All of the family members refuse guardianship. Can we get a neutral, court-ordered person?

Dear Vexed in Vernonia, Yes. Professional conservators exist. Unfortunately, the only one I know is in Portland. Jeff Merrick, Oregon...

Can my landlord take $50 out of my security deposit for a previous tenants late fee?

Dear Eugene Tenant, Look at the paperwork under which you occupied the premises. Look to see if there it says anything about assuming existing...

I am being sued by my neighbor for $400,000

Dear Sued in Portland, $400,000 is a big number, whether or not it is bogus. Take it seriously. and consult with a lawyer. At least hire...

Getting fired for taking merchandise

Dear Busted, If you want to look up that statute, you can find it here: http://www.leg.state.or.us/ors/ Unless you have a union...

If I drive with a minor who has a learner's permit and there's an accident, do I have legal/financial liability?

Dear Portland Educator, If the damage caused by any car accident is less than the insurance coverage, then it is unlikely that someone would...

Do I have a possible case of employment discrimination based on being a woman?

Dear Passed Over in Oregon City, It would be your burden to prove that your gender played a role in the employment decision. Evidence of the...

Do obvious huge oversights on a dismissal letter make letter null and void?

Dear Terminated in Albany, Paperwork errors, probably, will not save you. But you might have other issues. If you are a state employee or...

Dear Scammed in Portland, Rescission is appropriate when there are misrepresentations about important terms. Rescission means you get your...

Noisy neighbours

Dear Sleepless in Portland, It is possible to sue neighbors if what they are doing adds up to a legal nuisance. I wrote a blog post on this...

I am looking for a lawyer that will take on the job harassment and sexual harassment.

Dear Harassed in Portland, I do this type of work. Call me, and we can talk through your issues. Jeff Merrick, Oregon Trial...