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California Civil Litigation Questions & Answers
3 Answers | Asked in Civil Litigation, Contracts and Employment Law for California on
Q: Can I sue someone if feel he brech contract on a settlement that both parties breached
Tim Akpinar
Tim Akpinar
answered on Jul 6, 2024

If you're not a party to the contract, and don't have a stake in the matter, then the answer could be "no." The court could determine that you don't have standing to sue.

But since you're asking this question, it's a safe bet that you are a party to the...
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1 Answer | Asked in Civil Litigation and Legal Malpractice for California on
Q: credible information about identities - response to interrogatory.

If in interrogatory plaintiff was not specific in definition of identity characteristics, what credible information about identities inquired

defendant has to provide?

Unless objection to interrogatory without any information is deemed acceptable.

James L. Arrasmith
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answered on Jun 30, 2024

To answer this question, let's break down the key elements and consider the legal requirements for responding to interrogatories in California:

1. Interrogatory definition: If the plaintiff did not provide a specific definition of "identity characteristics" in their...
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1 Answer | Asked in Civil Litigation, Contracts and Landlord - Tenant for California on
Q: Security deposit dispute.

Landlord is charging me for a new stove when it's operable, but has scratches from normal use. They said their repair guy says it needs to be replaced because it's a fire hazard, but no proof. Their explanation was the finish being damaged and the burners being grease. All issues can be... View More

James L. Arrasmith
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answered on Jun 30, 2024

Based on the information provided, there are several aspects to consider in this security deposit dispute:

1. Normal wear and tear: In California, landlords cannot charge tenants for normal wear and tear. Scratches from normal use on a stove that's at least a few years old would likely...
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1 Answer | Asked in Medical Malpractice and Civil Litigation for California on
Q: Motions to compel further discovery responses

Best practice is to file separate motions to compel further responses to interrogatories, and to production demands.

But- when interrogatories and demands are interconnected, is it acceptable to have consolidated motion and declaration, but separate statements and proposed order per... View More

James L. Arrasmith
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answered on Jun 30, 2024

Generally speaking, the best practice in California is indeed to file separate motions to compel further responses for different types of discovery devices (e.g., interrogatories and requests for production of documents). This is because each type of discovery is governed by different sections of... View More

1 Answer | Asked in Business Law, Civil Litigation, Contracts and Landlord - Tenant for California on
Q: ABC revoked my evicted tenants license to sell indefinitely. Tenants transfers license to a person who doesn’t lease.

All of this was done with out my consent they were open and selling illegally this weekend. Sheriff refused to help me. Rent past due since May 2024.

James L. Arrasmith
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answered on Jun 30, 2024

I understand you're dealing with a complex legal situation involving evicted tenants, licensing issues, and overdue rent. Let me break down the key points and provide some general guidance.

1. Eviction status: You mention "evicted tenants," but it's not clear if the...
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1 Answer | Asked in Family Law, Civil Litigation and Juvenile Law for California on
Q: If cps has custody of a teen, who They have no control over, if something happens to teen ,can cps be sued

For letting teen live in unlicense homes, cps dont even know who, teen lives with or where teen is living at, if something happens to this teen while teen is still under cps and is still a minor, can the parent sue cps if harm comes to this child while they are out therr in the streets without... View More

James L. Arrasmith
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answered on Jun 30, 2024

I understand you're asking about a complex legal situation involving Child Protective Services (CPS), custody of a teen, and potential liability. Let me break this down:

1. CPS custody: If CPS has legal custody of a teen, they generally have a duty of care towards that minor....
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1 Answer | Asked in Banking and Civil Litigation for California on
Q: I was in the process of selling my boat. I found a buyer, but the buyer wanted to pay with a check. I told the buyer

That was ok, but he woukd have to wait for his check to clear with my bank before he could take possession of the boat. We both agreed. I took the check into my bank branch and deposited the check into my checking acct. After 5 days the check cleared and was posted to my account. That same... View More

James L. Arrasmith
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answered on Jun 30, 2024

This is an unfortunate situation, and I'm sorry to hear you've experienced this fraud. To answer your question: Yes, banks can generally freeze accounts when fraud is suspected or detected. However, there are some important points to consider:

1. Check clearing process: While a...
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1 Answer | Asked in Contracts, Appeals / Appellate Law and Civil Litigation for California on
Q: Can we file pre-emptive opposition to Defendant's motion to stay judgement pending appeal?

We are pro per plaintiffs who were successful in obtaining a significant award in a civil unlimited case. Defendants were unsuccessful in post-trial motions, so they filed an appeal from judgement and another from post-trial order. Defendants are represented by a large and aggressive firm, who has... View More

James L. Arrasmith
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answered on Jun 29, 2024

Based on the information provided, here's my analysis of your situation:

1. Preemptive Opposition:

In general, it is possible to file a preemptive opposition to an anticipated motion. However, this is not a common practice and may not be the most effective strategy. Courts...
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1 Answer | Asked in Elder Law, Civil Litigation, Contracts and Gov & Administrative Law for California on
Q: I signed an agreement with the Masonic Homes at Covina by which they would take care of me until I die. I am 78.

In exchange, they get . 75% of my Social Security income. I developed mental problems in 2023 which were later diagnosed as vascular dementia due to bleeding in my brain. To make a long story shorter, I was plopped in Clearwater at Glendora, where I have lived for slightly over a year. There is... View More

James L. Arrasmith
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answered on Jun 29, 2024

Thank you for sharing your situation. This is a complex legal matter involving elder law, contracts, and medical issues. Here's an overview of the key points and some general guidance:

1. Breaking the covenant:

To break the agreement with Masonic Homes, you'll likely need...
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1 Answer | Asked in Tax Law and Civil Litigation for California on
Q: By the language within this settlement agreement do I have to pay taxes?

1. PAYMENT OF MONEY

In consideration for the execution of the general release and agreement to the other terms

of this Agreement by Claimant herein, Respondent will pay a Total Settlement of (xxxxxxxxxxxx) (“Settlement Sum”)

to

Claimant. The consideration paid... View More

James L. Arrasmith
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answered on Jun 29, 2024

Based on the language provided in this settlement agreement, it appears that you will likely need to pay taxes on at least part of the settlement amount, but not necessarily on all of it. Here's a breakdown:

1. The portion described as "Non-Wage Payment" for "non-wage...
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1 Answer | Asked in Civil Litigation for California on
Q: What to do when opposing counsel isn’t available to meet and confer?

Currently have a limited civil case in which I’m self represented. We have a case management conference approaching and I’ve attempted many times over to contact opposing counsel to meet and confer, as required, and have not received a response. Additionally, opposing counsel has also not... View More

James L. Arrasmith
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answered on Jun 29, 2024

1. Document your attempts: Keep a detailed record of all your attempts to contact opposing counsel, including dates, times, and methods of communication (e.g., email, phone calls).

2. File your Case Management Statement: Since the deadline is approaching and you've made good faith...
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2 Answers | Asked in Civil Rights, Constitutional Law and Civil Litigation for California on
Q: Looking for a Federal law attorney to review my documents before I file I complaint in the Federal Court.

I am looking to file a Complaint and Request for injunction and I need it reviewed please.

James L. Arrasmith
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answered on Jun 28, 2024

I understand you're looking for a federal law attorney to review your documents before filing a complaint and request for injunction in federal court. I can offer some general guidance:

1. Finding an attorney:

- Contact your local bar association for referrals

- Use...
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3 Answers | Asked in Civil Litigation for California on
Q: Serving false denials to Requests for Admissions

Since I filed my lawsuit 2 years ago, the defendant has made several perjurious statements. Despite admitting to lying, the court didn't sanction them. The court also gave them an extension of 15 days to serve their RFAs when they failed to serve them on time. They have just served them with a... View More

James L. Arrasmith
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answered on Jun 26, 2024

Based on the situation you've described, here are some potential steps you could consider:

1. Document everything: Keep detailed records of all false statements, contradictions, and instances of perjury. This documentation may be useful later.

2. File a motion to compel: If the...
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2 Answers | Asked in Consumer Law, Civil Litigation and Small Claims for California on
Q: I live in California can I file an unlimited jurisdiction in small claims court to request treble damage on 15k.

I have a slam dunk law suit against Bridgestone tire company

Delaram Keshvarian
Delaram Keshvarian
answered on Jun 26, 2024

There is a cap on the amount of damages for small claim cases. You may be able to amend your complaint, and then reclassify the whole case to the unlimited court.

This is merely a discussion of general laws and not legal advice. For legal advice, more specific facts and investigations are...
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2 Answers | Asked in Consumer Law, Civil Litigation and Small Claims for California on
Q: I live in California can I file an unlimited jurisdiction in small claims court to request treble damage on 15k.

I have a slam dunk law suit against Bridgestone tire company

James L. Arrasmith
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answered on Jun 26, 2024

There are a few important points to clarify regarding your question:

1. Small claims court in California:

Small claims courts in California have a limited jurisdiction. The maximum amount you can sue for in small claims court is:

- $12,500 for individuals as of 2024...
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1 Answer | Asked in Contracts, Collections and Civil Litigation for California on
Q: Can attorney for the defendant in a very similar (unlimited civil) case be the agent to receive summon of a new case?

Hi, The defendant has been in hiding; It hasn't been possible to locate him to send the summon for the new case. Both cases are almost identical. Thank you.

James L. Arrasmith
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answered on Jun 26, 2024

Generally, an attorney for a defendant in one case cannot automatically be considered an agent for service of process in a separate case, even if the cases are very similar.

In California, proper service of process typically requires:

1. Personal service on the defendant

2....
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1 Answer | Asked in Civil Litigation for California on
Q: The defendant has not complied with the sanctions imposed by the court's order on the motion to compel. How to proceed?

The judge ordered the defendant to pay the sanction within 60 days. It's now been 90 days, and despite contacting the defendant's attorney, I haven't received a response or confirmation of payment. How should I proceed?

James L. Arrasmith
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answered on Jun 25, 2024

Based on the situation you've described, here are the steps you might consider taking:

1. File a Motion for Contempt: Since the defendant has failed to comply with the court's order, you can file a motion for contempt of court. This motion asks the court to hold the defendant in...
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1 Answer | Asked in Civil Litigation, Contracts, Employment Discrimination and Employment Law for California on
Q: My question pertains to employment law and hiring discrimination.

If a person is entitled to a copy of their credit report after being denied credit based on one or more derogatory marks enumerated within, and similarly, if a person is entitled to a copy of their ChexSystems Disclosure Report if they are denied the opening of a checking account for having a... View More

James L. Arrasmith
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answered on Jun 25, 2024

Your question raises several interesting points about employment law, hiring practices, and potential discrimination. Let's break this down step-by-step:

1. Credit Reports and ChexSystems Disclosures:

You're correct that consumers are entitled to free copies of their...
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1 Answer | Asked in Civil Litigation and Consumer Law for California on
Q: My Insurance canceled my policy without proper notification
James L. Arrasmith
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answered on Jun 24, 2024

I understand you're asking about a situation where your insurance policy was canceled without proper notification in California. This could potentially be a case of insurance bad faith. Here's a concise overview of the key points to consider:

1. California law requires insurers to...
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1 Answer | Asked in Civil Litigation and Small Claims for California on
Q: Small claims judge ruled without viewing my evidence. Can I have this thrown out? Reason?

Verbal contract to move my things to a person's backyard, save money. Management told me I had to move them as this person cannot enter into any contact while living in this senior mobile home park. I had to rent a second truck and 2 mire workers, as I'm totally disabled. I have good... View More

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answered on Jun 23, 2024

Based on the information provided, it seems you have concerns about the process in your small claims case. Here's a general overview of your options and some points to consider:

1. Small claims court procedures: Small claims courts typically have simplified procedures, and judges may...
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