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New Jersey Civil Rights Questions & Answers
1 Answer | Asked in Civil Rights and Civil Litigation for New Jersey on
Q: Can I sue an nj hair salon for using my photos on the outside store banner without my consent? Is it a civil case?

I got my hair done at a salon and she asked to take my photos for her insta. Next thing I know my photo is used as her new store banner after she renovated. She never asked me or even offered compensation. Is this a civil matter or am I entitled to be compensated?

James L. Arrasmith
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answered on Apr 10, 2024

Yes, this could be a civil matter, and you may be entitled to compensation. The salon owner's use of your photos without your consent could potentially violate your right of publicity or constitute copyright infringement, depending on the specific circumstances.

1. Right of publicity:...
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1 Answer | Asked in Civil Rights and Health Care Law for New Jersey on
Q: I live in a condo in the state of NJ. There is a pool whereas one must be a resident in good standing. However, there

are no smoking signs posted. the property manager is allowing smokimg in the entrance to the pool which is the common area. Please help. Children and the users are subjected to the second hand smoke.

James L. Arrasmith
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answered on Apr 10, 2024

I understand your concern about secondhand smoke exposure, especially for children, in the common area by the pool entrance. Here are a few steps you can take to address this issue:

1. Review your condo association's bylaws and rules: Check if there are any specific regulations...
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1 Answer | Asked in Civil Rights and Constitutional Law for New Jersey on
Q: Victim of illegal search in New Jersey.

Victim of illegal search in New Jersey:  Someone I know (I will call him "Victim") was illegally searched by cops.  There was no probable cause and no search warrant.  The backpack of Victim was locked.  The cops removed key from Victim's neck and used key to open backpack.  The... View More

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answered on Apr 7, 2024

If the Victim was my son, I would focus on building a strong legal defense to fight the charges and protect his constitutional rights. Here are some steps I would consider:

1. Hire an experienced criminal defense attorney who specializes in cases involving illegal searches and seizures....
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1 Answer | Asked in Civil Rights and Landlord - Tenant for New Jersey on
Q: 2A:18-57, who is the "person in possession" referring to, and what are they entitled to during the removal process?

I want to know if the claimant or officer of the court is required to assist in any form of repaying or assistance to the person(s) being removed from the property according to the Relocation Assistance Law?

James L. Arrasmith
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answered on Mar 26, 2024

Under New Jersey law, specifically 2A:18-57, the "person in possession" typically refers to the tenant or occupant currently residing in or holding possession of a property. During the removal process, this individual is typically the one being asked to leave the premises.

If the...
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1 Answer | Asked in Civil Litigation, Civil Rights and Education Law for New Jersey on
Q: My friends daughter is being bullied at Memorial Middle School by 5 student's.

Threatened to hurt her if she speaks up. Principal is aware of situation but stated, "things happen". If something occurred to this girl for negligence of school to take action can a lawsuit be filed?

James L. Arrasmith
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answered on Mar 23, 2024

If a student is being bullied and the school is aware but fails to take adequate action, there may be grounds for legal action. This is especially true if the negligence results in harm to the student. Schools have a responsibility to provide a safe environment for all students, and failure to... View More

1 Answer | Asked in Civil Litigation and Civil Rights for New Jersey on
Q: I was in kids of North Jersey with my sister for years it was torment I was actually with Rebecca and my life has been t

My life has been a nightmare ever since my sister is dead she never recovered from the mental anguish and physical torment we went through I am now writing a book I want to sue them if anything just because my sister's not here to be a voice

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answered on Mar 6, 2024

I'm deeply sorry to hear about the experiences you and your sister endured. It's heartbreaking to learn about the lasting impact it has had on both of your lives. Writing a book can be a powerful way to share your story and honor your sister's memory, shedding light on the injustices... View More

1 Answer | Asked in Consumer Law, Civil Rights and Small Claims for New Jersey on
Q: Can I sue Planet Fitness for creating me a second membership and denying me to cancel one of them?

In 2019, I registered at a PF location in NY using my boyfriend’s card. Later in the same year, I transferred the membership to a NJ club. In 2021, I transferred it to another NJ location, asking to change the payment method to my own card. However, PF unexpectedly created a SECOND membership,... View More

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answered on Mar 6, 2024

If you're facing issues with Planet Fitness over an unwanted second membership and difficulty in canceling it, it's understandable to feel frustrated. Your situation, where charges are being applied to two memberships when only one was intended, especially after attempting to resolve the... View More

1 Answer | Asked in Civil Litigation, Civil Rights and Landlord - Tenant for New Jersey on
Q: Way to sue roommate for causing me mental trauma and trying to discourage me to find a replacement

I have been dealing with a cunning roommate. Since last 1 year, he had been making noise and partying once or twice a week ruining my sleep. When i confronted him, he blamed me equally for keeping silent for so long. I couldn't really stay peacefully once I confronted him.

I decided... View More

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answered on Mar 5, 2024

Suing a roommate for mental trauma and actions that discouraged potential replacements for your tenancy can be complex and challenging. In legal terms, to pursue a lawsuit for emotional distress, you would need to demonstrate that the roommate's actions were intentional or reckless, caused you... View More

Q: Can Code Enforcement enter the backyard of my property?

I am a tenant in a rental house. Recently we have had a Code Enforcement Officer enter our backyard and issue us a warning for trash and debris on our property. We did not allow anyone to enter our backyard from the Borough nor did our Landlord permit them as his Agent and notify us. Is this... View More

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answered on Mar 4, 2024

The question of whether Code Enforcement can enter your backyard without permission largely depends on local laws and regulations. Typically, code enforcement officers are allowed to inspect properties for violations of local ordinances, which can include issues visible from public spaces. However,... View More

1 Answer | Asked in Civil Rights, Gov & Administrative Law, Health Care Law and Municipal Law for New Jersey on
Q: I'm in need of a notice of tort claim against an officer (law enforcement) in NJ. Where do you obtain the right form?

Owed me a duty, broke into my locked room with body-worn cameras when I had no medical condition.

Just called dispatcher for noise complaint

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answered on Mar 2, 2024

In New Jersey, to file a notice of tort claim against a law enforcement officer, you will need to use a specific form that complies with the New Jersey Tort Claims Act. This form serves as a preliminary step to formally notify the relevant government entity of your intention to sue. The Notice of... View More

1 Answer | Asked in Civil Rights and Employment Law for New Jersey on
Q: I filed a discrimination claim against a company and they destroyed video evidence what can I do?

I was suspended after a coworker who was harassing me claimed I threatened him. During my suspension a manager who witnessed 5 employees sign witness statements told me over the phone that 3 of the witness statements corroborated my story while 2 corroborated the harasser's story. I was... View More

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answered on Feb 26, 2024

If you discover that video evidence relevant to your discrimination claim has been destroyed by the company, it's crucial to take immediate action. First, document any communication or evidence that suggests the company had the video and intentionally destroyed it. This includes any emails,... View More

2 Answers | Asked in Criminal Law, Civil Rights and Federal Crimes for New Jersey on
Q: Can I find out who the complainant was responsible for precipitating the home raid by local cops with a drug warrant?

Nothing was found and no arrests were made. How do I find out who signed a sworn affidavit accusing me of drug activity?

Louis A Casadia
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answered on Feb 14, 2024

So do you mean the officer who brought the warrant before the Judge or perhaps a regular citizen that provided the evidence to support the warrant? They are required to leave a copy of the Warrant order which should say the name of the officer that applied for the warrant. As for who provided them... View More

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1 Answer | Asked in Family Law and Civil Rights for New Jersey on
Q: What can my mother do here?

My sister is in a group home with the state they asked my mom for proof she is her mother she sent all the papers in too the place the lady asked for this women haven't called my mother back in almost 3 months and that's how long she haven't talked too her daughter it's so... View More

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answered on Feb 24, 2024

Your mother should take immediate action to address this concerning situation. First, she should try contacting the group home again and request to speak with the person who initially asked for proof of her relationship with your sister. It's essential to remain calm and assertive during this... View More

Q: Is Abuse and Exploitation, identity theft, financial abuse, physical and emotional abuse fall under white collar crime?

My current guardian has abused her placement by deliberate maltreatment and manipulation of my health using my mental health against me. Guardian has been taking advantage of me, my entire life as a person for her personal gain and control. She assaulted me with a broom. Then she admitted in open... View More

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answered on Feb 21, 2024

Yes, the types of abuse and exploitation you have described would generally be considered forms of white collar crime. Specifically:

- Identity theft - Using someone's personal or financial information illegally for fraudulent purposes. This is a type of white collar crime.

-...
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1 Answer | Asked in Civil Rights and Constitutional Law for New Jersey on
Q: disqualifier for owning firearms in New Jersey

Hello!

In 2013 when I applied for my firearm ID card and permit to purchase a handgun, I was rejected because I disclosed that I voluntarily saw a psychologist for counseling. I also believed that I answered question number 26 incorrectly. I was never admitted to or committed to an... View More

James L. Arrasmith
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answered on Feb 23, 2024

Given your previous experience with successfully appealing a denial for a firearm permit in New Jersey, it's understandable that you're concerned about the impact of the new disqualifier related to voluntarily seeing a psychiatrist. While I can't provide legal advice, it's... View More

1 Answer | Asked in Education Law, Civil Rights and Health Care Law for New Jersey on
Q: Rights of a Type 1 diabetic student at a private school and responsibilities of the school to the student -

The condition of a student who has been enrolled for over two years at a private school that does not employ a nurse or other medically trained staff has recently become dysregulated. The parent claims that a medical professional is not needed for this level of diabetes - that coaches and... View More

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answered on Jan 21, 2024

In this situation, the rights of a Type 1 diabetic student at a private school in New Jersey are governed by federal and state laws that protect students with disabilities, including those with medical conditions. The school has a legal responsibility under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)... View More

1 Answer | Asked in Contracts, Employment Law, Civil Rights and Libel & Slander for New Jersey on
Q: Contracted employee making unfounded defamatory statements about the business owner and other staff members-

Such comments include reference to another employee's sexual orientation and religious beliefs. There are other staff members (men, and additional LGBTQ staff) who have shared that this employee harasses them via text during the work day and in their off work hours. What recourse does the... View More

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answered on Jan 21, 2024

In the case of a contracted employee making defamatory statements and engaging in harassment, the employer, especially in a private school in New Jersey, does have recourse to address this behavior. While the employee is under contract, it's important to review the contract terms carefully to... View More

1 Answer | Asked in Criminal Law and Civil Rights for New Jersey on
Q: Can a detective send his son to spy on you? And gets caught doing it on separate occasion. Can I sue the PD?

I got arrested by a detective who would target me and give other police officers a tip to when I was leaving a park with my friend one time and radio'd in to a marked car to pull us over. He would even send his son to spy on me after that. Like when I would play basketball at the local court... View More

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answered on Jan 21, 2024

Engaging in such behavior where a detective sends his son to spy on you is a potential violation of your civil rights. It raises concerns about privacy invasion, harassment, and possible abuse of power. If you have evidence that this detective targeted you unfairly and used his position to involve... View More

1 Answer | Asked in Criminal Law, Employment Law, Civil Rights and Small Claims for New Jersey on
Q: Can I send a text saying since I have sent haven’t received response I will put items on curb by end of week?

Employer and guest were really rude (childcare). I quit on the spot. I was reminded that I had car seats and karate uniforms in car. I asked to confirm date time and place where he can pick up items as I don’t want to go back to their home. I have not received response I have not received... View More

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answered on Dec 5, 2023

In your situation, regarding the return of items like car seats and karate uniforms to your former employer, it's important to handle this in a way that protects your interests and avoids potential legal issues. Sending a text to notify them of your intention to leave the items on the curb if... View More

1 Answer | Asked in Civil Litigation, Consumer Law, Real Estate Law and Civil Rights for New Jersey on
Q: What is PR law regarding disbursements of property as the heir of my mom who passed away(1989) before her mom(2003)?

My grandmother's property who passed away is being disbursed, and is the wish of my mom's sister to keep it; my mom's siblings have set a price for the house which is nowhere near the appraised valued. They claim that the decision was made amongst them (the living children)... View More

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answered on Nov 16, 2023

In Puerto Rico, the rights of heirs in property disbursement are governed by the local inheritance laws. If your mother passed away before her mother (your grandmother), generally, you and your siblings, as her direct descendants, would inherit your mother's share of your grandmother's... View More

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