30 Practical Civil Law Scenarios: Answers to Everyday Legal Concerns

Contracts and Agreements

Scenario: I hired a contractor, but the work is incomplete. What can I do?

Contact the contractor to resolve the issue. If unresolved, you can sue for breach of contract or hire someone else and seek damages.

Scenario: I agreed to a deal verbally, but the other party backed out. Is it enforceable?

Verbal agreements can be legally binding if they meet contract requirements, but proving them may be challenging.

Scenario: I signed a contract without reading it. Can I void it?

Also read:

Generally, no. Signing is an indication of consent, but you may void it if there was fraud, coercion, or misrepresentation.

Scenario: I want to cancel a gym membership but was told it’s not possible. What are my rights?

Check the contract for cancellation terms. If the contract lacks clarity or was misleading, consumer protection laws may apply.

Scenario: A company did not deliver a product I paid for. What are my options?

Demand a refund or delivery. If they refuse, file a complaint with consumer protection agencies or pursue small claims court.

Property and Ownership

Scenario: My neighbor’s tree is hanging over my property. Can I cut it?

Yes, you can trim branches overhanging your property, but only up to the property line.

Scenario: I found lost property. Can I keep it?

No, you have to inform local authorities. It may be unlawful to keep lost property if there is no attempt to trace the owner.

Case: My landlord will not return my security deposit. What can I do?

Request it formally in writing. If he refuses, then file a complaint with the housing authorities or go to court.

Case: My tenant will not pay the rent. Can I evict him immediately?

No, you have to carry out a legal eviction with due process by way of notice and in court.

Scenario: I purchased a house, and hidden damage later occurred. Who’s at fault?

Seller liable if seller knew, kept silent

Look at contract. Seek counsel attorney

Torts and Personal Injury

Scenario: I fell down at the supermarket. May I sue?

Yes, if the store was negligent in causing the dangerous condition. Photograph the scene and see an attorney.

Scenario: My neighbor’s dog attacked me. Who is liable?

The dog owner is usually responsible. You may recover medical bills and damages.

Scenario: A person defamed me on Facebook. Can I sue?

Yes, if the statement was false, damaged your reputation, and caused you to suffer damages.

Scenario: My car was hit when parked, but the driver ran away. What should I do?

File a police report and notify your insurance company. Your uninsured motorist coverage may apply to damages.

Scenario: My child was injured at school. Is the school responsible?

The school could be liable if negligence played a role in the injury. Research and seek legal counsel.

Family Law

Scenario: My ex is not paying child support. What can I do?

Report the case to the family court or child enforcement agency if action is going to be taken by enforcing orders.

Scenario: I wish to modify my child’s custody. How do I initiate?

File a motion with the court with an emergent change of circumstances that warrants a modification.

Scenario: My spouse and I are divorcing. Who is going to get the house?

Property division depends on state laws (community property vs. equitable distribution), besides agreements between parties.

Scenario: I want to adopt my stepchild. What’s the process?

File a petition with the court. Consent from the non-custodial parent is typically required unless terminated by court.

Scenario: My partner and I lived together, but we’re separating. Who gets the shared property?

Property division depends on state laws regarding cohabitation agreements or equitable ownership.

Consumer and Financial Issues

Scenario: I was overcharged for a product. What can I do?

Contact the business to request a refund. If denied, file a complaint with consumer protection agencies or pursue small claims court.

Scenario: My credit card was used fraudulently. Am I liable?

Under federal law, your liability is limited to $50 if reported promptly. Many card issuers waive even this amount.

Scenario: A collection agency is harassing me. What are my rights?

The FDCPA is designed to shield you against harassment. File a complaint or file a lawsuit if you need to.

Scenario: A product I bought online was misrepresented. What can you do?

Reach out to the seller to get it resolved. If the issue does not get resolved, take it to consumer protection agencies or file a lawsuit.

Scenario: There was an unjust charge on my bank account. What are your options?

Dispute the charges with the bank. If this is not successful, appeal to the financial regulatory authority.

Workplace and Employment

Scenario: My employer is not paying me on time. What can I do?

Complain to the labor department or seek an employment attorney.

Scenario: I was unfairly dismissed. Can I take them to court?

Yes, if the dismissal was illegal or in breach of contract.

Scenario: I am being harassed at work. What can I do?

You are supposed to report the harassment to HR or your employer. If that is not possible, you file a complaint with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission, EEOC.

Scenario: My employer has changed my job role without asking me. Is this legal?

It depends on your contract. If the change violates agreed terms, you can negotiate or seek legal remedies.

Scenario: The workplace is not safe. What are my rights?

Report hazards to your employer. If not resolved, report to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA).