Saint Paul, MN asked in Elder Law and Civil Rights for Minnesota

Q: can a nursing home legally open my "mail" before i get it in the state of minnesota.

I recently found out my nursing is opening up my mail from the county i live in to see if there is information they need.

I have not received these letters myself. They have my mail. Two big things happened here to bring this problem to my attention. I am mentally able to take of myself, that is not an issue. I lost my leg not my mind.

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1 Lawyer Answer
James L. Arrasmith
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Answered

A: Opening someone else's mail without permission is generally against the law. The United States Postal Service has strict regulations to protect the privacy of your mail, and unauthorized access can violate federal laws. In Minnesota, these protections are upheld, meaning that a nursing home does not have the right to open your mail without your consent.

If you believe your mail is being tampered with, you should take immediate action. Start by contacting your local post office to inform them of the situation. You can also reach out to the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, which handles mail-related offenses.

Additionally, consider discussing this issue with a legal professional who can provide guidance tailored to your situation. Protecting your privacy is important, and there are resources available to help you address this problem effectively.

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