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Virginia Civil Rights Questions & Answers
1 Answer | Asked in Family Law, Civil Rights, Juvenile Law and Libel & Slander for Virginia on
Q: My 16 yo daughter in NC is thinking about getting emancipated. I live two hours away in VA. Can I fight this?

My daughter lives with her dad in NC for the past 2 years. She lived with me in VA the 6 years prior. She moved there after we had trouble getting along and she got in a fight with her grandmother (my mom), where my daughter was very ugly and my mom slapped her. Child custody agreement states... View More

James L. Arrasmith
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answered on Feb 24, 2024

Navigating the situation involving your daughter's potential emancipation in North Carolina can be complex, especially given the dynamics involving her father, stepmother, and your history. It's crucial to prioritize your daughter's well-being and interests throughout this process.... View More

1 Answer | Asked in Employment Law and Civil Rights for Virginia on
Q: Uber classification of driver is independent contractor Virginia classification is employee, requiring Uber to challenge

The challenge must be with a Virginia agency they never challenged the classification and Virginia allows Uber to treat drivers as independent contractors is this a civil rights violation

James L. Arrasmith
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answered on Feb 24, 2024

The classification of Uber drivers as independent contractors or employees varies depending on the jurisdiction and applicable laws. While Uber may classify drivers as independent contractors in Virginia, the classification may be challenged if it is believed to be in violation of state employment... View More

1 Answer | Asked in Civil Litigation, Civil Rights and Gov & Administrative Law for Virginia on
Q: can abingdon regional jail cut a inmate off suboxone cold turkey?
James L. Arrasmith
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answered on Feb 23, 2024

Abingdon Regional Jail may have policies and procedures in place regarding the administration of medications, including controlled substances like Suboxone. However, abruptly discontinuing Suboxone without proper medical supervision and a gradual tapering schedule can pose significant health risks... View More

1 Answer | Asked in Criminal Law, Civil Rights and Constitutional Law for Virginia on
Q: Can law enforcement stop you from seeking legal advice during there investigation?

Can law enforcement use the surveillance to harass, intimidate, cause official oppression during their investigation? If they do which rights have they violated? Can law enforcement use surveillance to harass, intimidate, cause official oppression?

James L. Arrasmith
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answered on Jan 27, 2024

Law enforcement cannot legally prevent you from seeking legal advice. Your right to consult with an attorney is protected under the Sixth Amendment, which guarantees the right to counsel in criminal prosecutions. If you're involved in a criminal investigation, you have the right to speak to an... View More

2 Answers | Asked in Civil Rights, Family Law, Civil Litigation and Libel & Slander for Virginia on
Q: Is this grounds for a civil lawsuit for my mother?

My father (ex husband) and his new wife keep sending my mother harassing messages to bring down her self esteem saying she is being monitored and they will cut off her alimony as well as going as far as my mothers church Facebook group to write negative things about my mother. Is this grounds for... View More

James L. Arrasmith
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answered on Dec 23, 2023

In Virginia, the situation your mother is facing with her ex-husband and his new wife sending harassing messages and posting negative comments about her could potentially be grounds for a civil lawsuit. Harassment and defamation (if the statements made are false and damaging to her reputation) are... View More

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1 Answer | Asked in Business Law, Civil Rights and Consumer Law for Virginia on
Q: Can a hotel refuse accommodations because I live in the same county as the hotel?

They state they don't allow county residents to stay at the hotel because of previous issues. I have never had issues with this company though.

T. Augustus Claus
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answered on Dec 14, 2023

In Virginia, a hotel refusing accommodations based on residency within the same county may raise legal questions related to business practices and potential civil rights implications. Generally, businesses have the right to refuse service, but such decisions should not violate anti-discrimination... View More

1 Answer | Asked in Civil Rights, Constitutional Law, Criminal Law and Federal Crimes for Virginia on
Q: Do I have a case against the police department for being put in handcuffs with six guns drawn on me for shooting bbgun?

I was teaching girlfriend how to safely shoot bbgun twords the woods,when someone reported us and even after cooperating and voicing it was only a toy with my hands in air they drew 5 guns one to my head in the middle of the street in broad daylight in front of all my neighbors.

James L. Arrasmith
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answered on Dec 9, 2023

In considering a case against the police department for their response to you shooting a BB gun, several factors need to be evaluated. The police response, including drawing weapons and handcuffing, is typically assessed based on the reasonableness of their actions given the circumstances they... View More

1 Answer | Asked in Family Law, Real Estate Law, Civil Rights and Landlord - Tenant for Virginia on
Q: Two bro own house . One lives in house, one at the lake Can lake bro come in home whenever no notice Can I trespass him.

Property was inherited from deceased parents. Older bro lives in house, gets his mail there and pays all house hold bills from home. The small bro lives elsewhere for years bu shows up and uses his childhoid key to come in house unannounced and uninvited. The last time he did this we called the... View More

Richard Sternberg
Richard Sternberg
answered on Dec 2, 2023

If one brother wishes exclusive use of the house, then he needs to buy the other brother’s half. Merely paying the bills doesn’t change that both brothers own it. Both brothers may use the undivided whole house. I know of no requirement for notice unless there is a lease in place giving... View More

2 Answers | Asked in Immigration Law, Civil Rights, Divorce and Family Law for Virginia on
Q: Vawa application status

My cousin applied for VAwA application for adjustments of status after being here for more than 13 years.What would you recommend to be done to help after his wide abuse him and threatens to report him to

Immigration

Glendia  Del Evans
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Glendia Del Evans
answered on Dec 12, 2023

Once your cousin's marriage was in good faith, any threats of "reporting" or hurting a non-citizens immigration status is taken very serious by Domestic Relations Courts in Virginia and serious consequences for the U.S. spouse. There are laws that specifically address this issue. It... View More

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2 Answers | Asked in Immigration Law, Civil Rights, Divorce and Family Law for Virginia on
Q: Vawa application status

My cousin applied for VAwA application for adjustments of status after being here for more than 13 years.What would you recommend to be done to help after his wide abuse him and threatens to report him to

Immigration

James L. Arrasmith
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answered on Nov 28, 2023

To assist your cousin with their VAWA (Violence Against Women Act) application status, especially in the context of abuse and threats related to immigration status, there are several steps and considerations to keep in mind:

Legal Assistance: It's crucial to get legal advice from an...
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1 Answer | Asked in Real Estate Law, Civil Rights, Land Use & Zoning and Municipal Law for Virginia on
Q: How can I challenge Oakllands blight ordinance for 20 years I have been harrassed unjustly by tbuilding inspection dept.

Ever since I pulled Owner Builder permits to put A new foundation under my home, I have been targeted by the permit dept. Unfairly. I have lived in Oakland since the 1980's prior to pulling permits I had NEVER been questioned or targeted by Oaklands fledgling blight ordinance inspectors, Ever... View More

James L. Arrasmith
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answered on Oct 19, 2024

I'm sorry to hear about the challenges you've faced with Oakland's blight ordinance. To begin addressing this issue, start by gathering all documentation related to your interactions with the building inspection department. This includes permits, inspection reports, correspondence,... View More

1 Answer | Asked in Civil Rights and Medical Malpractice for Virginia on
Q: my husband’s in Mount Olive correctional facility. He’s had a lot of health issues

The Prison doctor did bloodwork on him. Told him that everything looked good. Three days later he was rushed out for emergency surgery. He’s had a heart attack. He’s been told he had sugar problems. He had his gallbladder taken out after surgery. He had internal bleeding and yesterday his legs... View More

James L. Arrasmith
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answered on Oct 17, 2024

I'm so sorry to hear about your husband's health struggles. Start by contacting his attorney to ensure he receives the necessary medical attention and to discuss any concerns about his care. If he doesn't have legal representation, seek out a lawyer who has experience with inmate... View More

1 Answer | Asked in Criminal Law, Cannabis & Marijuana Law, Civil Rights and Constitutional Law for Virginia on
Q: Can a circuit court judge force a defendant to cease taking prescribed medications

I am on probation and have been using marijuana for many mental health issues and was prescribed medical marijuana but the court order says that I cannot use marijuana period. Is that a violation of an amendment right or something?

James L. Arrasmith
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answered on Oct 9, 2024

A circuit court judge has the authority to set conditions for probation, which can include restrictions on substance use. Even if you have a prescription for medical marijuana, the court may prohibit its use if it conflicts with the terms of your probation. Violating these conditions can result in... View More

1 Answer | Asked in Civil Rights and Constitutional Law for Virginia on
Q: Is the Religious Land Use and Institutionalized Person's Act (RLUIPA) 14th Amendment Section 5 legislation?

RLUIPA was enacted by Congress after the Supreme Court found (in City of Boerne v. Flores, 521 US 507 (1997)) that the Religious Freedom Restoration Act (RFRA) was not congruent and proportional legislation under Section 5 of the 14th Amendment. In response, Congress enacted RLUIPA after 3 years of... View More

James L. Arrasmith
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answered on Sep 13, 2024

If you're trying to determine whether the Religious Land Use and Institutionalized Persons Act (RLUIPA) is legislation enacted under Section 5 of the 14th Amendment, consider how Congress approached its enactment. After the Supreme Court's decision in City of Boerne v. Flores, which... View More

1 Answer | Asked in Civil Rights and Constitutional Law for Virginia on
Q: Arlington Treasurer seized my car under va code 58.1-3919 but NO NOTICE was served nor given. 1. Is that a violation of

Arlington Virginia Treasurer seized my car under va code 58.1-3919 but NO NOTICE was served nor given. 1. Is that a violation of the code? 2. Is a seizure and distress unconstitutional due to the fact that i can not be deprived of life liberty or my private property without due process and a jury... View More

James L. Arrasmith
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answered on Aug 31, 2024

If your car was seized without any notice under VA Code 58.1-3919, this could potentially be a violation of due process, which is a fundamental right protected by the U.S. Constitution. Due process generally requires that you receive notice and an opportunity to be heard before your property is... View More

1 Answer | Asked in Civil Rights, Medical Malpractice, Health Care Law and Lemon Law for Virginia on
Q: Medical Form for being stopped by state police with an invalid state inspection sticker dmv Va.

State Inspection completed.

Traffic Case Dismissed by Judge (Isle of Wright County). (May 1, 2024)

Medical form filled submitted May 2, 2024.

No word on dmv decision.

James L. Arrasmith
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answered on Jul 28, 2024

It sounds like you're dealing with some frustrating circumstances. You were stopped by the state police for having an invalid state inspection sticker, but you've since had the inspection completed. The good news is that your traffic case was dismissed by a judge on May 1, 2024, in Isle... View More

1 Answer | Asked in Estate Planning, Civil Rights and Government Contracts for Virginia on
Q: At age 16: Should I start thinking about creating a Power of Attorney and a Living Will for when I turn 18 years of age?

I have done much reading on these two documents.

1. The Power of Attorney grants authority and control of my personal affairs during my incapacity, if durable and may control any affairs that I grant a Power of Attorney to handle.

2. A Living Will is essentially my health orders... View More

James L. Arrasmith
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answered on Jul 27, 2024

It's wise to start thinking about these important documents. Preparing a Power of Attorney and a Living Will when you turn 18 can give you peace of mind and ensure your wishes are respected in case of an emergency.

A Power of Attorney lets you choose someone you trust to manage your...
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1 Answer | Asked in Products Liability, Civil Litigation, Civil Rights and Probate for Virginia on
Q: Is there a way to mail in title to seller without meeting them

Seller bought the car and I’m trying to give them the title without meeting them in person

Tim Akpinar
Tim Akpinar
answered on May 4, 2024

A Virginia attorney could advise best, but your question remains open for a week. You could look into sending it certified mail. Also check with the local office of your DMV. Their website might offer more complete info about vehicle forms. Good luck

1 Answer | Asked in Civil Rights for Virginia on
Q: Have bill of petitions due 2weeks from Friday against USAA .... in nutshell, they lowballed the crap outta my, almost

like new 97 FordRanger XLT supercab (offered 3562$ had an additional $4450 worth of value in truck cap, slider bed, custom rims and brand new tires (have reciept for tires from 30 Mar 2018) accident was 20 Dec 2018. They intentionally low balled to keep from having to pay for repairs. NADA high... View More

James L. Arrasmith
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answered on Feb 5, 2024

If you believe USAA has unfairly lowballed the value of your 1997 Ford Ranger XLT Supercab and has not adequately compensated you for additional customizations and lack of rental car, you have the right to challenge their valuation and settlement offer. Insurance companies are required to negotiate... View More

Q: One parents right get terminated the other gets full custody can the one parent allow the other to see kids

When the parent that's has custody never lets the one that don't see them unsupervised

James L. Arrasmith
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answered on Nov 5, 2023

If one parent's rights have been terminated, legally they would not have any inherent rights to visitation or custody of the children. The parent with full custody has the discretion to allow the other parent to see the children, but this is a personal choice and not a legal obligation. Should... View More

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