Legal Q&A Topics
Browse published legal information questions. Pages are sorted by recent reader activity.
Is it legal for a landlord to charge a move-in fee not listed in the lease?
In Arkansas, whether a landlord can charge a move-in fee that was not listed in the lease usually depends on the lease language, any addenda, and whether the fee was clearly disclosed before you agreed to rent the proper...
What are my rights if a dog bit me at a public park while off leash?
If a dog bit you in a public park in Washington, you may have rights to seek payment for your injuries and related losses, but the exact rules depend on the facts. In general, Washington follows laws that can make a dog...
How do I divide tax debt from a joint return in divorce?
In general, a debt tied to a joint tax return does not automatically disappear because spouses divorce. A joint return can create joint federal tax responsibility, which means the IRS may look to either spouse for the fu...
Can I sue over defamatory comments made during a livestream?
In general, yes, it may be possible to sue over defamatory comments made during a livestream if the statements meet the legal requirements for defamation. But whether a claim exists usually depends on what was said, how...
What happens if I was arrested for DUI in another state while on vacation?
If you were arrested for DUI in another state while on vacation, there can be consequences both in the state where the arrest happened and back home in New Hampshire. In general, the other state handles the criminal case...
Can I claim pain and suffering for a minor accident if I had physical therapy for six weeks?
In Utah, you may sometimes claim pain and suffering after a minor accident if the crash caused real physical injury, pain, and treatment such as six weeks of physical therapy. A “minor” accident does not automatically me...
What are my rights if my mechanic installed used parts instead of new ones without telling me?
If a mechanic installed used parts instead of new ones without telling you, you may have several potential rights depending on what you were told, what you agreed to, and what documents you signed. In general, a repair s...
Can I be fired because of a DUI arrest before I am convicted?
In West Virginia, it may be possible for an employer to fire an employee because of a DUI arrest before any conviction, but the answer usually depends on the facts. In general, private employers often have broad discreti...
What happens if a state denies my unclaimed property claim because my ID address does not match?
If Alaska denies an unclaimed property claim because the address on your ID does not match the address tied to the property, it usually means the state wants more proof that you are the correct owner or an authorized hei...
What are my rights if a former friend recorded my private apology and shared it online?
If a former friend recorded your private apology and posted it online, you may have several possible legal concerns in Illinois, but the answer depends heavily on the facts. In general, the first questions are whether yo...
What are my rights if my landlord refuses to return my deposit after 60 days?
In Florida, your rights after a landlord keeps your security deposit often depend on whether the landlord gave proper written notice and whether any lawful deductions were made. In general, a security deposit is not just...
Is it legal for a mechanic to keep my car because I disputed the repair charges?
In Indiana, a mechanic may sometimes be able to keep a vehicle if the shop claims it has a legal right to hold the car for unpaid repair charges. That right is often discussed as a mechanic’s lien or possessory lien, but...
What are my rights if my ex spends child support money on things I do not agree with?
In general, child support is paid to help cover a child’s needs, not to match one parent’s personal spending preferences. If your ex spends the money on things you do not agree with, that does not automatically mean they...
What are my rights if a car insurance company refuses to cover a hit-and-run claim?
If a car insurance company refuses to cover a hit-and-run claim in New Jersey, you usually have the right to ask for the reason for the denial, review your policy language, and challenge the decision through the insurer’...
Do I have to split rental property purchased before marriage but paid from joint funds?
In Rhode Island, the answer is often: maybe, but not automatically. Property bought before marriage is commonly viewed differently from property acquired during marriage, but the way the property was paid for, maintained...