| The Statute of Frauds |
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| A "statute of frauds" refers to a statute that requires certain types of contracts to be in writing and signed by all parties in order to be enforceable. The matter is largely one of state law and state law varies from state to state. More... |
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| Trees - Fruit & Nut Trees |
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| Generally speaking, a property owner may cut back branches and roots that stray onto the property owner's property. The right of self-help, as it is called, is not found in state law; however, it derives from the common law. The rationale behind the right of self-help is that, to the extent possible, property owners should be able to protect their interests without the necessity of resorting to the courts. More... |
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| Water Damage -- When a Property Owner Is Liable to a Neighbor |
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| The issue of a property owner's liability for water damage is largely a matter of state law. However, a property owner is not liable for things he or she cannot control. More... |
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| Noisy Neighbors |
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| The regulation of noise from any source is governed by state and local law. Sometimes, the rules governing the rental of leased premises also restrict noise levels. Lastly, the rules governing planned unit developments often set forth prohibitions against unreasonable levels of noise. Protections against noise vary widely and must be consulted individually for further details. More... |
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| Initiative and Referendum |
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| Initiative and referendum are two mechanisms by which the voters of a state can directly effectuate changes in the state law. Whether a particular state has an initiative process and/or a referendum process is determined by the constitution of the state. More... |
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