Title: [WA State] Boyfriends parents own half of the house and are forcing us to sell. Help?

Question: [deleted]

Answer:
 If the parents own any percentage of the house, they can file suit for "partition", which is a way to get their money out of the property.  Either the boyfriend would have to buy them out or the house would have to be sold to buy them out.

He won't have any defense against this.  They have a right to get their money out of the property.

He would obviously end up with some cash from the net equity in the house.

It sounds like the house should be sold, which would disentangle the two entities which do not want to be entangled any longer.  You could then buy another, smaller place, or rent.Answer #2: What ownership does your boyfriend have?  If he has any, his parents would have to sue to force the sale.  There is no other way.  Ignore them.  If he gets served with court papers, then get a lawyer


Title: [FL] What are vocational experts, and why should they determine when I'm fit to work?

Question:
I’m a mover, and about two months ago, I injured my back at work after I was carrying a sofa down the stairs of an apartment after my co-worker slipped and dropped the sofa. It hurt like hell and I tried to kill my pain with Aleve for a few days before finally succumbing to going to the doctor. Turns out I had a herniated disk, and of course, as my job is, I wasn’t able to work. Of course I filed a workers' compensation claim and luckily that pays medical, chiropractic, and physical therapy bills, out-of-pocket expenses (medications, crutches, etc.), and two-thirds of my lost wages.

 Just recently, I was asked to participate in vocational rehabilitation by my workers’ compensation insurance carrier.
I was doing some research and read up that a “vocational expert” would basically determine whether or not I was fit to start working again. I had no idea what this even meant until I did some research and read this legal glossary I found online (https://www.pondlehocky.com/resources/comprehensive-list-of-legal-terms) that includes a quote, “Insurance companies hire vocational experts whose only job is to get injured workers back to work whether or not they are physically ready. If you are contacted by a vocational expert or the insurance company, you must contact your attorney immediately to ensure that your rights are protected.”

So I’m guessing the goal of the carrier in doing vocational rehabilitation is to try to reduce/stop my worker’s wage loss benefits to “prove I’m able to work again.”

I’m not sure how this works, but I’m not trying to have someone tell me whether I’m capable of working when I’ve only been out of work for a month, and I can barely even walk on my own. I guess I can do work in a wheelchair or something? Does anyone know how this process works?

Answer:
 I'm not sure what your legal question is.

If you're asking whether the insurance company can evaluate you to determine if you're available to return to work, they can.  If they make a decision you disagree with, you can appeal that through them, or take the matter to court.


Title: Being threatened to be sued for NDA violation

Question:
I have Google photos albums that I shared with a startup company and I recently took away the access to all of the photos since I haven't been working for them. I did sign an NDA and did some graphic design work for this company but I never signed a contract confirming my position for them. I did not receive a salary or equity for the company even though I was with them for 1.5 years. Now the CEO is threatening to sue me for removing access to the photos and I am unsure if this is worth fighting about or if I should just return the content and move on...

This is from the NDA:

“Section III”

“The owner shall not be prohibited by this provision from pursuing other remedies, including a claim for losses and damages.”

Image 3: “Section V: Return of Confidential Information: “Upon the written request of the Owner the Recipient (you) shall return to the Owner all written materials containing the confidential information. The recipient shall also deliver to the Owner written statements signed by the Recipient certifying that all materials have been returned within five (5) days of receipt of the request.

Answer: They couls be, depending in what contest they were taken. The question you should be asking yourself is "Am I willing to potentially spend a lot of money and time defending this in court?"


Title: repair shop rebroke my laptop

Question:
My laptop had a broken hinge, and would not close properly.  I took it into the shop for repair and asked for an estimate before they performed any work.  I received several updates about waiting for a parts cost through vendors, and then received a repair complete notice with $100 in labor.  They used epoxy to reattach the hinge.  They stated in the repair that they could not access the laptop due to a password problem.  When I asked about the charge without an estimate or approval for the repair, I was told that I couldn't have my laptop back without paying my bill, and diagnosis costs money.

After receiving the laptop back, the Esc, F1, F2, and F3 keys didn't respond and would activate suddenly and make the mouse freeze.  I called the repair shop and they would not comment on the keyboard without me bringing it back.

They stated that they would look at it and let me know.  I received an estimate of $50-$100.  They said the problem was due to pet hair in the keyboard.  I brought up that the hair was there previously and the keyboard worked fine.  I told them I just wanted my laptop back and I didn't feel comfortable using them for any more repairs.

They then updated the ticket stating that they noticed the T and G buttons didn't work the first visit, and they removed my computer password in order to run a diagnostic because the password I had didn't work.  This was counter to the original ticket stating there was a password stopping them from testing it.

I found several other inconsistencies in their story, through their tickets they posted and brought them when I picked up the laptop the final time.  I asked for a technician, and the front desk lady said they weren't in.  I then started going through the tickets with her.  She became agitated and went and go the Sr. technician.  He picked up my papers and asked what I wanted.

I said I would like a refund as I didn't authorize the original repair.  He said if I give you a refund then I'm going to rebreak the laptop.
I said I just want a refund.  He said, "fine," and took the laptop in the back room.  When he came back out, I recorded him admitting to rebreaking my laptop.  He said, "You don't want to pay for the epoxy on the laptop, so the epoxy is gone."

He took the laptop into the back room and broke the hinge again.

(Indiana is a one-party consent state).

Is there anything I can do?

Answer: You can sue in small claims court for the cost of repair any damage that they may have done. You may have a difficult time showing that they caused the damage. The inconsistencies in the tickets will help if you can articulate it well. As well, analysis and repairs by another company would serve you well. You'll need it for damages.


Title: Handicapped sign fell off the sign but the paint is still on the ground. Is it still a handicapped parking spot

Question:
This is in Illinois.
Topic:
Traffic and Parking

Answer: Yes, it's still a handicapped spot. If you got a ticket in a situation like this, you can try fighting it by stating the sign was not visible when you parked there.


Title: [GA] Missed my rent a few times, but only had verbal agreement

Question:
Hi. I want to know if anyone can help decipher if I could be sued for missing my rent...

I am renting with one other person and we are both on the lease (12 months, we are on month 8). The rent is 2000 a month. He makes much more than me, so he offered to pay 1450 of it, leaving me the rest. Utilities were to be split. We have handled every agreement verbally thus far, as we both know each other well. He agreed to pay for the first month while I found a job. He offered to buy me a bed during this time because I was sleeping on an air mattress, so long as I would pay him back. So, after I found my job, I started sending him money. I only make about 30-35k a year, so meeting 550 a month for rent has been too hard for me, so I have only sent around 200-400 a month. I lost my job for a month as well, which meant I could not meet rent...

All in all, if you take the amount that I have sent and subtract it from what I borrowed (the bed, various other bills when I was out of a job, groceries here and there), I am 2000+ in the hole... Can I be sued, given that none of this was written? Or, even worse, could he say that the agreement was that we paid even amounts of rent?? I am worried, because there's very little chance I could pay this back... I guess it's important to ask if he could get me kicked out / removed from the lease? Moving is beyond my means at the moment, especially given what I owe him...

Answer:
 > Can I be sued, given that none of this was written?

Yep!

> I guess it's important to ask if he could get me kicked out / removed from the lease?

Nope. He will just sue you for your share.


Title: My Mother was killed late April in a car wreck, her husband pocketed the life insurance and is kicking me out of the house. Everyone I have told has told me pretty much I'm screwed.

Question: [deleted]

Answer:
 If your mother was of sound mind when she filled out her will and last updated her insurance policies' beneficiaries, then she had every right to do as she wanted with her assets. Apparently, that was "leave them to my husband when I die."

I'm extremely sorry for your loss, and I understand your anger, but there's no obvious legal issue here. Grieve as you can, and decide from here what kind of relationship you want to have with your mother's husband.


Title: [Ontario] Is it legal to speak falsely about a minor in a public meeting?

Question:
I'm hoping to get some advice for a friend who has been having a hard time.

This girl (we will call her Sarah - age 17) goes to a Christian church which is run by two men who make all the decisions and force out anyone who disagree with them. One of them has a son (Eddy - age 19) whom Sarah was friends with.

Sarah was feeling guilty about something that the bible would call a "sin" (nothing that is illegal) and she went to Eddy for advice. Eddy ended up recording their conversations (in person and on the phone), copying all their email correspondence, and putting both on  a USB drive which he used to blackmail Sarah with to try to get her to do whatever he wanted.

Sarah is a strong girl and right away went to the Police about it. They warned Eddy to stay away from Sarah and not to contact her. The men that run the church were furious about Sarah going to the Police and held a church meeting (Sarah was not present but Sarah's mother was) in which they attacked not only Sarah's character but that of her entire family. It was not an open forum and only the men who run the church were able to speak. They concluded the meeting by excommunicating the family from the church (not by a vote - executive decision). Any family that tried to support Sarah's family is now being shunned by some of the church and treated very poorly.

I'm hoping someone can help me by telling me if the only crime here is the recording of the phone calls or if there are any other crimes committed.

Thanks in advance!

Answer:
 Even if the men made up things about your friend (defamed her in the meeting), she would need to show damages. Being kicked out of a church where you are not wanted is not ~~comprehensible~~ [edit: stupid auto correct] "compensable".

On a side note:  I hope your friend knows that this is not how normal churches are managed or run. Most Christian churches want to teach the gospel and lead people to Christ. It is also not Christ-like to behave like those men or Eddy.Answer #2: A quick google search found (AFAIK, need someone with ontario law experience) that Canada federally has a "one-party consent" law, where it is legal to record phone conversations, as long as one of the people in the conversation is you. It's only illegal if you're eavesdropping on someone else's phone conversation. If this is still the law in Canada, Eddy did nothing illegal by recording the phone call.

I do concur that there are churches out there that are far more worth your time.


Title: TX - apt was sold, new landlord increased rent

Question:
My apt complex was sold. No notice was given to tenants, I only found out when I tried to pay rent online, and my account was disabled. I called the office, they told me about the sale, gave me a new website to pay at.

My rent has gone up $20/mo on their website. I have a 13 month lease. I called to ask what was going on, they said they increased everybody's rent to "market rent". Mentioned I have a lease, they said I'd have to talk to corporate, as this was a decision handed down from them.

Their corporate office number gives a voicemail greeting stating "this voicemail is full".

My lease is a standard TAA lease, and doesn't mention anything about the lease being void if the property is sold.

Options? I know it's only 20, but they expect me to abide by the lease terms, I certainly expect them to abide by them as well.

Answer: Something tells me you should start knocking on doors and get together with the other tennents. Answer #2: "I have altered the deal, pray I do not alter it further"


Title: My roommate got locked in a freezer at work

Question: My roommates works in a 5 star restraunt, she got locked in and there was no emergency release button from the inside, that has to be highly illegal right? She just came home from work and is still crying, but I'm freaking pissed.

Answer:
 She should contact OSHA.Answer #2: Definitely contact OCEAAnswer #3: How old is the restaurant and how long has she worked there?

I've not worked in restaurants much but I feel like I've heard of some freezers having emergency latches located off to the side of the door.

Is she 100% certain there isnt any sort of unintuitive latch to escape the freezer?

If so, report to OSHA and maybe the fire marshal.


Title: [Baton Rouge, LA] I was charged with Possession of Alcohol under 21 and having an Open Container. I just called the Pretrial Diversion Office and now I'm freaking out, HELP

Question:
My charges are:

* 13:913 Poss of Alcohol under 21
* 13:1018 Open Container

The person at the Pretrial Diversion Office told me that I have to go to the trial and then they will give me the option of a Pretrial Diversion where I will have 6 months to go to:

* A Substance Abuse class which is apparently $50
* A Mothers Against Drunk Driving which is apparently $40
* Then there is $610 I have to pay to enter the Pretrial Diversion program
* Then I have to complete 8 hrs of community service, 12 AA meetings, and a Defensive Driving course

All of this seems a little rediculus as I was just charged with having a rum and coke in a fast food restaurants cup while tailgating. I wasn't even drunk it was my first drink of the day and some undercover cop came up to me and asked for my ID because I had a drink in my hand.

Am I really gonna end up having to pay $700 for this. Everything I had read online seamed to indicate I would only have to pay ~$350. The officer who gave me the ticket also said that I would only end up having to go to one class. Also is it worth it to tell my parents? I'm sure they would pay for a lawyer and probably everything else, as they actually have kind of always encouraged me to drink. But I would prefer to avoid telling them.

TLDR: I am charge with 2 alcohol related misdemeanors and could really use some advice

Answer: NAL but I would tone down your attitude when you see a judge. "I have a 3.9 GPA and so am starter than you" and "everyone else is doing it" will not get you far.


Title: How can I find a lawyer and communicate with them online only?

Question: I have a number of issues from real estate to health care that Ill need multiple lawyers for. I cant stand the current lawyer conusltant model of leaving a message, waiting a month for a response, and shoved off the phone. I do not want to go to an office. I want to talk online or over the phone. Is there a more efficient model somewhere that can help me in this situation?

Answer:
 Consult with local attorneys and pay the ones that communicate as often as you like.  But many attorneys have a very large number of cases to manage. If you have expectations of how often and for how long you wish to speak with them, lay those out at the beginning and ask how much that level of service will cost.

Edit to add: and if you don't want to go to meet face to face for at least an initial consultation that will set off a lot of red flags. There are plenty attempted scams on attorneys that begin with out of state/out of country clients that can't meet face to face. Declining to meet will just get you brushed off.


Title: I was fired for over-staying my medical leave.

Question:
State : California

I lost part of my hearing at work do to the location of my job. I reported my injury to my supervisor after my hearing went out for over an hour. Since my employer failed to provide an urgent care provider, I had to go to my doctor. When then referred me to an ENT.

My supervisor failed to report my injury to HR until 3 days later after I called his boss crying. (ENT diagnosed permanent nerve damage and permanent Tinnitus. I now require hearing aids.)

Because of my supervisor’s actions- workers comp was automatically denied and I had to obtain an attorney. HR made me obtain an ADA (Work Accommodation Request) from my ENT that specifically stated I needed ear protection and hearing aids. I went on medical leave as my hearing issues impacted my job and I was no longer sleeping (really bad Tinnitus).

It’s been over an year and I have been on leave because my claim is still denied. The ENT and QME already submitted audio tests and their reports in my favor. They had the QME provide a deposition estimating medical costs exceeding $200k if I live up to 80.

But here’s where I need help. My employer fired me. They didn’t even notify me they fired me. I received an exit survey and that’s how I found out. I had to contact HR and was told I was let go because I exceeded my leave. But my job never attempted to accommodate to my disability caused by their negligence.

My workers comp attorney says this is an employment lawyers case. However, I’ve talked to two attorneys so far and one declined to take the case because terminating someone exceeding their leave is acceptable in California. The other attorney wants to go after unpaid overtime and stated my workers comp attorney would be responsible for my employer failing to accommodate my ADA.

Can someone provide any recommendations or course of action?

Answer:
 I don't think we have enough information.

From what you posted, it sounds like you suffered hearing loss at work, had to get hearing aids, took over a year off, and they fired you.

I wouldn't expect any company to keep a job open for you after a year.Answer #2: NAL but I wanted to ask: Have you spoken with an employment attorney? Do you have any sort of proof that you reported your injury to your supervisor? Was any kind of incident report filled out? How did HR request the ADA?

I know it's a lot of questions


Title: Rochester New York, at a upcoming hip hop event the rules say that they will allow in 18+ females, but if your male you must be 21. Is this legal or fair? My first thought is someone can argue sexism and take them to court?

Answer:
 But if my male?

You probably could, but if they have the money to put on and promote the event they probably also have the money to pay lawyers to keep you occupied until you run out of money. The easier solution is to not go.


Title: NC What happens to a person's debt if they die?

Question: If a person has a lot of credit card debt/hospital bills, what happens if they die before they can repay?

Answer:
 Generally the creditors will go after the estate for repayment.

Suicide is a permanent solution to a temporary problem.  If you are having thoughts, please Call 1-800-273-8255.


Title: Hospital refused to help me with broken ankle

Question:
Toronto and Oakville, Ontario, Canada.

So last night, I believe I fractured my right ankle while in Toronto. Currently, living in Oakville (2 minutes from brand new hospital), I drove myself there. Upon arriving and trying to get admitted, the nurse asked "which ankle?" And "how did I get there?"  I replied: "right ankle, I drove myself". She then said " You drove yourself? We can't admit you due to liability"
WHAT LIABILITY? I WAS ALREADY THERE!
Is there a law that your required to drive with only your right foot? What nonsense!!!
I ended up driving 4 minutes home safety, actually there were 3 police cars parked (with officers) by the exit that I drove by (twice). They didn't seem to have a problem with my left footed tactics.
Who is that nurse to say that?  Do I have any legal recourse?  I'm so upset over this. I wonder who else they refused to help and why.
Any input or thoughts are appreciated.
Thanks

Answer:
 Did you seek medical attention elsewhere?Answer #2: Did she mean the liability if they discharged you and you had to drive yourself home....?  They did that to me when I was given certain drugs for a back spasm but I just called someone to come pick me up.
Otherwise I can’t understand what they would be liable for.

Also at that point you could call someone to pick you up and they never need to know how you got your car back.

You should call the hospital ombudsman (or patient advocate) as well just to inquire about this. I wonder if she’s confused on a specific policy.Answer #3: Try calling local MPP office and see if they would do anything.
Also did you leave your car at home and go back?Answer #4: Personally, I would have just walked outside to the curb then called 911 on my cell phone so they could have an ambulance drive around the corner and bring me in through the ER since they won't admit you as a walk in.Answer #5: Unsure what you're asking specifically. Legal recourse for what exactly? Not liking what the nurse said?


Title: Can my landlord evict me if/while he is under IRS investigation for undeclared income?

Question: Hello community. I live in NY, Queens. The woman I rent from is so cheap that she and her son are trying to evict me for 9 months now, so that they can take advantage of the crazy rising prices in my neighborhood. They gave me a rent stabilized lease and now they claim that the building is not rent stabilized, while they forced me into month-to-month tenancy by refusing to renew my lease twice (that is, they asked for a raise twice already). First they tried to scare me for months (cutting my internet cable outside my window at 2 am, while the son is the only person who has this access, cursing by the mother, turning off my heat in December), so I took them to court first for harassment. They tried to do it the legal way after this, so I closed the harassment case to focus my resources on the eviction case after they served me with a 30-days notice back in December. My lawyer managed to get the case dismissed twice already because they can't even hire and pay a proper lawyer, this meaning that he always messed up with the correct paperwork and documentation. Now they are trying for a third time and I'm determined to report them to IRS because they are declaring 4 units while they receive income from 8. They never gave me a receipt, but I pay with check every single time, so I have proof of payment. I don't want to damage them but obviously they want to cause me damage, so I'm seriously thinking of doing this. My question is, can they be in Housing Court trying to evict me if and while the IRS investigates them?  Thank you for reading this, I'd appreciate any insight and information you have to share!

Answer: Whether they are being investigated by the IRS has no bearing on whether they can evict you. Report them if you want, buy it won't keep them from trying to evict you. Answer #2: If you are currently on a month to month lease and they have served you with a 30 days notice "the legal way" as you claim , why didn't you vacate?


Title: Can my landlord take any action us for moving out? (No Lease)

Question:
This is in New York.

My roommates and I are college students looking to move out of our house at the end of fall semester and be in a new place for the spring. Our current place is definitely not up to code and our landlord refuses to do anything to improve the house, which led us to look elsewhere.

My question is can he take any legal action against us? None of us ever signed a lease, we just pay him the rent on the 1st every month and he doesn't kick us out, and that's about the extent of the agreement. I just want to be absolutely sure before we sign a lease somewhere else

Answer: As long as you give proper notice, you will be fine.


Title: [PA] Is it legal for employers to withhold wages based on alleged losses they've suffered by an employee's actions?

Question:
In movies you often hear the old chestnut of "I'm taking that broken dish out of your pay!" from the diner owner, or something along those lines. I'm just wondering how legal such an action is.

I have a friend who worked as a receptionist for a spa. He quit the job recently, and was supposed to receive a last paycheck today for two days of work. He is being told by the owner that they are refusing to issue that check because they allege that he bungled an appointment that cost them money.

I am no expert, but it seems to me like this must be illegal. Wouldn't they have to pay you for your work and then seek restitution for any amount of money they claim to have lost because of your actions the same way anyone else would (IE: small claims court?)


Title: Landlord turned water back on to do "repairs" after we moved out and took the money for the bills out of our security deposit (IN)

Question:
So we were renting a house in student housing and moved out in the beginning of June after school ended. We were still on the lease through July though,  but we payed our rent for the months we weren't there. After we moved out, one of my roommates turned off the utilities. We just got a letter about a week ago saying we wouldn't get any of our security deposit back and that we actually each owe an additionally $56. On the paper it says what was done and how much she charged, and she included a $998 fee for the water bill over the summer while she was making repairs.

1. I don't understand how the hell you use that much water for repairs, especially when no one is living there.

2. Can she really turn the water back on and charge us for it after we moved out and turned it off?

It's not making sense to me and seems to me like she's just coming at our pockets and trying to avoid giving us back our deposit.

Also, she charged us $1000 for trash removal ($500 for a dumpster and $500 for removing the trash). I don't know what all was there that needed removed since I was one of the first to move out, but I know there was furniture there. However, some of the furniture was left there from the previous tenets before us. I know at least a couch and a large desk were left in my room when we moved in. We also already had a dumpster in our backyard/parking lot that was plenty big enough to hold furniture which she already pays for as trash was the one utility she covered. Can she do this? Like I said, I'm sure some of it was from us, but some definitely was left over from pervious tenets. So can she charge us for the previous furniture that was left and wasn't ours? And can she charge us for another dumpster when she already had one that she had been covering the whole year that gets picked up weekly?

Edit: http://m.imgur.com/UYUS10z this is an itemized bill of what we were charged for the repairs. I have a comment further down breaking down each item

Answer:
 I would send her a letter viz certified mail and ask her for an itemized bill especially for the water.  She is required to give you an exact cost to do this, not an estimate.  Tell her in the letter you are disputing charges the water bill charges and want the actual bill to review it along with the actual bills for the trash removal and the dumpster.  All of these she should have.

When you have the itemized bill then post us an update.Answer #2: > Like I said, I'm sure some of it was from us, but some definitely was left over from pervious tenets.

That doesn't matter.  Unless you noted it and asked her to remove it - specifically disavowing ownership of it - it's yours.  I'm guessing this is one of those revolving tenancy things, where some people move out and others move in?

As for the water bill, you're responsible for utilities so long as you have the place.  Putting some of the cost of repairs on you is reasonable - if it's damage you're liable for, then the cost of the water to repair it is on you, as well.  What sort of repairs was she doing?


Title: Bucks County, PA Dog convicted as Dangerous Dog in local court for single occurrence of a single bit on neighbors ankle. NEED help, advice.

Question: [deleted]

Answer: Your dog attacked someone without any provocation. The definition for a dangerous dog specifically mentions a dog that attacks a person without provocation.


Title: I'll leave a bad review if...

Question:
State: Pennsylvania

In what way (if any) can I express to a company that I'll leave them a bad review if they don't refund me for a service? I don't want to say anything illegal/get in trouble for extortion. The review would contain facts, my opinion, and photos to support my claim.

Answer: Don't threaten them with a bad review. Ask for your refund and then post your review regardless of getting a refund


Title: Plan to help friend have child, want no legal obligation

Question:
I'll try to make this as short and simple as possible. My friend wants a child, and has currently failed with her current SO in doing so. She has turned to me in an attempt to try again, and I'm currently going over my options before I make a decision.

One thing we have clearly discussed is that **if** we succeed, this will basically boil down to me providing the semen (via intercourse, if that info matters), but with no legal or otherwise attachment to the child. It will be raised by her and her SO, and I will have done my favor.

To make sure this doesn't somehow come back and bite me in the ass, I thought I would post here first. So legaladvice, how can I make sure I'm covered?

Answer:
 [That's not how this works.](http://thats-normal.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/9vzYQwj.jpg)

If you want to be a legally safe and unattached sperm donor, you go to a clinic and you do it through them.

I will wait for one of our domestic law experts, but I think that it's VERY likely you could wind up on the hook for child support if you do it the old fashioned way here.Answer #2: >One thing we have clearly discussed is that if we succeed, this will basically boil down to me providing the semen (via intercourse, if that info matters), but with no legal or otherwise attachment to the child.

Yes, it matters.   This will not work.

The one and only way for you to do this with no probability of legal obligation is by going through a fertility clinic/doctor.  You cannot just have sex with your friend.  If you do, you could be on the hook for 18 years of child support.


Title: Is it necessarily a bad sign that an apartment I'm looking at requires tenants to get renter's insurance? [NC]

Question:
TL;DR, I am looking into getting my first apartment and I've found a place that I am thinking about looking at, but it requires tenants have renter's insurance. I was talking to my mom and she said that to her, this probably means that tenants' apartments get broken into all the time, and that she's never lived in a place that *required* renter's insurance.

Is she right? Or is it more common these days (she hasn't rented an apartment in over twenty years), or for a good reason, etc?

Answer:
 It is very common and not a bad sign at all.

It is a bad sign if you were not planning on having some form of renter's insurance on move in.Answer #2: No, it's not a bad sign.  It's a good sign.  It's a sign that they're a responsible company and that they're looking for responsible tenants.

You shouldn't ever rent without renter's insurance, so this should be a non-issue.


Title: Can a server be docked tips for a walkout.

Question: Last night one of my servers (head host) was docked 40 bucks by our manager and had to pay out of pocket she didn't have much left over and they are paid 3.23 an hour compared to 9.45 an hour for non tipped employees. Was this illegal should I talk with the managers and discuss this as I am just below them on the totem pole or should I go to hr and say hay look here illegal shit. Thanks for your time.

Answer:
 Location is not optional.

In *general*, docking a server for a walkout *at all* is illegal barring the server specifically agreeing to that individual pay dock (as almost all states do not give legal backing to sweeping docking agreements as part of onboarding).  Docking tips even moreso as *tips are the property of the employee* and **never** belong to the business.


Title: Teacher Changes Class Specifically to give me Worse Grades.

Question: [deleted]

Answer: Why are you all not following the same syllabus?


Title: Neighbour (likely) stole our cat

Question:
Located in Ottawa, Ontario, Canada.

A week ago Sunday, our cat went missing. He is our “kennel cat” (lives at the kennel I work for). He is about 5 years old and has always been an indoor/outdoor cat. He’s super smart and knows our schedule. If he is outside, he always arrives to come in for breakfast or dinner, and when we leave for lunch breaks/for the evening.

My boss has had an ongoing feud with the neighbour next door. The man definitely has mental health issues. He is paranoid that the owners of my kennel will steal his land (they have owned the kennel for over 40 years and have no interest in “taking over his property”). We have called bi law authorities for his mistreatment and unlawful ownership of farm animals. We hear him slaughtering his animals and smell when he burns their flesh :( He tried to shoot my boss (all on video, went to court, he was charged $200).

Because we have had to call the police on him many times, there is no way he would admit to stealing our cat. But we are very sure he has :( He has cameras everywhere and I’m sure is enjoying watching us search for that cat.

What can we do? I personally don’t have any ongoing legal issues with him (and I have never met him), but I’m sure he knows who I am and would never hand over our cat to me :(

Our cat went missing at around 11AM, so I doubt it was another animal that killed him.

We are all heartbroken missing our super cool cat. What can we do?

Answer: With no evidence? nothing.


Title: Email hacked, essay was edited, in trouble for plagiarism

Question: [deleted]

Answer:
 No, this is an issue of school policy. That said, I'm finding this story *incredibly* hard to believe.Answer #2: Fortunately, she can use google docs to show all the revisions ever made to a document, using the File>Revision History menu option.

So she should be able to go in and show the school that she originally wrote the essay with no plagiarism, and show exactly when and how the document was altered to include the plagiarism.

Also, how do you know who did it?

I bet there is more to this story...Answer #3: Jess is lying. </end thread>Answer #4: Sure, go into Google Docs, then look at the revision history to show what changes were made and when.  If it shows those changes as being made when the account was out of her control, that's persuasive evidence that she wasn't responsible for the offense.


Title: Curious about lawsuit

Question:
I am a frequent reader of this sub and I came across this article on cnn regarding a woman who is suing her former employer because she was fired for deleting an app that allowed her company to track her using gps nonstop. As she wasn't fired for a protected reason (such as her gender), what are the merits of this suit?

http://money.cnn.com/2015/05/13/technology/fired-gps-app/index.html

Thanks!!

The lawsuit was filed in California against a company based in Florida.

Answer:
 This sub has the most entertaining voting patterns ever.

California has a right of privacy, this cuts against the employer.  In fact, California has a law about restricting lawful activities outside work hours (as something investigated by the labor board.)

I love everyone saying the employer owns your life.  Luckily, at least in California, they are wrong.Answer #2: It's a company-issued phone.  She may even be acting criminally by attempting to defeat owner-installed software.

I don't expect her suit to get very far.  Her use of the phone is voluntary, even if it's a non-negotiable term of her employment.  That is, she can volunteer to work somewhere else.


Title: School required girl take bra off to prove she didnt have vape on her.

Question:
I'm know this from a friend of the girl, not directly. I'm mostly curious, but if she can take legal action, I hope she does. I'm a little unsettled by it.

The school is starting to wake up to how many kids vape in class or at school, and I think they overstepped bounds. I don't have the full story, but here what I know.

**I know that the school suspected she had been vaping or had been told so, and when confronted, she was required to take off her bra to prove that she didn't have anything. **

Here is what I've inferred based on usual procedures and school culture.

I assume someone told the office she was vaping, I don't know if that was true or not. There aren't a lot of snitches, but it's possible, the sophomores are a janky year. It's equally possible that she joked about vaping or something and a teacher overheard and overreacted. It's not unusual for teachers at my school to hear things out of context and for kids to get in trouble w the office as a result.

I also assume that she actually didn't have anything on her, but that they searched her belongings and for some reason felt the need to search her as well. Perhaps she was being suspicious, or trying to evade them. I don't know what she's like and if she has a problem with authority.

I do not know if the school resource officer was involved.

**I'm curious about several things.**

//If they searched her belongings without any significant proof, do they have that right?

//More importantly, if they did so and found nothing, did they have a right to search her?

//And farther, what are the legal implications in requiring a girl of 15 or 16 to remove a bra, *especially* without any proof that there was a good purpose?

I'm located in Minnesota, and this is a public high school.
Topic:
Juvenile and Youth Law

Answer:
 The searching of the person and belongings is most likely allowed because of school policy and all those papers you sign at the beginning of the school year. But removing a bra I don't think is necessary or legal, she should contact a lawyer.Answer #2: The Supreme Court made a favorable ruling in a similar case. This looks promising. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Safford_Unified_School_District_v._Redding

Edited cause I can't spell


Title: Paid and commissioned an artist via email. Artist is an OP and doesn't deliver.

Question: Last summer I found the artist behind a print I've seen online and loved for years. I contacted him by email and we agreed that he would mail me 2 full size prints for $50. I sent him the money via paypal and waited. Since then, I have received nothing and he has not responded to my emails. What recourse do I have? I live in Idaho; I'm not sure where he is. I can post the text of our email exchange if you like.

Answer: Your first step is to file a claim with Paypal. If they won't assist you, your only other recourse is a small claims suit in the state where the artist lives.


Title: Wedding Reception Venue threatens Bride with $5 Million Lawsuit for Negative Facebook Review {Aliquippa, PA}

Question:
My sister had wedding reception where she had a number of issues with the venue in Aliquippa, PA, USA. A few examples: double-booked a funeral wake in her room so she couldn't set up properly, wrong food was served to 90 of her guests, the chef came out and began arguing with her on the dancefloor in the middle of the reception, and quite a few other issues.

My sister left a negative 1 star review on their Facebook page detailing her grievances.

This week (months after the event), the owner of the venue called her and threatened to file a $5 million lawsuit against her for the negative review if she didn't remove it within 10 days.

Although my sister was sure they won't win an actual case, she also doesn't have money for a lawyer or legal fees. Unfortunately, she felt forced to and did remove the review.

I've encouraged her to put the review back up and only list the facts of what happened. I also said that she now should include the threat of the lawsuit.

My questions are as follows:

Does the business have any legal right to do this (afterall, what good are reviews if lawsuits can be threatened for leaving a negative review)?

What options does my sister have?

Any additional advice as what to do in this situation?

Thank you.
Topic:
Removed - PII

Answer:
 Your sister was a bit premature in bringing the review down.  I would have added something to it about how they called me up and threatened to sue me for $5M because of it.

(1) Assuming she stuck to facts and what was clearly opinion, there's no way the venue could have won.
(2) At minimum, I would have waited for a cease-and-desist from an attorney.
(3)  Your sister should report it to the better business bureau.
Answer #2: >Does the business have any legal right to do this (afterall, what good are reviews if lawsuits can be threatened for leaving a negative review)?

You can threaten a lawsuit for absolutely anything.  The case would maybe have been thrown out if it was ever filed (assuming your sister's post didn't reach the level of defamation, depends what she actually said, but it's unlikely if everything she claimed was true), but they had a legal right to threaten it, and probably had a legal right to file, even if it was frivolous.  Assuming the case went forward, the truth of her statements would act as a defense.

>What options does my sister have?

Put the review back up?  Leave it down?  It's not like she can sue them for threatening to sue her, I'm not sure what you're asking.

>Any additional advice as what to do in this situation?

You do nothing, you've got no dog in the fight.  She can put the review back up or she can let it go and move on.


Title: During a period of time of incapacitating mental illness, I was sadistically abused by my caretakers. I need to know if they purchased life insurance under my name whilst they had power of attorney without alerting them.

Question: [deleted]

Answer:
 You need to continue to seek help for your paranoid schizophrenia.

If the caretakers you have are dangerous, you should seek placement in a state facility.


Title: Just graduated college and my father offered to give me a monthly allowance to help pay student loans but is paying me through his shell corp...

Question:
Throwaway here.

I just graduated from college and my student loans are around $1800/month and I live in New York City.

My father said he would pay me $1000 a month to help cover some of these costs.

He just paid me with a check that is not a personal check, but is a company check.  I know what company he works for, and this is not it.  I asked my mother, and she said it's his personal company and the check is fine.  When he gets paid, his company gets paid, not him personally.  I'm not sure I trust her since my father has had legal trouble in the past with stuff like this.

What do I do with this check?  I need the money but I also don't want to be implicated in whatever my Father is or isn't doing.

Answer: Financial advice, not legal advice, but you might want to look into income based repayment if your loans are federal.Answer #2: $1800/month? What the Christ, were your textbooks plated in gold??


Title: Can my company mandate an unpaid lunch break if I am required to be on-call for the duration of my break?

Question:
Hey there,

I am working as a construction site medic in Manhattan, NY. I am the only medic on site, and am required to have my work phone and radio on me at all times. We are required to punch out for a half-hour lunch break, but we must keep our phone and radio on us and stay close enough to the site that we can respond if anything happens. My question is it is legal for my company to not pay me while expecting me to potentially respond to an emergency? I looked it up on the [NY labor law website](https://labor.ny.gov/workerprotection/laborstandards/employer/meals.shtm) and it wasn’t super clear. I understand I’m operating under a One-Employee shift, but I’m still not clear on what the pay requirements are for a lunch break in which you are still required to stay on site. (If an incident does end up occurring during lunch, you do get paid for it, by the way.)

Thanks in advance!
Topic:
Labor Law (Unions)

Answer:
 Generally if you are ‘engaged to work’ they have to pay you. The basic check is “could you leave during lunch if you wanted?”

If no, you’re probably engaged to work.

Not a lawyer.


Title: Issues with cigarette smokers (Michigan)

Question:
I live in an apartment in Lansing, MI and I've recently been having issues with cigarette smoke. To preface, my girlfriend and I both have asthma and are sensitive to smoke. My building manager and assistant manager are both smokers, and they have set up smoking areas with chairs and ash trays in both the attached parking garage (about 10 feet from the entrance door) and on the 2nd floor pool terrace (about 15 feet from the entrance door). I've talked to them multiple times about getting rid of these smoking areas, and they basically say "people are going to smoke there anyways, if we get rid of the ash trays there will just be butts on the ground," which is a bullshit excuse because there are butts all over the ground right next to the ash trays anyways (fuck smokers).

There is a section in our lease that says smoking is not allowed within 50 feet of building entrances, and I believe the Michigan Smoke Free Air law says the same thing.

My question is, who can I contact the rectify this situation? Is there some kind of inspector or something who deals with/ enforces stuff like this? Thanks!

Answer:
 The Michigan smoke-free act only bans smoking in and around businesses, not apartments.  East Lansing and MSU both ban smoking in public, but Lansing does not (AFAIK).

If your lease prohibits smoking near entrances then you can try to enforce that provision against your landlord.  But I don't think it would be very effective.

Your remedy is to move to somewhere that takes a more active role in preventing smoking if it is that important to you.


Title: Craigslist sperm donations, I'm reading it's not possible/legal

Question:
I am a man that lives in the state of Ohio. I was looking through Craigslist when I found and contacted a lesbian who is interested in having a local man impregnate her. I responded to her posting and we've talked back and forth a little bit, I'm trying to setup a meet and greet very soon.

From what I've read online: Many people in my position have tried to form contractual agreements that relieve them from parental obligations to the child resulting from a private sperm donation. This doesn't work, apparently you [must submit the semen sample to a licensed physician](http://verdict.justia.com/2014/01/27/craigslist-sperm-donor-owes-child-support). I'm assuming the whole reason she is posting through Craigslist is because the official sperm donation route is expensive and why do that when there are men such as myself who are willing to donate for free?

From the article I linked to:

>In reaching this conclusion, the judge noted that the termination of parental rights is strictly controlled by statute in Kansas.  It can only happen three prescribed ways: (1) relinquishment and adoption; (2) adjudication of a child in need of care; and (3) through a judicial finding of parental unfitness.  In the court’s view, these are the only mechanisms for relieving a parent of obligations.  To allow otherwise would compromise the child’s right to financial support from its parents, a right that the state does not take lightly.

I know it's from a different state, but I doubt Ohio is different, so the only options I seem to have are:

* relinquishment and adoption
* back out

I don't know what the first option means yet, but I'm trying to learn. Is there a specific "type" of lawyer that I should talk to about this? I'm so ignorant I don't even know if there are specialties relating to this.

Thanks in advance for any advice!
Topic:
Other Civil Matters

Answer:
 You're finding universal agreement online about this because the law universally agrees.

The precedent you are citing in Kansas and the law in Ohio are very similar everywhere in the USA.   If your sperm is used to impregnate a woman outside of a licensed medical fertility treatment, you will be legally the child's father until the child is adopted by someone else.   This includes your obligation to pay child support.

There is no contract you can use or agreement you can sign that will relieve you of your legal obligations in this sort of circumstance.Answer #2: Do not do "sperm donation" outside of a licensed doctor or agency.  Period, full stop.  It's just a crazy thing to do unless you want to be legally obligated as a parent for the next 18+ years.Answer #3: >  I'm assuming the whole reason she is posting through Craigslist is because the official sperm donation route is expensive and why do that when there are men such as myself who are willing to donate for free?

I'm assuming she's going this route so the donor will be financially obligated to the child for the next eighteen years.

Please don't do this.


Title: [18/F] College student desperate for housing, mostly on what can I qualify for.

Question:
Living in Monterey county, California. Rent in this area runs upwards of $1,700/month for a 1 bd, 1 bth. The only affordable thing I have been able to find is $975/month however section 8 was required. I've looked into section 8 housing, the problem is legally I'm considered a dependent and my parents don't qualify for section 8. I'm not sure what papers I would need or if I have another option. I've looked into renting out rooms in the area, however rooms run upwards of $700 to $1000 a month and honestly, I'm desperate to know if there's other housing options and possibly cheaper.

I'm going to enter my third semester in college, and unfortunately although my parents make enough to help out- they refuse too. Most months they actually ask me for $200 to $300 a month for bills. On top of school fees before financial aid hits and I'm given maybe 3 months at most to live off but that's a stretch, and after books and tuition for following semesters I'm spending close to $1,500 per semester going to school full time in the medical field. To add on, we live an hour away from my job and school, and with how much I drive only including work and school at the end of the month there goes another $500.

I work a minimum wage job full time to support myself and help my family out, and it's starting to kill me. Once or twice I week I end up sleeping in my car for 3 to 4 hours because I get out of work at 7am, having to be at school by 2pm and getting out of school at 9pm only to be back at work by 11pm.

Honestly, it's excruciating especially since by fall I'm going to be going to school 8am to 9pm two days out of the week which will be my days off. The only thing I have going for me that might allow me to pass is that I have a diagnosis of PTSD, but am unsure if that will qualify me for disability, thus possibly allowing me to apply for section 8 housing.

I've done the math and after all my expenses (gas, school, phone bill, helping out my family) I'm left with 800 for rent and food.

Staying with extended family near by is not an option since they refuse to talk to me for personal reasons, and I have no friends nor boyfriend who I can stay with for a few hours to sleep. Honestly I'm desperate, my grades aren't good, my health is deteriorating and I find myself almost falling asleep behind the wheel because I'm that sleep deprived. I've contemplated dropping out of college multiple times and have even switched my major from a BSN to an AA just to be able to finish the process faster until I'm in a better position to finish my career. At this point I just need to know if there's any legal options so I can get something near by.

Answer:
 Even if you qualified for section 8 housing, it's not a quick solution to your problem. On top of the process to be certified disabled, it could be years before you could receive a voucher.

It's not the responsibility of the government to furnish you with housing in order to cut down on your commute. You could look into borrowing more on your student loans to cover living expenses.


Title: TN Bit the Dust & am sore, embarrassed and pissed

Question:
Less than a week ago I went to a local chain restaurant with relatives visiting from out of town. We had been hiking, playing in the river and then it thundered so we left. We were to meet at the restaurant and I was the last one there and it was pouring. I decided to wait until the rain calmed down to get out of the car since I had 2 young kids with me. I could see my sis with her kids on the covered deck shouting and pointing at a sign on the door but it was raining so hard I couldn't hear her or read the sign. I've been to that store many many times as it is near where my family and I go for day hikes.

There are large wide wooden stairs leading up to the porch and a concrete handicap accessible ramp on the very end to get onto the deck built into the parking lot.  I was parked in the parking place immediately in front of the ramp. Since I couldn't understand her, I left the car and trotted toward the ramp, through the rain to speak to my sister. I took one step onto the front of the ramp and fell, hard. Hard enough to knock the breath out of me so I lay there for a minute or so trying to get back up. The side facing the parking lot was very steep, unmarked with no railing or sign.

When I caught my breath I looked over long enough to see the last of my sisters children leave the stairs and then 3 guys walked out of the restaurant, stared at me, laughed and WALKED OFF. It was outrageous. I can't believe 3 grown men would look over at another person on the ground, bleeding in the rain would laugh! An older man who had been farther away, came over to help me up and asked if I was okay, I was shaking and bleeding but said I was fine. He looked doubtful and asked me again and if I was sure. I shook my head and limped back to my car where my kids were screaming. My other sister, who was still in her car called me and asked me if I was okay.

Then I looked at myself. I had landed on my face and my cheek was scratched and bleeding, my knees were scraped and turning blue, my left wrist was swelling and I had a broken toe on one foot and had lost a toenail on the other.

I told her I thought maybe I wasn't okay after all and she told me to go inside and get first aid. I was so dizzy I stared at a line of girls walking into the store thinking about moving & trying to calm my kids down when another girl stumbled in the same exact spot.

So I went in and asked a girl behind the counter if I could speak to the manager and she came out. She told me her name and handed me
paper towels and went to get the first aid kit. She asked me what happened and I told her about the ramp and she said similar things had happened before and that she usually kept it painted yellow but that it had worn off. I told her about the mean men who laughed at me while I lay there gasping for breath and bleeding in the rain. She pointed at my shoes and said well, you should never wear flip flops in the rain. I explained that they were Chacos with grip and I'd paid way too much for them and worn them hiking and in the creek all day long. She said hers had been from the dollar store but she hated flip flops.

She suggested I to go to the ER and put an ice pack on my bruised and rapidly swelling wrist. She said she was sorry but she didn't touch other people's blood and handed me the first aid kit. I said I would see my doctor.

She told me her name again and pointed out the name and sign on the wall of the district manager. She asked my name and I told her and thanked her. Then I left. It wasn't until I got home that I realized I couldn't bend my knees properly, that I was really sore.

I was so wobbly that my sister instantly insisted on driving me to the ER where I was later joined by my husband who left work 4 hours early to be with me. They put a splint on my left wrist and taped my toe gave me medication for being sore and sent me home. Since I wrenched my neck, shoulders and back and did some kind of damage to my knees, they x-rayed and gave me a scan. My left side tummy, hip is bruised badly, my cheek is bruised, my left wrist is sprained and my right wrist & arm is still pins and needles and that won't go away. I guess my questions are:

1. Since there wasn't a sign or railing are they liable? The lady I talked to said it had happened before and they were supposed to keep it painted yellow. She also pointed out my shoes as an issue. Now I know- she's the owner.

2. Since I'm on pain meds and stiff and sore- I'm missing out on all the fun stuff my family is doing- theme parks, hikes... Everything. And they are leaving in 3 days.

3. I'm extremely pissed that those assholes laughed at me. I'm extremely pissed that my wedding rings are scratched up and that even 4 days later I am still sore.

Will an insurance adjuster be fair about this? I don't know what my ER bill will be but I cannot sleep because of brand new pain in my back, neck knees and hips. I can't work. I can't go to the gym. I don't want to hire an attorney unless absolutely necessary. What should I do?

Answer:
 Tldr: tripped on curb. Business provided ice and were polite.  Want too sue. Want to sue because someone laughed at them

Edit: also, happened in a rain storm and op was bleeding from injuriesAnswer #2: Funniest story I've read on the internet all day. 10/10


Title: Messy military divorce in Texas/Maryland

Question:
So, here's the gist of it:

My wife and I are getting a divorce, no kids, no shared property, no dual accounts. I am in the Army and stationed in San Antonio. She left in mid-December 2016 and went back to her family in Maryland. Although there are definite grounds for spousal abuse (she head butted me and gave me a black eye), it was going to be an amicable uncontested divorce. We just wanted it done as quickly as possible.

However, in Maryland, law requires that a couple be separated for 12 months before filing for divorce. In those 12 months, I would be required, per Army regulation, to pay her $818.40 a month until she filed and we get a court date. I say fuck that. I suggest we file in Texas, and get a pro se divorce facilitated by the military's legal assistance office. Basically we fill out a form with our personal info (i.e. names, SSN, car ownership), they handle the legalese, and one of us walks into the court room and finalizes the divorce decree. I think the total court fees would be around $200.

About a week ago, she flips out on me for not saying "good luck!" for her interview and goes no-contact on me and gets an attorney. I suggest the pro se divorce, and she refuses. She wants the money, plain and simple. There's no logical explanation for her choosing to file in Maryland if our goal was to finish this ASAP. At first, she said we could negotiate the $818.40 down to a more manageable price. I keep trying to convince her to do it pro se, and she goes "okay, too late, you'll pay the full amount."

So that's where I'm at. I talked to my chain of command, and they suggested I get an attorney. But my First Sergeant stated something intriguing. Her name is on the lease to our apartment. I pay $1,080 a month in rent and utilities. I don't *have* to live at the apartment and she's more than welcome to stay there until this is over. She is choosing to live in Maryland, where she is 100% supported by her parents.

**So finally, my questions are, does paying rent for a co-leased apartment satisfy the amount of support that I'm required to provide? Marital support in the military differs from civilian support in that I need to prove that she has an adequate place to stay. ******

**And if I file for a pro se divorce before she files, does that restrict her from filing in Maryland? I don't know if two divorces can be filed at once in different states. ******

Please help, I just want this insane woman out of my life before she ruins me. Thank you in advance for any advice.

Topic:
Custody Divorce and Family

Answer:
 Your wife is not a Maryland resident after living there only a month or so, it takes 6 months.  You should file for divorce in Texas before she establishes residency in Maryland.

I do not know about military regulations in regards to you supporting her while separated, so speak to your JAG about that.

You are no longer having an amicable, uncontested divorce.  Get yourself an attorney and file.  Have all contact from your wife go through your attorney.

Consult your JAG and get an attorney as soon as you can.

EDIT: Your regulations require to you pay support absent a court order unless released from that obligation.Answer #2: Ok, so this is from a Navy standpoint, not an Army one, but the procedures should be similar: Get the **exact** regulation(s) that apply to spousal support in a separation and divorce situation. Make sure you review them carefully, and then follow them to the letter - don't let your CoC screw you around with anything else. Don't do any other agreements with her, or anything like that, because it can bite you later on down the road.

Incidentally, this may protect your assets. We had a few sailors who thought that the "pay 2/3rds" regulation was a requirement, but after review, it turned out to be a recommendation and they were able to stop the command and PSD from taking their pay.


Title: Parked Over 18" from curb citation - tickets 26 hrs apart? 93101 CA

Question:
Recently I was ticketed for parking over 18" inches from the curb, twice. I am a bit miffed bc I saw the car on Sunday and there was no ticket, but it says it was ticketed at 12:05am. Then the next ticket on Monday at 2:30am.

 Are they able to ticket for the same citation this way? It wasn't a time spot, just in a cul-de-sac.

Answer: Yes. You were still breaking the law.


Title: [Usa-CA] International roommate is working illegally while on a student visa.

Question: How do i report this? He is working for an electronic ad company (intently) even though he is on a student visa from india which only permits working with the university.

Answer:
 There are many exceptions that permit international students to work, including financial hardship and practical/academic training. How do you know it's not the case?
Why don't you just mind your own business and let USCIS mind theirs?


Title: House Deposit Move Out Costs By Slumlord

Question:
My friend moved out of her small one bedroom, one bath, small backyard shed place last month. The deposit was 2100 and the landlord is saying he is keeping the deposit and she needs to fork out an additional 2300+. The place is in California, and she lived in the house for two years. In California, the law is the landlord can't charge for painting costs if the tenant lived there for two years, yet he charged for painting and normal wear and tear of the place.
She did leave some trash outside, which he offered to take to the dump. He drove to a dump 23.3 miles away, even though there is one 5 minutes away. He charged for replacing bathroom shower rod, toilet seat, and replacing drawer handles, none of which were broken. He even charged for buying a toilet paper roll cover (and never was one in the first place). The place was clean and there were no holes in the walls or anything like that. He even charged for "accounting time". I had a hard time deciphering his writing and I'm looking for advice for her. Let me know what you guys think. Thanks in advance.
[Imgur](http://i.imgur.com/w70O5lE.jpg)
[Imgur](http://i.imgur.com/7pOR0pO.jpg)
[Imgur](http://i.imgur.com/BD5n2zi.jpg)

Answer:
 Landlords in CA have to show proof of all expenses that are charged against the deposit.  If a landlord fails to abide by the rules for handling/returning deposits, it can give rise to a presumption of bad faith, which may entitle the tenant to recover more than the amount illegally withheld.

If your friend is sued, she can countersue for 3x the total deposit.

If the landlord doesn't return the deposit with an accounting of any funds withheld (including receipts), or a statement of charges with no deposit returned, within 21 days of the surrender of the property, she can sue him for, again, 3x the deposit.

Suing/countersuing for that amount doesn't mean she'll *get* it.  You just don't want to be the guy who sued for $2300 when you could have recovered 6900.  Oh, and plus court costs and filing fees.

California's statutes on this issue are clear that the Legislature explicitly intended to put an end to landlords treating the deposit as "free money".   So there are lots of shady things a landlord can do that will give rise to the bad-faith presumption and extra damages.

http://www.nolo.com/legal-encyclopedia/california-security-deposits-36199.html


Title: Was Aaron Swartz's human rights violated?

Question:
Hey

As stated in the title I am writing an article on how Aaron Swartz's human rights were violated. It is for my second year upper secondary High School law studies. (I am from Norway) And what better way to get help for it than to use Reddit?

The list of human rights that may or may not have been violated.

Article 10.
Everyone is entitled in full equality to a fair and public hearing by an independent and impartial tribunal, in the determination of his rights and obligations and of any criminal charge against him.

Article 11.
(1) Everyone charged with a penal offence has the right to be presumed innocent until proved guilty according to law in a public trial at which he has had all the guarantees necessary for his defence.
 (2) No one shall be held guilty of any penal offence on account of any act or omission which did not constitute a penal offence, under national or international law, at the time when it was committed. Nor shall a heavier penalty be imposed than the one that was applicable at the time the penal offence was committed.

Article 19.

Everyone has the right to freedom of opinion and expression; this right includes freedom to hold opinions without interference and to seek, receive and impart information and ideas through any media and regardless of frontiers.

Article 21.
 (2) Everyone has the right of equal access to public service in his country.

Article 26.
(1) Everyone has the right to education. Education shall be free, at least in the elementary and fundamental stages. Elementary education shall be compulsory. Technical and professional education shall be made generally available and higher education shall be equally accessible to all on the basis of merit.

Here is a short description of why I think these rights were violated, but my knowledge on his case is not substantial and I am most likely wrong about a lot and that I am missing information.

Article 10: This is based on that the federal government went out and stated that they would work hard to give him a severe penalty to state an example and that previous to the case he was being slandered in media, which potentially could make the jury prejudiced towards Swartz. There is also the fact the "United States of America v (Insert any human)" is a huge mismatch of resources. When the FBI is dead set on making an example out of you, what can you do?

Article 11: Almost the same as article 10. The FBI publicly said that they would make an example out of him. Also the mismatch of resources and media being supportive of government. Also that he was clearly not trying to make a profit out of this.

Article 19: The Guerilla Open Access Manifesto was one of the reasons they wanted to indict him. (I think) It was signed written by ten people, but he was investigated because he signed it.

Article 21: He was making documents that was being used for academic reasons public. Only select schools would have access without payment(?).

Article 26: Same as 21, that these documents should have been available to all.

My questions:
Is the mismatch of resources, and media slandering in United States of America v Aaron Swartz a violation of human rights?
When accounting for that he did not want to make a profit out of this and that he made scientific articles which should be open to all public, how was the Computer fraud and Abuse act used wrong?
Can the case be linked to the Guerilla Manifesto and is it a violation of human rights investigating him for this?
Is it a violation of human rights that these documents were not already public, since they are being used for studies?
Your answers need not be restricted to my questions, additional information is welcomed with open arms. And I am focusing on human rights not American Law.
Ps: I am a reddit formatting newbie and English is my second language.

Topic:
Treaties and International Law

Answer:
 >Is the mismatch of resources, and media slandering in United States of America v Aaron Swartz a violation of human rights?

No. Do you you want every citizen to have the power of a nation-state?

>When accounting for that he did not want to make a profit out of this and that he made scientific articles which should be open to all public, how was the Computer fraud and Abuse act used wrong?

It wasn't, in the sense that Robin Hood was still technically a criminal.

>Can the case be linked to the Guerilla Manifesto and is it a violation of human rights investigating him for this?

No. That's not even a legal thing.

>Is it a violation of human rights that these documents were not already public, since they are being used for studies?

No, why the fuck would they be?


Title: Need to get through this without losing my license.

Question: I have 2 weeks before my license is suspended. I'm charged with a dwi and I have no previous record. I refused to blow in a breathalyzer in hopes of having the charged knocked down but I definitely need to do all I can to avoid losing my license for any period of time, my lawyer can't meet with me for a week so I'm curious as to what my options are to avoid losing my driving privileges.

Answer:
 Without your state I’m going to make a prediction: when you got your license in whatever state you are in, you agreed that if you did not agree to provide a breath sample or a blood test when stopped, that was an automatic license suspension for anything up to one year.

In other words, you are probably out of luck. If you are in a state that makes this a part of the license requirements, even if you were stone cold sober, you are looking at a license suspension.


Title: Flagging Videos on PornHub and misconstrual of motivations to contact customer support

Question:
Hey everyone,

&#x200B;

Disclaimer: I am probably suffering under a anxiety disorder at the moment, thus the contents of my posts and the worries associated with them might seem really far fetched for some. If you don't want to engage with this post, or want to engage just to tell me that i'm stupid for worrying about these things, i understand. I'm sorry for probably being kind of annoying with these posts. This will (hopefully) be my last one regarding this topic.

&#x200B;

That said, i made a post yesterday about "unfounded" flagging of videos on PonHub for underage content and the possible legal consequences arising of an action like this. [Link to said post](https://www.reddit.com/r/legaladviceofftopic/comments/9zqoy1/unfounded_flagging_of_videos_on_pornhub_for/)

Some of the very helpful members of this community convinced me, that i have nothing to worry about, and that my anxiousness is unfounded regarding this topic.

Now however i have something else i would like to know.

Before posting my question on reddit i also contacted the PornHub customer support, with a message somewhere along the lines of:

"Hey, i just wanted to know, when encountering possible "underage" content, is it advised to flag said video just in case, or should one only report, when he is certain that there is content with underage "actors" being displayed? \[Same stick about the worry of possible legal consequences\] That being said, do i even need to worry about encountering content with underage participants on PornHub, or are you monitoring your Site close enough, that i don't have to worry about this?" (Since i don't have any access to the message i sent to support, i tried my best to remember what i wrote yesterday)

Now, i only just recently got a message back saying that Porn under the age of 18 is strictly illegal, and that i can flag videos like these, if i see them.

This message seemed to me a rather weird answer to the questions i had, and it seemed weird that support seemingly felt like they had to remind me, that such content is strictly illegal.

Thus, a few new worries, and questions for this subreddit were born:

For one, i now worry about having been placed on some kind of watch-list, for contacting the support regarding such a topic. Is this even a reasonable thing to worry about, or am i just catastrophizing and being irrational?

I also worry about this support lady having possibly misunderstood or misconstrued my purely innocent question, asked out of a heap of anxiety, for me wanting to acquire if there is a way to watch CP on PornHub. Can one even be held liable for questions of this type, that are mainly for acquiring information? Meaning, is it possible that the inference of the motivation i had to ask this question, even though it does not reflect reality, could result in any legal consequences for me?

&#x200B;

Any answers for my anxiety driven, and possibly really paranoid and unfounded questions are really appreciated.

&#x200B;

Thanks in advance, and have a nice day :)

&#x200B;

Answer:
 You are catastrophizing. She simply gave you an official answer, because Pornhub is not going to tell you the truth, which is that they have no way to tell the age of most people posted on the site and they don’t care enough to investigate reports based purely on suspicion, assuming the person in the video is not obviously a child. The government does not care about people who google info on child porn, or who accidentally stumble upon it. If everyone who did the things you did ended up on a watch list, how effective would that watchlist be? Not at all, because plenty of normal people discuss child porn, google information about legalities of child porn, or have even accidentally stumbled upon child porn online and had to report it. So even if this theoretical watchlist existed, it wouldn’t really matter if you were on it, and then if you aren’t actively searching for and downloading child porn they’ll have no reason to prosecute you.

Listen, though, seeking reassurances online is not going to be particularly helpful in dealing with your anxiety. It can make you feel better temporarily, but it will not stop the thoughts from coming. You need to seek professional help. Check out r/OCD if you want advice, resources, or a place to vent.


Title: [TX]Schoolteacher asking for student's SSNs

Question:
Hi there, Texan here.
My brother is a high school student and for a life skills sort of class, his teacher is having the students memorize their Social Security Numbers. That's not a bad idea, except the teacher is having the students go out in the hall and tell the teacher their SSNs. I think that's really wrong. Is it legal for a teacher to ask that of their students? He told me another student reported it to the principal. I just want to know if this is legal, as its shady af.
tl;dr - teacher wants students' SSNs and I think that's taking advantage of their position of authority. Is that legal?

Answer:
 "Hello Class! Welcome to Life Skills 101... Today were going to learn why you don't give out your SSN to just anybody who asks for it...."Answer #2: If I were your parents, I'd absolutely go straight to the principal and express my concerns.  At the very least that ought to get your brother an alternative assessment (such as memorizing it at home and having your parents verify that to the teacher). Answer #3: Most likely, the teacher already has their SSN - here in CA it was often used as the student's ID number when I was in public school, and it is all over the registration paperwork for my two sons. She may be asking them to say it in the hall to verify they know it without them writing it down or reciting it in front of the other students.Answer #4: I could be mistaken, but I'm pretty sure teachers already have access to their SSN via their school records. So its not a huge breach having the student tell it to them.

That said, while I personally think everyone should have their ssn memorized, I don't think drilling them on it is a good idea as anyone walking by or sitting at the door could hear it and so something dumb. I trust other kids way less than I trust teachers.Answer #5: I work at a large community college in Texas and I have access to every high school senior in our service area's SSN. Those without SSNs get assigned what we call "P numbers". So I know the teacher already has access to it. We are trained pretty much yearly on FERPA. It's doubtful the teacher has some sort of ill intent. Nor is it illegal to ask for a SSN.


Title: What count do I want to sue the insurance company under in Maryland?

Question:
I was rear-ended in Maryland. The other driver was found at fault. The insurance company as not paid any of my bills even though we were fully insured. They have tried to get around it. I am going to file suit. I am going to name the driver Count: negligence. I am also going to name the insurance company but I don't know whether to still just say negligence and also name them or whether I should do a special charge for them.

Could anybody help me with this information?

I found this as a guide for her but I'm not sure if it applies to the insurance company.

 [https://nationalparalegal.edu/Slides\_New/AdvancedLitigation/SH/Documents/John%20Rundlett%20Sample%20Negligence%20Complaint.pdf](https://nationalparalegal.edu/Slides_New/AdvancedLitigation/SH/Documents/John%20Rundlett%20Sample%20Negligence%20Complaint.pdf)

Answer: Find a personal injury attorney, you shouldn't do this by yourself.Answer #2: Why haven't you gone to your own insurance company?


Title: What constitutes a sham marriage with the goal of obtaining a green card?

Question:
So, I want a green card. I have a FWB (sorta) with whom I live, but my visa is about to expire. He offered to marry me so I can get to stay.

Neither of us is too big onto the idea of marriage as an institution, or even committing. We could probably stay on this arrangement forever. The marriage would be solely for the benefits (in this case, guaranteeing my permanence).

I can speak English (as you may have noticed), and I have a history with this guy. We've known each other for about 3 years now.

What are the implications?

Just so location bot doesn't freak out: Ohio

Answer:
 > What constitutes a sham marriage with the goal of obtaining a green card?

Well, a great example would be exactly what you just described.


Title: I made a cover of a song on youtube and it was just blocked in all countries.

Question:
I need some advice. Some of you may know the artist Drake just released an album last week. Because I know you tube covers and views are all about timing, I was one of the first to make a cover to one of the catchiest songs on the album. It picked up quick and I had 4k views in 2 days. Unfortunately today it was blocked by UMG. The instrumental I used is very similar to the original but was remade by someone else. I sang the song at a bit of a different key to try to make it my own style ( Which I do with every cover) - The funny thing is there are other covers using exact instrumental or a very similar version like mine that are still up. Do I have any chance if I file a dispute via YouTube?

Located in Tampa, Florida

TL;DR YouTube blocked my cover song. I want to file a dispute but don't know if I can.

Edit: Though this doesn't really matter, I want to add that I did not monetize the video or planned to make money from it @ all. At 3k subs - I'm still very much in the process of growing my channel.

Answer: You can dispute but you have no right to force Youtube to host your material.


Title: [USA] Does posting "IANAL" before a comment on the internet actually absolve the author of any legal responsibility?

Question:
If you haven't seen it, IANAL means "[I am not a lawyer](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/IANAL)" and it pops up a few times on /r/legaladvice.

But does it actually mean anything in a legal sense? Would a random internet person reasonably know what the acronym means and not interpret it as a sexual preference?

Answer:
 I, ANAL is a warning to the reader, along the lines of "caveat emptor" hung prominently in a storefront.

It doesn't absolve someone of legal responsibility any more than me writing "I'M A LAWYER, TRUST ME" *grants* me attorney-client privilege, or allows me to practice in a state where I've not passed the bar.

It's internet slang. Treat it as such. Answer #2: I doubt any court or bar would consider this as the actual practice of law which is the only issue. At its core this is "I have a problem, what are some things I should do/be aware of specifically in terms of the law"

We represent no one, we do not have all the facts and its 20% troll both in questions and responses


Title: Police Dept Wants to Speak With Me?

Question:
Received an email today from local police department. "OP, I just left a message for you on your cell phone. I need to speak with you about a case I am working. Can you give me a call at your earliest convenience so we can set up a time for you to come to the police department and speak with me??"

Should I be worried? Should I contact a lawyer?

Colorado, Boulder Area

EDIT: I would like to clarify further, I was also contacted via voicemail and the email is through a university system.

Answer:
 Call the local police non-emergency line and ask what this is about. That'll determine if it's a scam or not, and if not, what the agency is inquiring after you for.

Before everybody says "Go get a lawyer," you can open a conversation without one. A lot of calls are courtesy calls, like "Hey, OP, you know that theft report of your laptop you filed last year? We've got a laptop with your serial number here." Or, along those lines, "OP, you work at the university library, correct? We're investigating an assault that occurred outside the library on November 1, and need to determine whether the assailant was in the library first." *Then*, if the conversation takes a more ominous turn ("We just need to check your name off a list"), OP can get a lawyer as he sees fit.


Title: Pennsylvania workers making $35,000 salary but working ~90 hours a week. No days off. Is this legal?

Question: I have two friends working in Pennsylvania at a smoothy type shop and are working everyday with about 90 hours a week in total. Their employer first started off by paying them hourly then realized he had to pay them overtime. He payed them hourly that week them switched it to a $35,000 salary. This seems really scummy if not illegal, but i have no background in law. Help would be appreciated. Also i don't believe have signed a contract so payment might be done under the table as of now.

Answer:
 No, that's not legal.  They should contact the Department of Labor in Pennsylvania and rat out the employer, who will be fined.  They should also report how many hours of overtime they worked; they may be due some pay.

> Also i don't believe have signed a contract so payment might be done under the table as of now.

"Under the table" means they are being paid directly, usually in cash, without withholding taxes as required by law.  If that's what's happening, this should be mentioned to the Department of Labor and he can also be reported to the IRS and the state board of taxation, both of which would like to hear about this.Answer #2: What is their job? Not their title, but their actual duties? Are they first and foremost smoothie makers, or are they managers who hire and fire employees, set schedules, and order supplies?

And getting paid under the table is different than not having a contract; most workers do not have a contract. Do they have taxes taken out of their paychecks?Answer #3: If your friends are managers, they might be properly categorized as salary exempt employees. If so, their pay is sufficient to make them exempt from overtime.

Also, very few employees making $35k have contracts. Why do you think they are being paid under the table?


Title: tolling in New York

Question: What is a good reference about tolling in New York state?

Answer: Could you be more specific? Tolling the statute of limitations? (under what circumstance?) Tolling highways and bridges? Tolling of church bells?


Title: Got a ticket for not stopping for a school bus.

Question:
On the 9th of Nov I was traveling westbound on highway that has 6 lanes plus 1 turning lane. There was a school bus that was in the farthest lane to my right that was stopped. I didn't see the bus because the road is hilly in places. I was in the farthest left lane. By the time I approached the bus I honestly had a brain fart and didn't think to stop as it was stopped 5 lanes between me. (I know not a valid excuse) Obviously the county sheriff came flying out of no where and issued me a citation for failure to stop for a school bus while loading/unloading. I've called the number on the ticket and the woman said they haven't gotten the ticket in yet still. She then asked what was it issued for and I told her. The clerk proceeds to tell me that those tickets usually are approx. $500 and that she doesn't think they offer ticket deferral options and that I can't do a defensive driving class. She also said that I'll have to go to court to resolve this.

My question is is there any way I can keep this ticket off of my driving record so it doesn't increase my auto insurance rates?

I'm in Texas by the way.

Answer:
 Um, unless you live in England I think you got your left and right backwards.

But the law is simple, regardless of the number of lanes, if there is no physical barrier such as concrete kc barriers or a grass median. you have to stop.

And you were told correctly, starting in 2013 you cannot remove it with defensive driving.  Your only hope is ask to do community service in lieu of some of the fine, or ask for a payment plan.


Title: Oregon - How to stop Transit from putting a bus stop in our neighborhood

Question: Is there any way to stop the local transit system from putting a bus stop in our neighborhood? This is going to destroy our property values bringing in addicts and other undesirables.

Answer: i hope it's in your front yardAnswer #2: Why would "addicts and other undesirables" hang out at the bus stop in your neighborhood if they aren't already there?Answer #3: Have an upvote for passive racism and an anti-poverty bias!Answer #4: Having access to public transit increases property value. Having a known bigot and total jerk in the neighbourhood tends to drive away buyers. Please pursue this as far as you can so everyone knows not to buy near you. It would be a valuable public service for your community.


Title: My Friend gave me bad advice

Question: Can I sue a friend who gave me mad business advice? He didn’t charge me for it but he just suggested I could do something with my company and now it might mean me getting sued.

Answer: For just giving you friendly advice? No. Answer #2: It's your responsibility to fact check your information so no wouldn't win such a case.Answer #3: Sounds like you blindly followed a friends advice without checking the validity of said advice. That sucks...but you said it was a suggestion and one you willfully chose to follow. Sorry but not something you’d win in court. Yet another reason friends and business don’t mix.


Title: Landlord charging everyone a $440 painting and cleaning fee regardless of how clean residents leave the apartment

Question:
I am in California.

I recently moved out last month and I had requested a pre-moveout consultation twice asking, each time for a written list of fixes I will have to do to get my security deposit and each time the landlord comes in and says I will be charged a $500 painting and cleaning fee regardless of how clean I leave the apartment.

She has not given me a written pre-moveout consultation even though I explicitly asked for it in my emails when setting appointment for pre-moveout consultation.

On the day of my move, I printed out a moveout checklist, listing all items like paint, carpet, blinds etc and asked her to note down any issues the landlord saw beside each item.

She ignored the list and just wrote down "$440 painting and cleaning fee" on the margin of this moveout checklist.

I mentioned to her that she should not charge me the fees if I returned the apartment to the condition I had moved in and **she said "Sue me"**.

7 days after I moved out, I got an invoice for $440 painting and cleaning fee and a check for $60. I have not cashed the $60 check.

My security deposit was $500 and I was expecting the whole back and I have taken a video of the apartment before we moved out which the landlord saw and said that it's not possible to gauge the state of the wall and carpet from video.

**What recourse do I have?**

Can I sue my Landlord and get the whole $500 back?

I will have to take a day off from work because **I am now 200 mi away from my previous residence**, pay for certified mail and fees to file in court, so is there a way to reclaim these expenses?

Would it help asking the landlord to produce records that show how many people get 100% refunded the deposit vs 400 vs higher charges?

Answer: Sue her and you will win, just for the breathtaking arrogance of it and to establish a record of her behavior for future tenants who bother to do diligence, if for no other reason. She has a burden to document the actual expenses with receipts or invoices and cannot just charge you a fee deducted from your security deposit unless you specifically agreed to a non-refundable fee in writing beforehand. She also cannot just paint at your expense "just because" if there is no damage to the paint caused by you unless you specifically agreed to it in writing beforehand; occasional repainting is considered wear and tear. If you do take her to court and win she will have to pay your expenses related to filing and serving the lawsuit.Answer #2: Your only real recourse is to sue.  She's making the calculated bet that it's not worth your time.


Title: Can my husbands name be on two leases?

Question: [removed]

Answer: You husband can be on as many leases as he wants


Title: Pregnancy rights during labor

Question: [deleted]

Answer:
 >Would this be sufficient to hold up in court?

No.  And merely not following your plan, that they never agreed to, wouldn't be a basis for a lawsuit anyway.

Medical treatment, in the absence of an emergency where you can't speak for yourself, requires consent.  So you can have your preferences and whatever plan you want; but they can have whatever policies they have. You've been told about these ahead of time.   If you don't want to follow their policies, you will need to find another facility or make alternate arrangements.  Answer #2: Your preferences dont supercede their hospital policies. Your birth plan is not a legal document they have to follow. If all of this is such a big deal that you think you could sue for them not following, you should have changed practices when you had the chance. Where I delivered, their policies were more in line with what your birth plan is.  That's why I picked them.

Sorry OP.  Pick and choose what the most important thing is and put your effort into that (IMO the drugs). Get a friend to come with you.Answer #3: If your doctor won't respect your wishes, it's time to find a new doctor.  They are within their rights' to have their policies.

On another note, what about a doula who can advocate for you?


Title: Online gambling dispute

Question: So I placed two separate bets today on a ufc fight through 2 separate online gambling websites based in europe. I lost my money. Since online gambling is illegal is there any way I can dispute these charges with the bank and get my money back?

Answer:
 Jesus Christ can we all just take a second to realise that the gambling economy would go to total shit without brainlets like this existing. Great post OPAnswer #2: You would be exposing yourself to criminal prosecution under state law by admitting, under oath, that you had placed these bets. Suing the gaming sites would be counterproductive.

It would also be unsuccessful. Placing an illegal bet and losing doesn't mean you get your money back.Answer #3: 1) You lost a bet that you consciously knew you had a chance to lose

2) You did something illegal in your area

Unfortunately, you’re SOL on this oneAnswer #4: "I had my drugs stolen." - OPAnswer #5: i bet dillashaw too. take your loss like an adult


Title: Got a call informing me of federal legal actions being taken against me (KY)

Question:
As the title says, I received a phone call yesterday from the "National Bureau of Crime Investigation" informing me of open investigations and cases now being charged against me.

To explain, my phone rang yesterday afternoon and the caller ID was a phone number with a KY area code. I answered the phone and a man on the other end (with what sounded like an Indian accent) asked if I am who I am...as in, "Hello, is this 'so and so?'" I said yes, and he informed me that his name was Justin Thomas, ID #911628, with the National Bureau of Crime Investigation.  He asked if I had been contacted in the previous couple of days about open cases against me, I said no, and he claimed that he was calling to inform me of "open legal cases now being pressed against me."

"Justin Thomas" said that he was going to connect me with somebody else to explain further, so he asked me to hold for about 30 seconds until somebody else got on the line to explain further. At this point, I was pretty confused and alarmed, so I forgot to get the second person's name.

The second guy got on the phone and I asked him to describe the cases and he informed me that I am being charged with A) federal tax regulation violation, B) internal revenue code violation, and C) theft by deception.  I told him I had no idea what he was talking about and then the call was either disconnected or dropped.

Now, I understand this somewhat reeks of a scam considering the National Bureau of Crime Investigation is not legit as far as I know, but I googled the phone number that called and it was, in fact, the phone number for the nearest FBI office. It seems pretty ballsy to spoof the FBI's phone number, in my opinion.

I called the local FBI office and asked if there was anybody by the name of Justin Thomas, but the operator said there was nobody by that name in the bureau. I explained the situation to the operator and her best advice was that if it was legit, the person would call back since the call was disconnected, but she wasn't sure whether it was a scam or real.

Does anybody know if there is perhaps a division of the FBI or any other law enforcement agency that goes by the name of Bureau of Crime Investigation? Or is this even remotely close to standard operating procedure to call an individual to inform them of charges such as this? Like I said, the call was disconnected before the person(s) on the other end suggested anything super-scammy such as payment or any identification information, so I can't be certain how legit this is considering they phone number on my call history is the number for the FBI.

Answer:
 This is almost certainly not legit.

The government is extremely fond of the postal system. It loves sending letters. If you have any official business with the government you will get a letter.

The government does not conduct such important business, like a criminal case, over a casual phone call. This leaves no papertrail and no paperwork. The government loves paperwork. Piles of it.

No paperwork? Its not the government.Answer #2: 100% scam.


Title: Using a cell phone with earbuds in, but phone in hand.

Question:
So I was given a ticket for "using my phone" even though I want even using it. It fell out of my pocket and I was holding it in my hands. Not against my head and I was not even remotely looking at my phone. The cop pulled me over and explained that it was still considered using an electronic device and gave me a ticket. I've looked up the law and apparently ... It doesn't matter and that's the law. But I am considering getting a lawyer to fight it in hopes of getting it reduced. Any point in hiring one?  Or should I just do it myself?  Thanks.

EDIT - NY STATE
EDIT2- Manhattan NY.  NYC boroughs do not offer plea bargains on tickets.  It's all points or none.  I'm screwed.   Thanks for those that replied.

Answer: By the way, wearing earbuds while driving is also illegal in NY.Answer #2: Wait, you had your earbuds in while driving?