Alice or any law professional...need advice (NBR)

LauraLS80

My little sister is a senior in college.  She and on-again/off-again HS BF live together in an apartment about 2 hours from our hometown and have quite the tumultuous relationship, including indiscretions on both of their parts.  He broke up with her yesterday (on her 22nd birthday), so she asked him to move out.  He has begun threatening to blackmail her to friends and family, saying he has information that would make us all disown her, including emails, instant message convos, etc dating back to Jan '08.  He admitted to bugging her computer.  What are her legal options?  He hasn't threatened her per se, but rather says he'll ruin her life and her future.  She swears he wouldn't hurt her physically, but I fear otherwise.  She's 8 years younger than me, and I am so protective.  Any suggestions?  Thanks....

Ba Lolly

I'm not a lawyer, but if this were me, I'd have his ass out so fast it would make his head spin.  I would deal with the aftermath of whatever he had on me later.  I'd call his bluff because it sounds like he's just trying to gain control of the situation.

jacse007

I'm not a las professional, but have worked in the law enforcement arena quite a bit. I would suggest her calling and talking with a detective/officer, preferably one with domestic experience, and finding out her legal options and what would constitute him stepping over the "legal" line. Every state seems to differ in the common law aspect of marriage/living together. She should absolutely contact a lawyer, also. Defamation of character could be an issue. If she doesn't go about this the right way, who knows what could happen. I think the most important thing would be for you to let her know you are there no matter what happens and what kind of "info" he has on her. Let's face it, we all say horrible things when we're pissed about family or friends in the heat of the moment, but that doesn't mean they don't love ya. So, I'd try and keep that in mind no matter what this POS guy says and hopefully she'll find strength in her family who loves her no matter what.

kellieok

I am not a lawyer either but I just wanted to say I am so sorry your sister has to put up with this jerk. Also maybe she could get a restraining order?

LauraLS80

Thanks, ladies.  I made her put down the phone, get in the car and drive home to my house.  I don't trust him.  He does NOT want to mess with my protective PG hormones. 

sydney0928

As far as the emails there's probably nothing she can do. If she said it, it's not defamation. It can't be defamation if it's true.

But it sounds more like domestic violence than anything. That's straight up manipulation, which often leads to physical abuse. Tell her to get as far away from him as she can.

jacse007

And surely she has something on him?! He sure as heck doesn't sound like a saint. What a D*CK to sit there and break up with her and then not move out! Just thinking about this situation makes me want to kick his butt my preg. self!!! At least she's driving to you, not staying there discussing it with the possibility of him recording or witnessing more. Just hope he doesn't do something to her stuff while she's gone! Don't mention that to her, though, may make her turn around! Good luck. Definately get legal advice if there's a chance the information could hurt her career or haunt her throughout life. We all have skeletons!