legal

Know Your Rights: Deceptive Trade Practices Act does apply to landlords

Richard Alderman

Q. When my lease was up, my landlord asked me to sign a new lease. He told me I could sign now, but I had 30 days to decide after signing my lease if I wanted to stay or go. Shortly after signing the new lease, my apartment was broken into. Within 30 days, I told the landlord I was moving. She told me I couldn’t because I had already signed a lease. I also reminded her that I had 30 days to decide whether I wanted to stay or go, but she said it didn’t matter. I moved well within the 30 days, and now she has reported to the credit bureau that I broke my lease.

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Stand up and be counted on Nov. 7

Carl Parker

Those of us who live in a democratic, free society live under a basic contract. Our contract with the government is embodied in what we know as our constitutions. Our basic document in Texas is a constitution written in approximately 1877. It has undergone several hundred amendments; a major effort in 1977 to rewrite the whole thing failed. The Texas constitution is an instrument or contract we live under. Nov.

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Some retailers require ID for credit card purchases

Richard Alderman

Q. I have not had this arise, but I am still curious. Can a store demand to see a photo ID when I pay with a credit card? Some places ask, and many do not.

A. Until recently, the only law that controlled whether a store could ask for a photo ID from a customer was the contract between the credit card issuer and the merchant. For most credit cards, this contract prohibits asking for an ID if the card is signed. If the card is unsigned, the merchant has the right to demand to see a photo ID. Here is what each credit company contract says:

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Clinic in Lumberton offers free legal advice for veterans

Veterans needing legal advice or legal assistance can visit a free legal clinic Saturday, Aug. 20, from 8:30 a.m. – noon at the Lumberton Fire & EMS at 228 Country Lane Drive. The clinic is a public service of the Jefferson County Bar Association, which is part of a coalition of bar associations that provide pro bono legal services to U.S. veterans in 17 counties in Texas.

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Winning in Justice Court does not guarantee you get your money

Q. I am set to go to justice court. I think I have a good case and I am very comfortable representing myself. If I win, will he be forced to pay me? Does he have to pay court costs if I win?

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Legal seminar on special needs children

Jefferson County Bar Association seal

Thursday, April 24, the Jefferson County Young Lawyers Association will host a legal workshop for parents of autistic and special needs children. The workshop at The Shorkey Center, 855 S. Eighth St., from 6-8 p.m. is open to the public, and free babysitting services will be provided. The event is sponsored by a grant from the Jefferson County Bar Association Foundation. Local parents, educators and attorneys are welcome to attend free of charge.

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