyone over 18 to openly carry a handgun, and anyone 21 and over to concealed carry w/o a permit. In Arizona about 25% of the land is held by Native American tribes. Each of these tribes have their own laws separate from state laws regarding ownership and carry of firearms. Some are lax and some are very restrictive. Because I am not a member of any native tribe, can any of the tribal police seize my weapon because I may be carrying it in violation of their laws? It seems that Oliphant v. Suquamish and Montana v. United States restricts their authority over me, however I am mainly wondering if there could be some civil authority that they possess that I am unaware about?

Answer:
 If you are violating their laws on their land they can enforce their penaltiesAnswer #2: All Arizona tribes recognize federal law, including the "safe passage" provision of the federal Firearm Owners Protection Act Act (FOPA).

FOPA provides that, notwithstanding any state, tribal, or local law, and while making a continuous journey, a person who is not a prohibited possessor is entitled to transport a firearm or ammunition for any lawful purpose from any place where he may lawfully possess and carry such firearm to any other place where he may lawfully possess and carry such firearm or ammunition if, during such transportation the firearm is unloaded, and neither the firearm nor any ammunition being transported is readily accessible or is directly accessible from the passenger compartment of such transporting vehicle.[18] In vehicles without a trunk, the unloaded firearm or ammunition must be in a locked container other than the glove compartment or console.[18]

Recent U.S. Court of Appellate rulings have confirmed that FOPA`s protections only apply to **unloaded firearms not readily accessible to the traveler, and many tribal governments have strict laws with respect to firearms being carried or transported on tribal lands**.[18][19][19][20]

For example, in the event of a vehicle stop, **Navajo Nation police will seize any loaded firearm found to be accessible to the driver or passenger**[19][20][21] and confiscated firearms are not returnable unless the owner can establish proof of ownership of the firearm and ammunition by presenting a bill of sale or other evidence at the police station at a later date.[21]

https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gun_laws_in_Arizona


Title: [WA] Streamer arrested for playing bomb threat, what about person who sent it?

Question:
In regards to the situation from [https://www.reddit.com/r/PublicFreakout/comments/8nnodg/live\_streamer\_scares\_the\_shit\_out\_of\_a\_college/](https://www.reddit.com/r/PublicFreakout/comments/8nnodg/live_streamer_scares_the_shit_out_of_a_college/)

Background: Arab Andy is the name of a live streamer. He walks around with loud speakers, and viewers can make paid donations to play whatever sounds they want through these speakers. This streamer is known to 'push the limits' by not censoring what comes out of the speakers, which challenges the viewers to send inappropriate sound bytes to intentionally create shocking situations for the streamer.

In this instance, a viewer made one of these paid donations and sent a bomb threat to be played in public. The streamer, consistent with their previous 'policies' allowed the sound byte to be played, and it resulted in a mass panic, and the streamer's arrest.

My question is, would the person who sent the sound byte to be played also be liable? After all, they knew that the streamer was in a public place, and that their sound byte would be played loud...

Answer: Both parties are probably guilty of committing a crime of some sort. It just may be very difficult to find the person who sent the audio file since they're almost certainly in a different jurisdiction than 'Arab Andy'.Answer #2: Absolutely they can be liable.  Whether they can be found and whether there is sufficient evidence to prove it was them is another question, but they absolutely do have liability for this.


Title: Can my mother have me forced out by trespass?

Question: I live in upstate NY. I'm currently 25. I moved back into my mother's house 2/2017 because she needed to serve a jail sentence from 5/1-2/18. I moved in and started paying the bills as far as electric, water, waste, internet, etc ( I have receipts for everything). I did not pay anything towards the mortgage because A. I couldn't afford it and B. She's 3 years behind and she plans on just rocking out until they foreclose. She came out of jail 2/18 and since then we have non stopped fighting. Because she has no car, job, or anything to do. So everything is my fault.... W.e w.e.  Today was the final straw I can't do it anymore. I'm pretty sure she replapsed. And she's acting psycho. And pretty much told me to leave. I told her I have no problem doing that but I need a couple weeks to pack up all my shit and find a place to live. She says I'm not longer allowed in the house and she's going to throw my shit in the street or sell it. I told her based on everything im considered a month to month tenant. And she will have to evict me and if she damages any of my property she will be held accountable in small claims court. Yada yada. That put her off the edge. She says she called the local police department and they said they will have me trespassed and removed because I'm over 18 and her son and it's her house. I told her that's simply not true. She said she'll say I threatened her or something. Luckily I've kept everything civil in writing etc.  So she'd have to lie and say it was verbal threats which would be hear say. What are my rights here? I currently have no where to stay on such short notice and I have extremely expensive items that I do not want destroyed.

Answer:
 >She says she called the local police department and they said they will have me trespassed and removed because I'm over 18 and her son and it's her house.

BS. The police would have actually showed up, and even then they can't remove you because you're a legal tenant.

Your mom has to give you at least 30 days' notice in writing before she can evict you. Since you live in NY, you can also legally record your conversations with her without notifying her.Answer #2: You are a legal tenant, and she has to give you reasonable notice to vacate (usually 30 days, but more in some states/cities) before she can begin eviction proceedings. If she changes the locks, throws out or damages your stuff, shuts off the water/electricity you call the cops and let them handle it.

Obviously you should also look for a new place ASAP. And I would put all those receipts somewhere safe outside the home, for your own protection.


Title: In Colorado, is it legal to spray my neighbors dogs (who have a reputation for biting people) with a hose to get them to stop aggressively barking at us?

Question:
My neighbors have 2 dogs. For as long as they've had them, these dogs would aggressively bark at anyone they saw in our yard or their front yard. Our neighbors did nothing to stop this behavior (that I am aware of). The dogs became more and more aggressive, they learned that they can jump over our neighbors fence (the fence is about 5 or 6 feet tall, but our neighbors remodeled their backyard a few years ago in a way that when the dogs stand next to the fence on the deck, the top of the fence is at around their shoulder height). They have bitten the mailman. Hurting him pretty badly. I don't know the details, but I heard that his whole hand and wrist needed to be bandaged at the hospital. They have jumped the fence several other times. I'm not aware of any other times when he bit people, but he came damn close to it one time when I tried to take my dog (about 20 pounds. Couldn't hurt a fly even if he wanted to) for a walk. Their dog Barkley jumped the fence, ran across the yard, barking very loudly and aggressively. After initially yelling at the dog to "get away from me" like an idiot, I picked my dog up so he wouldn't get himself murdered, I averted eye contact with the dog (in the animal kingdom, eye contact is a challenge to fight), and stood with my shoulder towards the dog while keeping my eyes on the ground near the dog's feet. The dog stopped barking and walked away (presumably to patrol his self-perceived "territory"). I was not injured, nor was my dog, but I know that if I hadn't responded appropriately, I would have been bitten, and had I not puller my dog out of the reach of my neighbor's dog, he would have been seriously hurt. After that point in time, I decided to start carrying a pocket knife with me when I take walks as a precaution. I stopped after only about a week.

More recently, the past summer, we realized that we could use our garden hose to spray the dogs to get them away. It worked quite well. For what was practically the first time in year, we were able to use our backyard and our porch without having to fear our neighbors dogs. The dogs don't get harmed, we get to use our backyard again. We did this several times, and it was working, one time though, I was reading a book about dinosaurs on my back porch when the dogs came and barked me, I had the hose nearby, and when the dogs started to bark at me, I walked in the direction of the hose, which, at this point in time, was typically enough on its own to get the dogs to back down without it even being necessary to actually use the hoses. Not this time, however. I ended up having to briefly spray in the general direction of the dogs to get them to leave, and went back to my book. Little did I know that my neighbor was on her porch by her pool at the time (why didn't she do anything to stop her dogs???), and she walked up to me and told me to stop spraying her dogs. In my anger at the moment, I lashed out with words "HAVE YOU EVEN DONE A SINGLE THING ABOUT THOSE DOGS OF YOURS!?!?!?!?!?!" and she told me "You know what, you need to stop antagonizing them".

I was literally sitting on my back porch reading "The Princeton Field Guide to Dinosaurs" and she accused me of antagonizing her dogs. My brother heard this all from his room (we're both 16, twins), and he came down, and said "Dude, spray her with the hose. She's being a bitch. Spray her and be all like 'you were antagonizing my hose'". As tempting as the suggestion was, I knew that would only add fuel to the fire and refused.

In the winter months, not much has happened right now, it gets cold in Golden Colorado. Its 27 degrees right now. Yet they still leave their dogs outside during the day.

I live in Golden Colorado, USA. I'm 16 years old (Not sure if being younger than 18 makes a difference).

Answer:
 God *damn* but there is extraneous information here.

Look, you can spray a dog with a hose if it's on your property. You can't spray a dog with a hose if it (the dog) is not on your property.

Either way, the hose is not the issue. The issue is unrestrained aggressive dogs. Call JeffCo animal control and let them know that there are aggressive dogs escaping their owners' property. They'll investigate that shit.Answer #2: If the dogs are on their property DO NOT spray them with water.  You are going to end up pissing them off and they will come after you.  You can't attack them on their own property and expect to be the one that's right.  You can call the NON-emergency police number about them barking and call the local dog catcher or dog enforcement for your town.  Now if they come onto your property then you can spray them with the hose to protect yourself so you can get away from them.Answer #3: First of all, call the fucking police whenever the dogs come on your property and document it.

Secondly; yes, you can spray them but I can assure you that antagonizing those dogs aren't going to do you well when they decide they are sick of it.

Send a letter to your neighbor informing her of her negligence to keep her dogs at bay. If dogs attack you, you can protect yourself within reasonable boundaries.

Document, call the police, document.


Title: [MI] Broken foot from fall at someones house, their insurance denied the claim.

Question:
My wife broke her foot at a house we were viewing (for sale). The house has a step down from the living room to the dining room but the floors are the same material and there are no indications there is a step there.

We submitted the claim to the insurance company of the homeowner and they denied the claim after the insurance adjuster visited the property. The insurance company now states that the burden of proof is on us.

Here's a picture from the house listing that gives an idea of where it happened: https://i.imgur.com/G5R33dH.jpg

When we entered the house it was dark - overcast sky and all blinds were closed. We entered the house and came through to the living room (the wood floors you see before the tiled kitchen. The wood is actually 2 separate floors, about a foot drop between the living room and dining room.

The switches to turn on the dinning room lights are not accessible without having to enter the dining room itself. Due to how dark the rooms were (and even in these bright pictures) you cant tell there is a drop there.

I've submitted all of this to the insurance agency after they denied the claim but they still state the burden of proof is on us and that the claim is still denied.

Do I have any recourse here? My wife had to miss almost 3 weeks from work due to the break and the home owners insurance policy only covers medical up to $1,000 (even if they're not found at fault).

Answer:
 There's an entire body of law in Michigan that all but eliminates slip/trip and fall claims. It's called the "open and obvious" doctrine. In a nutshell, it means that a premises owner has no duty to eliminate or warn of defects that can be discovered upon casual observation. I'll let you google it and read up on it.

Have you called a PI attorney?


Title: Made A Bad Joke

Question: [removed]

Answer: That isn't a crime.


Title: Hacked? I woke up with 60 emails and unauthorized purchase

Question:
As the title states, I woke up with 60 emails, most of them requests to confirm subscriptions. One of them is an order confirmation from Macy’s using my PayPal. I immediately went into PayPal to dispute the charge and I changed both my PayPal and online banking passwords. I’m unsure if there’s a legal component here? I know this is probably common but any advice on next steps would be appreciated.
Topic:
Computer and Internet

Answer: I would immediately pull your credit reports and make sure there are no new accounts. Answer #2: Not much you can do legally besides filing a police report but the culprit probably isn't even in this country. In addition to what another user recommended about checking your credit reports. It may be a good idea to preemptively lock them as well. I would also change the passwords to your email account and any other shopping websites where you may have your payment information saved. The hacker was likely trying to mask the Macy's purchase with a bunch of other spam.


Title: My mom is a felon and wants a gun for home security. She wants me to buy it.

Question: [deleted]

Answer: This is called a [Straw Purchase](http://www.dontlie.org/straw_purchasing.cfm).  It's a federal felony and you want no part of it, period.Answer #2: Only federal criminal charges.  No biggie.  Wh not knock over a bank on the way home from the gun store to make it worth your while.  Committing just one crime is so passé these days.


Title: Could this scenario happen in real life?

Question:
A party is going on and someone ends up face down in a pool from too much drugs. They survive. Cops show up and want to arrest the owner of the home unless someone confesses to who supplied the drugs. Person X feels bad and doesn’t want to see person Y get arrested, so they say they provided the drugs. Person X is an ex-con who’s on parole.

Person X and Y work together to take down the actual culprit and attorney for person X gets all charges dismissed.

This is from Fox’s hit series ***The O.C. Season 2, Episode 19***

Answer:
 Arrests don't always mean the police have sufficient evidence to prosecute, let alone convict, so yes, it's possible. There's at least a thin argument for a constructive possession theory if there's any evidence at all that the party host knew - _or should have known_ - about the drugs at the party.

Being on parole often means being subject to some pretty stringent conditions, and losing one's parole for being at a party where someone nearly died of a drug-related incident is also entirely likely, even if someone else comes forwards.


Title: Tinder is not providing advertised services. What can I do?

Question:
[deleted]
Topic:
Consumer Law

Answer:
 This is great.  This is exactly the kind of headline you’d find in the class action section of Law360 with a giant settlement amount and a giant attorney’s fees award next to it.  Source: have extensive experience litigating consumer class actions.

OP: contact a consumer class action attorney.


Title: Father is making Death Threats against My mother and her family for money they don't owe him, he's gone insane and has lost it please help.[US](dont upvote)

Question:
My pos father is making death threats against my mother and her brothers, we have those threats on record, he has also bought a gun and may do something at any given moment, We are in texas and he is definitely not mentally sane enough to be owning one. what is the proper course of action to take my mom is separated from us and lives 10mins away at my grandmas house, he knows where she lives, i am currently living at my father's house(although it not only his house)and he has threatened to kick me out because he is mad that he hasn't gotten any money, hes asking for 75k a number which he pulled out of thin air saying that when my mothers family lived in our house they didn't pay and is adding up all the time they lived and didn't pay. thinking of calling the police tomorrow and reporting the death threats, is that the best option or is there something else i can do?

please don't upvote just want solid advice

Answer: Call the police. As soon as you read this comment. Now.Answer #2: Yes, when someone threatens someone else's life, you call the police. Answer #3: Just for reference, if no one upvotes, the post gets buried and you don't get responses because no one sees it.Answer #4: Calling the police is absolutely your best option. They're trained to deal with this sort of thing.


Title: Is It Illegal for Me to Get a New Doctor Because My Current One Wont Prescribe What I Want?

Question:
So I was perscribed Vyvanse (a stimulant) for like half a year with no problems. We eventually decided to switch to a different stimulant. The new stimulant wasn't working as well and I was desperate at school so I took more than I was supposed to. My doctor found out and now refuses to prescribe me any stimulant.

Is it perfectly legal for me to stop seeing my current doc and ask a new one for medication for my ADHD? Do I legally have to tell this new doc about my past drug abuse?

My current doc isn't stupid and will probably know why I'm no longer going to see her (because she won't prescribe a stimulant).

So am I putting myself in legal jeopardy by doing this?

Answer: Going to see a new doctor is not illegal.


Title: DIRECT DEPOSIT QUESTION...

Question: I want direct deposit instead of paper checks, but my employer doesn't offer it. Is there anything I can do to get direct deposit? I'm in NYC

Answer: You can find a new job that offers direct deposit.


Title: Terminating my SSN

Question:
Hey everyone! I’ve never posted here but this is my situation.
I’ve been considering pulling out of my Social Security Number (Religious reasons) and I want to know what to expect. As of right now, I have an SSN, birth certificate, Learner’s Driving Permit, and a passport.
Here are some of my biggest concerns.

-If I terminate my SSN, how much of what I listed, if any, becomes void?

-How will this affect college?

-Is it possible to make any money at all without a SSN?

-How does this affect taxes?

Any answers or advice is greatly appreciated.

Answer:
 You're wasting your time. There is no mechanism to stop having a ssn. Focus your efforts on something worthwhile like helping the poor. I'm sure your religion says you should do that. Answer #2: What do you mean by terminate it? The government isn't getting rid of itAnswer #3: You won’t find much luck working in the USA without an SSN, so good luck to you and your deity with that theology. Answer #4: Once a number is issued, it will not be rescinded or cancelled. You can opt out of social security and Medicare based on religious reasons but it still will not cancel the number.

Speaking as someone in HR, I would not be able to hire someone without a social security number in the US. Payroll withholding taxes are recorded to whatever tax authority by that number.

In order to deduct a dependent for taxes, that number is required.

The Amish are exempt from paying social security and Medicare but even they have a number when they join the church as an adult. Answer #5: Google "Social Security declared me dead" and read the horror stories that comes when your SSN gets screwed around with. If you don't have a SSN, you don't exist for the purposes of pretty much everything. So, other than the fact that you can't do this, if somehow you did do this, you'd have such a headache living in the modern world, it wouldn't be worth it.


Title: Loaned my mom $50K to open up a business. She never opened a business and never paid me back. This was 8 years ago, can I still get it back through legal means?

Question: I loaned my mom $50K to open up a business. She never opened a business and never paid me back. This was 8 years ago, can I still get it back through legal means? This transaction was a verbal agreement and the only proof I have is a bank statement showing that I transferred the money from my account to hers. I know some states have a clause where debts are nullified after a certain amount of years, but I figured it was worth a try if there was something I could do legally to force her to pay me back. This happened in Virginia. I am willing to sue her if there is way to do it and get my money back.

Answer: When was she supposed to pay it back?


Title: Cutting off MIL use of a credit card in my husband's name. She's filing bankruptcy for all of her other debt.

Question:
Throw away account, long time lurker, first post, and on mobile so please forgive me if there are any formatting issues, etc.

Location: Pennsylvania

My husband got a credit card in his name for his mom (he was 18 and just wanted to help her, her credit was bad so she didn't qualify for any). He is 34, now, so she's had it for quite some time. She has been the only one to ever use it and has possession of the card. It was verbally agreed upon that the credit card would be for emergencies. The bill comes to our house in my husband's name and we give it to her to pay.

My mother in law isn't the best with money or controlling her spending as is evident by her recently filing bankruptcy (she is using a bankruptcy lawyer). She is not including the credit card in my husband's name as part of her file. We've tried to transfer the card into her name but the credit card company wouldn't approve it based on her debt to income ratio.

We've been concerned about her use of the card, so my husband has been opening the bill. She's been making non-essential purchases and has a monthly subscription service being billed to the card. My husband has talked to her on a number of occasions and her response is always, "I'll remove the subscription when I feel up to it." and completely ignores anything else he says. The credit card has a $24,000 limit (the credit card company keeps increasing it) and she has almost $11,000 in charges. She pays more than the minimum but not enough to cover any new purchases. The credit card shows up on my husband's credit report and he's due to either buy the car he's leasing (which would mean taking out a loan) or leasing another car in April. He has debt of his own we've been working on paying down.

My legal questions are:
1. Is he allowed to open a credit card bill in his name that he doesn't use or have access to? (I'm pretty sure that he's allowed but I wanted to ask the fine folks of LA)

2. Is he legally allowed to call up the credit card company and ask that they "freeze" the card or refuse purchases from certain companies/merchants/subscription services?

3. Is he legally allowed to take the credit card away from her?

4. Is he under any legal obligation to notify her that he's going to take action prior to doing so?

5. Can she get into any legal trouble for NOT including the credit card as part of her bankruptcy?

Thank you!

Topic:
Credit Debt Bankruptcy

Answer:
 If your husband has a credit card in his name that she is an authorized user of (or just a user of) he can cancel that card at any time. And refinance that balance in any way he sees fit.

She likely does not need to include that balance in her bankruptcy filing. It’s not her debt. It wouldn’t hurt for her to ask her bankruptcy attorney. But your husband doesn’t get out of this debt he signed up for based on her filing. Answer #2: Your husband can cancel the card, take the card, or do whatever he'd like if it's not in her name in any way other than being an authorized user.

He can also call the credit card company and ask that the limit be lowered. You don't have to accept credit line increases.


Title: [PA] The apartment I was renting just changed hands

Question:
Location: Pennsylvania

Yesterday I was greeted by a knock on my door and the new owner (NO) of my residential apartment. Previous owner (PO) mentioned none of this and hasn't responded to any of my attempts to contact him since yesterday. A couple questions I have after scouring my lease:

1) Lease

I was month to month with PO, does that lease transfer to NO seamlessly with the sale of the property, barring some clause in my lease? If not, what do I need to do?

2) Security Deposit

My security deposit, I had with PO, what happens there and what are my responsibilities? Nothing I find in my lease mentions what happens in the event of a sale of the property. NO claims that NO has nothing to do with the security deposit and I need to work that out with PO. Is that accurate? If so, I need a walkthrough with both NO and PO to confirm pre-existing damages with my apartment correct? if I have to handle it with PO, what are the time limits/penalties PO has to abide by? Will I have to take him to court if PO fails to respond?

Thank you in advance

Answer:
 Your lease transfers to the new owner. However, since you are month to month they can give you notice that they are not continuing your lease or increasing your rent. There is no law stating a notice requirement, like 30 days, so that should be spelled out in your lease.

Your security deposit also transfers to the new owner.


Title: [FL] I want to start a punk band with a Trump related name, but can it be something threatening to him (like Trumpicide) if it existed before he becomes president? I don't want to get arrested.

Answer: Trumpicide is fairly open to interpretation. Could be about killing him, could be about death by Trump, could be about committing social suicide by wearing an awful wig. If anyone asks I'd say it was the latter.


Title: My SO's former student is stalking her. Recent messages include threats of rape and violence. Looking for advice.

Question:
My SO is an instructor at a university. A couple of years ago she taught a younger male student and since then he has been continuously sending her messages on various social media platforms. The messages are very odd (obsessing about my SO, talking in circles, vaguely referencing things), but had not been violent or explicit -- mostly obsessive and dark. My first impression was that this student sounded mentally ill. We decided to ignore the messages, hoping that he would stop.

Just recently, my SO found a long series of Facebook messages from this student that she had not been notified of. The messages span several months and include multiple threats of violence and detail his plans to violently rape my SO. My SO thinks that this student no longer lives in the state, but after some preliminary Googling I discovered that his family lives in a nearby town. We are now concerned that he is at least periodically in the local area.

My SO filed a police report yesterday and they recommended taking the screenshots and filing for a VPO. What else should/can we do to (1) keep her safe and (2) get this student some mental help? We've considered reaching out to his family over Facebook, but are worried about whether there would be legal repercussions from doing so or whether that would only provoke him more.

Answer: Don't post anything to social media letting people know where you are. If he shows up, call the police. Answer #2: Talk to the school too. They might have more records on him that they could share, as well as tresspass him from campus.Answer #3: Call the cops.Answer #4: Restraining order. Get off all social media.  If she has to walk to her car at night ( at university) have her contact campus police/security escort.  She should have pepper spray with her at all times and possibly a gun for home defense.


Title: [Illinois] Parents installing a GPS tracking app on my phone without my consent

Question: My parents, who live in Kansas, installed a GPS tracking app on my phone without my consent. (I'm 20 and was 19 when they forced me to install the app.) They use this app to monitor my whereabouts at all hours of the day and night. I am not allowed to uninstall, disable, or otherwise tamper with the app or they will force me to leave college. Is this illegal in either Illinois or Kansas, and what can I do about it?

Answer:
 You can get a different phone that your parents don't pay for or stop depending on them to pay for your college.Answer #2: This is adorable.

It is your parent's phone and they can demand you do with it what they please.


Title: fare evasion 32:1-146.8(4)NJ

Question:
I got a fair evasion ticket at newark penn station, newark, new jersey. it says i have to show up (summoned) to court.
the penalty is a fine and/or no more than 30 days in jail.
i was given a warning in the fall of 2016 for something like this and i paid a 70 something dollar ticket for evading an nj light rail fare in the spring of 2016 in newark, nj.
i also have a conditional discharge for a drug paraphernalia arrest i had in september 2012.
what is the likelihood of me having to go to jail?

Answer: Pretty good, since fines didn't work to drive home the lesson. Answer #2: Learn your goddamn lesson. Jesus christ. I do not think a judge is going to take this likely, literally no way to know.


Title: Did a camshow being a minor, someone recorded me and the video is up for download.

Question:
Hello! First of all, i'm from Spain.

Back in april of this year i signed up for an online camshow webpage (Chaturbate is the name), did a single show one night, and is now, four months later, that i realize someone recorded me and put up a video for download in a pay to download site. On the show i appeared with just underwear and a couple accessories, and all i recall showing is my ass, so i don't even know if it's legal, illegal or anything.
I got banned from the site for presumably being a minor (they can't confirm because i didn't give any data, i guess is only based on appearance).
Is there anything i can do to get the video and pictures taken down from the internet? In the website there doesn't appear to be any name of who could have uploaded it. I was 17 at the time and i'm still a minor.
Topic:
Non-US

Answer:
 >i realize someone recorded me and put up a video for download in a pay to download site.

Just so you know, this happens basically 100% of the time.

Telling the site that the video is child porn usually does the trick. If that doesn't work, you can try reporting it to the unfortunately-named FAPMI.


Title: My girlfriend was assaulted at work and eyewitnesses are claiming they didn't see anything. (IL)

Question: At work this morning my girlfriend was hit in the face with three eyewitnesses. She told her boss about it and he merely said that he would "talk" with her assailant.  The people who saw her get hit apparently claim to have seen nothing. This has led to her quitting her job. I suggested calling the police considering her workplace is clearly not willing to help but I am unsure of how this will play out considering the workplace is against her and could simply lie to the police (it seems they need him in a role they can not easily fill). There's no evidence on her face that she was attacked. Is calling the police a non-viable thing in these circumstances? Is there another route we can take? Any advice would be greatly appreciated.

Answer:
 When someone assaults me, I call the police, not my boss.  My boss is not law enforcement.

She's welcome to make a report of the assault with the police.

What is the outcome she's looking for?


Title: A woman gets arrested when her child is 6 months old. Child is 3 now and the ex-husband has full custody. Mother's earliest chance at release isn't until after the child turns 18. Will the courts take away the mother's rights and allow the stepmother to adopt or is this not even possible?

Question: The location for this is the state of California. The mother was arrested when her child was 6 months old. She is in jail for felony vehicular manslaughter, felony hit and run, felony auto insurance fraud, obstruction of justice and making a false report of a crime. Her earliest chance at release isn't until after her child turns 18. Her ex-husband and father of the child has divorced her. When the child was a year old he met a woman and began dating her. They have lived together for over a year now and this woman is the only mother the child has ever known. The child calls her 'mom'. The child has not seen her biological mother (in jail) since she was arrested and doesn't know her or remember her. The child is 3 now and the father has full legal and physical custody. Now that the divorce is final and the mother's appeal was denied the ex-husband and father is going to marry the new girlfriend. They both want her to be able to legally adopt the child. Is this something that is even feasible or would them trying it be a waste of time and money because they will be denied? Can anyone advise what is likely or possible? It would be appreciated.

Answer: It is possible, but unless the mother consents to the adoption, you will need a lawyer to guide you thru this.


Title: I think I’m being penalized for breaking up with my law professor

Question:
6 years ago I was involved romantically with a man. It lasted 2-3 months. We got along at first but he showed some red flags about control issue quite early on. I ended things but he kept reaching out. I eventually blocked him from my phone and my social media.
3 years ago I left my career and returned to university. I’m doing an undergrad and hope to get into law school. I take law courses as part of my undergraduate degree. I’ve been a strong and steady A- student, 3.7 GPA since I returned to school. I’m busting my ass because law school is my dream and I’m making it happen.
So this summer semester I walk into a constitutional class that had been added late so there had not been a class description online. Well guess who teaches the class. Prof. X aka my bad breakup from half a decade ago. I check with my advisor and he has been the only one teaching this course for the last 2 years. He’ll probably be the teacher again next semester. I tell myself it’s all good, we’re both grown ups, there’s not going to be any issues.
Or not?
Handed in my first assignment a couple of weeks ago. It was a fact pattern on constitutional law. I did it. I thought I killed it. We got our work back last week and I got 62%. I’m surprised but figure I must have missed the mark on a couple issues. In tutorial he goes over the assignment. Him. Because for the first time in my degree, the professor is also the one handling the tutorial. I’m that lucky this semester. So he goes over the components each of the answers had to have in order for a student to get a full mark on the question. He did say that he had taken some marks off for writing style and grammar. I tick them along on my assignment because I want to improve for our upcoming second and final one. According to my math and the criteria he gave, I should have had 90%.
I went to see him after class and he said he took off 28% because of my poor writing style. I tried to hold and steady face but I lost it when I got to my car. I can’t help feeling like maybe he’s penalizing me because of our history.

Is docking 30% actually a thing in law classes?

I feel like questioning his motives through official channels may not be the best thing to do. It’s such a big accusation to make. It could ruin someone’s career and maybe I’m just completely off on the material.

Im quite angry because if I have the same « writing deficit » for the next assignment, I will end up with a C-.

Answer: In a class where specific language is so important it doesnt seem unfeasible that he docks many points for poor writing. Use his tips that he gave you for your writing in your next paper and see the response. I wouldn't rush going to the administration and making heavy accusations as it could mess with his career and seriously mess with your future as you dont know for sure that he is prejudiced against you.